In A Call to Spiritual Reformation: Priorities from Paul and His Prayers, renowned New Testament scholar D.A. Carson challenges modern Christians to deepen their spiritual lives by returning to the heart of authentic Christian experienceprayer. This powerful and convicting book doesnt offer a formula or a quick fix. Instead, it draws from the Apostle Pauls own prayers in his epistles, inviting readers to listen carefully and be reshaped by the priorities of a man whose life was entirely centered on Christ.
Carson takes readers through a series of Pauline prayers, exploring not only what Paul prays for, but also the theological convictions and spiritual maturity that inform his words. Each chapter unpacks one of these prayers in detailfound in books like Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Thessalonianshighlighting how Pauls intercessions reflect his understanding of Gods sovereignty, the centrality of the gospel, and the pressing needs of the church. In doing so, Carson reveals how our own prayer lives can be transformed when aligned with these same truths.
What sets this book apart is its blend of biblical depth, theological insight, and pastoral concern. Carson does not speak merely as an academic, but as someone deeply burdened by the spiritual complacency he sees in the church today. He writes with urgency and humility, calling believers not simply to pray more, but to pray differentlyto shift the focus away from self-centered concerns and toward a God-centered vision shaped by Scripture.
A Call to Spiritual Reformation is both practical and profound. Carson includes helpful application, reflections, and questions that encourage personal or group study, making it ideal for pastors, small groups, or individual Christians seeking renewal in their walk with God. Yet, its challenge is not light: readers are invited into a lifelong pursuit of knowing God more deeply and interceding for others more faithfully.
Above all, this book is a passionate plea for Christians to reorder their spiritual prioritiesnot by mere discipline, but by a growing love for God that overflows in meaningful, intentional prayer. If you long for a richer prayer life and a deeper relationship with Christ, A Call to Spiritual Reformation will serve as both a guide and an inspiration.
