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Union
Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners
“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 3:18
How do Christians grow? Few question the call of the Bible to grow in godliness, but the answer to exactly how this happens is often elusive.
In this book, Dane Ortlund points believers to Christ, making the case that sanctification does not happen by doing more or becoming better, but by going deeper into the wondrous gospel truths that washed over them when they were first united to him.
Drawing on wisdom from figures throughout church history, Ortlund encourages readers to fix their gaze on Jesus in the battle against sin, casting themselves upon his grace and living out their invincible identity in Christ.
How do Christians grow? Few question the call of the Bible to grow in godliness, but the answer to exactly how this happens is often elusive.
In this book, Dane Ortlund points believers to Christ, making the case that sanctification does not happen by doing more or becoming better, but by going deeper into the wondrous gospel truths that washed over them when they were first united to him.
Drawing on wisdom from figures throughout church history, Ortlund encourages readers to fix their gaze on Jesus in the battle against sin, casting themselves upon his grace and living out their invincible identity in Christ.
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2021
About the author
Dane C. Ortlund
89 books532 followersDane C. Ortlund (PhD, Wheaton College) is chief publishing officer and Bible publisher at Crossway. He serves as an editor for the Knowing the Bible series and the Short Studies in Biblical Theology series, and is the author of several books, including Gentle and Lowly and Edwards on the Christian Life. He is an elder at Naperville Presbyterian Church in Naperville, Illinois. Dane lives with his wife, Stacey, and their five children in Wheaton, Illinois.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 842 reviews
September 25, 2021
Christians have long been on a quest for the “holy grail” of the Christian life. The popular Keswick conferences that emerged in England in 1875 called it the “victorious Christian life.” Charismatics seek a so-called “second blessing.” Tragically, many evangelicals roll up their sleeves and seek supernatural transformation via will-power or works. These well-meaning followers of Christ are genuinely seeking something great in their Christian journey. They want something more. They are in need of transformation. They merely want to go deeper. Each of the above proposals falls short of the biblical model of sanctification and leaves Christians confused, disillusioned, and discouraged.
Dane Ortlund’s newest book addresses both the need and the desire to go deeper into the Christian life. Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners is a book about sanctification. The book strikes the biblical balance between vigorous God-centered striving and trusting the Holy Spirit to produce sanctification. Scripture is clear on this matter:
Ortlund offers nine meditations that push and encourage readers to a biblical model of sanctification. But more important than a model, the author suggests that “we grow specifically by going deeper into the gospel, into the love of Christ and our experienced union with him … we are reflecting on the way our souls must go out to God in Christ to desire, to long for, to receive, to dwell in, to thank him for his endless love. The gospel comes to us in the Scriptures, and in prayer we receive and enjoy it.”
Ortlund is not impressed with sanctification strategies or gimmicks; nor does he offer a series of steps that produce sanctification. Deeper is a book that pleads with Christians to do one thing: LOOK TO CHRIST!
Here is a book that is exceedingly warm, theologically rich, informed by Puritanical wisdom, and deeply personal and practical. I commend Deeper and trust that many will benefit from this wonderful book.
Dane Ortlund’s newest book addresses both the need and the desire to go deeper into the Christian life. Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners is a book about sanctification. The book strikes the biblical balance between vigorous God-centered striving and trusting the Holy Spirit to produce sanctification. Scripture is clear on this matter:
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Phil. 2:12–13, ESV)
Ortlund offers nine meditations that push and encourage readers to a biblical model of sanctification. But more important than a model, the author suggests that “we grow specifically by going deeper into the gospel, into the love of Christ and our experienced union with him … we are reflecting on the way our souls must go out to God in Christ to desire, to long for, to receive, to dwell in, to thank him for his endless love. The gospel comes to us in the Scriptures, and in prayer we receive and enjoy it.”
Ortlund is not impressed with sanctification strategies or gimmicks; nor does he offer a series of steps that produce sanctification. Deeper is a book that pleads with Christians to do one thing: LOOK TO CHRIST!
Be astonished at the gracious heart of Jesus Christ, proven in his atoning work in the past and his endless intercession in the present. Receive his unutterable love for sinners and suffers. Stop resisting. Let him draw near to you. Gaze upon him.
Here is a book that is exceedingly warm, theologically rich, informed by Puritanical wisdom, and deeply personal and practical. I commend Deeper and trust that many will benefit from this wonderful book.
July 28, 2022
“for every look at yourself, take ten looks at Christ. let your union with Jesus, the friend of sinners, take you deeper, ever deeper, into the wonders of the gospel. and watch your heart, and therefore your whole life, blossom.” 🌸🌷
November 26, 2021
"Do you want to grow in Christ? Never graduate beyond the gospel. Move ever deeper into the gospel."
"What is the Bible? It is your greatest earthly treasure. You will stand in strength, and grow in Christ, and walk in joy, and bless the world no further than you know this book."
This wasn't a huge theological treatise, it was a hard-hitting, easy to read but wonderfully deep nine chapters on growing deeper into Jesus. It was good for people like me, who have been following Jesus for many years, and I imagine it will be good for those just starting out. I imagine I will be referring back to this book for a refresh button from time to time. I saved a bunch of nuggets in my highlights, but instead of sharing them all, I'll just encourage you to grab this book.
I received an ecopy of Deeper from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.
"What is the Bible? It is your greatest earthly treasure. You will stand in strength, and grow in Christ, and walk in joy, and bless the world no further than you know this book."
This wasn't a huge theological treatise, it was a hard-hitting, easy to read but wonderfully deep nine chapters on growing deeper into Jesus. It was good for people like me, who have been following Jesus for many years, and I imagine it will be good for those just starting out. I imagine I will be referring back to this book for a refresh button from time to time. I saved a bunch of nuggets in my highlights, but instead of sharing them all, I'll just encourage you to grab this book.
I received an ecopy of Deeper from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.
November 28, 2021
Look to Christ. Take this one slowly. Allow its thoughts and meditations to marinate. Look again to Christ.
Essential reading concerning sanctification, that which every believer is experiencing. A worthy followup to Gentle and Lowly, showing the reader how to move on and apply that which was often only implied in the previous.
Highly valuable for ministry, self evaluation, discipleship, and community. Similar to the first, Dane has written a book I hope to return many a time throughout the coming years of life.
Essential reading concerning sanctification, that which every believer is experiencing. A worthy followup to Gentle and Lowly, showing the reader how to move on and apply that which was often only implied in the previous.
Highly valuable for ministry, self evaluation, discipleship, and community. Similar to the first, Dane has written a book I hope to return many a time throughout the coming years of life.
November 26, 2021
"Do you want to grow in Christ? Never graduate beyond the gospel. Move ever deeper into the gospel."
"What is the Bible? It is your greatest earthly treasure. You will stand in strength, and grow in Christ, and walk in joy, and bless the world no further than you know this book."
This wasn't a huge theological treatise, it was a hard-hitting, easy to read but wonderfully deep nine chapters on growing deeper into Jesus. It was good for people like me, who have been following Jesus for many years, and I imagine it will be good for those just starting out. I imagine I will be referring back to this book for a refresh button from time to time. I saved a bunch of nuggets in my highlights, but instead of sharing them all, I'll just encourage you to grab this book.
I received an ecopy of Deeper from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.
"What is the Bible? It is your greatest earthly treasure. You will stand in strength, and grow in Christ, and walk in joy, and bless the world no further than you know this book."
This wasn't a huge theological treatise, it was a hard-hitting, easy to read but wonderfully deep nine chapters on growing deeper into Jesus. It was good for people like me, who have been following Jesus for many years, and I imagine it will be good for those just starting out. I imagine I will be referring back to this book for a refresh button from time to time. I saved a bunch of nuggets in my highlights, but instead of sharing them all, I'll just encourage you to grab this book.
I received an ecopy of Deeper from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
This is Gentle and Lowly Part 2!!
A deep read into how to grow deeper in Christ. Another glimpse into pain and growth and Christ’s heart. A book that shows how growing deeper in Christ is not by doing and becoming but by grace and knowing God’s heart.
I listened to the audio but will be looking for the paper copy! If you have read Gentle and Lowly this is a must.
A deep read into how to grow deeper in Christ. Another glimpse into pain and growth and Christ’s heart. A book that shows how growing deeper in Christ is not by doing and becoming but by grace and knowing God’s heart.
I listened to the audio but will be looking for the paper copy! If you have read Gentle and Lowly this is a must.
February 1, 2022
It was a curious experience reading this book. The content is unmistakably sound and biblical and vital to Christians eager to grow. I kept thinking that I ought to be more captivated by what Ortlund was discussing.
I really can’t put my finger on it. But it’s interesting that my highlights in the back of the book (I do them as I go) are almost exclusively quotes from other authors.
I’m definitely an analogy guy, I love them. However I felt a little like Ortlund became over-dependent upon his analogies. It’s like it resulted In a sort of reflected emphasis or slight fuzziness to truths that might be better stated with primary clarity.
I wouldn’t say I disliked the book - I just wanted to like it more. Sanctification is the story of Christ in me over the course of my mortal life. There are few more vital topics I could possibly read about. I feel that in my Sydney evangelical circles not enough is said about growing in Jesus, on how believers become more like him, on how and why we might increase in godliness. I was excited for how “Deeper” might speak into this. So I’m not quite sure why this book never really zinged for me.
To add even more confusion to this review, as I read I thought that I’d really love others to read and be inspired to grow in Christ because of this book. I’d even recommend it. As I was reading it, conscious of being not fully engaged, I did think that maybe I’dread it again in the future and connect with it more successfully. I wouldn’t be entirely surprise if that happened. Although, in this case, maybe Ortlund has had his chance and not quite hit the bullseye…
With reading, sometimes it’s as much about the time in which a book finds the reader as it is about the inherent essence of work itself. Perhaps in this case, it’s a bit of both.
I really can’t put my finger on it. But it’s interesting that my highlights in the back of the book (I do them as I go) are almost exclusively quotes from other authors.
I’m definitely an analogy guy, I love them. However I felt a little like Ortlund became over-dependent upon his analogies. It’s like it resulted In a sort of reflected emphasis or slight fuzziness to truths that might be better stated with primary clarity.
I wouldn’t say I disliked the book - I just wanted to like it more. Sanctification is the story of Christ in me over the course of my mortal life. There are few more vital topics I could possibly read about. I feel that in my Sydney evangelical circles not enough is said about growing in Jesus, on how believers become more like him, on how and why we might increase in godliness. I was excited for how “Deeper” might speak into this. So I’m not quite sure why this book never really zinged for me.
To add even more confusion to this review, as I read I thought that I’d really love others to read and be inspired to grow in Christ because of this book. I’d even recommend it. As I was reading it, conscious of being not fully engaged, I did think that maybe I’dread it again in the future and connect with it more successfully. I wouldn’t be entirely surprise if that happened. Although, in this case, maybe Ortlund has had his chance and not quite hit the bullseye…
With reading, sometimes it’s as much about the time in which a book finds the reader as it is about the inherent essence of work itself. Perhaps in this case, it’s a bit of both.
October 28, 2021
Think “Gentle and Lowly” but for sanctification and with more systematic categories. These are the doctrines he used to ‘cook’ Gentle and Lowly.
Also, don’t miss the dedication at the back of the book.
Also, don’t miss the dedication at the back of the book.
November 8, 2023
I found this both convicting and greatly encouraging, which really go hand-in-hand. Ortlund’s illustration of inhaling the Word and exhaling prayers has been transformative in my view of reading the Bible.
September 24, 2022
This is a great little book on the subject on how to grow as a Christian. There are larger and more in-depth works on the subject of sanctification, but Ortlund's Deeper: Real Change for Sinners lays the ground work that every Christian should know, believe, and live out. The book is filled with Puritan wisdom and a biblical, theological richness that is often lacking in other works on this subject. Sure, I have some small quibbles with the author: he thinks the ESV is the best English translation and that the kingdom of Christ is here now (Amillennialism). But those take up at most three or four sentences in the whole book.
Overall, this is a great book and highly recommended (along with the rest of the Union Series).
Overall, this is a great book and highly recommended (along with the rest of the Union Series).
July 28, 2022
So. I was torn between giving this book five stars and giving this book one star. I landed on two after much internal conflict and it's primarily because of one paragraph in the preface that tainted the entire book for me sadly...
This book is part of the Union series and the preface states that "Each exploration of a subject in the Union series will appear in two versions: a full one and a concise one. The idea is that church leaders can read the full treatment, such as this one, and so delve into each topic while making the more accessible concise version widely available to their congregations." How very Catholic of the publishers...
So according to this preface, I shouldn't even be reading this book but as a lowly lay person should have picked up the "more accessible" version. Now. Keep in mind this "full version" book even 200 pages. We're not talking Calvin's Institutes or even Grudem's Systematic Theology... I read the entire book in one sitting (and didn't even need a dictionary or Greek/Hebrew translation beside me.) There's just a level of arrogance demonstrated that's saddening to me.
This disappointing mindset carries over into the voice of the book. So despite the fact that the actual content of the book is excellent, the condescension in which it's written almost nullifies the quality of the content for me and keeps me from being able to recommend it.
This book is part of the Union series and the preface states that "Each exploration of a subject in the Union series will appear in two versions: a full one and a concise one. The idea is that church leaders can read the full treatment, such as this one, and so delve into each topic while making the more accessible concise version widely available to their congregations." How very Catholic of the publishers...
So according to this preface, I shouldn't even be reading this book but as a lowly lay person should have picked up the "more accessible" version. Now. Keep in mind this "full version" book even 200 pages. We're not talking Calvin's Institutes or even Grudem's Systematic Theology... I read the entire book in one sitting (and didn't even need a dictionary or Greek/Hebrew translation beside me.) There's just a level of arrogance demonstrated that's saddening to me.
This disappointing mindset carries over into the voice of the book. So despite the fact that the actual content of the book is excellent, the condescension in which it's written almost nullifies the quality of the content for me and keeps me from being able to recommend it.
June 28, 2024
Deeper was probably the best book I've ever read for 'Real change for real sinners.' He gives an amazing nine points which, in the end, all point back to looking on Christ. Here is an excerpt...
"I am not writing to you nine points on how to grow on your own, because the more you focus on that growth, the less you actually achieve the growth you desire. I am writing to you nine points on how to look to Christ."
THAT got me. I was just so mesmerized that... OH my Goodness I can't even explain it. Christ should be my center focus. Not me.
"I am not writing to you nine points on how to grow on your own, because the more you focus on that growth, the less you actually achieve the growth you desire. I am writing to you nine points on how to look to Christ."
THAT got me. I was just so mesmerized that... OH my Goodness I can't even explain it. Christ should be my center focus. Not me.
December 17, 2021
“…Learn much of the Lord Jesus. For every look at yourself, take ten looks at Christ. He is altogether lovely. Such infinite majesty, and yet such meekness and grace, and all for sinners, even the chief! Live much in the smiles of God. Bask in his beams. Feel his all-seeing eye settled on you in love, and repose in his almighty arms.”
A beautiful book. A challenging book. A book that pushes me deeper into the person and love of Christ.
A beautiful book. A challenging book. A book that pushes me deeper into the person and love of Christ.
October 11, 2021
Wonderful! Diving deeper into what it means to look to Jesus over and over from different angles. This book is contemplative, deep, worshipful, and a joy to read. It really is a book that should be meditated on and put down while you think and breathe in the realities of Christ and his work. I didn’t do that because the air was too good to stop breathing in. Enjoy!
February 20, 2022
This really fed my soul.
June 29, 2024
As believers we all know that we should be growing in Christ, growing in loving Him and others, and growing in godliness. “Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners” by author Dane Ortlund covers the topic of sanctification, of how we grow as Christians.
Known well for his book “Gentle and Lowly,” Ortlund reminds us that we have all we need in Christ already, and we find that Christ cares about us beyond His death and resurrection, that He is interceding for us and assisting our spiritual growth day after day continually.
If I could choose one word to describe what I felt from this book, it would be “hope.” Incorruptible hope that can only come from God through His truth emanated from this book as it described Jesus’ tender, unchanging heart toward us in our challenges with sin and godliness. Christ who gave Himself up for us, intercedes always for us, gives us His Spirit’s help, and will return for us is our greatest asset and enablement in our growth as His disciples.
Also, this book has an index. This is a rarity these days, and it is so helpful if you want to go back to a specific topic in the book such as suffering, temptation, or knowing Christ’s love.
Highlights:
“When we were running full speed the other direction, he chased us down, subdued our rebellion, and opened our eyes to see our need of him and his all-sufficiency to meet that need.”
“It is at our point of deepest guilt and regret that his friendship embraces us most assuredly, most steadfastly.”
“Your vision of the love of God needs to be not just heard but seen; not just known but tasted.”
“the Spirit changes us by making Christ wonderful to us.”
". . .God made you so that he could love you. His embrace of you is the point of your life. I know you don't feel it. Even that is taken care of. He wants you to know a love that is yours even when you feel undeserving or numb."
“He did not die and rise again on our behalf back then only to stand now with arms crossed seeing how we’ll do in response . . . He is more committed to your growth in him than you are.”
Readability: 4
Impact: 5
Content: 5
Enjoyment: 4
Total: 4.5
Thank you to Crossway for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Known well for his book “Gentle and Lowly,” Ortlund reminds us that we have all we need in Christ already, and we find that Christ cares about us beyond His death and resurrection, that He is interceding for us and assisting our spiritual growth day after day continually.
If I could choose one word to describe what I felt from this book, it would be “hope.” Incorruptible hope that can only come from God through His truth emanated from this book as it described Jesus’ tender, unchanging heart toward us in our challenges with sin and godliness. Christ who gave Himself up for us, intercedes always for us, gives us His Spirit’s help, and will return for us is our greatest asset and enablement in our growth as His disciples.
Also, this book has an index. This is a rarity these days, and it is so helpful if you want to go back to a specific topic in the book such as suffering, temptation, or knowing Christ’s love.
Highlights:
“When we were running full speed the other direction, he chased us down, subdued our rebellion, and opened our eyes to see our need of him and his all-sufficiency to meet that need.”
“It is at our point of deepest guilt and regret that his friendship embraces us most assuredly, most steadfastly.”
“Your vision of the love of God needs to be not just heard but seen; not just known but tasted.”
“the Spirit changes us by making Christ wonderful to us.”
". . .God made you so that he could love you. His embrace of you is the point of your life. I know you don't feel it. Even that is taken care of. He wants you to know a love that is yours even when you feel undeserving or numb."
“He did not die and rise again on our behalf back then only to stand now with arms crossed seeing how we’ll do in response . . . He is more committed to your growth in him than you are.”
Readability: 4
Impact: 5
Content: 5
Enjoyment: 4
Total: 4.5
Thank you to Crossway for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2022
In my own life and the lives of those I’ve counseled one of the most common questions is “how do I grow? How can I love Christ more?” Ortlund’s Deeper provides a wonderful launching board for the answer. By looking to Christ and truly understanding who He is, and what He did for us, we grow to love Him more. But only the Spirit can truly make us look to Christ. Without Him it’s useless.
I would highly recommend this to anyone wanting to grow in their sanctification (so everyone ;)). My only quibbles are with his amillenial viewpoint, and his “ESV-only” attitude. Other than that, fabulous!
I would highly recommend this to anyone wanting to grow in their sanctification (so everyone ;)). My only quibbles are with his amillenial viewpoint, and his “ESV-only” attitude. Other than that, fabulous!
February 1, 2023
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It was such a comfort to me in this season and I truly probably need to be reading it on rotation every few months. The gospel of grace is as important and vital each day of sanctification as it was the second we first believed!!
September 23, 2024
This work, just like Gentle & Lowly, was so powerful. But definitely a totally different work! I love Ortlund’s simple and approachable writing style while grappling with some rich concepts. He makes bold statements but so thoroughly and immediately backs them with scripture every time. It truly is the perfect work for anyone wanting to go “Deeper” with Christ. He isn’t trying to reinvent Christianity into something new, just reigniting the flame of my heart to want to gaze deeper into His Glory.
January 13, 2022
Dane Ortlund's Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners was a mixed bag for me that I find incredibly difficult to review. I think most readers will find the experience of reading this book incredibly helpful, encouraging, and insightful - especially if you're new to the Christian faith. However, if you're looking for a more robust (and less me-centric) applicability of Christianity to day-to-day life, you might want to look elsewhere.
First, the positives: Dane Ortlund is a very good writer. The prose in Deeper is absolutely stunning in places. I mean, how can you not swoon at sentences like, "If Jesus himself was willing to journey down into the suffering of hell, you can bank everything on his love as you journey through your own suffering on your way up to heaven"? For a concise and approachable overview on how justification and sanctification work hand-in-hand, Deeper succeeds for the most part.
Also, like Michael Reeves's Rejoice & Tremble (the first book in the "Union" series), it's short - less than 200 pages - and the cover design is beautiful.
Now, for the negatives: Throughout Deeper, Ortlund makes it repeatedly clear that he's not writing a "how-to" or "self-help" guide for going deeper in your faith. I applaud that sentiment, but Deeper is literally about "how sinners can change." Ortlund seems pretty dismissive of instituting spiritual disciplines, liturgy, or habits into your daily routine. In Ortlund's view (I think, it's not very clear), heart transformation should precede any type of behavior modification for it to be authentic. Part of me agrees with this idea, but I also believe - especially within the Christian life - that behavior modification can work in tandem (and sometimes lead to) heart transformation.
You'll find a lot of vague spiritual sentimentality in Deeper that reads great - like "Sin loses its appeal as we allow ourselves to be re-enchanted time and again with the unsurpassed beauty of Jesus." At one point, Ortlund writes, "There is no special technique to mortifying sin. You simply open your Bible and let God surprise you each day with the wonder of his love, proven in Christ and experienced in the Spirit." In both cases, it's hard to disagree with Ortlund's sentiment, but at the same time, it's hard for me to see how helpful it'd be to someone who's really struggling with something.
In the book's conclusion, Ortlund writes that the book's "one point" is to "...Stop resisting. Let [Jesus] draw near to you. Gaze upon him." Good words, but again, what does this really look like in practice?
If you're someone - like me - who struggles with the metaphysical aspects of Christianity, you probably won't find much in Deeper to be very helpful beyond some pretty prose.
And, paradoxically, despite his insistence that Deeper isn't a how-to guide, Ortlund does offer some steps on how to go "deeper" in one's faith:
1) Think about your depraved and sinful nature.
2) Confess your sin to another Christian.
3) Read your Bible (preferably the ESV - something he says).
4) Pray throughout your day.
And that's kind of it. There's absolutely no mention of sharing one's faith, serving the poor, or advocating for the needs of others. I'm not sure if it's a result of American Evangelicalism's resurrected allergy to anything resembling "social justice," but it's kind of a bummer that there's no mention of the joy of working alongside other Christians to achieve a shared goal. Ortlund is clearly a more astute theologian than me, but I think Jesus (and the apostles) are pretty clear that one of the best ways to actualize one's faith and grow closer to the heart of God isn't through personal reflection but through serving others and sharing one's faith.
Maybe I'm splitting hairs here. There's not a lot in Deeper I actually disagree with, but it seems written with a particular audience in mind - one that's probably already in tune with Ortlund's message. Therefore, most people who pick up this book will probably love it - (and if you find this book helpful, I don't want to take that away from you). But, in lieu of Deeper (and for anyone looking for a bit more practicality), I recommend Richard Foster's The Celebration of Discipline, Aaron Niequist's The Eternal Current, or Euguene Peterson's A Long Obedience in the Same Direction.
First, the positives: Dane Ortlund is a very good writer. The prose in Deeper is absolutely stunning in places. I mean, how can you not swoon at sentences like, "If Jesus himself was willing to journey down into the suffering of hell, you can bank everything on his love as you journey through your own suffering on your way up to heaven"? For a concise and approachable overview on how justification and sanctification work hand-in-hand, Deeper succeeds for the most part.
Also, like Michael Reeves's Rejoice & Tremble (the first book in the "Union" series), it's short - less than 200 pages - and the cover design is beautiful.
Now, for the negatives: Throughout Deeper, Ortlund makes it repeatedly clear that he's not writing a "how-to" or "self-help" guide for going deeper in your faith. I applaud that sentiment, but Deeper is literally about "how sinners can change." Ortlund seems pretty dismissive of instituting spiritual disciplines, liturgy, or habits into your daily routine. In Ortlund's view (I think, it's not very clear), heart transformation should precede any type of behavior modification for it to be authentic. Part of me agrees with this idea, but I also believe - especially within the Christian life - that behavior modification can work in tandem (and sometimes lead to) heart transformation.
You'll find a lot of vague spiritual sentimentality in Deeper that reads great - like "Sin loses its appeal as we allow ourselves to be re-enchanted time and again with the unsurpassed beauty of Jesus." At one point, Ortlund writes, "There is no special technique to mortifying sin. You simply open your Bible and let God surprise you each day with the wonder of his love, proven in Christ and experienced in the Spirit." In both cases, it's hard to disagree with Ortlund's sentiment, but at the same time, it's hard for me to see how helpful it'd be to someone who's really struggling with something.
In the book's conclusion, Ortlund writes that the book's "one point" is to "...Stop resisting. Let [Jesus] draw near to you. Gaze upon him." Good words, but again, what does this really look like in practice?
If you're someone - like me - who struggles with the metaphysical aspects of Christianity, you probably won't find much in Deeper to be very helpful beyond some pretty prose.
And, paradoxically, despite his insistence that Deeper isn't a how-to guide, Ortlund does offer some steps on how to go "deeper" in one's faith:
1) Think about your depraved and sinful nature.
2) Confess your sin to another Christian.
3) Read your Bible (preferably the ESV - something he says).
4) Pray throughout your day.
And that's kind of it. There's absolutely no mention of sharing one's faith, serving the poor, or advocating for the needs of others. I'm not sure if it's a result of American Evangelicalism's resurrected allergy to anything resembling "social justice," but it's kind of a bummer that there's no mention of the joy of working alongside other Christians to achieve a shared goal. Ortlund is clearly a more astute theologian than me, but I think Jesus (and the apostles) are pretty clear that one of the best ways to actualize one's faith and grow closer to the heart of God isn't through personal reflection but through serving others and sharing one's faith.
Maybe I'm splitting hairs here. There's not a lot in Deeper I actually disagree with, but it seems written with a particular audience in mind - one that's probably already in tune with Ortlund's message. Therefore, most people who pick up this book will probably love it - (and if you find this book helpful, I don't want to take that away from you). But, in lieu of Deeper (and for anyone looking for a bit more practicality), I recommend Richard Foster's The Celebration of Discipline, Aaron Niequist's The Eternal Current, or Euguene Peterson's A Long Obedience in the Same Direction.
February 19, 2024
Epic 🤙🏼 Must-read for all believers. Top book of all time for me.
January 6, 2022
For us to have any chance of seeing God, we must starve our sinful nature.
Oh to see God and behold His glory. There are no words that can describe God's glory but we feel it. We feel that there is more. It has been said and I believe it, that we were created for more. The more is God himself. But we get lost in our own sinful desires, lusts, fears, insecurities, etc. The list goes on. This text is gold. Ortund's teaching recognizes who we are before a Holy God and reminds us that it is not a fast walk to arrive. It is a lifestyle, decisions that are made every day, the mundane to the biggest days of our lives.
What I got most from this text is not the focus on me but on Christ. Ortlund says, do not take up your time so much with studying your own heart as with studying Christ's heart. For one look at yourself, take 10 looks at Christ. Looking at Christ helps you see.
1) His righteousness, not your rebellion.
2) His faithfulness, not your failure
3)His beauty, not your burden.
There are 7 more but I am not going to give it away. The book is worth your reflection on a great and good God.
A special thank you to Crossway Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Oh to see God and behold His glory. There are no words that can describe God's glory but we feel it. We feel that there is more. It has been said and I believe it, that we were created for more. The more is God himself. But we get lost in our own sinful desires, lusts, fears, insecurities, etc. The list goes on. This text is gold. Ortund's teaching recognizes who we are before a Holy God and reminds us that it is not a fast walk to arrive. It is a lifestyle, decisions that are made every day, the mundane to the biggest days of our lives.
What I got most from this text is not the focus on me but on Christ. Ortlund says, do not take up your time so much with studying your own heart as with studying Christ's heart. For one look at yourself, take 10 looks at Christ. Looking at Christ helps you see.
1) His righteousness, not your rebellion.
2) His faithfulness, not your failure
3)His beauty, not your burden.
There are 7 more but I am not going to give it away. The book is worth your reflection on a great and good God.
A special thank you to Crossway Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
March 16, 2022
“The final conclusion, the deepest secret, to growing in Christ is this: look to him. Set your gaze upon him. Abide in him, hour by hour. Draw strength from his love. He is a person, not a concept. Become personally acquainted with him, ever more deeply as the years roll by.”
Dane Ortlund has written another winner. This book gets to the heart of sanctification by showing us that the gospel “is not a hotel to pass through but a home to live in. Not only a gateway into the Christian life but the pathway of the Christian life.” And what is the gospel? The apostle Paul’s explanation in 2 Corinthians 4:4 is my favorite, hands down: “the gospel of the glory of Christ.” The glory of Christ! Seeing it, drinking it in, drawing from it—this is how we overcome sin and grow in our faith. And so, every chapter in this book shows us one facet of becoming steeped in the gospel of the glory of Christ.
It's quite fitting that I finished Deeper so close to St. Patrick’s Day because although Ortlund doesn’t mention the prayer known as “St. Patrick’s Breastplate” anywhere, his book channels the same spirit conveyed in my favorite part of that prayer:
Dane Ortlund has written another winner. This book gets to the heart of sanctification by showing us that the gospel “is not a hotel to pass through but a home to live in. Not only a gateway into the Christian life but the pathway of the Christian life.” And what is the gospel? The apostle Paul’s explanation in 2 Corinthians 4:4 is my favorite, hands down: “the gospel of the glory of Christ.” The glory of Christ! Seeing it, drinking it in, drawing from it—this is how we overcome sin and grow in our faith. And so, every chapter in this book shows us one facet of becoming steeped in the gospel of the glory of Christ.
It's quite fitting that I finished Deeper so close to St. Patrick’s Day because although Ortlund doesn’t mention the prayer known as “St. Patrick’s Breastplate” anywhere, his book channels the same spirit conveyed in my favorite part of that prayer:
Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
May 4, 2024
Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners
This was my second book by Dane Ortlund and it was insightfully good like I expected!
He said the premise of the book so well in the introduction:
“Growing in Christ is not centrally improving or adding or experiencing but deepening.”
He takes you through 9 chapters of growth focusing on different aspects of salvation and our relationship with Christ.
You definitely need a hard copy as I was underlining on almost every page. I slowly savored this over several months as some parts I needed to sit and think on awhile.
The chapter on Pain alone is worth the read.
The author is Presbyterian so I knew I wouldn’t agree with everything he wrote and there were a couple parts. I would give this disclaimer before recommending to others.
Way too many quotes to share but here’s just a few:
📖 “We grow in Christ no further than we enjoy his embrace of us.”
📖 “Idolatry is the folly of asking a gift to be a giver.”
�� “A crucial building block in our growth in grace is a humble openness to receiving the bitternessess of life as God’s gentle way of drawing us out of the misery of self and more deeply into spiritual maturity.”
If you want to grow in Christ and know more of his beauty and fullness, definitely pick this up!
This was my second book by Dane Ortlund and it was insightfully good like I expected!
He said the premise of the book so well in the introduction:
“Growing in Christ is not centrally improving or adding or experiencing but deepening.”
He takes you through 9 chapters of growth focusing on different aspects of salvation and our relationship with Christ.
You definitely need a hard copy as I was underlining on almost every page. I slowly savored this over several months as some parts I needed to sit and think on awhile.
The chapter on Pain alone is worth the read.
The author is Presbyterian so I knew I wouldn’t agree with everything he wrote and there were a couple parts. I would give this disclaimer before recommending to others.
Way too many quotes to share but here’s just a few:
📖 “We grow in Christ no further than we enjoy his embrace of us.”
📖 “Idolatry is the folly of asking a gift to be a giver.”
�� “A crucial building block in our growth in grace is a humble openness to receiving the bitternessess of life as God’s gentle way of drawing us out of the misery of self and more deeply into spiritual maturity.”
If you want to grow in Christ and know more of his beauty and fullness, definitely pick this up!
June 4, 2023
Super funny story you guys are gonna love this. I thought I hadn’t read it before and kept finding annotations in my handwriting and realized this was my second read like 3/9 chapters in. Crazy right??
That being said, I did enjoy this book. It took way too long to finish, but I also think I was glad to have some timely moments with each chapter. Thank you Jesus. Helps me think through my desire to take care of my sin but how Jesus already did it, as well as the fact that I just can’t. More importantly though, it helped me think through some lil suffering and how the Lord is with me.
Would recommend!
That being said, I did enjoy this book. It took way too long to finish, but I also think I was glad to have some timely moments with each chapter. Thank you Jesus. Helps me think through my desire to take care of my sin but how Jesus already did it, as well as the fact that I just can’t. More importantly though, it helped me think through some lil suffering and how the Lord is with me.
Would recommend!
March 21, 2024
Well structured and well written - particularly the chapter on ‘Honesty’. Helped me to understand 1 John 1 in a way I hadn’t before.
February 13, 2022
How do Christians grow? The basic point of this book is that change is a matter of ‘going deeper’, rather than through ‘outward improvement’, ‘intellectual addition’ or ‘felt experience’. At the outset, the author urges the reader to ‘be patient with yourself’, ‘open your heart to the possibility of real change in your life’ and ‘don't consume this book but reflect your way through it’.
The key message is that the way we grow is by ‘receiving the heartfelt love of Jesus’. The gospel of grace not only gets us into God’s Kingdom but moves us along. Ortlund says his goal is to ‘coach the reader into that single simple all-determining impulse of the heart: looking to Jesus’.
Nine short but profound chapters draw deeply on Puritan literature and biblical teaching. They follow logically from each other, but he emphasises that ‘they are not sequential steps but rather open quite different facets of the one diamond of growth’.
He argues that in order to grow we need to see who the real Jesus is (chapter 1), collapse into his arms daily (2), as those united to him (3), drinking down his undeserved love (4) and full legal exoneration on the basis of his own finished work (5), being therefore freed up to walk in the light (6) and receive the anguish of this life as the gentle hand of God to help us rather than to punish us (7), seeing the love of Christ by inhaling the Bible and returning our love to him in exhaled prayer (8) and actually experiencing the love of heaven through the indwelling spirit (9).
He says that this is a book with one point – that the reader might ‘be astonished at the gracious heart of Jesus Christ’ and ‘receive his unutterable love for sinners and sufferers’.
Like Ortlund's earlier classic ‘Gentle and lowly’, ‘Deeper’ is a veritable treasure trove of biblical insight, passionate argument and food for reflection. I'm sure I'll be going back to it again and again to remind myself of the lessons taught and pick up more that I missed on the first run through. Highly recommended.
The key message is that the way we grow is by ‘receiving the heartfelt love of Jesus’. The gospel of grace not only gets us into God’s Kingdom but moves us along. Ortlund says his goal is to ‘coach the reader into that single simple all-determining impulse of the heart: looking to Jesus’.
Nine short but profound chapters draw deeply on Puritan literature and biblical teaching. They follow logically from each other, but he emphasises that ‘they are not sequential steps but rather open quite different facets of the one diamond of growth’.
He argues that in order to grow we need to see who the real Jesus is (chapter 1), collapse into his arms daily (2), as those united to him (3), drinking down his undeserved love (4) and full legal exoneration on the basis of his own finished work (5), being therefore freed up to walk in the light (6) and receive the anguish of this life as the gentle hand of God to help us rather than to punish us (7), seeing the love of Christ by inhaling the Bible and returning our love to him in exhaled prayer (8) and actually experiencing the love of heaven through the indwelling spirit (9).
He says that this is a book with one point – that the reader might ‘be astonished at the gracious heart of Jesus Christ’ and ‘receive his unutterable love for sinners and sufferers’.
Like Ortlund's earlier classic ‘Gentle and lowly’, ‘Deeper’ is a veritable treasure trove of biblical insight, passionate argument and food for reflection. I'm sure I'll be going back to it again and again to remind myself of the lessons taught and pick up more that I missed on the first run through. Highly recommended.
September 7, 2023
{full review here:https://www.amberthiessen.com/post/de...}
“How do Christians grow?
The question itself immediately elicits different feelings among us. Some of us feel guilt. We’re not growing, and we know it. And the guilt is itself self-perpetuating, further paralyzing us in spiritual stagnation.”
Does this resonate with anyone?
The question for Christians isn’t whether or not we should grow, but how.
You think about all the things you “should” be doing, and, yes our habits in the Word and in prayer play a part, but a big part of our maturity is knowing and loving Christ.
Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners by Dane Ortlund outlines biblical truths to help us gaze on the person and work of the Lord Jesus.
The question facing believers is not if we should grow, but how. The author sets out to show you that “change is a matter of going deeper,” not a compilation of outward improvements, but an inner conviction that you already have everything you need in Christ.
With each chapter, the author gently guides you to gospel truths for reflection. This book isn’t intended to be read through quickly. You won’t find fast food here, it’s more like a full-course meal sitting around the table with family and friends, with necessary time to digest and relax between courses. There aren’t reflection questions, but I’d recommend journaling alongside your reading to let biblical truths seep in and to give your life an honest look.
This isn’t a long book, but it’s beautifully rich.
If you’re curious about how we as believers grow deeper in Christ, buy this book!
If you’ve got your sanctified life all figured out, you won’t find this helpful.
“This book is for the frustrated. The exhausted. Those on the brink. Those on the verge of giving up any real progress in their Christian growth.”
When we wonder about what to do with the time we’ve got left and how we can love the Lord Jesus more, you will find the words bringing you back to biblical truths, directing you to gaze wholeheartedly on Jesus. This will be on my pile to read again next year.
“How do Christians grow?
The question itself immediately elicits different feelings among us. Some of us feel guilt. We’re not growing, and we know it. And the guilt is itself self-perpetuating, further paralyzing us in spiritual stagnation.”
Does this resonate with anyone?
The question for Christians isn’t whether or not we should grow, but how.
You think about all the things you “should” be doing, and, yes our habits in the Word and in prayer play a part, but a big part of our maturity is knowing and loving Christ.
Deeper: Real Change for Real Sinners by Dane Ortlund outlines biblical truths to help us gaze on the person and work of the Lord Jesus.
The question facing believers is not if we should grow, but how. The author sets out to show you that “change is a matter of going deeper,” not a compilation of outward improvements, but an inner conviction that you already have everything you need in Christ.
With each chapter, the author gently guides you to gospel truths for reflection. This book isn’t intended to be read through quickly. You won’t find fast food here, it’s more like a full-course meal sitting around the table with family and friends, with necessary time to digest and relax between courses. There aren’t reflection questions, but I’d recommend journaling alongside your reading to let biblical truths seep in and to give your life an honest look.
This isn’t a long book, but it’s beautifully rich.
If you’re curious about how we as believers grow deeper in Christ, buy this book!
If you’ve got your sanctified life all figured out, you won’t find this helpful.
“This book is for the frustrated. The exhausted. Those on the brink. Those on the verge of giving up any real progress in their Christian growth.”
When we wonder about what to do with the time we’ve got left and how we can love the Lord Jesus more, you will find the words bringing you back to biblical truths, directing you to gaze wholeheartedly on Jesus. This will be on my pile to read again next year.
October 29, 2021
When I began this book, I was discouraged by the depth of my sin and was despairing of my ability to change. Now, having finished this book, I am encouraged by the love of Jesus for me and am hopeful for growth in Jesus. This book captures the heart of his previous work, Gentle and Lowly, and applies it to the process of growth in the life of the Christian. I've read many books about change and growth in the Christian life, but have often walked away from those books bogged down by so many details, processes, and such. This book is simple in its approach to change: go deeper into Jesus, which is in fact, the Biblical approach to change. It is a breath of fresh air. This is now my go-to book I will recommend to people on how to change in the Christian life. It is not comprehensive by any means, but it is certainly foundational. Grab this book, a friend or two, and slowly walk through the chapters mulling over these truths and applying them to your life!
April 9, 2022
04/09/22 - 2nd Read
Used this as a discipleship resource and it was fantastic, as you would expect.
12/19/21 - 1st Read
Is it possible for Dane Ortland to write a book less than 5 stars?
Ortland is one of the best modern Christian writers proclaiming the unmerited grace that Jesus offers, even as he writes about sanctification and growth. Case in point, this amazing line:
"Christ was killed so that our own relative success or failure in killing sin is no part of the formula of our adoption into God's family." (Page 137)
NO PART!
Used this as a discipleship resource and it was fantastic, as you would expect.
12/19/21 - 1st Read
Is it possible for Dane Ortland to write a book less than 5 stars?
Ortland is one of the best modern Christian writers proclaiming the unmerited grace that Jesus offers, even as he writes about sanctification and growth. Case in point, this amazing line:
"Christ was killed so that our own relative success or failure in killing sin is no part of the formula of our adoption into God's family." (Page 137)
NO PART!
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