Book Review: I Am a Christian by Thom S. Rainer

Jan 13 min read

By John Hill, Editor & CEO

Thom S. Rainer's I Am a Christian: Discovering What It Means to Follow Jesus Together with Fellow Believers is a must-read for anyone seeking a practical, clear, and deeply meaningful exploration of what it means to live as a follower of Jesus. This book is more than a theological treatise; it’s a hands-on guide for integrating faith into every aspect of your life. Whether you’re a new believer or have been walking with Christ for years, Rainer’s insights will inspire and challenge you to deepen your relationship with God and the church community.

The book is divided into seven chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of Christian identity. Let me give you a glimpse into why this book is worth your time.

I Am a Believer Rainer opens with the heart of Christianity: believing in Jesus Christ as Savior. He beautifully explains the gospel’s transformative power and invites readers to reflect on what it truly means to trust and follow Jesus. This chapter sets a strong foundation for the journey ahead.
I Am a Church Member Here, Rainer emphasizes the importance of the local church. He dispels the notion of a "solo Christianity" and explains how being part of a church family is integral to spiritual growth. His insights about church membership as a commitment to others rather than a consumer relationship are timely and refreshing.
I Am a Disciple Rainer describes discipleship as a lifelong journey of learning and growing in Christ. This chapter is packed with practical ways to study Scripture, grow in faith, and embrace the call to become more like Jesus every day.
I Am a Servant With warmth and clarity, Rainer challenges readers to adopt a servant’s heart. He explains that serving others isn’t just an occasional act but a lifestyle that reflects Jesus’ example. His stories and encouragement will inspire you to find joy in serving both inside and outside the church.
I Am a Witness Sharing your faith can feel intimidating, but Rainer makes it approachable. He breaks down what it means to be a witness for Christ, offering practical advice on how to share the gospel naturally in everyday conversations.
I Am a Prayer Warrior This chapter is a heartfelt call to embrace the power of prayer. Rainer explains how prayer not only connects us with God but also transforms our hearts and communities. His encouragement to pray for others and trust God’s sovereignty is both practical and inspiring.
I Am a Christian In the final chapter, Rainer ties everything together, showing how each aspect of Christian identity forms a cohesive whole. Being a Christian, he explains, is about living a life fully surrendered to Christ, in relationship with others, and for the glory of God.

Rainer’s writing is clear, engaging, and deeply personal. He combines biblical truth with relatable stories, making the book accessible to readers at any stage of their faith journey. It’s not just a book to read—it’s a resource to revisit and a tool for spiritual growth.

If you’re looking for a book that will reignite your faith, deepen your understanding of your role as a Christian, and challenge you to live more fully for Christ, I Am a Christian is the perfect choice. Grab a copy, and let Thom S. Rainer guide you on a life-changing journey of faith and purpose!