From the Rising of the Sun
Watch my reel on Instagram and YouTube.
In From the Rising of the Sun, Tim Challies and Tim Keesee take you on a journey of worship around the world. This book chronicles their travels as they discover how churches worship God in their own unique ways. From Lautoka, Fiji, to Unalaska, Alaska — this book will open your eyes to the praise of our God.
Customs and Cultures
Each church visited aligns with a variety of Protestant traditions. I found their descriptions to be familiar in preaching and worship, but varied in terms of customs and cultures. Keesee provides travelogue entries, while Challies offers reflections on the different elements of Christian worship they encountered.
While different music and singing styles are highlighted around the world, I was most delighted to read about their visit to St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Sydney, Australia — the home church of CityAlight. I loved reading about their ministry and convictions, especially when it comes to long songwriting sessions to get their words right, how most in their band see themselves as volunteers and hold regular jobs, and the emphasis on making their songs singable.
I was most moved by their visit to Yullin Church in Seoul, South Korea. Keesee dives into the history of missionaries and the beginnings of Korean Christianity, reminding me of the work of faithful Christians who have gone before me. He introduces us to the pastors and people of the church. I saw the importance of prayer and heard about a sermon on how the gospel must continue to be shared in our own individual families.
Gather with God’s People
I was most convicted by the house churches in Casablanca, Morocco. They don’t meet in homes to be countercultural or trendy — they are forbidden to organize Christian activities openly. I now better appreciate the privilege I have, and I don’t want to waste a single Sunday I get to gather with God’s people.
The book comes with a free film series that beautifully captures the people and praise of God. From the Rising of the Sun is a fascinating testimony of God’s faithfulness to His church, the wonderful worship of Christ, and the power of the Spirit to move in God’s people.
I received a media copy of From the Rising of the Sun (Amazon, 27% off Westminster Bookstore and save an additional 5% off your entire order anytime with code DIVEINDIGDEEP) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow @diveindigdeep on Instagram. To receive free eBooks from around the web and my personal ministry updates, subscribe to my free weekly newsletter and Substack.