"The Purpose Driven Life" 20 Years Later—Is it Any Good?

The Book’s Self-Help Framing and Central Question

The purpose-driven life is one of the best-selling books ever. Rick Warren called it the anti self-help book because of the opening line. It's not about you. He then makes it all about you. The book is written as a 40-day spiritual journey answering the question.

What on earth am I here for? He says that life is all about bringing glory to God so far so good. He encourages love mercy prayer obedience baptism evangelism and discipleship. But there is no clear message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The False Conversion Prayer and the Call to Repentance

On day 7 Warren says to quietly whisper the prayer that will change Your eternity Jesus. I believe in you and I receive you if you sincerely meant that prayer. Congratulations. Welcome to the family of God.

This false conversion prayer has led to many false converts. In mark 115 Jesus said repent and believe in the gospel. He told his disciples to preach repentance for the forgiveness of sins. But Warren never tells sinners to repent nor does he warn of the judgment of God, which is the reason we need a Savior.

The Gospel’s Purpose Versus a Purpose-Driven Message

What good is Warren's purpose-driven life without the purpose of the gospel though? The book contains many Bible references. They're often ripped out of context chosen from just about every Translation to make the Bible say what he wants in the end.

Scripture, Context, and Salvation by Grace

The purpose-driven life will lead a person into more error than truth. Second Timothy 1 9 says that God has saved us and called us to a holy calling not because of our works. But because of his own purpose and grace which he gave us in Christ Jesus when we understand the text.