LEGEND OF THE MONK AND THE MERCHANT PB [Paperback]

Practical Budgeting's Review of

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant

This book is written By Terry Felber, World Publishing

This is a book of one man's version of how to live a life honoring God in his chose vocation, either as a minister or in the marketplace. The story mostly unfolds as to how to honor God in the market place, yet a glimpse or two are given into the life of one chosen, by God, to live in full time service to telling others revelations from God and expounding on the scriptures (Sunday sermons).

God gives businessmen the resources to help fulfill the calling of the priests, who have given their own time and resources specifically to serving God and to blessing the businessmen (page 32 with Revelation 1:6 referenced).

The story is not bogged down in theological discussions and references to scripture are in a conversational manner, as we all should do. God has given his words to us ... we should use them and internalize them as if they were our own.

How we should live our life is about serving God ... either full time helping others to come into God's presence (as a priest) or in the market place, creating the wealth to support those in full time service (as a King according to the author).

This is not a prosperity gospel where we are promised enormous material wealth if we do such and such. Scripture has simply promised us if we obey then we will prosper. There are more ways to prosper then simply money.

However, with the interpretation of Revelation 1:6, the author takes a dangerous theological leap to what I would believe to a wrong interpretation as one would take the verse in context would quickly reveal. On page 30 of the book, scripture is misquoted and then used as justification for his position.

After researching the word "king" in this verse (author uses the King James Version), I do understand how the he came to such a conclusion that the word Kings is a reference to businessmen (merchants). The word means a foundation of power and in our world those who have money usually have the power (influence).

This idea of Kings and Priests, set forth, however, is a compelling one and the theses for the entire story. It would have been far better, and more credible, had the author simply stated what a great idea and concept it is, signifying it is his belief that the reader should act in such a manner, as opposed to adamantly tat this concept is what scripture clearly teaches in Revelation 1:6.

Other than this specific and obvious theological misrepresentation, the entire book's principles (including people wither being Kings or Pries, albeit the author's definition of such, are ones we should embrace and incorporate into our daily lives.

The following life and financial principles are set forth by the author and weaved throughout a captivating story line:

* Work hard and God will prosper you, Deuteronomy 28:4, 28:12, 28:1

* Financial prosperity is connected to soul prosperity.

Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 6:33, Luke 18:18-22, Luke 18:24-30

* A man must do whatever he can to provide for his family, II Thessalonians 3:10

* Trials develop your character, preparing you for increased blessings, Romans 8:31

* Take responsibility for problems that are the result of your own bad decisions. Don't displace the blame, I Peter 5:8

* See challenges as stepping stones, not as obstacles.

* Be meek before God, but bold before men, Matthew 5:5

* Loaning money destroys relationships.

* Live debt free and below your means, Romans 13:8

* Always keep to your budget.

* Set aside the first 10% to honor God, Malachi 3:8-10

* Understand the power of partnership.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant has a compelling story line, well written and, with the exception of the Revelation 1:6 interpretation explained earlier, scripture sound.

I highly recommend this book and would consider this required reading to anyone who wishes to read a great perspective on how to honor God with his vocation and money.

Find it at a library or Amazon has it for about $7 used.

"With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand"- Mark 4:33. Jesus used parables throughout his ministry and Terry Felber's book The Legend of The Monk and The Merchant shows that parables can still teach lessons today. In Legend, wealthy businessman Antonio shares the twelve principles of his success.

The story centers around the twelve principles and has example from Antonio's life to illustrate each. The principles stress the importance of perseverance and responsible handling of money.

As Antonio shares his life story with his grandson Julio the reader learns how Antonio went from being the foster son of a monk to one of the most influential merchants in Italy. Principle one "work hard and God will proper you" is illustrated by Antonio's invention of Venice's trade currency, which is the source of his fortune My favorite part of the book was the surprise ending that tells what Antonio did with his money.

Despite the good message the book has a few problems. The characters are very underdeveloped and the Renaissance Italy setting clashes with the modern concepts and speech.

I believe this book would be enjoyed most by those who view it as a pleasant way to learn business principles, rather than by those who read for entertainment. Though it's not Pilgrim's Progress, The Legend of The Monk and The Merchant is worthy to stand with such great business parables as Who Moved My Cheese and The Go-getter. -- Amy Stoller, Christian Book Previews.com

The Monk and the Merchant is a great book to educate on the nuts and bolts of the correct philosophies of running a business...stay out of debt, persevere, be ready and paying attention when opportunities come.

This book is great for those thinking of starting a business or for the ones who have existing businesses but need a good reminder of what the overall strategies should be.