The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant - Twelve Keys to Successful Living

The Legend Of The Monk And The Merchant is a fable and allegory set in 15th and 16th century Italy that seeks to provide an apologetic for the legitimacy of businessmen and a focus on the marketplace within Christianity. It comes with a foreword by Dave Ramsey that hints at the importance of the book within evangelical circles along with a personal and small group study guide that takes up more than a third of the size of this small work (weighing in at a modest 180-odd pages). The book as a whole is a frame story, as an old man teaches his grandson twelve sensible and practical lessons about life and business, including the wisdom of tithing, the importance of partnerships, taking personal responsibility, using challenges as a stepping stone to success, avoiding debt and lending and living below one's means, and being bold before men but humble before God. These lessons are introduced within the story as an old Antonio tells his bright grandson Julio about a series of meetings that he had with his own merchant who helped him see that the marketplace was his vocation.

The book as a whole tends to take a somewhat defensive tone about the legitimacy of the businessmen within Christianity, reflecting a hostility to exclusive claims of the clergy. The book openly proclaims the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers, rightfully claiming that all Christians have the responsibility to lead godly lives and perform a ministry in whatever task or vocation that they have within the world, even if they are not paid for their work of ministry. In addition, the book strongly advocates the use of wealth gained through business to serve congregations (and tithing), especially those ministries who accept and bolster the legitimacy of the godly role of the businessman. There appears to be a hint of the carrot and stick here, as those ministries which espouse a pietistic and anti-business message can expect to lose those members who are devoted to serving God and achieving success in all aspects of life, including their material wealth to other ministries which greater appreciate Christian responsibility within all spheres of human activity.

Those who are looking for a biblical message that supports the legitimacy of businessmen will particularly appreciate the references of scripture that help to ground the story in more substantial truth than its allegorical design, and the book openly engages in debate over what meekness means and the lack of general applicability to Jesus' message to the rich young nobleman to give away all his wealth.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book (in e-book format) from the publisher with the expectation that I would provide an honest review of the book.

I am usually a little skeptical about parable-type books, where the author tells a simple story to illustrate bigger ideas since I often find them to be too simple and obvious. The legend of the Monk and the Merchant was very different and was a very pleasant surprise. The story itself is good, but the study and discussion guide is the real gem in this book.

In The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant, Terry Felber tells the story of a wealthy merchant in Venice telling his grandson about the keys to his business success. The merchant had collected his experiences and insights in a journal over the years with his mentor and uses it to encourage his grandson who is deciding what he wants to do with his life. Along the course of the story, they discuss God's view of money, wealth and work, principles of success in business and life, and man's obligation God and his fellow man.

Also, and this may be because we (my Wife and I) have young adolescents at home who--before we know it--will be making their own decisions about careers, we were really impressed with the challenging questions in the discussion guide about choosing their vocations based on God's call.

Students of Christian approaches to finances and stewardship (including Dave Ramsey, whose foreword presents a very persuasive endorsement of the book also) may find at last some of the principles familiar. However, the way in which they are presented and the practical reflections of them in the story are very real and compelling.

Felber goes beyond just another book on Christian business principles by examining the artificial distinction between clergy and laity. Without harping on it, he effectively makes the point that all work is sanctioned by God and that the merchant is no less `godly' than the Monk. He uses the setting, in Renaissance Venice to underscore the observable differences in the two callings at the time and thus make his point that fundamentally they are not really different at all if one truly understands God's call to work.

The story that Felber uses to make these points moves quickly and is deceptively simple. A good reader could easily read it in a single sitting. The Study guide is where this book transforms from potentially run-of-the-mill to outstanding.

The study guide contains twelve sessions that delve deep into the ideas and concepts with challenging, soul-searching questions. This isn't a simple personal or small-group study that you can just answer with shallow quick off-the-cuff answers. Felber asks the Hard Questions that really make you think and examine what you think, what you believe and how you act. This book can be greatly valuable to people who are looking to learn about a Christian perspective on finances, but it also has a lot to say about those considering their careers--either where to start them, or thinking about a work change. As my Wife and I observed, it is also an excellent book for young teens to read and then review with their parents as they start looking at possible careers and what it means to be an adult.

We highly recommend this book and encourage readers to invest the time to go through the questions and let themselves be challenged--and potentially inspired--by wrestling with the questions it asks.

OVERVIEW: Terry Felber's story of the monk and the merchant, set in Rome during the Renaissance, is full of sixteenth-century adventure and real-world truth. As his tale unfolds, Felber asks and answers questions about family, creativity, innovation in business, and God. As he explains in a new foreword, this book helped Dave Ramsey rediscover the marketplace as a mission field--and merchants as ministers. The book includes a personal and small group study guide.

AUTHOR: Terry Felber is an author and entrepreneur who speaks to large audiences around the world about principles for successful living. Over the past twenty-five years, Terry has built a sales organization of more than fifty thousand people. He has served on the board of directors of the National Association of Evangelicals; the advisory board of Alticor, an international multibillion-dollar corporation; and a half dozen other corporate and ministry boards.

FORWARD BY DAVE RAMSEY: Dave Ramsey is America's trusted voice on money and business. He has authored three New York Times best-selling books. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 4.5 million listeners each week on more than five hundred radio stations.

MY REVIEW: The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is a much-needed biblical resource for individual and small groups that addresses money and ministry in the marketplace. Dave Ramsey said, "I immediately ordered a big box of these books and made it required reading for my whole team...My team and I love this book."

It took me a few pages to really get into this book but once I did it was hard to put down. This is a splendid story written in a very interesting way. You may be familiar with the twelve keys to successful living but I feel confident that after reading this book you will see them in a new light and they will change the way you see yourself, your job and your purpose.

I believe this book will open your eyes to the opportunities for service and leadership all around you.

Non-fiction books are intended to tell of events or facts that are based in reality. Fiction books are intended to tell a story, though not based in reality, that, hopefully, will be of interest to the reader. This book was both.

The story is interesting - as Grandfather tells Julio the story of his life in business. This story includes the necessary set of characters: monks, pirates, friends, fires, and family. Together they contribute to a story that I could not put down - often feeling the need to finish just one more chapter before turning in for the night.

But as the story develops, Grandfather's mentor and friend, Allesio, shares twelve principles that were to serve Grandfather and others well throughout the years. Some of these principles were ones I was able to apply within my life (e.g. "LIVE DEBT FREE AND BELOW YOUR MEANS". Others, I knew, but found difficult to apply (e.g. "SET ASIDE THE FIRST 10 PERCENT TO HONOR GOD."). And, finally, there were some that appear to be just common sense (e.g. "FINANCIAL PROSPERITY IS OFTEN CONNECTED TO SOUL PROSPERITY").

The book is more than story and principles - it also includes a very brief list of Bible references to support the principles discussed in the book. In addition to the brief list of Biblical Scripture references, there is a twelve session study guide for a group to use as they discuss the book. The author suggests that each participant read the entire book before beginning a group study of the concepts and themes contained within the book.

My only concern with this book is its tangential focus on what some have called "The Prosperity Gospel" - if taken to extremes, the principles in this book could lead one into the trap that financial blessing will come to all who follow these principles. It must be remembered, that, while following these principles does not guarantee financial blessing, it, they will guarantee God's blessing.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy of this book provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant by Terry Felber is an odd kind of book for the twentyfirst century. It is an allegory. This particular allegory focuses on a child who was raised by monks but ulitmately chose to be a merchant as he passes on to his grandson the lessons he learned from his mentor and attributes to his succes. It was an interesting book that taught good (if not new) life lessons in an enjoyable way. I would reccomend it to a friend and can imagine myself having my kids read it some day.
I first heard of this book from Dave Ramsay. Ramsay was talking on his radio show about five or so books that he makes all of his staff members read within the first few months under his employ. This book was on the list, and Ramsay said great things about it. (Don't bother finding the radio broadcast, he repeats the rave things he said in the preface.) When I found out the book was available for review, I was very excited to get to read it.
The book really shines in how it uses scripture to debunk certain Christian myths about the evils of business and wealth. It is also interesting how it emphasizes the importance of a partnership between the merchants (busnessmen) and monks (ministers) for the kingdom of God. Beyond those two topics, the book reinforces principles about working hard, living within your means, and rebounding from tragedies very effectively.
There is one thing I would change in this book: The books heroes are Roman Catholics working for the advancement of the Roman Catholic church. It seemed to me that the author was not a catholic, if he was, he quoted a lot of scripture for a catholic. So why use them as the analogy? Don't get me wrong, this isn't a pro-catholic book. The catholic church was probably used because it was nescessary for the central anology of the story. But as a Baptist pastor who believes we should be trying to win people from the Catholic church, I wish another analogy was used.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com [...] book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Twelve Keys to Successful Living by Terry Felber is an inspiring book that navigates the difficult waters of a holy calling to business. The book is short, easy to ready, and contains one of the best study guides I've ever seen. I read the entire book from cover to cover in a little over an hour.

The author shares a fictional account of a young man who must choose between becoming a merchant or a priest. The parable illustrates twelve principles that are essential to leading a godly life. The thesis of the book ultimately centers on the issue that God calls some men to business in the same way he calls others into vocational ministry.

This book is a great read for anyone struggling with the legitimacy of being a Christian businessman. It clears up basic misconceptions about wealth, faith and vocation. It has a great study guide that takes the conversations a level deeper.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson as part of the BookSneeze program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

I had noticed this book as one of Dave Ramsey's book recommendations and had put it on my list of books to read. When I saw this revised edition come up for availability on the review program The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant by Terry Felber immediately jumped to the top of my reading list.

I certainly was not disappointed with this title either!

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is a wonderfully done book that delivers the reader invaluable knowledge of how we can be “kings” in the work place. The place that God designed some of us to be instead of being in the clergy.

In the book Antonio takes a journey with grandson Julio and teaches him the Twelve Principle to Success in Business he learned long ago that made him into the successful man that he is today.

These twelve principles are full of knowledge and truth and can really change your life, family, and business if you choose to follow them. These principle deal with family, honoring God, responsibility, and the importance of hard work.

The revised edition that I was able to read also has a wonderful study/small group section that will allow the book to be an even more valuable tool.

Go today and get you copy so that you can take advantage of this wonderful book and find out the twelve principles that could change you personal and business lifestyle if you let them!

This book was yet another reminder that no matter what line of work we are in we are still in the ministry of spreading the word of God.

This book is very easy to read, pretty much in one or two sittings. It is interesting and kept my attention the whole way through. I enjoyed the simplicity of the tale, it got to the point quickly without too much circling around. The theme was how every person can choose a path in life of either being a monk or a merchant and that both are equally as important and necessary. One is devoted to God full time in ministry, the other in the marketplace to help the ones devoted full time in ministry. A refreshing perspective on something not addressed often within the church that should be.
The story retells a mentor relationship and the lessons learned through that relationship and the resulting success. It shows how taking a good idea can bring you great success if you deal with it the right way.
It is a motivational/ inspirational book, however the lessons within it are not necessarily new if you have read Napoleon Hill and The Richest Man in Babylon and other such greats - and to be honest I hesitate to place this book up with them. In saying that though, this book is very good, with some really good basic principles for success. It has a study guide in the back - it would probably be a great book for a youth group/teenagers to read and study as a start to setting themselves up in life.

Please note: Booksneeze sent me a copy of this book for review. This review is not influenced by anyone else, it is my own.

When I saw that Dave Ramsey wrote the forward for this book, I knew it would be good - and I was not disappointed! This great little story is a quick read packed with truths about building wealth, using marketplace skills for God's kingdom, and being a businessperson of integrity. The twelve truths are couched in a believable little story about a merchant and his grandson several hundred years ago, when Venice was a center of world trade and the grandiose cathedral St. Peter's was being built at the Vatican. The engaging backdrop is the setting for the transferring of wisdom from one generation to the next. The monk represents those in the ministry vocation, and the merchant those in business. The merchant explains how he learned that his role in the marketplace is no less a calling than the full-time minister's calling. The idea that wealth is bad is refuted. Instead, those God has gifted with the ability to innovate in business and generate wealth have the privilege and responsibility of doing their best in the marketplace and in turn supporting kingdom work. The principles of the merchant and his wealth apply to everyday, middle class people too; people who want to do their best with their income and want to honor God. The study guide at the end of the book is great. I can easily see myself doing this with a small group or discussing with a friend. For anyone in business or who is interested in the topic of wealth-building and integrity, this is a great edition! 5 stars out of 5 stars. I was provided with a complimentary copy for purposes of review by BookSneeze of Thomas Nelson Publishers, and am not required to give a positive review.

I received this book free from Book Sneeze in return for a review. Any opinions here are of the writer alone.

This is the latest version of this book with a forward provided by Dave Ramsey. The message of this book is that business and making money is not inherently evil and that this is a misguided approach to take, including if you follow biblical commands. The true moral, biblical path here is different and the book provides twelve keys for successful living, that is, living a good life that honor's God's path. This reminds me of Jesus' parable where someone was criticized for simply, to him sensibly, just in effect "safely" keeping his money under the proverbial mattress. This "no risk, no reward" approach was rejected. What would Jesus' ministry lead to, after all, if no risks were taken, just playing it safe?

The reference to a parable is appropriate, since this book uses a similar approach: a story of a monk and merchant taking place in the Renaissance is used to provide lessons, the reader informed while being entertained by a good story. The book provides the parable and then a "study guide" that provides a commentary that guides the reader. This all is done in under two hundred pages, so it is both entertaining and an overall quick read. Besides being enjoyable and morally satisfying, it is an attractive volume with a pretty cover.

legend-monk-merchantThe Legend of the Monk and the Merchant by Terry Felber is an interesting parable about how to be a faithful businessman, practicing Christian principles while in the pursuit of profit.

The story is a grandfather telling his grandson the story about him and his business mentor. Every three years, the mentor and the grandfather would meet to catch up and for the mentor to share another "key", or two or three, to help direct your business affairs well.

Frankly, the book just isn't it. It starts with a weak theological concept that we're to be either "priests or kings", which didn't bode well for the rest of the book. While I can support the idea that if you work hard, take care of your family, and offer your fruit to God, the notion that doing so as a casual relationship with financial prosperity is misguided.

Sure, if we do those things, riches may come our way. There are plenty of jerks out there making a lot of money too. In the end, the principles we put in place to guide our lives shouldn't be directed toward financial goals, but toward finding fulfillment. In Christian thought, that fulfillment is in Christ.

The book, though, makes financial gain an end goal through spiritual talk.

Beyond the lessons taught in the book, the structure of a grandfather telling his grandson throughout the book of conversations and experiences between him and another person made it harder to follow than it needed to be.

Positively, the book's setting of Rome before the Reformation was smart, as it allows it be accessed as a Christian work while completely skirting the vast majority of the denominational questions (the Great Schism being the only one, really, by that time).

In the end, I'd skip this book. There are more interesting, more thought-provoking books on how to live a principled life in business.

Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher in exchange for a review. I was not obligated to give a positive review nor did the publisher review this review prior to publication.

"The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" by Terry Felber is a fictional story of one man's discovery of the key to success. The book contains twelve principles to becoming successful after discovering one's purpose. Included in the 184 pages is a 57 page study guide for personal or group study.
I was anxious to read this book because of its' title and the forward by respected financial advisor Dave Ramsey. As I read this story I kept thinking about another book with a similar concept as much as I tried not to I found myself comparing the two. Around the fourth chapter I decided to skim through the remainder of the book for fear I would not complete it. Considering the story only 119 pages (some of them blank) I was surprised that it took me a few days to complete it.
If you are looking for a book to incorporate in a small group that has a business theme then by all means check "The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" out. Since each chapter makes an excellent vignette for the corresponding study guide the book will facilitate in personal growth and development. Because I have read the "Greatest Salesman in the World" I was disappointed in the plot and dialogue I found both to be too simplistic.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Book Sneeze in exchange for a free review.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Principles for Successful Living by Terry Felber is a great read.
However, in the interest of full disclosure, the study guide at the end of the book is a Dave Ramsey product. There is much good material in that section as well, it is just not advertised to be such.
The first part of the book, the actual "legend" portion, contains a story with twelve "principles" based on Biblical truths. These truths are taught through the perspective of an aging grandfather as he reveals his life story to his grandson.
The principles deal with everything from realizing we are all called to ministry whether vocational or in the marketplace, taking responsibility for our actions - and the outcome, taking care of our family, how to best help those in need and tithing.
The study guide is thought provoking and, while I agree with much of Mr. Ramsey's material, I must personally take issue with some of his points of view - "Don't keep pets" being just one of those.
I would recommend this book on the condition the reader understand the study guide is what it is, and whether you use that portion of the book or not, the "legend" is both entertaining and instructional.
Thomas Nelson provides a free copy of these books for review through their "Booksneeze" Program [...] ; however, I am not required to give a positive review of the book.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Twelve Keys to Successful Living by Terry Felber is an inspiring book that navigates the difficult waters of a holy calling to business. The book is short, easy to ready, and contains one of the best study guides I've ever seen. I read the entire book from cover to cover in a little over an hour.

The author shares a fictional account of a young man who must choose between becoming a merchant or a priest. The parable illustrates twelve principles that are essential to leading a godly life. The thesis of the book ultimately centers on the issue that God calls some men to business in the same way he calls others into vocational ministry.

This book is a great read for anyone struggling with the legitimacy of being a Christian businessman. It clears up basic misconceptions about wealth, faith and vocation. It has a great study guide that takes the conversations a level deeper.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson as part of the BookSneeze program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

the Living Room Couch (blogspot)
Book Reviews you WANT to Read

Snack of Choice:
It's not the authentic NY style, but for $5 you can't really complain. Thank you, Caesar (but your better watch out for Brutus).

Story behind the Story:
I've been craving the smell of a real book. You know what I mean, the ones that just smell like a library. I'm missing it this go round because of new technology. First book I officially read on the i-Pad. Check out the last time I tried to read an e-book: [Church in the Making]. Book Sneeze by Thomas Nelson provided a digital copy of this book.

Story Line:
Financial and Business Guru, Dave Ramsey highly recommends and passes this book around to everyone who comes on board his company. The main tenet of the book is "The Merchant is a minister too." I love that. As a pastor, I love having fellow ministers in the market place partnering together to accomplish the purposes of the Lord.

This short story, set in the boom of Venice, shared how generations pass on 12 principles of business for the believer. The second half is a small group study guide that delves into some real life application of the story.

The Real Story:
While I love the premise, I'm confounded by the seeming contradiction of messages. Instead of being on the same team, the "monks" (ministers) are portrayed as misusing Scripture (104, digital) and discouraging the merchants who are supporting the Lord's work with their money. One quote that seems to mark the authors belief of these roles is as follows: "God has designed a special relationship between businessmen and leaders in the church. We, as businessmen, can provide the provision for the vision of the priests" (135 - also see 136, 138). But in truth, the "Great Commission" isn't exclusively for ministers. It does not say to the merchant, "Give you're money, and let the monks do the witnessing, the teaching, the discipling." It says, "All of us have are to get our hands dirty."

Fortunately, the small group study got it right. "Under the new covenant, because all Christians now have the Holy Spirit, all believers are priests and can personally worship God and minister to God and his people" (148). "But whether in vocational ministry (monks) or ministry in the marketplace (merchants), we are call called to `go'"(149). "Everyone in [our] building knows that they're operating under a higher calling, because our work is holy" (150).

There were some other contradictions between the story and the guide (ie. 77 & 162) to the point that it seemed to be written by two different authors. (See acknowledgements, looks like it was). Oh, and I wasn't a fan of the story telling either.

Check out:
Dave Ramsey stuff - great biblical principles for businesses and life.
The Book of Acts - all kinds of regular people serving God in extraordinary ways.

Rating:
3 out of 5 Venetian Trade Beads (and that's out of respect for the small group material).

You can be successful in life's endeavors!
You know when you read a book and you cannot put it down. You lose sleep because you just want to read one more page which turns into one more chapter. You finish the book only to read it again because you enjoyed it so much.
This is that kind of book.
Part parable, part inpirational text, part business tome, The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is the new book by Terry Felber.
The story begins with Antonio and his grandson, Julio traveling to Rome to St. Peter's Cathedral. Antonio is a successful businessman who desires to pass on his knowledge to his grandson. The knowledge he shares with his grandson while in Rome is a profound personal narrative that will inspire you to examine your own views of success and how you can improve your life.
Questions you will ask yourself
1. What is your vocation?
2. Are you doing what you can to be successful or are you creating potholes?
3. What are your feelings about money? Is it a tool or is it evil?
There is a great study guide in the back of the book to help you think about being successful and what plans you can put into action to achieve your dreams.
I heartily recommend this book to anyone who seeks an honest assessment of success and ideas to help them achieve success.

This is one of the books that Dave Ramsey, the Christian financial expert, requires his employees to read. It was for that reason that I reviewed this book and I am glad I did.

With a forward written by Mr. Ramsey, this book by Terry Felber, is light but worthwhile reading. It's message is written in a parable form so that the reader learns financial and business principles while reading the story of a grandfather in ancient times who is teaching wisdom to his grandson.As the grandfather shares the story his business success, his grandson listens and asks questions.

The book outlines a list of principles that all believers would be wise to follow, especially those who are interested in building a business. Along with such wisdom as recognizing that all we have comes from God, and a wise man provides for his family, the foundational message of this book is that building a business can be a calling from God.

The book also serves as an excellent study guide with questions for thought on each of the principles. Because it is easy to read and written in a story format, I plan to require my teens to read this book as part of an economics course.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson/Book Sneeze for review purposes only.

It doesn't take much to create a compelling parable. You need salient points, a good believable story, and some nuance. Unfortunately, "The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" falls a little short. A parable about finance, written in the style of "The Richest Man in Babylon", this story is a brief overview of sound financial principles.

The story is decent, but not overwhelmingly so. The principles of money maintenance are sound (though if that's what you are looking for, try one of Dave Ramsey [who wrote the forward]'s books). The real problem is that the principles described in the book are not nuanced at all, and the story is unbelievable. Instead of trusting the reader to be smart enough to understand the principles, they are typed out multiple times in each chapter IN ALL CAPS. This book might work well for a high schooler, but is underwhelming for an adult.

As far as unbelievability, the parable itself seems more like modern day business men who travel back in time. There is little understanding of what medieval society was really like. The veracity of the story is sacrificed for the applicability of the business principles espoused. Honestly, if this same story were written in modern day, I would think it pretty good. I just cannot believe most of what happens in this story.

The copy I received also had a brief study guide in the back, that sort of (but not really) related to the parable. This section seemed out of place. The principles described in it again were pretty good.

Throughout the book, Bible verses are taken completely out of context in order to be applicable to the material. For example, the book suggests that when Jesus says that the Meek shall inherit the earth, he is solely speaking about people who are meek before God (but everybody should be bold before men). Interesting, considering that our model, and original speaker of the quote, chose to be meek in his own trial by not speaking.

Overall, the book is underwhelming. Not bad, just underwhelming. Might be a good tool to talk to your kids about money, though.

I received a copy of this book for free, understanding that I would post a review (not necessarily favorable) to my blog and the store

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant tells the story of a grandfather who chooses to pass on the wisdom that he has learned through trials and experience to his grandson. He sat his grandson down and started to tell him the story of his life. The grandfather developed a set of 12 principles that were shaped around the story of his life and what it taught him. Each of these principles the grandfather passed on as keys to successful living. I loved reading this and seeing the true discipleship and passing of the wisdom as the grandson was starting out on his own.

This is an incredible story of a family's wisdom being passed down from one generation to the next. The grandfather journaled his entire life in a leather journal. He passed this down to his grandson as he knew it was time to pass on the family legacy. This story not only teaches great principles for a successful life, but it gives phenomenal ideas of passing on family legacies and practices to the next generation. The principles are practical and applicable to every walk of life.

Make sure you don't miss out on this read! "I received this book for free through Thomas Nelson's Booksneeze book program in exchange for this review."

I was very impressed by this book. It was actually set up very differently from what I expected. Instead of the typical business book that just lists out principles, this is actually set up like a fictional story where a grandfather is sharing the story of his life with his grandson, and in doing so he also shares the business principles that he learned along the way. The ideas and principles are great and because it is given in the context of a life story we also have the life examples to support each principle. Definitely an easy read as far as business type books go.

"The Legend Of The Monk And The Merchant" by Terry Felber is an entertaining and thoughtful read on how believers in Jesus Christ need to see their vocations, especially those not in vocational ministry, need to see their jobs as callings from God.

The book is around 180 pages, with about 120 pages the body of the book and 60 pages of a study guide. The theme centers around a grandfather, his son, and grandson and their adventures in commerce. By the book's end, the reader is introduced to 12 principles, some of which are:

Work hard and God will prosper you
See challenges as stepping stones, not obstacles
Trials develop your character
Live debt-free and below your means
Set aside the first 10% to honor God

The book is very readable and the reader may complete the title in a few sittings. While I do have a few minor disagreements (for example, many godly people today and in biblical times financially struggle/struggled), the book seems to be biblically solid.

A good read, especially for the layperson who needs to have a better perspective on his/her career and how God can use him/her for His glory.
Recommended.

If you know me, then you know I hate (strong word, but true) "how to" books, self help books, and books that teach you the "principles" or "steps" of a "godly" life. Most of these types of books espouse a theology that makes God cringe. But, once I saw that Dave Ramsey wrote the forward, and likes the book, I was curious and had to read it to. Dave Ramsey changed the course of my financial life forever--without him sharing his wisdom, I would be just like every other American: steeped in debt, believing I had to use credit cards, and finding my identity in stuff that owns me. The first few pages of this book left me wondering if I would hate it, but then I was sucked in! The "principles" are written in story form, very engaging and accessible. I think this is the perfect book for teaching high school students how to think about vocation, finances, especially when considering marriage as a future possibility, and serving God with our talents and abilities. This book has a study guide which takes the principles in the story further. Those wanting Scripture to back up the life lessons will find it here. There was only one classic and glaring mis-use of Scripture, but overall I think this is a great starting point for these life lessons. (In case you are wondering, the "hope and the future" that we are to actually "hope" for are in heaven, not in a job or any other earthly situation). I anticipate reading this book with my son when he is perhaps a sophomore in high school, before introducing him to deeper classics.

Business and story go hand-in-hand! Really? Well...okay, not really so much. Which is why I was pleasantly surprised by the incredible interweaving of not only business, but also life principles into The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant. Terry Felber does a superb job of making foundational principles business come alive through the eyes of a young man learning at the feet of his grandfather. As Joshua Harris' dad once taught him, find someone who you would like to emulate and sit at their feet.

For those who are looking to understand Biblical business principles just a little bit better, this is a great place to start. It's foreword is by David Ramsey - who may just know a thing or two about business. It's an age-old concept of taking sound philosophy and representing it through the medium of story. Hey, if Jesus used parable as a model, why not emulate that? His feet seem like a pretty good place to start.

My only regret with Monk and the Merchant is that I didn't read it in time share with my high school Economics class. This is the type of book that they could take and use for many years to come, whether they're looking to open a small business themselves or not. It takes principles we could've covered in a big, boring textbook, and condenses them so even the least business-savvy of us can understand. It's basically Business for Dummies, but without being so demeaning.

We are a people of the story. It penetrates the fiber of almost every aspect of our culture. So why not business? It's easy to understand, but not too simple to not be applicable. Basically, the type of book that I'd give my son someday. And that's what we are looking for right - just as Antonio passes his wisdom onto his grandson. It's a right of passage that I would highly recommend!

This book was provided to read and review by Thomas Nelson Publishing. I don't have to give it a positive review. It's just that good.

"We are not called to separate our spiritual life from our work life, and we're not called to divide our Sunday morning worship from our Monday morning staff meetings. God is in both, and He blesses both."

If you enjoy parables and want to learn principles for Christian life and business success, you will probably love The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant. Author Terry Felber brings his vast experience and wisdom, as a very successful businessman and ministry leader, to the table in this well-told story of faith and commerce.

In addition to the parable, the book also includes a study-guide for those who would like to consider and discuss the principles at a deeper level. As a reviewer, I almost skipped the guide out of habit, but I am glad I didn't. There is a wealth of knowledge in the study-guide that is not covered in the story. In fact, those that do not like the parabolic approach may want to skip to the back and get the wisdom without the narrative.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is an easy and enjoyable read that well illustrates the fallacy of business separated from faith. It serves as a good reminder - or lesson, depending on your view point - that God always intended for man to work and prosper. To divorce God and his principles from the marketplace is to fight against the very creator of it all.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Some people question their religious commitments and/or believes based on the fact they are not a member of the clergy. This book covers both side of the equation through an easy to understand story about a relationship between a monk and a merchant. They both started in the same way but in a critical point in their lives, they needed to make a choice, what they were better skilled. For every church, there is a peoples, groups, merchants, etc. ready and willing to help and build, support and maintain a house of God. The author does a good job in helping the reader understand everyone has a job and no matter which side you are on one side is just as important as the other is. Since the majority of us are on the merchant side, the author has built in twelve key on how to live successfully. The last part of the book is a study guide for groups or individuals. The discussions are broken down into the twelve key for a successful life. It is a quick ready but well worth the time for church study groups.

I received a free copy of this book from BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review of the book.

I was interested in reading "The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" by Terry Felber because it has a foreword written by Dave Ramsey. I'm not a huge Dave Ramsey fan, but am familiar with his approach to debt-free living.

Dave Ramsey is so passionate about "The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant", that it is required reading for every single person who works for his company. That's a pretty big endorsement.

This book is written in two parts. The first half is a mildly interesting story about a business owner from Venice. The story is supposed to teach financial truths through fiction.

The second half of the book is a study guide that mashes up scripture, Dave Ramsey, and the guy from Rich Dad/Poor Dad. There was a lot of common sense advice, including one of my favorite John Wesley quotes of all times: "Earn all you can, save all you can, give all you can."

The best thing about this book is its brevity.

P.S. I got a free copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest opinions and review.

This was an interesting book. Felber lays out twelve keys to successful living in a novel format. We have two men: one the teacher and the other the apprentice. The teacher tells his life story and in doing so goes through these twelve keys. The men rely on God and show how to take care of financial matters in a Biblical way.

As a book it was written very well. I really enjoyed reading it because of its flow. I could have read it in a day if I would have liked. As for the twelve keys, however, I wasn't as excited for all of them. I thought there was a lot of truth in this book, but also error. As one reviewer has said, "Read this book cautiously."

In context Tracy D. said:

"Ultimately, the author sets out to share 12 principles to living successfully and fruitfully while also trying to show that successful businesspeople aren't necessarily greedy but do have a responsibility to help others and not hoard their money for themselves. Some of the principles the author lays out, such as "take responsibility for problems that are the result of your own bad decisions" and "see challenges as stepping stones, not as obstacles," I completely agree with and can get behind. If we learn from our mistakes and persevere through trials, we grow smarter and stronger.

However, other principles bother me, such as "work hard and God will prosper you" and "trials develop your character, preparing you for increased blessings." To me, these sound too much like part of the prosperity gospel, something I generally disagree with.

Do I think this is a good story? Yes. Do I think there are some good points discussed and that could be beneficial in a group setting, especially since there is a study guide at the end of the book? Yes. Do I have some reservations about the principles discussed and how some people may take them and apply them in their own life? Yes.

I guess my advice is read this book cautiously and pray as you read it that the Lord will direct you if you want to follow the principles."

I agree with all she has said. My biggest dilemma with this is that very little of the book included giving compassion to others. As a Christian we should die to ourselves and live for Christ. The two characters in the book were very wealthy and it wasn't until the final two pages that they talked about helping the Church. Now this inclusion is great, however, I don't believe it was emphasized enough. Yes, God wants us to be satisfied and have a good life. I do believe that, but that doesn't have to include money and if it does I believe we have a responsibility to help others with it.

After reading the book I didn't feel too "irked" as I call it. I then looked through the study guide and in session four I read this,

"Misconception #1: It is the responsibility of others to give financial support to my ministry activities.... There has developed a flawed entitlement mentality within the body of believes. Rather than going to work to earn money for ministry activities, Christians have made the mailing of support letters an art form. It is displaced responsibility to the highest degree. The idea is to have another Christian toil and send money so that I don't have to work or give myself. Unfortunately, we ask our children to engage in this behavior as they seek support for short-term mission trips, teaching them laziness and entitlement at a very young age."

This struck a chord with me. I am looking to go into campus ministry and while in campus ministry I will have to support raise half of my salary. In addition, in the past two summers I have support raised over 5,000 dollars to help do ministry. I can stand for the people he is talking about that I have no sense of entitlement. As a campus minister I will be doing work, but it isn't the type of work that brings in money, so you have supports. Kids that go on mission trips or students who go to Christian conferences don't have money because they lazy, they don't have money because they are kids or college students struggling to not be in too much debt. The book says to put aside the first ten percent for God. I don't think God then is completely okay with me hoarding the other 90 percent. Rick Warren gives 90 percent and lives off the other ten. I'm not saying that is what everyone should do, we all don't have a book that sold 30 million copies. What I am saying is this. If someone is doing ministry, we can help them by supporting them. Asking a family for money for a mission trip isn't begging, it's giving them an opportunity to serve and help the Kingdom.

There were also some instances where I felt that the Bible wasn't given justice. "When the Righteous Prosper, the City Rejoices" (Proverbs 11:10). I did not see this anywhere in the book, in their actions or their words. I was rather disappointed here because as Christians we are not just to be blessed but to bless others.

So, overall, it was a very well written piece I just disagree with Felber on a few points financially. It's easier to speak of financial success when you have it.

Note: I received a review copy of this book from the publisher, Thomas Nelson.

Outstanding book. Short in page length but long in great basic principles. A simple well told story that is set on great principles. Basic "secrets" to achieving great success in business and life. This will be a book I read again and again. I highly recommend it as a great building block in your future. This author has done a wonderful job with this story.

This reads as a story, but is really a guide book for how to be both a Christian and a businessman. There are clear lessons on how to apply business principals in a way that do not lead to compromising your beliefs, and yet allow you to make a profit. This book dispels the belief that to be a Christian means you should never be wealthy. The story is of a man who grows up in a monastery, but then when he comes of age decides to become a merchant. The lessons are given as every three years the man meets with his mentor and friend to learn from him how to be successful. He keeps a journal of these lessons, which he is now preparing to pass down to his grandson.

The story itself was interesting, as you got to see how this man applied the principles he was learning to his life. It was a great way to show many of the ideas from Proverbs in action. The 12 principles are good principles to live by for anyone who wants to maintain their Christian beliefs in the business world. It is good to show Christians that they can make money ethically, and that there is nothing wrong with making money. While reading some of the principles, it is important to keep in mind that the principles when applied will work, but that God isn't just going to make you wealthy because you are a Christian.

The problem I have with this book, is in regards to some of the scriptures used to make their point. There were a couple of scriptures taken out of context to make points that could have been made with more appropriate scriptures. An example is the use of Matthew 6:33. He uses this to make the point that God wants us to have our desires, but this scripture kept in context is actually about God taking care of our daily needs. There were only a few examples of this, and overall the book had good Biblical advice for those in the business world. I would recommend this book to anyone who has doubts about Christians and money.

"The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" is a pilgrim tale. It's a tale designed for people who want to go places and make their life count. This tale centers around the journey of a grandfather (Antonio) and his grandson (Julio), with the life lessons that come about during this time. Antonio brought his grandson Julio to Rome to see the sites and to offer a good deal of wisdom. Through the recounting of Antonio's life, the reader is given a glimpse into sound financial principles. Given that it was endorsed by financial guru Dave Ramsey, the narrative centered on smart business techniques and wise advice on running from debt.

There are many great stories in the Western canon of literature, and those stories that stick out in mind have a strong message underneath it all. Some pieces are more subtle than others, and as was mentioned above, this one was pretty blatantly open in its messaging. Terry Felber in the course of the story offered this advice throughout each stage of the tale:

1 Work hard and God will prosper you

2 Financial prosperity is connected to soul prosperity.

3 A man must do whatever he can to provide for his family

4 Trials develop your character, preparing you for increased blessings

5 Take responsibility for problems that are the result of your own bad decisions. Don't displace the blame

6 See challenges as stepping stones, not as obstacles.

7 Be meek before God, but bold before men

8 Live debt free and below your means

9 Loaning money destroys relationships.

10 Always keep to your budget.

11 Set aside the first 10% to honor God

12 Understand the power of partnership.

As a seminary student, I noticed that some of the biblical passages were stretched to support these points. Among those, the author sets a dichotomy between kings and priests, and this serves a major function in the story. Felber stretches the text to mean something that is not there, in my humble opinion. Splitting the difference between vocational/sacred ministry (read: working at a church) and business/secular ministry (read: working outside of the church building) can be done for other biblical reasons, but taking a verse out of context to justify this position was a bit too much. The second point in this story is the most difficult one for me to fully endorse. This point gives too much credence to a "name it and claim it" theology of Joel Osteen. The other points, however, are very powerful if they become embedded into an individual's life.

This book is ideal for those who might be more inclined towards business principles and leadership works. The fictional account is a nice story and the morals behind it are very helpful. If you like Dave Ramsey and his approach to finances, you'll love this book. If you want a book, however, to captivate you while lounging at the beach, I would recommend that you steer clear of this one. Felber's work will not be the most brilliant work of literature you have ever read; however, it will help cast the above principles in a narrative form. Would I recommend it? Not necessarily. I would recommend the above principles (with the exception of Number 2), but am rather cautious when it comes to the distinction between secular and sacred vocations expounded in the book.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" by Terry Felber follows Julio and his grandfather Antonio as his grandfather imparts wisdom on the young boy. It is a parable that explains how to run a business properly with principles such as staying out of debt, taking responsibility, and keeping a budget.

This is a quick read that will take you an hour or two cover to cover. It is an excellent story that is set in Italy. Antonio, the wise grandfather, takes Julio through Rome visiting various characters that cause Julio to have those "a-ha" moments we all look for in life.

My personal favorite take away was that businesses making money is not a bad thing and that they need money in order to purchase products and services from other merchants and help the people in their communities. It is the way that it is laid out in the book that I really enjoyed.

All in all I think this is a book any person in business or who is considering going into business should read. The hour or so that it will take you to read it can change your business course for the better.

*Note: I received a copy of this book at no charge in exchange for my honest review.*

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is a quick read. The twelve principles for success are presented through the interaction between a young man, Julio, and his grandfather, which takes place in 16th Century Venice. I liked the characters and enjoyed the story, but found the constant interruption of the dialogue between Julio and his grandfather for the purpose of inserting a success principle to detract from the book. I would have much preferred the lessons to be woven into the story. Moreover, the principles were presented in all caps, which was both distracting and annoying, as it felt as if the author assumed his readers to be incapable of extracting the lessons for themselves. It would have sufficed to list the twelve principles at the end of the story.

The principles are very basic--work hard, save money, etc., but the study guide provides opportunities to dig deeper and even challenge some commonly held notions of the role of believers in the marketplace. I look forward to spending more time in the study guide to further my own personal and professional growth.

While the author would likely describe himself as more of a "king" than a priest, he emphasizes the biblical mandate to assume both of these functions. We are part of the priesthood of all believers, yet we also have a duty to exercise godly authority in the sphere(s) God has called us to, including the business world, government, education, media/entertainment, etc. We cannot segregate any part of our lives from the influence of Christ. Whether we are in full-time ministry or whether we occupy the marketplace, all work should be viewed as a vocation or calling from God.

"The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant" by Terry Felber follows Julio and his grandfather Antonio as his grandfather imparts wisdom on the young boy. It is a parable that explains how to run a business properly with principles such as staying out of debt, taking responsibility, and keeping a budget.

This is a quick read that will take you an hour or two cover to cover. It is an excellent story that is set in Italy. Antonio, the wise grandfather, takes Julio through Rome visiting various characters that cause Julio to have those "a-ha" moments we all look for in life.

My personal favorite take away was that businesses making money is not a bad thing and that they need money in order to purchase products and services from other merchants and help the people in their communities. It is the way that it is laid out in the book that I really enjoyed.

All in all I think this is a book any person in business or who is considering going into business should read. The hour or so that it will take you to read it can change your business course for the better.

*Note: I received a copy of this book at no charge in exchange for my honest review.*

I chose this book from BookSneeze to review for a couple of reasons: First, I was intrigued by the recommendation and thus the forward by Dave Ramsey, and second, I was looking for something less non-fiction to read for a little while that wasn't just fluff. I feel like I was rewarded by having an easy and pleasant read with some positive challenges, though most are relative baby steps. Perhaps I felt like this was simple because I am not unfamiliar with Dave Ramsey and some of the basic principles he espouses. I do think though, for a beginner or for a good way to get everyone on the same path (in a business per se), that this is an excellent book for study and discussion.

The story of this monk and merchant (mostly the merchant) is a tale that helps us see our place outside of the church, for those of us who proclaim faith in Jesus. It helps us to see that our place is very important and can be pivotal for advancing the Kingdom. It has been helpful to me to be reminded that our purposes and places are ordained by God and for His Glory, not necessarily for our comforts, and that being in the workplace as opposed to "missions" is valuable.

The style of writing is simple and easy to follow. We have the opportunity to listen in on a conversation between a man and his grandson. These flashbacks are entertaining and present several keys to the man's success, pointing always to the blessings given by God.

I enjoyed this read as a starting point. The book I read has a study guide at the end which I would have enjoyed reading with a group. I think this would be a valuable resource for a small group wanting to think about financial responsibility and beyond. It didn't blow me away, but it was a good read!

I'm not quite sure how to begin this review. It is not often that I am perplexed by a book. Initially, I was very eager to read this book after reviewing its description. However, the foreward - for me - conflicted with what I thought I had read the book was about. Taking the intro at face value, I considered that the book was likely to be different from what I had expected. When I began to read the story itself I was quite intrigued. Each chapter forwards the story from a man to his son - with lessons to boot. It is when I encountered so-called biblical keys presented that conflicted with my own understanding of the principle that I couldn't really place this title as being good or bad, but rather somewhat in between and for a particular person at a particular time in their life. Beyond the story, readers are invited to further study the twelve keys in order to become successful in their own lives. I am conflicted on whether I would recommend this book, but I do feel that there are some valuable lessons mixed into the short story in chapter format and the study guide.

In your local bookstore, there is a "Religion and Spirituality" section, and there is a "Business and Finance" section. One does not generally expect the two to intersect. I'm not sure, though, which section this book belongs in.

Terry Felber's The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Twelve Keys to Successful Living is at once a Christian journey and an exercise in business and financial skills development. Both are areas which interest me. I expect though, to study them separately. Not so here.

For the reader who is engaged in the marketplace, Ferber imparts wisdom through the engaging tale of Antonio, a successful sixteenth century Venetian businessman passing his knowledge on to a grandson who will follow in his footsteps. In the process, he gifts the reader with spiritual insight into the relationship that money has to worship of God and service to mankind.

Our modern society is increasingly coming to see success in business as inherently evil, rather than as an opportunity for good. This book is the perfect anecdote to that misunderstanding of the role of money. As Dave Ramsey states in his foreword to the book, "...my goal for you is that you start to experience a paradigm shift, that you'll come to view everything you do in the marketplace as an act of holiness that will forever change the way you do business."

This book is a treat, particularly for those engaged in business or wrestling with the reconciliation of the marketplace with Christianity.

This book was a Review Copy sent by the publisher -- common practice in the industry. No payment was accepted in exchange for a review or mention, and the reviewer was in no way obligated to review the book favorably.

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is a quick read. The twelve principles for success are presented through the interaction between a young man, Julio, and his grandfather, which takes place in 16th Century Venice. I liked the characters and enjoyed the story, but found the constant interruption of the dialogue between Julio and his grandfather for the purpose of inserting a success principle to detract from the book. I would have much preferred the lessons to be woven into the story. Moreover, the principles were presented in all caps, which was both distracting and annoying, as it felt as if the author assumed his readers to be incapable of extracting the lessons for themselves. It would have sufficed to list the twelve principles at the end of the story.

The principles are very basic--work hard, save money, etc., but the study guide provides opportunities to dig deeper and even challenge some commonly held notions of the role of believers in the marketplace. I look forward to spending more time in the study guide to further my own personal and professional growth.

While the author would likely describe himself as more of a "king" than a priest, he emphasizes the biblical mandate to assume both of these functions. We are part of the priesthood of all believers, yet we also have a duty to exercise godly authority in the sphere(s) God has called us to, including the business world, government, education, media/entertainment, etc. We cannot segregate any part of our lives from the influence of Christ. Whether we are in full-time ministry or whether we occupy the marketplace, all work should be viewed as a vocation or calling from God.

Prior to reading The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant, I had heard great things about the book. However, just like when friends rave about a movie they've seen, I didn't want to dive into the book with expectations of being wowed. I've done that before and ended up being disappointed. Instead, I waited to find the right quiet moment (back patio with great view and good coffee) to open this book as if I've never heard of it before. I was quite pleased with the style of writing, the pace of the story, and most importantly, the lessons learned. In fact, there is a great deal to glean from The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant. I won't give a recap of the story because it is better read than summarized, but I will share some pointers that are worth remembering. Here are just a few I walked away with:

1.) Work Hard and God Will Prosper You. This is not one of those, "if you think it real hard, it will come to you," kind of advice. This is down-to-earth living that is so needed in our society today. In other words, work is more a gift than a curse. Like I heard it said one time, "the harder I work, the luckier I get."

2.) See Challenges As Stepping Stones, Not As Obstacles. This nugget of advice works for all works of life whether in business, in dealing with an illness, in raising children, etc.

3.) Be Meek Before God But Bold Before Men. In other words, just because the world stereotypes Christians as wimps and Milquetoast, doesn't mean it should be true. Great advice for today's whacked-out view of right and wrong.

There are plenty more words of wisdom in this book that should be a must-read for all ages---especially those in high school getting ready to go into adulthood.

Highly recommended read!

"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 Legend of the Monk and the Merchant by Terry Felber is subtitled: Twelve Keys to Succesful Living.
It is written in story form where a grandfather seeks to instill these twelve valuable lessons into the life of his grandson. At one point in the book we find this statement; "Julio, one of the most important lessons Alessio taught me was the necessity of giving to others the lessons that you have learned yourself." I believe this statement gives us a window into the soul of the author who wrote this book.
There is a definate financial stewardship focus in this book. In fact, every single one of the twelve lessons has to do with finances.
While I believe it to be inadvertant, the author appears to state that success in living is directly related to financial success. While this might be the way our world would define success it does not line up with many Scriptural principles.
Overall I would say it was an interesting and easy read. Very few profound statements that would make me want to read the book again but entertaining nonetheless. If you are looking for a fun read and looking to incorporate some basic truths about Biblical stewardship I would recommend picking up a copy of this book.

There is a delicate balance in life between our business life and our spiritual life. If you're looking for a self-help book on maintaining that balance, you'll love THE LEGEND OF THE MONK AND THE MERCHANT by Terry Felber. This brief 140-page book is a very quick read and covers twelve principles for successful living.

The story centers on a grandfather passing on a lifetime of knowledge to his grandson during a trip to Rome. The grandfather relays the story of how he was raised as an orphan by the monk who found him and the merchant who taught him so many of life's most important lessons. Follow his journey through life as he makes his decision to become a merchant rather than a monk, begins his business career and is taught the twelve principles by his merchant `father'. The book kind of has a "Rich Dad Poor Dad" feel to it, only set in ancient Rome and focuses far more on the spiritual aspect of life.

As a minister, the thing I appreciated most about this book is Felber's clear explanation of a few Biblical passages that get commonly misconstrued. Two passages in particular, Luke 18:25, "easier for a camel to go through the eye of the needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God" and also Matthew 5:5, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth".

The book contains valuable principles and is a very fun read. Highly recommended.

I can see how Dave Ramsey has applied several of these principles to his financial teachings. Great little book. Very enjoyable quick read. It's so refreshing to read something that supports the perspective that some are called to be "priests" and some are called to be "merchants". Neither is better than the other. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

This book was an easy read with 12 principles discussed in a storytelling manner. I received this book from BookSneeze and finished the book within 2 days. I would recommend this book to teens or those in their early 20's, who are just starting out in the real world. Financial gain seems to be the biggest goal of our youth, and this is a great reminder that hard work pays off in more ways than material posession.

The Legend of the Monk and Merchant is a book that I really was hoping would be better then it was. The back of the book has a line that states:
"The Legend of the Monk and Merchant will change the way you see yourself, your job and your purpose."
I read the book and I don't see where any change will take place. Maybe I didn't read it right, maybe I miss the point of the book I don't know.
I really wish that I could say more about this book but there really isn't much to say. The book is a simple read one that can be read in a couple of days. This is just my view of the book, I sure other will find its meaning and get what they want you to get from it. For me I miss it I guess.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and the Booksneeze program for my free copy of this book. The book was give to me free for an honest review and this review is mine alone.

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 the store has it for about $7 used.

I chose this book to review for BookSneeze. For the life of me I could not get into this book. I have tried several times to sit down and read this book, often times getting lost between the story being told. The dialoge between the characters was not easy to follow. I really wanted to be able to read this book, solely because of what I had heard about it. But unfortunately I couldn't. Maybe its me, I don't know.

I received the review copy of this book, based on the high recommendation of Dave Ramsey. However, after digging into the first few pages, I was met with deep disappointment.

The book is written as a modern day parable. A wealthy businessman takes his teenage grandson into the city to meet his friend, a priest. The grandson is trying to begin his life and career, and the grandfather takes this time to impart wisdom (12 principals of successful living).

The book begins to go off track by making a clear distinction between choosing the religious profession and being poor, or choosing another profession (business) that leads to wealth. However, this not a Biblically based position. Scripture tells us that we are all part of a royal priesthood. There is no distinction between religious work and worldly work. This is a miscommunication that had led the church in America to the spot where it is today, full of pride, greed, and power mongering.

The book continues to go off track by reinforcing the point that some are called to religious careers, and others called to money-making endeavors. It is the responsibility of the money makers to provide financially for the church leaders, and the church buildings and facilities. This is both an unbiblical and an unchristian view of tithing and money.

It seems the author of this book wrote it out of a personal desire to cash in on health, wealth, and prosperity gospel that so many are attracted to. Frankly, I am surprised that a publisher of Thomas Nelson's calibre would put there name on a product that strays so close to the line of heresy.

If you like Og Mandino and his classic success books written in story style, you'll love this one. I picked up the book to read for it's content and then couldn't put it down. Terry Felber skillfully weaves life-changing principles with a captivating story. No matter who you are, you'll appreciate the wit and wisdom of this success parable.

If you want to know how to succeed in your personal life and have it impact the rest of your life, this is the book for you. Very quick read, very interesting-learning about values and how to be a honest, good person. this book will insturct you in how to be a good friend, co-worker, boss, wherever you are in life. I am glad I finally read it.

What a gem of a book! If you would like to be a good employee, a good student, a good parent, or a good person, then read this book. There are so many jewels to be had with this book. My advice is to take it slowly because I wanted to read this book so quickly. I didn't want to put it down! Enjoy...

With a ringing endorsement in the foreword from Dave Ramsey, a respected authority on business and money management, this book promised to be interesting and enlightening. It is not. From its first, false premise to its anticlimactic conclusion, this book is a horrible and frightening disappointment.

The book is supposed to be a fable about training a young man by way of the example of his grandfather. The grandfather took the route of a businessman and his best friend had taken the route of a priest. The stepping-off point (into the deep end of the pool, obviously) was citing the Scripture reference of how God has made us kings and priests. The reference is obviously to the Bible with capitalization of the reference to Scripture, calling it sacred, and how access was limited (it’s not, we can all access Scripture). Indeed, in the book of the Revelation we are told how God has made us kings (or a kingdom) and priests. However, we are all called to be both kings and priests. This is not a choice of either one or the other. The fact is that Felber takes us on a wobbly theological journey where we are to choose one vocation or the other – these roles are not mutually exclusive. Even worse, the kings of Revelation 1:6 are not kings of business as Felber would assert.

The book goes downhill from this first theme. There is just enough Scripture reference to make this book dangerous and just enough false theology to lead otherwise clear thinkers into believing that there are “twelve keys to successful living” (the book’s subtitle) that will make all well and good. The goal here appears to be prosperity rather than fidelity. Work hard, do right, provide for family and others, give back to God, and you will do well.

Why do we walk in faith? It is not for prosperity but for obedience. It is not to get but to give. If we believe what is given in Scripture – really believe it, putting any designs of prosperity behind us – we will not work to get. Anyone tempted to pick up this book will do far better to pick up a Bible to take away infinitely better lessons.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This book was received for free from the publisher for the purpose of review but a positive review was not required. The opinions expressed are those of the reviewer. This disclosure is in accordance with the United States Federal Trade Commission’s “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” 16 CFR, Part 255.

With a ringing endorsement in the foreword from Dave Ramsey, a respected authority on business and money management, this book promised to be interesting and enlightening. It is not. From its first, false premise to its anticlimactic conclusion, this book is a horrible and frightening disappointment.

The book is supposed to be a fable about training a young man by way of the example of his grandfather. The grandfather took the route of a businessman and his best friend had taken the route of a priest. The stepping-off point (into the deep end of the pool, obviously) was citing the Scripture reference of how God has made us kings and priests. The reference is obviously to the Bible with capitalization of the reference to Scripture, calling it sacred, and how access was limited (it’s not, we can all access Scripture). Indeed, in the book of the Revelation we are told how God has made us kings (or a kingdom) and priests. However, we are all called to be both kings and priests. This is not a choice of either one or the other. The fact is that Felber takes us on a wobbly theological journey where we are to choose one vocation or the other – these roles are not mutually exclusive. Even worse, the kings of Revelation 1:6 are not kings of business as Felber would assert.

The book goes downhill from this first theme. There is just enough Scripture reference to make this book dangerous and just enough false theology to lead otherwise clear thinkers into believing that there are “twelve keys to successful living” (the book’s subtitle) that will make all well and good. The goal here appears to be prosperity rather than fidelity. Work hard, do right, provide for family and others, give back to God, and you will do well.

Why do we walk in faith? It is not for prosperity but for obedience. It is not to get but to give. If we believe what is given in Scripture – really believe it, putting any designs of prosperity behind us – we will not work to get. Anyone tempted to pick up this book will do far better to pick up a Bible to take away infinitely better lessons.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This book was received for free from the publisher for the purpose of review but a positive review was not required. The opinions expressed are those of the reviewer. This disclosure is in accordance with the United States Federal Trade Commission’s “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” 16 CFR, Part 255.

This review is more of the store's failure that anything detailing the book. the store has this listed as a "hardback". When I received the book, it was paperback. I asked for a replacement, which they promptly sent. However, it was another paperback. I tried using their telephone service but got someone that spoke poor English. The best I could understand they were going to correct the issue and send a replacement. It's been weeks with no word. Who knows what the guy actually told me.