Book: All Man All Amazing
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Christian Ballenger. I am a pastor and worship leader currently residing in Chicago, IL but originally from Detroit, Michigan. My upbringing was shaped by the absence of a father as well as a mother who battled mental illness; this all the while navigating the adverse circumstances presented by inner city living. Truly, it was my faith in Jesus Christ which allowed me to persevere. I started a relationship with Jesus at age 10, after attending a youth choir rehearsal in a small church on the west side of Detroit. It was there where I cultivated a love for music ministry. In 2007, I came to Chicago, where I earned a BA in Mass Communication from Saint Xavier University and entered full-time ministry. My heart is for everyone to have their own personal encounter with Jesus, which led me to pen my first book, “All Man All Amazing,” presenting Jesus as our consummate role model. I am happily married to Heidi and together we have a beautiful son, Marshall, and daughter, Courtney.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘All Man All Amazing’ book?
The key challenge I faced while writing was staying disciplined. Because of my responsibilities as a husband, father and pastor, I took to writing in the very early hours of the morning. In essence, if I did not wake up at 4am, I did not write.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Andy Stanley’s “Irresistible” was actually very influential, with regards to writing style as well as theological presentation. John Ortberg’s “Who Is This Man?” and N.T. Wright’s “The Challenge of Jesus” were foundational to my understanding and appreciation for Jesus, as well as how to intelligently and accessibly convey his glory and humanity.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I love visiting Lake Michigan. It is beautiful and I have so many memories there; most of them are from my first two years of marriage with my wife.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
There are quite a few things to consider, but not so much that you neglect starting! Having an end goal in mind and a roadmap of how to get there is essential – you will save a lot of time and energy clarifying this at the onset.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘All Man All Amazing’ book?
I was writing and editing for close to a year-and-a-half.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘All Man All Amazing’ book to buy?
“All Man All Amazing” can be found at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Apple Books and many other digital retailers.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘All Man All Amazing’ ?
The title was meant to convey how truly special Jesus is while also identifying him with the everyday man. I wanted the cover to reflect this, making it appealing specifically to male readers but inviting enough for women to want to read.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
If my ideas, impulses and findings are food, and my pen cookware, I try to serve things on the platter of the page while it is hot.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
If you do not know much about Jesus, much of what is written will unveil who he is and what is possible when you decide to follow him.
Book Is Available On Amazon
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