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Living for More than the Temporary

Scott Stapp lays out his life in Sinner's Creed in a very personal and moving way. If you want to know what goes on in the lives of those who make it to the top, the struggles that come with fame and the consequences of life without restraint, then this book will be for you. What first hit me about this book was the back and forth relationship that Scott had with his step father. Early on the bond was strong between Scott and Steve, centering around sports and God (18). As time went on though, the remnants of Steve's anger and crazy ideas about religion emerged with Scott being dealt out beatings for little things like listening to rock and roll music. We learn from the book later on that Scott gave Steven over 1 million dollars to pay off his house only to find out later that he wanted more money.




From early on, Scott was a great admirer of music, from U2 to the Stones. Forming his band early on, Creed sought out gigs at any place they could play, for any number of fans. After producing the demo for My Own Prison, the band was still not very big beyond the borders of FSU (112). Yet, as time went on they became more popular for their emotional lyrics and powerful rock beats. With great fame comes the opportunity to get involved with drugs, alcohol and partying. Scott went in and out of blackouts, painfully trying to cope with depression and a broken past with his family. It wasn't until Miss New York, his wife Jaclyn came into the picture that things started to permanently change (entering the Betty Ford Clinic).



The relationship between stardom and Scott's faith is displayed in the book with great clarity. Scott says early on that he could tell Steve that he loved God with all his heart (19). Even through Steve's Scripture based punishment, Scott was gaining a desire to study God's Word. Yet, this faith would not be without constant opposition for Scott. Scott in writing his music focuses in on the paradoxes of life while not allowing pat answers to rule the way. He says at one point, "(men and women) were seeking to reconcile the God they had been taught about by religious bigots and closed minded preachers with the genuine love of God" (131). From My Own Prison to Are You Ready, the songs from Scott revealed a struggle with sin and evil that was ongoing and very personal.



What is sriking about this book is the message that hope is on offer but it is not complete until glory. Scott, by God's grace is back on the right track, being supported by his wife Jaclyn and their kids. This book is a message of learning about the strength of God through trials and temptations. I think this book will go a long way in helping those who stuggle with addictions yet want to find peace with God and their families. Lastly, this book clearly indicates that the struggle with sin doesn't stop once you get help but only marks the beginning of the process.



Much thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for review.

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