The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? – Rick Warren

1. Full Citation

Warren, R. (2002) The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

2. Introduction

The Purpose Driven Life is a bestselling Christian devotional that guides readers through understanding their purpose from a biblical perspective. Rick Warren emphasizes living a life centred on God’s will and spiritual growth.

3. Author Background and Credentials

Rick Warren is a pastor, author, and founder of Saddleback Church, one of the largest evangelical churches in the United States. His writings focus on practical Christian living and discipleship.

4. Summary of Contents

Key themes include:

  1. Life’s Purpose
    • Understanding one’s divine calling.
  2. Spiritual Growth
    • Developing character and faith.
  3. Christian Community
    • Importance of fellowship and service.
  4. Mission and Ministry
    • Living to serve God and others.
  5. Eternal Perspective
    • Focus on heaven and God’s kingdom.

5. Critical Evaluation

a. Coherence and Argumentation

Structured devotional format facilitating spiritual reflection.

b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution

Popularized purpose-driven Christian living.

c. Evidence, Sources, and Method

Based on biblical teachings and pastoral experience.

d. Style and Accessibility

Clear, practical, and accessible language.

e. Limitations and Critiques

Critiqued for simplification and commercial approach.

6. Comparative Context

Compared with:

  • Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis – Christian apologetics
  • Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster – Spiritual formation
  • The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer – Radical Christian living

7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance

Relevant to:

  • Christian spirituality and discipleship
  • Practical theology
  • Pastoral ministry
  • Religious education

8. Reflection or Practical Application

Encourages purposeful living rooted in biblical faith and community.

9. Conclusion

The Purpose Driven Life remains a widely influential guide for Christians seeking direction and meaning.

Recommended for: Christians, church leaders, small groups, and spiritual seekers.

10. Other Works by the Same Author

  • The Daniel Plan
  • The Purpose Driven Church
  • God’s Answer to Why I Suffer

11. Similar Books by Other Authors

  • C.S. Lewis – Mere Christianity
  • Richard Foster – Celebration of Discipline
  • Dietrich Bonhoeffer – The Cost of Discipleship

12. References (only if external works are cited)

  • Warren, R. (2002) The Purpose Driven Life
  • Lewis, C.S. (1952) Mere Christianity
  • Bonhoeffer, D. (1937) The Cost of Discipleship
Home