The Unusual Suspect: My Calling to the New Hardcore Movement of Faith

by Stephen Baldwin, Mark Tabb

Stephen Baldwin explains why he compares his new life of faith to jumping out of an airplane without a parachute and calls you to take the plunge.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, Memoir, Christian, Religion, Christian Non Fiction

304 pages, Hardcover

First published September 19, 2006

Reviews

[Eric Bjerke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not fantastic, but it is always interesting to read about people's lives and see how God is working through them. Probably the best part is the amazing story of how he came to be a Christian, but you'll have to read it yourself. (If you have no intention of reading the book and really want to know, I will tell you if you ask).

[Laurie C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although Stephen Baldwin refers to himself in the 3rd person, he is doing great work to bring our young people to the LORD through extreme sports. There is no better way to connect to this generation than to get out there and get involved in what they are interested in AND making it a positive experience. Our youth are looking for role models and they will find someone to follow....Stephen brings them to the LORD by showing them that they can still be interested in their music, sports and friends...but in a positive way.
Good read and interesting concept on reaching our younger generation...

[Gabriel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Discussed at SF Gospel:

"I have to ask—what's so radical about this? It looks to me like the same old reactionary evangelicalism, selfishly tied up with personal rewards and ardently opposed to those who want to enact Jesus' social teachings. The messenger may have tattoos, but the message is hardly 'unusual.'"

Full review here:

http://sfgospel.typepad.com/sf_gospel...

[Catherine Doman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book. But, as you can see, I gave it 5 stars. Stephen Baldwin is the real deal, he gets it! More Christians should be as fired-up as he is. I say, God bless him, and everyone he reaches for the Lord! This book is a great testimony and a challenge to the rest of us. Read this book, and you'll see what I mean... : )

[Mh Weyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Picked this up thinking it would be an encouraging autobiography of a man who turned from fortune and fame to Christ. This is less an autobiography and more a treatise on Christianity. I found the stories he did share powerful and interesting but most of the book was talking through different tenets of Christianity. And not in a particularly interesting or newly insightful way. The book feels like it is written for the non-Christian or the baby Christian. So much of it I have heard all my life. I did appreciate the chapter about “kairos” moments. It was particularly meaningful right now as we are in one of them with the Covid and civil unrest. “Now, instead of worrying about what the future may hold, I find I may need to constantly watch and listen for what God wants to teach me....if you pay attention, you will realize life should never be the same afterward. Now, what will you do about it?” This feeds into the next book I read (In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day) Overall, the Baldwin book is a bit dry and not at all what I expected.

[Laura Eder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stephen came to our church last Easter for six performances in three days of a one-man show based upon a book our Senior Pastor wrote: "Heaven, How I Got Here" told from the fictional perspective of the thief on the cross next to Christ. Stephen recorded the audio version of the book and we were looking to do some evangelizing before Easter so we reached out to him to perform the story in a 60 minute play and he agreed. Curious about his testimony I decided to read his book. He had a writing partner which I think helped immensely. I have mixed feelings about the book, the person it represents and the general purpose for which it was written but I have more good feelings about it than bad. I appreciate Stephen's transparency as he reveals his lifestyle before knowing Christ and his continued struggles walking out his faith amid a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christianity. It's part autobiography, part in-your-face-dare for believers to live boldly for Christ and part love letter to his wife. It was hard to get used to the frequency with which he refers to himself in the third person as well as his tendency to toggle back and forth between expressing gratitude for the mercy he's been shown and criticizing both specific and general Christians he doesn't think are doing enough radical things to make a splash for the Gospel. It's certainly interesting and even amusing at times and it does have moments of inspiration but overall I think it misses the mark in it's effort to be a truly compelling read.

[Keith B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly reccommend this one!! Yeah it's written by Stephin Baldwin of the Baldwin Clone dynasty but it's really good. Kinda quirky but he shoots from the hip and You gotta respect that.

[Wendi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed the way I looked at a few things, and renewed my excitement for Christ.

[Cheryl L.E.]

No rating as I did not finish it.

This book talks about Christianity less as having a relationship with Christ and instead in a way that sounds more like "do this so you can have this." I'm not entirely sure that is what Baldwin means to say but that is how it kept coming across to me. For me, being a Christian is having a relationship with Christ, showing his love to others in my words and actions, in expressing genuine empathy, caring for others, and trying to see others as God teaches me to see them, with my heart rather than with my judgement.

In this book, at least the first third, which is as far as I got, Baldwin talks a lot about the exchange--live your life a certain way and God will give you ________, everything is better with God, you'll be happier, have better sex, feel better about yourself, etc. The problem with telling people that is, it doesn't always happen that way. That smacks of victim-blaming (if I had prayed hard enough, _______ would not have happened) or "prosperity gospel" (if you believe hard enough, you will get _________).

Just like any relationship, seek God because you want to know him, not because you want something from him. God's love is not conditional, and in return, ours should not be one of expectation.

[Jennie Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that challenges the way you live your life, whether you are a Christian or not! Stephen Baldwin has a lot of really good things to say. One thing that I would add to what he says about being culturally relevant, though, is that you don't have to be really 'cool' to reach kids, as long as you let them know that you love and care about them. Not that you want to be an old fuddy duddy either, but I work with kids, and I don't really think I am very cool, but I talk to them and care about them, etc.
Anyway, this book is really good, so just read it! It's a tad bit dated, as it was written a few years back now, but it is worth the read.

[Zach Franz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stephen Baldwin is an inspirational figure for many Christians, like me, because he hails from a place not known for its faith (Hollywood) and is not afraid to share his beliefs. This book is a little forceful at times, but overall constitutes a wonderfully impassioned message in honest, down-to-earth prose. Baldwin mines some nuggets of real truth here. His book is much like what he says about Christianity: if you're willing to commit yourself to it, you won't come away empty-handed.

[Sandy Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stephen Baldwin is very straightforward in this telling of his conversion and growth as a hardcore Christian. I enjoyed that about his style. He seems to be a serious student of the Bible based on some of the details he shares and his way of relating to God's Word. I may not agree entirely with his approach, but I was inspired by him.

[Michael Burleson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strong faith is revealed in real life here. Fantastic read.

[Brigitte McMillan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have to remember that he is a celebrity with lots of money and it isn't a normal life. But the Bible truths are there.

[Lisa Evertsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, one of the best books I’ve read. Well written, easy to FEEL and relate to the author. Great testament of the Bible.

[Lazycatfarm · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really interesting to me & I have to stop & think through some of his points. Yes, I skimmed through much of it but gleaned some good points.

[Keri · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you can wade through all the repetitive fluff; he actually had some interesting points.

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Baldwin is spot-on in his descriptions of Christian living, but the overall tone/style of writing undermines the message. Although the content shows spiritual maturity beyond many of the more popular Christian books I've read, Baldwin comes across as personally immature and self-centered throughout much of the book. He frequently refers to himself in the third person (usually as "Stevie B"), talks about his Hollywood experience even when it's not relevant to the point he's trying to make, speaks dismissively toward people who disagree with him ("they're stupid," etc.), and uses a vocabulary more appropriate for a 1980s teenager than a middle-aged man. (I know he ministers to youth, but I don't think teens were the intended audience for this book; even if they were, he wouldn't have to talk like a teen to get respect from them.)

I read the book to fit the "written by the celebrity" square in my library's summer reading club, and I do generally enjoy reading about celebrities who came to faith in Christ. (It's so countercultural to the Hollywood mentality that there's usually a pretty cool conversion story involved.) I'm glad I finished it -- he does make some good points about how we as Christians should be living -- but I'd recommend "Crossbearer" by Joe Eszterhas over this one to someone who wants to read about a celebrity giving his life to Christ. (Still on my to-read list is "Save Me from Myself" by Brian Welch.)

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Publisher's Description:

"In this unusual "celebrity" book, one of Hollywood's well-known Baldwin brothers offers a highly entertaining and inspirational look at his life, from growing up in a famous family to becoming part of God's. THE UNUSUAL SUSPECT reveals Baldwin's almost unbelievable transformation from hardcore party boy to the hardcore man of faith he is today.
Riding the wave of fame from his most successful movie, The Usual Suspects, Stephen thought he was in his glory. Hot in Hollywood-whatever Stephen wanted, Stephen got. Stephen's new desire is significantly changed, as he works to share this message with the world: "You must be willing to try faith God's way, not yours." He encourages a "ramped up" approach to sharing the gospel and shares how his newfound faith has impacted every facet of his life.
Stephen reveals how he happened upon Christianity via a most unusual conversion and how that has radically changed the way he lives his life. He takes us behind the scenes and tells the stories we've yet to hear-of celebrity fun, curious family, and hardcore faith. He takes an in-depth look at the church's current role in society and the extreme faith movement. It's obvious Stephen has identified his new role in life, that of a Christian, as a role more radical than anything in Hollywood."

[Megan · Rating 1 out of 5]

After reading some "excerpts" in Rapture Ready, I just had to see how badly composed this book really was.

It didn't disappoint. I didn't read the whole thing but I read probably 40 pages here and there. Not only was the writing style atrocious and the commentary rambling and inane, the book also suffered from typos, poor grammar and bad organization. The criticism raised in Daniel Radosh's Rapture Ready that christians are willing to accept sub-par products if the contain enough references to Jesus is certainly right on in regards to this book.

Thats not even to start on Stephen Baldwin's actual craziness. I think the part on "worshiping idols" was particularly egregious. Did you know loving your newborn baby might send you to hell?

right. I think I may destroy my copy of the Usual Suspects on principle. There is only one thing this book could possible leave me thankful for: I didn't actually spend 24 dollars for it--I got my copy from the library and it will be promptly returned.

[Richard L. Haas III · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baldwin's "calling to the new hardcore movement of faith" was, to put it simply, interesting. It suddenly became my calling (though it took me about four months to read lol). I don't agree with everything he says, but like he says repeatedly throughout the book, "This is my interpretation," or "opinion." True, we may not be in agreement, he may make many contradictions [all of which are impossible to list], but I still like and respect him-- actually even more so after reading this. Honestly, I always thought of him as a crazy Jesus-freak, but I'm so glad to have realized that he dislikes those fakes. He tells the readers what the bible says and his interpretations of it. He doesn't necessarily try to convert people, but rather nudge them to ultimately make the right decision... the right path... the right way to heaven. I bought this book to get more in touch with my faith, and certainly, I did. Hopefully, I can expand on it over time... maybe, I could reread the book. Take notes. I just may open my eyes more.

[Emmie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book while perusing at the library after learning not too long ago about Stephen Baldwin being a Christian. I did not know much about him aside from him being Alec Baldwin's brother so I was excited to read this book to see where Stephen stands. I was blown away! He spoke Truth in a way that was simple and straight forward. He was open and honest about himself and his journey. He is real. And real is what so many people are looking for in Christians.

Baldwin does come down hard in some areas, but they are areas that we need to be challenged in. I was convicted as I read what he wrote in many places. He is not a theologian, but he clearly has been changed by the Living God and the work of Christ in his life and his story is one that many can resonate with. I would recommend this book to anyone.

[Roger Sigmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baldwin writes in an unique and refreshing style. He does not sugarcoat his story or God's story. At times he is brutally honest and many people both believer and non believer might have a problem with facing the truth. I found this book at a bargain store and was completely unaware it had been published. I guess some of the mainstream Christian bookstores were too conservative to place it on their shelves. This book is the straight forward reselling of how one of Hollywood's bad boys saw through all the lies and once God got ahold of his heart dove head first into living his life for Jesus. The thing that makes this book so great is that it is written in true Stephen Baldwin style and not polished and sterile to fit into a certain mold. Thank you Mr Baldwin for being true to God and yourself in writing this book.

[Jennifer Mihalinec · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this latest read. Stephen Baldwin spoke about his salvation and dedication to God without reserve. That was the best part about this book. Reading about Stephen's dedication to Christ and how important it is to be soldiers for Christ was refreshing and served as a great encouragement to my life and own spiritual walk.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Possibly not the most well written book ever, but very honest. Stephen Baldwin tells it like it is about his faith and challenges his readers to take faith to a new level - the level it should be. I enjoy reading about how God uses believers in different ways, even before they surrender to Him.

[Mary · Rating 1 out of 5]

Painful. The guy is so egotistical. Kept repeating himself, as if you didn't hear him the first time, more likely he wanted to hear himself again. Couldn't finish this book. Fortunately it was a library book, would of been a complete waste of money.

[Amberlee Bixler · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was hard for me to get into, even though I was intrigued by Mr. Bladwin's out-there and proud stance. He's a surfer dude, and the book reads as if a surfer/skater dude wrote it. It'd be a cool story, if maybe I were a cooler person...?

[Jennifer Radtke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. What an honest and compelling auto-biography on how his life changed when he came to embrace Christ and live his passion. The way he takes you step by step through coming to believe. I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know exactly what I expected from this book but I was pleased with it. I do not sleep well and this
book kept me company for many nights. It is one that I want to keep because his story is so interesting. I think it showed courage to write this and face the criticism that comes with it.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book regardless of the infomercial tone it had. He had some wonderful and thought provoking considerations for faith based living. I admire his candor and he tells it with a sweet humor. Worth a read even if you are a skeptic.