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Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation Worth Considering
You are Invited to a Dinner with Jesus of Nazareth: The mysterious envelope arrives on Nick Cominsky's desk amid a stack of credit card applications and business-related junk mail. Although his seventy-hour workweek has already eaten into his limited family time, Nick can’t pass up the opportunity to see what kind of plot his colleagues have hatched…
The normally confident, cynical Nick soon finds himself thrown off-balance, drawn into an intriguing conversation with a baffling man who comfortably discusses everything from world religions to the existence of heaven and hell. And this man who calls himself Jesus also seems to know a disturbing amount about Nick’s personal life.
The normally confident, cynical Nick soon finds himself thrown off-balance, drawn into an intriguing conversation with a baffling man who comfortably discusses everything from world religions to the existence of heaven and hell. And this man who calls himself Jesus also seems to know a disturbing amount about Nick’s personal life.
100 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
174 people are currently reading
2676 people want to read
About the author
David Gregory
141 books103 followersDavid Gregory's life has come full circle. Despite a love for writing and liberal arts in high school and college, David opted for a “more practical” business degree that launched him into a successful ten-year career in compensation management with three consulting firms and Texas Instruments. After a decade of spreadsheets, however, he was ready to look for a career offering more personal meaning.
David returned to graduate school, earning a master's degree from the University of North Texas with concentrations in communication and sociology. During that time, he began creative writing in the form of two short screenplays, one dramatic and one science fiction. He also started a periodic newsletter before joining a Christian ministry as staff writer and editor. While there, he coauthored two nonfiction books, The Marvelous Exchange and The Rest of the Gospel: When the Partial Gospel Has Worn You Out.
While earning another master's degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, David entertained a new craft: writing fiction. He decided that in a culture dominated by sound bites, reality TV, and the Internet, communicating through story could reach otherwise untapped audience. Taking some material on worldviews that he had planned to put into nonfiction form, he began writing Dinner with a Perfect Stranger.
David's current study focuses on the postmodern worldview and how it intersects with the Christian conception of God, meaning in life, and the process of knowing (epistemology). He is currently writing his second novel.
David lives in Texas with his wife and two children, where he works for a nonprofit organization.
David returned to graduate school, earning a master's degree from the University of North Texas with concentrations in communication and sociology. During that time, he began creative writing in the form of two short screenplays, one dramatic and one science fiction. He also started a periodic newsletter before joining a Christian ministry as staff writer and editor. While there, he coauthored two nonfiction books, The Marvelous Exchange and The Rest of the Gospel: When the Partial Gospel Has Worn You Out.
While earning another master's degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, David entertained a new craft: writing fiction. He decided that in a culture dominated by sound bites, reality TV, and the Internet, communicating through story could reach otherwise untapped audience. Taking some material on worldviews that he had planned to put into nonfiction form, he began writing Dinner with a Perfect Stranger.
David's current study focuses on the postmodern worldview and how it intersects with the Christian conception of God, meaning in life, and the process of knowing (epistemology). He is currently writing his second novel.
David lives in Texas with his wife and two children, where he works for a nonprofit organization.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 596 reviews
April 26, 2025
If you can suspend your disbelief for the light but challenging couple of hours it’ll take you to read this, it’ll fit into an afternoon or evening pleasantly spent!
If you can’t, perhaps this little book isn’t for you...
You see, it helps enormously to believe in the Protagonist!
But even if you don’t, this little sleeper could SHOCK you into a modicum of nascent faith, the way it clears the path for a newly-disentangled and in-your-face Basic Gospel out of the dense and wild undergrowth of this disenchanted world.
And that world is fully present even here - in the impersonal, posh and politely subdued downtown restaurant in which God Himself chooses to sit down to dinner with a VERY incredulous guest!
Because the world-weary guest has just accepted an immaculately-printed invitation to dinner from Jesus.
No, no - not the Jesus we know.
This is an everyday Jesus, and one who can bob and weave dialectically throughout a long evening of table talk to boot!
And He can reorientate his guest’s headspace - YOUR own mindset - in novel and startling ways right down the rails of a newly sensitive and eminently rational evangelism - in the end, leading you, the reader ‘to an overwhelming question’ - to which you’ll get a surprisingly clear answer!
Admittedly, it’s a bit gimmicky, which will irk more pensive readers, but as a matter of fact - it’s fun!
And we need all the fun we can find in mulling over the heavier questions of life. Especially with all the stress that’s in our lives...
But you know what? The whole series is fun!
There’s three of ‘em!
Light, whimsical, entertaining, and pretty inventive into the bargain. With a good, clear message.
But it’s been kept pretty much under wraps, because David Gregory never got the media exposure he needed...
Christian media, O where are you?
These books, then, are forgotten classics of the Christian Underground: for literate, would-be believers or wannabes who can appreciate good, persuasive fun.
If your library has one or two of the series, check ‘em out!
If you can’t, perhaps this little book isn’t for you...
You see, it helps enormously to believe in the Protagonist!
But even if you don’t, this little sleeper could SHOCK you into a modicum of nascent faith, the way it clears the path for a newly-disentangled and in-your-face Basic Gospel out of the dense and wild undergrowth of this disenchanted world.
And that world is fully present even here - in the impersonal, posh and politely subdued downtown restaurant in which God Himself chooses to sit down to dinner with a VERY incredulous guest!
Because the world-weary guest has just accepted an immaculately-printed invitation to dinner from Jesus.
No, no - not the Jesus we know.
This is an everyday Jesus, and one who can bob and weave dialectically throughout a long evening of table talk to boot!
And He can reorientate his guest’s headspace - YOUR own mindset - in novel and startling ways right down the rails of a newly sensitive and eminently rational evangelism - in the end, leading you, the reader ‘to an overwhelming question’ - to which you’ll get a surprisingly clear answer!
Admittedly, it’s a bit gimmicky, which will irk more pensive readers, but as a matter of fact - it’s fun!
And we need all the fun we can find in mulling over the heavier questions of life. Especially with all the stress that’s in our lives...
But you know what? The whole series is fun!
There’s three of ‘em!
Light, whimsical, entertaining, and pretty inventive into the bargain. With a good, clear message.
But it’s been kept pretty much under wraps, because David Gregory never got the media exposure he needed...
Christian media, O where are you?
These books, then, are forgotten classics of the Christian Underground: for literate, would-be believers or wannabes who can appreciate good, persuasive fun.
If your library has one or two of the series, check ‘em out!
December 5, 2023
“Because they never learned to live as the new people they were.”
“Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” is a 3 star book in terms of quality, but I gave it 4 stars as a read for its ease of manner in addressing what (for some) can be complex theology in a very accessible manner.
The premise of this novel is that a man named Nick who is not a follower of Christ receives a dinner invitation to a local restaurant from Jesus. This short 100 page book is their conversation over dinner. Don’t roll your eyes at the premise. “Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” (look closely at that title, there is a lot of meaning packed in there) is a lovely and simple lesson on the basic theology of Christianity and a relationship with God.
There are moments that are profound elements of Christianity that are very simply observed. Some examples:
“I’m saying that God’s desire to forgive doesn’t negate his perfect justice.”
“God longs to have you with him. That’s why he created you.”
“A new heart gets you in the game. Then you have to let me be your instructor.”
I’m a believer, so I know that shaped my reading of the text, but when I took down the critical eye, and looked at it through a wider lens I found that I enjoyed this book. It may be too basic for some, and it certainly does no try to complicate with dogma, but I won’t complain about something that is theologically sound and helps remind people of the message of Christ.
“Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” is a 3 star book in terms of quality, but I gave it 4 stars as a read for its ease of manner in addressing what (for some) can be complex theology in a very accessible manner.
The premise of this novel is that a man named Nick who is not a follower of Christ receives a dinner invitation to a local restaurant from Jesus. This short 100 page book is their conversation over dinner. Don’t roll your eyes at the premise. “Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” (look closely at that title, there is a lot of meaning packed in there) is a lovely and simple lesson on the basic theology of Christianity and a relationship with God.
There are moments that are profound elements of Christianity that are very simply observed. Some examples:
“I’m saying that God’s desire to forgive doesn’t negate his perfect justice.”
“God longs to have you with him. That’s why he created you.”
“A new heart gets you in the game. Then you have to let me be your instructor.”
I’m a believer, so I know that shaped my reading of the text, but when I took down the critical eye, and looked at it through a wider lens I found that I enjoyed this book. It may be too basic for some, and it certainly does no try to complicate with dogma, but I won’t complain about something that is theologically sound and helps remind people of the message of Christ.
March 21, 2017
First of all, put aside the notion that this is a true work of fiction. Rather, it's an argument with a loose, unlikely, uninteresting plot wrapped around it. Worse, the plot is distracting, with waiters and bus boys interrupting the conversation between the strawman -- I mean Nick, the narrator -- and a certain interpretation of Jesus, one who uses an age-old wound that our narrator has from his childhood as an excuse to talk him into conversion to a form of Christianity.
I don't have a problem with this form of Christianity necessarily. I don't agree with all parts of it. But I'm okay with it to a certain extent.
What I'm not okay with:
--using simple-minded points which are not truly representative of non-Christian religions to refute those religions.
--imposing materialistic Western worldviews onto Eastern worldviews in an attempt to disprove them.
--using the Bible to prove the Bible.
--having a college educated narrator who stops each line of questioning way too easily.
--abuse of the Socratic method.
I'm unclear on the target audience of this book. Non-Christians who aren't seeking? Maybe, if they aren't very skilled at critical thinking (no offense, but this book does not contain effective logic, and I'm not being unfriendly in saying so) and aren't closed off taking on a spiritual life. Non-Christians who are seeking? Unless they are pre-disposed already to this specific message, I doubt it will work. If they are truly educated in the world religions, they should know to dig deeper than our narrator does over salad and stuffed mushrooms. People who are already Christians? Only if they already buy into this - sorry, but very bad - logic.
So yeah, I found this book unconvincing.
And unrelatable for me: a (not-so-) charming scene of the narrator and Jesus chuckling heartily over remembering narrator's dad losing his patience, slamming on the brakes of the family car, and vigorously spanking the narrator on the side of the road. To me that sounds traumatic, not funny at all.
A lot of people rated this book highly. It's a mystery to me why that is.
Suggested replacement subtitle: An Invitation from A Smug Jesus Impersonator
I don't have a problem with this form of Christianity necessarily. I don't agree with all parts of it. But I'm okay with it to a certain extent.
What I'm not okay with:
--using simple-minded points which are not truly representative of non-Christian religions to refute those religions.
--imposing materialistic Western worldviews onto Eastern worldviews in an attempt to disprove them.
--using the Bible to prove the Bible.
--having a college educated narrator who stops each line of questioning way too easily.
--abuse of the Socratic method.
I'm unclear on the target audience of this book. Non-Christians who aren't seeking? Maybe, if they aren't very skilled at critical thinking (no offense, but this book does not contain effective logic, and I'm not being unfriendly in saying so) and aren't closed off taking on a spiritual life. Non-Christians who are seeking? Unless they are pre-disposed already to this specific message, I doubt it will work. If they are truly educated in the world religions, they should know to dig deeper than our narrator does over salad and stuffed mushrooms. People who are already Christians? Only if they already buy into this - sorry, but very bad - logic.
So yeah, I found this book unconvincing.
And unrelatable for me: a (not-so-) charming scene of the narrator and Jesus chuckling heartily over remembering narrator's dad losing his patience, slamming on the brakes of the family car, and vigorously spanking the narrator on the side of the road. To me that sounds traumatic, not funny at all.
A lot of people rated this book highly. It's a mystery to me why that is.
Suggested replacement subtitle: An Invitation from A Smug Jesus Impersonator
August 29, 2011
I would be interested to hear what a non-Christian would make of this book. I am a Christian and, although I didn't think it was life-changing, it was an intriguing, quick read. This book reminded me in some ways of The Shack, but I think this one is definitely better written. Dinner with a Perfect Stranger does not necessarily delve very deeply into the issues raised; I would describe it as an introduction, which is why I think it might be useful to a non-Christian who wants an introduction to the concepts of salvation, grace, a relationship with God, and related topics. The author did a nice job of explaining how nothing humans can do will be sufficient to deserve salvation: "God is like that... He's not interested in people trying to perform well enough for him. They can't. He created people to have a relationship with him, to enjoy his love." I also liked the discussion of how when people put their trust in God, they are changed on the inside. "Their heart, their human spirit, is actually made new. In the depths of their being they no longer run from God; they are joined to him." My favorite part was when Jesus explains "You need someone to love you and accept you and want to be with you, even when you feel bad about yourself. Someone who will always be with you." I am curious to research this author to see if he has written other books that are more in-depth. *Please note that I received this book for free from Goodreads/FirstReads.
August 2, 2024
"Dinner with a Perfect Stranger" revolves around Nick, a successful executive who has grown skeptical about faith and spirituality. Nick receives an invitation to dinner with Jesus, which he assumes is a prank. Despite his reservations, Nick decides to entertain the invitation and attends. The man before him, who calls himself Jesus, seems to know quite a lot about Nick—more than he should.
Over the course of dinner, the dialogue between the two challenges Nick's current beliefs and forces him to question his life and the choices that have led him to this moment.
Wow, that ending! Powerful. This is a quick and easy read. The central theme is the exploration of faith and doubt. By presenting Jesus in a contemporary setting, readers may consider how a divine encounter might impact a modern individual. I found the conversational format allowed for a deep exploration of ideas without becoming overly preachy, which might deter some readers. I was also pleased that it had some humorous moments; Nick throws out some sass towards Jesus. Potential Spoiler: Nick asks Jesus to turn his wine back into water, and Jesus calls the waiter over, orders Nick a water, and tells the waiter that Nick would like water instead of wine. :) (I didn't do it justice with my explanation, had to be there type of humor)
Over the course of dinner, the dialogue between the two challenges Nick's current beliefs and forces him to question his life and the choices that have led him to this moment.
Wow, that ending! Powerful. This is a quick and easy read. The central theme is the exploration of faith and doubt. By presenting Jesus in a contemporary setting, readers may consider how a divine encounter might impact a modern individual. I found the conversational format allowed for a deep exploration of ideas without becoming overly preachy, which might deter some readers. I was also pleased that it had some humorous moments; Nick throws out some sass towards Jesus. Potential Spoiler: Nick asks Jesus to turn his wine back into water, and Jesus calls the waiter over, orders Nick a water, and tells the waiter that Nick would like water instead of wine. :) (I didn't do it justice with my explanation, had to be there type of humor)
January 28, 2009
I totally forgot that I own this and read it.
See how unmemorable it was?
Its a great idea for a book.
To sit down with Jesus and ask him anything you ever wanted to know. The chance to reaffirm your beliefs. Or in my case, the chance to shed those layers of doubt, and constant questioning.
Bleh. It just did not deliver. The writting was quite bland. It felt to me as tho the writer had written a persuasive essay about religion, and knew if he marketed it that way, it would not reach much of an audiance. So he created two characters who could spew it out for him and dressed it up as a book. At parts it was just so void of personality, and so heavy with textbook explainations.
Just wasnt for me.
Tho I can see where Gregory was trying to go with it.
See how unmemorable it was?
Its a great idea for a book.
To sit down with Jesus and ask him anything you ever wanted to know. The chance to reaffirm your beliefs. Or in my case, the chance to shed those layers of doubt, and constant questioning.
Bleh. It just did not deliver. The writting was quite bland. It felt to me as tho the writer had written a persuasive essay about religion, and knew if he marketed it that way, it would not reach much of an audiance. So he created two characters who could spew it out for him and dressed it up as a book. At parts it was just so void of personality, and so heavy with textbook explainations.
Just wasnt for me.
Tho I can see where Gregory was trying to go with it.
January 13, 2012
Have you ever wanted to have dinner with Jesus? I know I have! Dinner ... lunch ... breakfast ... a glass of water ... just a chance to talk—I’d settle for that.
The premise of David Gregory’s book, Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation worth considering, is that the main character Nick Cominsky receives an invitation to a dinner with Jesus. I’ve read the arguments pro and con for this book and this review isn’t praise or scorn for the writing, because that is the means to the end, or the tabletop. Anyone who complains about the surface on which his/her food is served isn’t very hungry. A table needs to be clean and well-presented; anything beyond that is superfluous. But we all know that there is great deal more to food than it being clean and well-presented. It needs to meet nutritional requirements, be balanced, well-prepared and sufficient. In this book, the table is just fine, however, it is the food—the substance which matters—and it is very fine.
Gregory’s purpose in writing DwaPS is to give us a fantasy—actually THE fantasy, well anyway, those of us who fantasize and dream of our encounter with the Divine. Although that should be all of us, the reality of course is it isn’t. If Jesus—God—is a real person to you, at some point in your life, you have wondered what it will be like to meet Him. DwaPS gives you the opportunity to experience that longing in one potential encounter, the difference being the main character, Nick, doesn’t believe in who He is talking to. What this book will be like for each individual reader will have to be as different as his/her relationship—or lack thereof—with the Almighty and to a certain extent with individual expectations and how tightly we hold them. Will we allow God to surprise and woo us with a Love more perfect than we can ever imagine or would we rather hold on to our own ideas?
Speaking for myself I was totally present at that dinner, except I didn’t have Nick’s skepticism. I drank in Jesus’ every word, answer, and gesture. I wasn’t Cinderella at the ball obviously, but I was having the time of my life and wanting the night to go on forever. Jesus was my Prince Charming and everything I hoped He would be. He was—is—Perfect, but in my case, He wasn’t a stranger, although He is mysterious and elusive.
Nick asked the questions, which probably made for a more interesting book. I kept having flashbacks to disastrous dates when I was a tongue-tied shy teen on a first date. I could see myself just staring at Jesus … with my mouth hanging open!
Sorry for the mixed metaphors, but when we are talking about God, we do grasp for something familiar to help our audience understand what we mean … all the while knowing we are falling way short of the Truth.
Well worth reading!
><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
Deacon Norm from our parish said he received this as a Christmas gift. As he described it in RCIA class last week I was so excited to read it. I LOVE the play on words in the title ... of course you know who the 'perfect' stranger is, right? ☺
The premise of David Gregory’s book, Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation worth considering, is that the main character Nick Cominsky receives an invitation to a dinner with Jesus. I’ve read the arguments pro and con for this book and this review isn’t praise or scorn for the writing, because that is the means to the end, or the tabletop. Anyone who complains about the surface on which his/her food is served isn’t very hungry. A table needs to be clean and well-presented; anything beyond that is superfluous. But we all know that there is great deal more to food than it being clean and well-presented. It needs to meet nutritional requirements, be balanced, well-prepared and sufficient. In this book, the table is just fine, however, it is the food—the substance which matters—and it is very fine.
Gregory’s purpose in writing DwaPS is to give us a fantasy—actually THE fantasy, well anyway, those of us who fantasize and dream of our encounter with the Divine. Although that should be all of us, the reality of course is it isn’t. If Jesus—God—is a real person to you, at some point in your life, you have wondered what it will be like to meet Him. DwaPS gives you the opportunity to experience that longing in one potential encounter, the difference being the main character, Nick, doesn’t believe in who He is talking to. What this book will be like for each individual reader will have to be as different as his/her relationship—or lack thereof—with the Almighty and to a certain extent with individual expectations and how tightly we hold them. Will we allow God to surprise and woo us with a Love more perfect than we can ever imagine or would we rather hold on to our own ideas?
Speaking for myself I was totally present at that dinner, except I didn’t have Nick’s skepticism. I drank in Jesus’ every word, answer, and gesture. I wasn’t Cinderella at the ball obviously, but I was having the time of my life and wanting the night to go on forever. Jesus was my Prince Charming and everything I hoped He would be. He was—is—Perfect, but in my case, He wasn’t a stranger, although He is mysterious and elusive.
Nick asked the questions, which probably made for a more interesting book. I kept having flashbacks to disastrous dates when I was a tongue-tied shy teen on a first date. I could see myself just staring at Jesus … with my mouth hanging open!
Sorry for the mixed metaphors, but when we are talking about God, we do grasp for something familiar to help our audience understand what we mean … all the while knowing we are falling way short of the Truth.
Well worth reading!
><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
Deacon Norm from our parish said he received this as a Christmas gift. As he described it in RCIA class last week I was so excited to read it. I LOVE the play on words in the title ... of course you know who the 'perfect' stranger is, right? ☺
December 7, 2008
"Dinner With a Perfect Stranger" was on of the best and most factual book i have ever read. All though the plot could be altered a bit the main idea was great. Things that were said made me reflect on my life and made me think of things that i dont normally think about.
This book is about a man who is asked out to dinner by an anonymous person. Thinking it is his friends messing with him, he reluctantly goes. Once he gets there at his table is a man he's never met. The man tells him that he is God.
At fist he thinks that this was a prank that his friends were pulling his leg but as the night progresses he, as well as the reader realizes that this could be God.
This book tackles many ideas about religion, and not just one religion. It has little bits on every one. It also has things about every day life.
When reading it I felt like I also was at dinner with God. Hearing him tell me bits of information that could be critically important to me in my life. This book helped me see the world in a way i never had before. It also left me thinking and reflecting on myself and my life.
I would recommend this to any person who his intrested in politics or religion, or just trying to find out who they are. It is a fast read and I hope that if you read it you will enjoy it as much as i did.
This book is about a man who is asked out to dinner by an anonymous person. Thinking it is his friends messing with him, he reluctantly goes. Once he gets there at his table is a man he's never met. The man tells him that he is God.
At fist he thinks that this was a prank that his friends were pulling his leg but as the night progresses he, as well as the reader realizes that this could be God.
This book tackles many ideas about religion, and not just one religion. It has little bits on every one. It also has things about every day life.
When reading it I felt like I also was at dinner with God. Hearing him tell me bits of information that could be critically important to me in my life. This book helped me see the world in a way i never had before. It also left me thinking and reflecting on myself and my life.
I would recommend this to any person who his intrested in politics or religion, or just trying to find out who they are. It is a fast read and I hope that if you read it you will enjoy it as much as i did.
December 3, 2011
This is the second time this year I have read this book.. If I could give it better than 5 out of 5, I would. It is one of the greatest explanations of the gospel, God's love and forgiveness that I have read in some time, other than the Bible its self. Nick, a cynical, but very successful business man, receives a mysterious dinner invitation - an invitation to dine with Jesus of Nazareth. Who could imagine - dinner with Jesus. Thinking that his friends or the local church is playing a trick on him, Nick does not take the invitation seriously, but DOES accept the invitation to dinner. This is a great example of the relationship God wants with each of us. If you have not already done so, please read this book and watch the movie (The Perfect Stranger) that is based on the book. This is an invitation well worth considering and a friendship that you WON'T want to miss out on.
June 17, 2008
For anyone looking for a little spiritual guidance in a super-easy to read format, this is great book. It took all of 2 hours to read so it did not require a big commitment. I would compare the book to the first few chapters of "Mere Christianty" by CS Lewis, but in a story-like setting. I found the writing to approachable and thought-provoking, making it a great book for a little self-reflection and insight.
April 30, 2019
A very easy read that could have been completed in a few hours, had life not gotten in the way. I really liked this simple but powerful book. This well-written book has a clear message about the saving relationship of the Lord Jesus Christ. I recommend reading it straight through without interruption.
March 14, 2010
A fast read, but also a great story, about a man who is losing his faith who receives an invitation to have dinner with Jesus.
June 10, 2025
Would prob give it a 3.5 stars but well round it up. First time reading a book in a while. I thought it was pretty good and very easy to read.
August 17, 2011
Dinner with a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory was such a treat. I never read a book so quickly in my life, I just couldn't put it down.
The premise of this book is that Nick Cominsky receives an anonymous dinner invitation. The invitation reads, "You are invited to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth at Milano's Restaurant." Nick believes he is being set up by his co-workers and figures he has nothing to lose by going.
When Nick arrives to the restaurant, he is escorted to the table where Jesus sitting and Jesus introduces himself. At this point, Nick is looking around for his co-workers to see if they're hiding. But as time elapses, Nick couldn't help being intrigued by the conversation.
I honestly felt like I was eavesdropping on their conversation. Not to mention, wishing all the while I could savor what they were eating.
I related with the character Nick; from his work schedule, to his doubts and questions. I found myself laughing at his questions because they were so eerily similar to mine.
Think about it, imagine if you received a dinner invitation from Jesus? What would you do? Quite honestly, I think I would have been just as cynical as Nick was.
Especially by the way Jesus was depicted; he was dressed in a business suit. At some point Jesus even mentions he didn't like neckties. I chuckled when I read this, "God doesn't like neckties. Note that for future reference."
Even though this book was a simple quick read, it is very meaningful and makes you think. I also enjoyed reading the refreshing twist on the Gospel.
I actually cried at the end of this book. I really didn't want that dinner to end, nor did I want Jesus to leave.
I recommend this book to everyone, but especially those who have a lot of questions or are plagued with doubts.
Lastly, I want to thank Waterbook Multmonah for sending me this free book to review.
The premise of this book is that Nick Cominsky receives an anonymous dinner invitation. The invitation reads, "You are invited to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth at Milano's Restaurant." Nick believes he is being set up by his co-workers and figures he has nothing to lose by going.
When Nick arrives to the restaurant, he is escorted to the table where Jesus sitting and Jesus introduces himself. At this point, Nick is looking around for his co-workers to see if they're hiding. But as time elapses, Nick couldn't help being intrigued by the conversation.
I honestly felt like I was eavesdropping on their conversation. Not to mention, wishing all the while I could savor what they were eating.
I related with the character Nick; from his work schedule, to his doubts and questions. I found myself laughing at his questions because they were so eerily similar to mine.
Think about it, imagine if you received a dinner invitation from Jesus? What would you do? Quite honestly, I think I would have been just as cynical as Nick was.
Especially by the way Jesus was depicted; he was dressed in a business suit. At some point Jesus even mentions he didn't like neckties. I chuckled when I read this, "God doesn't like neckties. Note that for future reference."
Even though this book was a simple quick read, it is very meaningful and makes you think. I also enjoyed reading the refreshing twist on the Gospel.
I actually cried at the end of this book. I really didn't want that dinner to end, nor did I want Jesus to leave.
I recommend this book to everyone, but especially those who have a lot of questions or are plagued with doubts.
Lastly, I want to thank Waterbook Multmonah for sending me this free book to review.
May 28, 2011
I found this book while taking care of a friend who was sick. It is a short and quick read and even if you already know Jesus, you find yourself wanting to know more. I have found this book to be a great eveangelism tool. I have given it to many and it is an uninvasive way to introduce Jesus to people who aren't always open to asking or being asked in person. I have found that many people do open it up and start reading and once they do they can't stop. I read the entire book to someone in 2 hours during a power outage. The thing is, after they read the book, they are open to discussing it and even asking questions. David Gregory has a follow up book called Day with a Perfect Stranger that is pretty good and also another book called the Next Level. Next Level may appeal more to business or tech people when it comes to evangelism, but it describes salvation in more of a business setting. Very interesting.
July 28, 2011
Dinner with a Perfect Stranger
By David Gregory
Nick Cominsky has received an invitation to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth. Thinking that he is the target of a practical joke Nick shows up. What follows is nothing like what Nick expected.
Who is this man claiming to be Jesus? As Jesus asks and answers questions, Nick is forced to admit that much of what the world offers is empty and meaningless. Then Jesus tells him that God restores relationships - God’s with humanity. To restore this relationship a person must accept a free gift from God - the gift of forgiveness and eternal life.
At the end of this Dinner with a Perfect Stranger, Nick is left with a decision. Will he let Jesus into his life or leave Him on the outside knocking on the door his heart.
What would you do? Join Nick for a night contemplation and heart-to-heart self examination.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
By David Gregory
Nick Cominsky has received an invitation to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth. Thinking that he is the target of a practical joke Nick shows up. What follows is nothing like what Nick expected.
Who is this man claiming to be Jesus? As Jesus asks and answers questions, Nick is forced to admit that much of what the world offers is empty and meaningless. Then Jesus tells him that God restores relationships - God’s with humanity. To restore this relationship a person must accept a free gift from God - the gift of forgiveness and eternal life.
At the end of this Dinner with a Perfect Stranger, Nick is left with a decision. Will he let Jesus into his life or leave Him on the outside knocking on the door his heart.
What would you do? Join Nick for a night contemplation and heart-to-heart self examination.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
March 7, 2010
What would you do if you received an invitation to have dinner with Jesus? After receiving his invitation, Nick must decide what to do. Surely this is a joke planned by his friends. When he shows up for his dinner date, however, he realizes that this was certainly an elaborate hoax that has taken an inordinate amount of time for his friends to pull off or is this perhaps not a joke at all? Nick has taken some coursework on religion so he figures he will have a go at his companion and ask some very hard questions to see how "Jesus" handles them. The book is well thought out, makes some good arguements and was put together in an intriguing manner. I would love to have this for a Bible Study.
January 11, 2018
I found the idea of this intriguing, but the execution a bit disappointing. Nick's disbelief is understandable, but his requests for proof, IE wine into water... this book is only 100 pages-either get with the program or ask someone else. And just when the discussion gets good, the waiter interrupts or Nick bogs down. It seemed like a squandered opportunity. Maybe the timing for this book and me was off.
May 10, 2009
This was a quick read-took about an hour, but such a profound book! It really made me think about my relationship with Jesus, and really just how awesome of a guy he really is. Made me reconsider how I've viewed him in the past, and to dig a little deeper inward on what I'm really doing here on earth.
November 9, 2015
This little book is a gem. A dinner conversation between a man who says he is Jesus and a man struggling with his faith in which many thought provoking questions are asked and answered. This would be a great read for anyone new to the faith, or someone who needs a "booster shot" of what it takes to be a Christian.
May 3, 2023
Absolutely amazing!
Everyone should read this book, Christian or not! It’s a short and easy read that won’t take long at all.
Everyone should read this book, Christian or not! It’s a short and easy read that won’t take long at all.
January 2, 2025
Crying real tears. I can’t wait to dine with Jesus!
May 7, 2025
What an amazing read, all thanks to a good friend for the recommendation. I can’t wait to pass this gem along to others ❤️
May 2, 2025
I feel like I had a conversation with Jesus. thank u irene for the rec ♥️
April 24, 2009
Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation Worth Considering is a slim volume best suited for a light-weight philosopher interested in the claims of Jesus Christ. The plot of the book centers on a dialogue in a restaurant between a man, Nick, in a turbulent marriage mostly disinterested in religion, and the actual Jesus, reincarnated if you will on earth as himself in the 21st century. The plot being centered on dialogue results in a lack of depth or development to the characters themselves. Through the dialogue, the main character becomes acquainted with Jesus, facing his own doubts and incredulity at the possibility of the meeting, and then facing some of his theological dilemmas.
The book is an interesting way to begin a journey of investigating the Christian faith and the person of Jesus Christ. Yet beyond being a jump start, framed in an interesting fictitious scenario, the book leaves much to be desired. The reasoning and theological arguments are superficial and not very compelling if one were to want to be compelled. The scenario, a meeting of Jesus the Son of God with a modern man in the 21st century, being absurd makes it difficult to believe the author would actually have a clue what a meeting with Jesus would really be like. Since our best bet of an actual meeting with Jesus would be based on the four New Testament Gospels and the interactions others had with Jesus therein, than Mr. Gregory has certainly relied instead on his own imagination, disregarding a characterization of Jesus that would more aptly coalesce with the Gospel accounts. Jesus in the novel Dinner with a Perfect Stranger is contrived and seems mostly concerned about conveying his logical points reasonably and clearly, giving lucid answers to Nick's questions. Yet Jesus of the Gospels is less concerned with man’s logic and reason, made foolish by God, and focuses on teaching by example, speaking in parables and veiling his wisdom. While the Jesus in the novel does not contradict Jesus of the Gospels directly, the premise of his appearance and conversation as actually something mere mortal man could dream up is incongruous.
Ultimately, I would recommend this book to some individuals, those who are put off by the complexity and breadth of the Bible itself or rigorous philosophical and theological arguments. If one seeks a quick read with a provoking premise and is seeking an introduction to the answers to the various faith stumbling blocks, Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation Worth Considering would be worth considering as a way to spend an afternoon. For the rest, I’d just as well direct you to a children’s book fraught with Christian allusions or a fantastical allegory of the Christian faith like The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis or The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan, respectively. For a book intended to be an exercise in imagination and engagement with the character of God, this one just fails to satisfy.
The book is an interesting way to begin a journey of investigating the Christian faith and the person of Jesus Christ. Yet beyond being a jump start, framed in an interesting fictitious scenario, the book leaves much to be desired. The reasoning and theological arguments are superficial and not very compelling if one were to want to be compelled. The scenario, a meeting of Jesus the Son of God with a modern man in the 21st century, being absurd makes it difficult to believe the author would actually have a clue what a meeting with Jesus would really be like. Since our best bet of an actual meeting with Jesus would be based on the four New Testament Gospels and the interactions others had with Jesus therein, than Mr. Gregory has certainly relied instead on his own imagination, disregarding a characterization of Jesus that would more aptly coalesce with the Gospel accounts. Jesus in the novel Dinner with a Perfect Stranger is contrived and seems mostly concerned about conveying his logical points reasonably and clearly, giving lucid answers to Nick's questions. Yet Jesus of the Gospels is less concerned with man’s logic and reason, made foolish by God, and focuses on teaching by example, speaking in parables and veiling his wisdom. While the Jesus in the novel does not contradict Jesus of the Gospels directly, the premise of his appearance and conversation as actually something mere mortal man could dream up is incongruous.
Ultimately, I would recommend this book to some individuals, those who are put off by the complexity and breadth of the Bible itself or rigorous philosophical and theological arguments. If one seeks a quick read with a provoking premise and is seeking an introduction to the answers to the various faith stumbling blocks, Dinner with a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation Worth Considering would be worth considering as a way to spend an afternoon. For the rest, I’d just as well direct you to a children’s book fraught with Christian allusions or a fantastical allegory of the Christian faith like The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis or The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan, respectively. For a book intended to be an exercise in imagination and engagement with the character of God, this one just fails to satisfy.
September 11, 2016
Like The Shack, this story opens with a mysterious invitation. But David Gregory's musings about a modern meal with Jesus proceed on more orthodox theological footing than William Young's fictional "weekend with God" did.
Gregory is a charitable writer, and although his biographical snippet is careful to avoid identification with any particular denomination, his Reformation bias sometimes shows in this otherwise thoughtful book. For example, the skeptical businessman in the story asks Jesus if his family called him "Yeshua," and receives a reply to the effect that most of them did, but "James called me a few other things." The deadpan humor of that line betrays its author's apparent belief that the Virgin Mary had more than one child (making James a biological brother to Jesus, complete with the sibling rivalry that implies).
Gregory knows enough about his subject to recall that the original biblical languages do not preserve modern English distinctions between "hand" and "wrist" with regard to where Jesus had nail scars, yet (from a Catholic point of view) he still makes the typically Protestant mistake of forgetting that neither Aramaic nor ancient Greek made distinctions between "brother" and "cousin," either.
Similarly, Jesus here astounds his guest by reminding the conflicted businessman that he lives in every Christian. Their subsequent conversation never revisits the biblical account of the Last Supper, as it would almost inevitably do in the hands of a Catholic author.
In short, this book is not as nondenominational or ecumenical as it pretends to be.
Nevertheless, I liked being reminded that the way to God is not a path, per se, but a person. It was also good to be shown through affecting analogies that God loves to restore relationships.
The part of the conversation where Jesus explains our need for him and his role in salvation is not as well-developed as it could be, but interesting asides show that Gregory has done more "comparative religion" homework than many other writers.
Dinner With a Perfect Stranger owes an unacknowledged debt to the famous C.S. Lewis formulation of Jesus as "Lord, Liar, or Lunatic." Anyone in the mood for Christian apologetics would do better to start with the meat-and-potatoes that Lewis offered. That said, David Gregory's contemporary traversal of some of the same ground remains a worthwhile read, and I am deeply grateful to the devout friend who inspired me to accept this engaging "dinner invitation."
Gregory is a charitable writer, and although his biographical snippet is careful to avoid identification with any particular denomination, his Reformation bias sometimes shows in this otherwise thoughtful book. For example, the skeptical businessman in the story asks Jesus if his family called him "Yeshua," and receives a reply to the effect that most of them did, but "James called me a few other things." The deadpan humor of that line betrays its author's apparent belief that the Virgin Mary had more than one child (making James a biological brother to Jesus, complete with the sibling rivalry that implies).
Gregory knows enough about his subject to recall that the original biblical languages do not preserve modern English distinctions between "hand" and "wrist" with regard to where Jesus had nail scars, yet (from a Catholic point of view) he still makes the typically Protestant mistake of forgetting that neither Aramaic nor ancient Greek made distinctions between "brother" and "cousin," either.
Similarly, Jesus here astounds his guest by reminding the conflicted businessman that he lives in every Christian. Their subsequent conversation never revisits the biblical account of the Last Supper, as it would almost inevitably do in the hands of a Catholic author.
In short, this book is not as nondenominational or ecumenical as it pretends to be.
Nevertheless, I liked being reminded that the way to God is not a path, per se, but a person. It was also good to be shown through affecting analogies that God loves to restore relationships.
The part of the conversation where Jesus explains our need for him and his role in salvation is not as well-developed as it could be, but interesting asides show that Gregory has done more "comparative religion" homework than many other writers.
Dinner With a Perfect Stranger owes an unacknowledged debt to the famous C.S. Lewis formulation of Jesus as "Lord, Liar, or Lunatic." Anyone in the mood for Christian apologetics would do better to start with the meat-and-potatoes that Lewis offered. That said, David Gregory's contemporary traversal of some of the same ground remains a worthwhile read, and I am deeply grateful to the devout friend who inspired me to accept this engaging "dinner invitation."
April 14, 2020
„ Sie sind eingeladen zu einem Dinner mit Jesus von Nazareth“
Nick ist ein ganz normaler Typ, ist genervt von seiner Frau, die ihm vorwirft zu viel zu arbeiten. Natürlich arbeitet er zu viel. Das ist halt so.
Als er dann vor Jesus steht, nicht dem Jesus, wie ihn sich viele vorstellen, sondern eine alltägliche, moderne Version, sympathisch und intelligent, ist er genauso fasziniert wie irritiert…
Das Ganze ist eine kurze Geschichte mit gutem Humor (außer der Situation, in der die beiden darüber lachen, dass der Vater ihn am Straßenrand geschlagen hat – das habe ich nicht verstanden).
Spiegelt wieder, was die Meisten kennen, falsche Prioritäten, die viele haben und die vielen von der Gesellschaft aufgezwungen werden.
Es ist eine Mischung aus wissenschaftlichen und religiösen Erklärungen, lässt Vieles in einem anderen Licht erscheinen und bietet Antworten auf einige Fragen. – Auch wenn Nick sich da manchmal etwas schnell überzeugen lässt und seinen Fragen nicht in dem Maß nachgeht, wie ich das (glaube ich) würde.
Ich konnte viel daraus ziehen. Ich habe mir nie ein Gespräch mit Jesus vorgestellt, kann mir das aber in der Art gut vorstellen.
Nick ist ein ganz normaler Typ, ist genervt von seiner Frau, die ihm vorwirft zu viel zu arbeiten. Natürlich arbeitet er zu viel. Das ist halt so.
Als er dann vor Jesus steht, nicht dem Jesus, wie ihn sich viele vorstellen, sondern eine alltägliche, moderne Version, sympathisch und intelligent, ist er genauso fasziniert wie irritiert…
Das Ganze ist eine kurze Geschichte mit gutem Humor (außer der Situation, in der die beiden darüber lachen, dass der Vater ihn am Straßenrand geschlagen hat – das habe ich nicht verstanden).
Spiegelt wieder, was die Meisten kennen, falsche Prioritäten, die viele haben und die vielen von der Gesellschaft aufgezwungen werden.
Es ist eine Mischung aus wissenschaftlichen und religiösen Erklärungen, lässt Vieles in einem anderen Licht erscheinen und bietet Antworten auf einige Fragen. – Auch wenn Nick sich da manchmal etwas schnell überzeugen lässt und seinen Fragen nicht in dem Maß nachgeht, wie ich das (glaube ich) würde.
Ich konnte viel daraus ziehen. Ich habe mir nie ein Gespräch mit Jesus vorgestellt, kann mir das aber in der Art gut vorstellen.
December 11, 2014
I liked this book because it catches the today life of many who were raised Christian or who are currently Christian and have slipped slowly away from walking with God.
I also find that it is very encouraging in showing that God always wants to be there for you but you have to choose to except his invitation.
Life seems so complicated and yet Christ shows that truly if you seek him and take refuge in his strength then you can get through anything. He's always there for you... you just have to call on Him and make a decision to always have him with you.
I also like how this book went into differences of some religions and making sure the reader knows that Christianity isn't a religion but it's a relationship with Christ and walking with Him through the good and the bad times in life. This is a short good eye opening book.
I also find that it is very encouraging in showing that God always wants to be there for you but you have to choose to except his invitation.
Life seems so complicated and yet Christ shows that truly if you seek him and take refuge in his strength then you can get through anything. He's always there for you... you just have to call on Him and make a decision to always have him with you.
I also like how this book went into differences of some religions and making sure the reader knows that Christianity isn't a religion but it's a relationship with Christ and walking with Him through the good and the bad times in life. This is a short good eye opening book.
November 23, 2014
A skeptic is invited to dinner with Jesus of Nazareth. He goes thinking it's a joke. As the evening goes on, he agrees to be open to the idea that this is for real, and hits Jesus with everything he can think of. He is surprised by the results.
This nice little book covers most of the issues raised in considering Christianity.
• Christianity compared to other religions
• Many roads to God?
• Christianity vs. religion
• Moral absolutes
• Will your good outweigh your bad?
• Justice and Mercy
• The historical verification of the Bible
• Jesus' life and death proven through history
• Is Jesus God?
• The validity of the disciples' reports: who dies for something they know is a lie?
• Creation declares God as Creator
• Intelligent Design
• Heaven and Hell
• Why do bad things happen?
• Eternal Life can start now, on Earth
All this is covered as the two have a fancy dinner. The conversational style is quite believable. A nice, quick read.
This nice little book covers most of the issues raised in considering Christianity.
• Christianity compared to other religions
• Many roads to God?
• Christianity vs. religion
• Moral absolutes
• Will your good outweigh your bad?
• Justice and Mercy
• The historical verification of the Bible
• Jesus' life and death proven through history
• Is Jesus God?
• The validity of the disciples' reports: who dies for something they know is a lie?
• Creation declares God as Creator
• Intelligent Design
• Heaven and Hell
• Why do bad things happen?
• Eternal Life can start now, on Earth
All this is covered as the two have a fancy dinner. The conversational style is quite believable. A nice, quick read.
February 5, 2012
This book was recommended to me by my wife and here I must say thank you. Nick receives a dinner invitation to a nice Italian restaurant, from Jesus. Thinking his friends are pulling a prank on him he decides to go to the restaurant at the appointed time. What ensues is a very interesting dinner conversation that the reader is drawn into. I felt that this book spoke well to my beliefs and I enjoyed it very much. For others not of the Christian persuasion there may be some parts that would be upsetting. However at only 100 pages I say go ahead and read this one. What harm can come of it. Perhaps you will be the recipient of a dinner invitation. I hear the tiramisu is very good.
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