Review of:  An Amish Homecoming

Rosalind Lauer  

Zebra, $8.99 (304p) ISBN 978-1-4201-5211-1

The first in this new series set in the fictional Amish community of Joyful River is sure to capture the hearts of fans of Christian romance.  As 18-year-old Essie and her beau, Harlan, prepare for engagement and marriage, their plans are interrupted when Essie’s three wayward English cousins come to live with her family following their mother’s death [p. 1-27].  Lauer’s tale centers on Essie and her cousin Serena, also 18, but the polar opposite of Essie’s steady, unassuming personality [p. 28-40 ff].  Serena’s spirited, prideful ways are quick to get under Essie’s skin [p. 40 ff], though the cousins discover that their values are far more similar than they’d first assumed after Harlan’s mother and sister are injured in a buggy accident [p. 158 ff].  The girls come to trust and rely on each other as they each navigate romances complicated by familial and financial concerns [p. 163-164 ff].  Lauer’s world-building is skillful as the characters and situations are so true to life they nearly walk off the page.  Biblical themes of faith and love echo throughout the work as the young adults learn to appreciate the things that matter most to them [p. 276-277 ff].  Readers will be satisfied with the happy endings and eagerly await the next tale about the community of Joyful River.  [March 2021]

Review of:  I’ve Seen the End of You

W. Lee Warren. Waterbrook Press, $25.99 (272p) ISBN 978-0-5256-5321-9   

Brain surgeon, Iraq War veteran, and author Warren (No Place to Hide) brings readers a powerful memoir of his experiences, both inside the operating room and out, that test (and ultimately grow) his faith.  He shares the stories of several of his patients, including Samuel, a young devout Christian, whose life is cut short by brain cancer despite his good moral character [pp. 10-112], and Joey, a violent, angry criminal whose living despite the odds leads Warren to question God’s fairness [pp. 48-195].  Warren describes the calm acceptance and steadfast belief in God’s greater plan of his patient Rupert when he informs him of his terminal cancer [pp. 135-168].  Rupert’s family’s request to pray for Warren following his death models a strength of faith that challenges Warren’s preconceived ideas about the purpose of prayer [pp. 155-158].  Warren comes to realize from these and other encounters with his patients and hospital chaplain that faith may not change outcomes, but rather result in better quality of life and relationships [pp. 169-198].  His convictions, however, are ultimately put to the test by the sudden death of his 19-year-old son [pp. 201-254].  Warren’s poignant work offers hope and encouragement to others facing trauma and questioning ultimate meaning.  5 stars

My interview with W. Lee Warren published by Publishers Weekly:

 Review of:  Free to Believe

Luke Goodrich.  Multnomah Books, $24.00 (288p) ISBN 978-0-5256-5290-8

Goodrich, attorney at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty who has argued and won multiple cases at the Supreme Court, explains the current state of religious liberty and how laws have influenced the American socio-political climate in his illuminating debut. Founded on the principle that “the government, within reasonable limits, leaves religion alone as much as possible,” Goodrich believes American openness to all religious practice promotes good works while protecting the rights of dissenters. Drawing on both legislative history and biblical lessons, he provides analysis of the five most deeply divisive challenges in our culture today: religious discrimination, abortion rights, gay rights, Islam, and the public square.  Goodrich encourages readers to look for ways to protect both sides when society is deeply divided on moral issues.  He stresses that separation of church and state is a good thing and that religion should be welcomed as an essential part of human culture.  He calls on Christians to turn to the example of Jesus when approaching these conflicts, striving to care for one in the interest of cultivating peaceful resolutions.  This is a must-read, especially for pastors, religious business owners, and others interested in the future of religious freedom in our country.  5 stars

 

Review of:  Christ in Crisis: Why We Need to Reclaim Jesus

Jim Wallis.  HarperOne, $25.99 (320p) ISBN 978-0-0629-1476-7

New York Times bestselling author (God’s Politics) and founder of the faith-in-action organization Sojourners, Wallis brings readers an exploration of what it means to follow Jesus in a world in crisis [p. 3].  Wallis asserts that American Christianity is in decline as the result of a distance that exists between Christians and the person of Jesus [pp. 1-3].  He presents eight questions that Jesus raised and discusses application of the gospel texts to the current cultural and social climate [pp. 23-242].  First, Wallis presents “The Neighbor Question” [pp. 23-44] in which he asks what it means to love our neighbor, including those who are different from us.  In “The Image Question” [pp. 45-88], Wallis explores the implications and responsibilities of being created in God’s image, suggesting that churches actively address the sin of racism in the pulpit with penitence, pastoral care, prophecy, and policy [pp. 72-75].   “The Truth Question” is a look at American politics, the normalization of lying, and the need for people of faith to speak truth to power [pp. 87-112].  “The Power Question” discusses Jesus’ example of servant leadership which Wallis contrasts to the White House’s idolatry of money, sex, and narcissism [pp. 113-134].  In “The Fear Question,” Wallis asserts that the growing spirit of fear in today’s social climate leads to hatred and violence.  He encourages Christians to turn to God and cultivate gratitude in order to combat anxieties [pp. 135-157].  “The Caesar Question” and “The Peacemaker Question” explore when following God’s law means challenging unjust human laws through nonviolent civil disobedience and a commitment to conflict resolution [pp. 179-209].  Wallis concludes with the “The Discipleship Question,” in which he asks Christians to reflect on Jesus’ instruction to help those in need (“the least of these”), thus becoming the “salt” and “light” for societies in times of crisis [pp.  211-269].  The “Reclaiming Jesus” Declaration, a statement by leading pastors and theologians is included in an Appendix.  Wallis acknowledges that some may disagree with his interpretations of Scripture as he makes his own views clear, but this is sure to be a thought-provoking work for Christian readers regardless of political aisle.  5 stars

 Review of:  A Theory of Everything (That Matters)

Alister McGrath.  Tyndale Momentum, $22.99 (224p) ISBN 978-1-4964-3807-2

Oxford University professor of science and religion, McGrath brings readers a fascinating study of Einstein’s theories and how he sought to discover meaning within the mysteries of science [x-xi].  McGrath explores Einstein’s attempts to develop a cohesive understanding of the world from the perspectives of religion, science, and ethics [p. 9].  He describes the scientific achievements of Isaac Newton that dominated the world of physics while Einstein was coming of age [pp. 17-34].  While working as a technical assistant in a Swiss patent shop in 1905, he wrote the first of four revolutionary papers that were said to “overthrow” Newtonian ideas [pp. 17, 43-109].  In the first of these articles, “the Photoelectric Effect and the Nature of Light,” published in March 1905, Einstein proposed that light was composed of particles and that each particle’s energy was proportional to the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation of which it was part [p. 45].  This discovery led to Einstein’s being awarded the Nobel Prize in physics in 1921.  His second article dealt with “Brownian motion,” the movement of very small particles of matter when suspended in liquid [p. 51.]  In June 1905, Einstein’s third article was published, in which he set out his theory of special relativity.  September 1905 welcomed the publication of his fourth article containing the well-known equation, E=mc2, outlining the equivalence of matter and energy [p. 67].  However, Einstein ultimately failed in his quest to discover a “grand theory of everything” that would unify all scientific phenomena [p. 108].  While he did not take part in organized religion, he expressed a sense of wonder and awe toward nature and the arts, especially the music of Mozart [pp. 113-134].  He did not believe in a personal God but remarked that he considered a “cosmic religious feeling” the “strongest and noblest motive for scientific research.” [p. 137].  McGrath encourages Christian readers of Einstein to consider his teachings as a tool to develop their own ideas regarding the relationship between science, religion, and the “meaning of everything” [pp. 163-184].  This book is an excellent choice for Christians with an interest or background in scientific research.  However, the academic nature of the work would turn away general lay readership. 5 stars

 

Review of:  How Happiness Happens

Max Lucado.  Thomas Nelson, $24.99 (208p) ISBN 978-0-7180-9613-7

New York Times bestselling author Lucado brings readers a much-needed inquiry into the origins of happiness in today’s culture of rising depression and increased suicide rates.  Lucado asserts that true happiness is not gained through fortune or accomplishments [p. 6], but rather by giving joy away [p. 10] as described in the New Testament.  He suggests 10 practical steps towards increasing one’s happiness, beginning with encouraging one another [pp. 13-26], and ignoring pet peeves by cultivating patience [pp. 29-39].  Readers are urged to turn away from self-promotion and instead regard one another as more important [pp. 45-55].  Focusing on others also includes making an effort to greet people individually, which Lucado indicates can have far-reaching effects on others’ choices and well-being [pp. 61-69].  The importance of prayer is highlighted as is regular service [pp. 75-100].  Lucado further counsels readers to accept one another’s differences with an attitude of grace but to be bold in speaking the truth of Scripture when admonishment is needed [pp. 105-129].  He encourages practicing forgiveness by remembering one’s own temptation to sin and the mercy and promise of salvation given by Jesus [pp. 135-145].  Most importantly is to love one another as God loves his people [pp. 151-159].  Lucado asks readers to take a “Happiness Challenge” by practicing the 10 tenets of sharing joy daily.  A section with questions for reflection is included which invites deeper self-inquiry and study [pp. 169-210].  Lucado’s writing is easy to read and relatable, and his advice is rooted in Scripture with multiple examples cited throughout.  This book will make an excellent selection for group study and application.  5 stars

 

Review of :  Remarkable:  Living a Faith Worth Talking About

Brady Boyd.  Howard Books, $26.00 (288p) ISBN 978-1-9821-0137-4

Senior Pastor of New Life Church and cohost of The Essential Church Podcast, Boyd brings Christian readers an approach to living out their faith in the current American climate using the teachings of Paul as a guide.  Boyd likens today’s temptations to sin, including fortune, power, and sexual immorality, to those present in Corinthian society at the time of Paul’s arrival [pp. 1-7].  He examines three ways that Christians have historically responded to the culture in which they live, including becoming integrators (who “slide effortlessly into the surrounding culture so that they are largely indistinguishable from it”), instigators (who adopt an attitude of divisiveness and respond in anger), and isolators (who react out of fear and thus refuse to engage at all) [pp. 19-36].  However, Boyd suggests a fourth approach guided by Paul’s lessons to the Corinthian church, that of adopting a remarkable love [pp. 37-59].  According to Boyd, the characteristics of remarkable love reflect equality, grace, sexual morality, worship, and hope [pp. 61-223].  He urges readers to practice acceptance, kindness, and forgiveness to cultivate grace [pp. 94-110].  To prize purity, Boyd recommends being watchful and choosing to love well, and the practices of prayer, praise, intimacy, and friendship to support healthy marriages [pp. 125-158].  He exhorts the church to come together around the foundations of the Holy Spirit, integrity, and love in order to cultivate diversity, continuity, intentionality, and encouragement.  As Paul explained in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, Christians should develop maturity in Christ [pp. 247-248] and commit to bringing the gospel to those in need [p. 250].  Boyd tends to be repetitive and fails to adequately resolve tensions between engaging others while fundamentally disagreeing with them.  4 stars

 

Review of:  The Reluctant Witness: Discovering the Delight of Spiritual Conversations

Don Everts.  IVP Books, $17.00 (200p) ISBN 978-0-8308-4567-5

From ordained pastor and award-winning author of I Once Was Lost, Everts brings Christian readers a timely look at the nature of spiritual conversations in today’s American culture.  Packed with original research, the work offers practical insights for those seeking more effective witness.  Everts proposes that readers first evaluate their efforts to share the gospel [pp. 13-38].  Research findings indicate that Americans today are having fewer spiritual conversations, feel more uncomfortable about them, and when they do engage in them, it is more frequently via digital platforms [pp. 13-28].  This is due to Christianity falling increasingly out of season in the postmodern era [p. 45] with the result that Christians are afraid of causing offense if they talk openly about their faith [pp. 44-57].  However, Everts shows that spiritual conversations, when they do occur, are not as fraught with negativity or complications as is often feared [pp. 61-87].  He debunks several myths, including:  spiritual conversations are conducted in special locations by trained clergy [p. 68]; they are serious and involve conflict [p. 71, 78]; that Christians must be able to give right answers [p. 76]; and they end up being painful and regrettable [p. 81].  Everts looks at the characteristics of eager conversationalists and finds they have several things in common that make them feel prepared to talk about their beliefs [p. 98].  This group of people are more actively involved in faith practices such as attending church, praying, and reading the Bible [p. 99], than are reluctant conversationalists.  They expect spiritual conversations to happen in everyday life [p. 128] and are open to sharing their faith in a variety of ways [pp. 131-142].  Awkward moments also do not bother or deter them [p. 145].  The work will be an important resource for Christians seeking more authentic and effective ways of sharing their spiritual beliefs. 5 stars

 

Review of:  All My Friends Have Issues

Amanda Anderson.  Thomas Nelson, $17.99 (208p) ISBN 978-1-4002-0857-9

Popular Bible teacher, blogger, and founder of Heart in Training speaking ministry, Anderson brings Christian women a guide for forming and maintaining biblically healthy friendships.  She suggests that three key foundations help cultivate meaningful connection:  authenticity [pp. 3-68], encouragement [pp. 71-115], and accountability [pp. 119-169].  Anderson looks at the difference between authenticity and intimacy and advocates spending time together in person to earn mutual trust [pp. 3-26].  Artifice and perfectionism prevent true relationship between flawed human beings [pp. 39-52], and self-awareness is key [pp. 27-38].  Anderson cautions readers to have wise discernment when entering into close friendships, and to use the scriptures as a guide [pp. 45-49].  Healthy conflict resolution involves both the ability to apologize sincerely and to gracefully forgive [pp. 53-68].  While American culture often pits women against one another in comparison and competition, in Christ all have equal value and therefore healthy friends encourage each other in their unique gifts [pp. 90-103].  They also practice accountability by calling each other out in biblically defined sin and fostering restoration to God’s standard [pp. 119-132].  Anderson urges readers to pray for themselves, pray for their friends, and to boldly pray together [pp. 160-169].  A Reader’s Guide is included in which the author asks questions to promote self-inquiry and authenticity, as well as a list of warning signals that may indicate a spiritually unhealthy friendship [pp. 170-187].  Written with humor and grace and rooted in Scripture, Christian women will find this to be a definitive resource.  Would make an excellent selection for small group study.  5 stars

 

Review of:  Wild Awakening: How a Raging Grizzly Healed My Wounded Heart

Greg J. Matthews and James Lund.  Howard Books, $26.00 (224p) ISBN 978-1-5011-9453-5

US Army Corps of Engineers Southwestern Division Antiterrorism Officer and founder of Chase What Matters ministry, Matthews recounts a riveting tale of barely surviving a vicious attack by a grizzly bear in the Alaskan wilderness and how this life-changing event transformed his relationship with God.  Matthews opens the work by describing joyful childhood times with his brothers learning outdoors skills such hunting and camping from their father [pp. 1-9].  He seeks to please his father with sports and other achievements [p. 7 ff].  However, his parents’ divorce leaves him with a deep sense of failure that results in poor decision-making and leads to his getting kicked out of school [pp. 20-44].  Matthews describes how his fear of failing affects his choices as an adult in areas of work and relationships [p. 53 ff].  He becomes driven to succeed in his career, often taking extreme personal risks and spending great amounts of time away from his family [p. 71 ff]. Yet the more he achieves, the more he somehow feels that he is still not doing enough to please God [p. 80].  When his brother Matt suggests going on a moose-hunting expedition in the wilderness of Alaska, Matthews readily accepts [p. 12].  They spend years researching and preparing for the trip.  During their journey, Matthews is attacked by a grizzly bear and almost dies [p. 113 ff].  He describes his fight to survive and being visited by Jesus [pp. 170-190].  Matthews realizes that he is loved by God as well as his earthly father, and that what really matters are relationships rather than achievements [p. 197 ff].  He decides to devote himself more fully to his family and faith and to share the message of God’s healing love [p. 202 ff].  This is a gripping story, profoundly personal, and deeply relatable.  5 stars.

My Interview with Greg Matthews published by Publishers Weekly:

 Review of:  Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love

Maria Morera Johnson.  Ave Maria Press, $15.95 (160p) ISBN 978-1-5947-1901-1

From the author of My Badass Book of Saints comes an intriguing first-hand look at the symbolism and history of the patroness of Cuba, Our Lady of Charity.  Weaving her own story with Cuban and Catholic history, Johnson’s work is an invitation to deepen one’s faith through a greater understanding of Mary the Mother of God under the title of Our Lady of Charity.  Johnson begins by introducing us to the legendary story of how Mary’s divine intercession saved three Cuban fishermen from being drowned at sea, and how this tale spread throughout the country [pp. 1-16].  Our Lady of Charity came to signify faith, family, and homeland [p. 11].  A shrine was erected in El Cobre, and devotion to her became widespread, inspiring the visits of three Popes [pp. 33-50].  Johnson reflects on the significance of the Marian procession of Our Lady of Charity in 2012 and making its way around Cuba over the subsequent two-year period [pp. 67-68].  Johnson theorizes that taking the statue of the patroness into the street brought hope and faith to all, linking evangelism with processional celebrations.  Johnson is both delicate and deliberate in assuring readers that Catholics do not worship Mary (or saints), but rather look upon these figures as guides in leading us to Jesus Christ [pp. 87-104].  Our Lady of Charity’s entrance and establishment in Miami is beautifully chronicled while Johnson reminds Christians of their belonging through faith regardless of place or circumstance [pp. 71-83].  The author’s writing is deeply personal as she describes her faith journey as a Cuban-American alongside the history of the Cuban devotion to Our Lady of Charity.  The book is easily accessible to both Catholics and non-Catholics and is an excellent introductory resource to deeper understanding of the biblical Mary.  5 stars

 Review of:  Taste and See: Discovering God Among Butchers, Bakers, and Fresh Food Makers

Margaret Feinberg.  Zondervan, $16.99 (192p) ISBN 978-0-3103-5486-4

Popular Bible teacher Feinberg (Scouting the Divine) provides a first-hand exploration of foods found in Scripture. Part travel-journal and part Bible-study, Feinberg meets with farmers, miners, fishers, bakers, and butchers from around the globe to gain a deeper understanding of God’s provision and a fresh perspective on mealtime in an age of fast food.  In “A Flaky Fillet of Fish” [pp. 21-45], she meets with a crew of fisherman on the Sea of Galilee and learns to expectantly await God’s power [p. 40].  Recipes include Leif’s Baked Halibut [p. 42] and Mom’s Almond-Crusted Tilapia [p. 41].  In “A Plate of Sweet and Succulent Figs” [pp. 46-63], Feinberg visits a farm in Madera, California and challenges her notions of perspective and attentiveness as she discovers God’s bounty by looking more closely.  Recipes include Christy’s Roasted Figs and Brussel Sprouts [p. 60].  In “A Loaf of Bread Just Out of the Oven,” [pp. 64-86], Feinberg explores the importance of community, finding spiritual sustenance through relationships.  She tries her hand at making Andrew’s 18-Minute Matzoh [p. 80].  In “A Dash of Sea Salt” [pp. 87-104], Feinberg descends into the caverns of a Utah salt mine and explores the symbolism of salt in the Old and New Testaments.  Recipes include Kary’s Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Cookies [p. 101] and Leif’s Smoked Salt [p. 100].  In “A Bowl of Delectable Olives” [pp. 105-124], Feinberg travels to an island in Croatia where she helps harvest olives and considers the practice of using oils for anointing, an act of compassion, described in Scripture.  She recommends Margaret’s Basil Olive Oil Dip as an excellent accompaniment to freshly baked bread [p. 122].  In “A Flame-Grilled Lamb Chop” [pp. 125-143], Feinberg finds herself attending Steakology 101 when she visits a butcher in Texas.  She reflects on sacrifice and rescue.  Recipes include Margaret’s Lamb Chops [p. 140] and Ray’s Magical Meat Marinade [p. 142].  Throughout the text, the author provides simple activities to do with loved ones around the table to practically apply Biblical lessons.  This work is a sure-fire treat for Christian readers.  5 stars

My interview with Margaret Feinberg published by Publishers Weekly:

 

Review of:  How the Bible Actually Works

Peter Enns.  Zondervan, $26.99 (304p) ISBN 978-0-0626-8674-9

From the author The Bible Tells Me So comes a thought-provoking work challenging Christians’ understanding of the true purpose of the Bible.  Enns describes three characteristics that he asserts make the Bible worth reading:  it’s ancientness, ambiguousness, and diversity [p. 6].  He indicates that the Bible does not actually tell us what to do [pp. 23-47], and that even Old Testament laws leave room for interpretation depending on context [pp. 51-71].  Enns argues that discrepancies in scripture point to differences in time and culture and illustrate humans’ re-imagining God [pp. 97 ff].  He analyzes multiple passages from both the Old and New Testaments in terms of historical context to illustrate the biblical writers’ changing interpretations of the nature of God and the problem of evil [pp. 163 ff].  Enns’ argues that the Bible contains these variations to make readers learn to reflect on their own situations considering connections between the past and present, which leads to wisdom [pp. 163 ff].  Enns writes with a conversational, self-effacing tone, yet seems aware that he gets bogged down in academic minutiae and loss of overall focus.  This book will appeal to Christians seeking a broader approach for understanding scripture and their faith.   4 stars.

 

Review of:  The God of New Beginnings: How the Power of Relationship Brings Hope and Redeems Lives

Rob Cowles and Matt Roberts.  Thomas Nelson, $16.99 (224p) ISBN 978-0-7852-2035-0

The founding pastors of the Genesis Project, “a place of new beginnings,” describe key principals for reaching people whose lives are in chaos and showing them the way to recovery and redemption through Christ.  Cowles and Roberts share the story of purchasing a strip club and turning it into a church [pp. 3-16] and the lessons they learned about outreach ministry from sharing their lives with those they met along the way [pp. 17 ff].  They posit that authentic relationships provide the foundation for transformational change to occur [pp. 33 ff].  In order to bring the gospel message of Christ to those whose lives are plagued by addiction, violence, and poverty, Cowles and Roberts recommend establishing safe spaces in less-then-desirable neighborhoods where people can congregate to hear messages of hope and faith [pp. 69-78].  At such time that trusting relationships have been established, believers can get honest about sin and begin to share biblical principles for accepting God’s forgiveness and the path to freedom [pp.79-108].  The authors note that the process of recovery can be messy and complicated, and that setbacks are common [pp. 121-148].  However, “failure is not fatal” [p. 141], and it is important to share the victories and keep the focus on the hope of Christ for new beginning and lasting change [pp. 149-170].  Multiple stories of those who were led to recovery through the Genesis Project are featured in the book.  Cowles and Roberts utilize the analogy of “kintsugi” – a Japanese form of pottery in which the artisans take broken pieces of pottery and rejoin them with lacquers of gold and silver to accentuate the lines of the cracks – to describe the beauty of broken lives made whole in Christ [pp. 173-187].  This is a fine work that will appeal to those in outreach ministry.  However, the viewpoint shifts frequently between the two authors and it is often unclear as to which is narrating.  The major missing element is the authors’ personal stories of suffering and redemption.  Had they chosen to share more of their own lives the work would have a much greater impact.  4 stars.

Review of:  Hope and Other Superpowers: A Life-Affirming, Love-Defending, Butt-Kicking, World-Saving Manifesto

John Pavlovitz.  Simon & Schuster, $20.00 (240p) ISBN 978-1-5011-7965-5

North Carolina pastor and blogger Pavlovitz (A Bigger Table) utilizes the allegory of the superhero to call readers to action in response to the cultural climate.  He crafts a roadmap for activism beginning with identifying key traits, aka “ordinary superpowers” [xv], to cultivate for personal and spiritual growth.  These include compassion [pp. 57-70], sacrifice [pp. 71-82], courage [pp. 83-94], humor [pp. 95-106], humility [pp. 107-116], honesty [117-124], creativity [pp. 135-146], persistence [pp. 147-156], wonder [pp. 157-168], and gratitude [pp. 169-180].  Pavlovitz’s honest examination of his own shortcomings is refreshing and reassures readers that mistakes and vulnerabilities can be seen as places for inviting hope and positive transformation to take place [pp. 181-192].  He advises seeking out the company of like-minded people and being open to criticism and opposition in the pursuit of advocacy work [pp. 183-224].  Pavlovitz is openly critical of the current presidential administration and clear on his stance about several hot-button social issues. This is not a biblically-based work, and the author's political opinions and repetitive cursing will only further deepen the chasms of divisiveness and anger in today's cultural climate. 3 stars.

 

Review of:  Christians in the Age of Outrage: How to Bring Our Best When the World Is At Its Worst

Ed Stetzer.  Tyndale Momentum, $16.99 (288p) ISBN 978-1-4964-3362-6

Stetzer, Executive Director of the Billy Graham Center and the Billy Graham Distinguished Chair for Church, Mission, and Evangelism at Wheaton College, has written the manual for how Christians can effectively engage with the current American culture and live out their faith as representatives of the gospel message.  Stetzer outlines the factors that have led to the current climate of outrage, including the increasing polarization of American society [pp. xii, 5-30] and the unprecedented advancement of technology [pp. xii, 31-54].  He unpacks four commonly-held, although false, beliefs that deepen anger and contribute to further division:  Christians are the worst-behaved and most offensive [pp. 61-80]; My outrage is righteous [pp. 81-96]; A political candidate or social cause will be the answer [pp. 97-118]; and mission is optional [pp. 119-138].  Stetzer’s proposal of methods by which evangelicals can counteract the outrage in their lives and the world would be an excellent foundation for sermon and study series as well as educational curricula.  His well-reasoned and practical approach consists of components including worldview formation [pp. 143-180], identity as kingdom ambassadors [pp.181-214], the concept of “winsome” love [pp. 215-252], and disciplines for both online and face-to-face engagement [pp. 253-314].  This book is also chock-full of additional resources for further edification on Stetzer’s touchpoints.  Pastors and family ministry leaders will want to get their hands on this book immediately, though it may prove too theologically dense for most lay readers despite being worth the effort. 5 stars.

 Review of The Biggest Lie in the History of Christianity

Matthew Kelly.  Eucalyptus Media Group, $24.95 (128p) ISBN 978-1-6358-2040-9

From New York Times bestselling author Kelly comes a call to action that is sure to inspire Christian readers of all ages and denominations.  Kelly provides a compelling rationale for his theory, indicating that all can agree everyone wants to be happy [p. 5 ff], and that the world’s promises of happiness sooner or later prove false [p. 10 ff].  He suggests that when we realize this, we turn to four of life’s biggest questions:  Who am I?  What am I here for?  What matters most?  What matters least? [p. 13].  These questions lead to contemplations about God and religion.  Kelly describes six lies about Christianity found in common culture: (1) Jesus didn’t exist;  (2) The Resurrection is a myth;  (3) Christianity preys on the weak and ignorant;  (4) Christianity is anti-intellectual and anti-scientific;  (5) Christianity is anti-sex;  and proposes the biggest lie is the sixth, (6) Holiness is not possible [pp. 21-32].  Kelly suggests that “Holy Moments” are the answer to uniting Christians, repairing the image of the faith, and transforming the world [p. 59 ff].  He defines Holy Moments as “a moment when you are being the person God created you to be, and you are doing what you believe God is calling you to do in that moment.  It is an instance where you set aside self-interest, personal desire, and what you feel like doing or would rather be doing, and embrace what you believe will bring the most good to the most people in that moment.” [p. 36].  Kelly calls on Christians to learn from history in a hunger for best practices and continuous improvement [p. 64 ff], and opines that Holy Moments provide a practical approach to living authentically, differentiating from the common culture of self-interest, and providing hope to others [p. 73 ff].  Too repetitive, sophomoric attempt.  3 stars. 

 Review of Love Like That:  5 Relationship Secrets from Jesus

Dr. Les Parrott.  Thomas Nelson, $22.99 (240p) ISBN 978-1-4002-0781-7

From psychologist and #1 New York Times bestselling author Parrott comes a thought-provoking inquiry into the “how” of loving others effectively.  Parrott suggests five qualities characterized by the love of Jesus as a practical model.  [xxiv ff].  In Chapter 1: “Mindful,” Parrott presents biblical examples of Jesus seeing beyond the obvious [p. 5 e.g.] and indicates that our personal agendas are a barrier to mindfulness [pp. 9-12], one of the keys to wisdom [p. 24].  In Chapter 2: “Approachable,” Parrott discusses the barrier of pride [p. 40 e.g.] and offers humility as the path to approachability [p. 40 ff].  Chapter 3: “Grace-full” contains biblical lessons in accepting others unconditionally and free from judgment [p. 60 ff].  Chapter 4: “Bold” deals with authenticity in relationships and fear of rejection [p. 103 ff].  Parrott states, “if you want to become a better and bolder truth-teller, a good place to start is with a little more vulnerability” [p. 116].  In Chapter 5: “Self-Giving,” Parrott presents the idea of emptying the self of personal desire in order to put others first [p. 144 e.g.].  He offers connection with the Holy Spirit as a means to receive and apply the five steps from a place of heart vs. head [pp. 151-173].  The Appendix, “21 Days to Loving Like That” contains a promotional offer for readers to receive daily text messages from Parrott offering verses and quotes as a reminder to spend daily quiet time with God.  The text overall is easily accessible to readers, written in simple language and well-organized.  However, a plethora of stories, examples, and quotes clouds Parrott’s overall message and he fails to address dysfunctional/ abusive situations which call for valid considerations of self-interest to be weighed against sacrificial love. 3 stars. 

Review of:  It’s Momplicated

Debbie Alsdorf and Joan Edwards Kay.  Tyndale Momentum, $24.99 (288p) ISBN 978-1-4964-3590-3

Alsdorf, a biblical lay counselor, Christian life coach, and founder of Design4Living Ministries teams up with licensed marriage and family therapist Edwards Kay in this compassionate exploration of the relationships between mothers and daughters using a biblical as well as therapeutic foundation [x].  Personal stories [p. 3 ff] are interwoven with self-assessments [p. 16 ff] and prayers [p. 17 ff] to encourage reflection and identification of areas needing healing.  Close attention is paid to early childhood attachment styles [51-59] and the potential effects on a woman’s behaviors, choices, and feelings in later life [3-59].  Alsdorf and Edwards Kay encourage looking beyond early negative experiences and placing them in a context of larger meaning [71-77].  Six steps utilizing Scriptural resources are outlined as practical tools to approach changing false beliefs and unhealthy patterns.  These include: Pray [159-162], Identify Core Lies [162-164], Explore Their Impact [165-173], Apply God’s Truth [177-186], Acknowledge the Good [186-190], and Live Out of Your Spirit-Led Self [190-194].  Suggestions are also offered for healing the current mother-daughter relationship [197-224].  Readers will find comfort and hope in this deeply personal book as Alsdorf and Edwards Kay share insights from their own transformative journeys and those of other women from early pain to redemption and peace.  5 stars.