Here are three books I have recently finished reading that I highly recommend:
What If
Jesus Was Serious? A Visual Guide to the Teachings of Jesus We Love to Ignore
by Skye Jethani
Postcards
from Babylon: The Church In American Exile by Brian Zahnd
After
Evangelicalism: The Path to a New Christianity by David Gushee
In
What If Jesus Was Serious Skye Jethani guides
us through Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount using insightful observations and witty doodles
that help illustrate the practical application of the Kingdom of God in daily modern
life.
In
Postcards from Babylon Brian Zahnd examines
Christianity in America where today faith and nationalism has become increasingly
indistinct. Zahnd states that at the moment of our baptism we become exiles in
the land of our birth. Brian uses many references to Rock n’ Roll lyrics and to
the Jesus Movement which this old Hippie Christian truly enjoyed.
In
After Evangelicalism David Gushee Lays
out the history of modern Evangelicalism, where we are at this time and where
we can go from here. Gushee urges a return to the core teachings of Jesus and tolerance
of those on different paths and stages of progress back to the heart of the
Gospel.
I found these
three books useful as I try to sort out what it means to be a Christian in
America today and how to make sense of the unholy union of faith and nationalism.
I don’t fully agree with everything these authors put forward in their books
but they are chocked full worthwhile information and advice for those seeking a way
back to a pure faith. I found a common thread in all three which is a call to return
to the teachings and compassion of Jesus.
Peace, Love
and Light
Kevin
(Cloud)