Monday, November 10, 2008

Book Review

I just finished reading a book. I was so impressed that I thought it should be mentioned here. The purpose of the book, to refute objections to christianity, doesn't apply to me. I am a christian. I almost didn't read it.

I picked it up out of curiosity and was surprised at the simplicity and organization. The authors begin with reasoning and science to make their initial points and build on that evidence, layer upon layer, until atheism appears impractical and unbelievable. Thus the title, "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist".


They go beyond the mere establishment of the existence of God to making the case for christianity as described in the Bible. I thought it was compelling. These guys bring up every objection that I have ever raised myself or heard uttered by others. Then they overwhelmingly refute them.

You might point out that my reaction is predictable for someone already convinced. I agree. When it comes to the Bible, I'm biased. To my mind, there is plenty of evidence in the world around me and the words of the Bible alone to be convincing.

The thing that haunts me, however, is that I was so totally convinced that I can not imagine that anyone could read the book honestly and formulate a substantive argument. I'll admit that I might be limited in my perspective in this case, but I'd really be interested in hearing a alternative view of the information presented. Can a reasonable argument be made?

Finally, I wonder if those that aren't convinced about the existence of the God of the Bible will read this book and investigate. If not, then one of the central messages of the authors seems to apply. Lingering doubt or scepticism is not a matter of evidence, it is a matter of will.

7 comments:

  1. I concur. It is a matter of will. What's more, once you do decide to believe the efidence, you must then also believe in God. Once you believe in good, you must take reponsibliity for your actions and realize that you are accountable for them. I think that's where many people get hung up.

    Looks like an interesting read. I just might pick it up. Thanks and Cheers!

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  2. Without proper consideration, responsibility and accountability look like barriers, but are in fact, doorways to joy.

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  3. This is a great book; it is a great starting place for anyone interested in apologetics. I also liked the fact that it presented a very structured and formal argument that built on itself. It is true that any worldview you take requires some amount of faith, but it certainly takes a lot more faith to be an atheist!

    Norm Geisler has another book called Legislating Morality...has anyone read it?

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  4. Thanks for chiming in, Andrew...and thanks for the book tip. I have not read it, but will take a look. In the meantime, is there anyone out there with a different view?

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  5. Just finding your blog, Chris. Great stuff. I enjoy the pics and I enjoy the contemplation. Peace

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  6. I wasn't sure if you recognized me by "Andrew", but this is in fact Drew N. I tell google that my name is "Drew", but it always calls me "Andrew".

    I've been reading your blog for some time and I always enjoy it. Keep up the good work!

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  7. Tex69, thanks for the kind words. After checking your blog, I can tell you are a fan of contemplation. I had to slow down to keep up with you. I'll be checking back in.

    Drew, thanks for the identifier. Nice to hear from you. I still need a link to your writing. Send it to me via email?

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