unChristian

Finished the book unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.  I would highly recommend it for anyone who has a passion for helping young adults find their way back to God.  The book is based on extensive research by the Barna Group into the thoughts and perceptions young adults hold regarding Christians and therefore Christianity.  It's not a pretty picture with words such as "Hypocritical," "Antihomosexual," "Sheltered," and "Judgmental" naming the chapters.  But the central message of this book is hope... hope that we can change, hope that we can grow, hope that we can shed an "unChristian" faith for one that resembles Jesus.

I took away a lot from this book although strangely I felt a bit schitzophrentic reading it.  As I read the perceptions of young "outsiders," I found myself identifying with them.  I see the things they see.  I'm frustrated by the same things they are frustrated by.  At times I'm as angry as they are at all that is definitely unChristian.  Yet, the other half of my brain and heart were being convicted at the same time.  Convicted of the ways I contribute to their perspective.  Convicted of ways I am too sheltered, too judgmental, too concerned with just "getting them to church."

This book is challenging in the best kind of way.  I hope to read it again next time in a group with some 20-somethings who are on the outside of Christianity or teetering on the edge of faith.  I think it would be a fascinating discussion.

Comments

[dani]

Ok Tammy, our book lists are starting to have more and more titles in common! Two weeks ago I was wondering around the library unsure of what I wanted to read next and this is one of the three books I pick up. I have not started it yet, I want to finish one other book first - now that I've read your review - I'm anxious to get started!

[pam]

great review, now I want to read it! :)

[Jeff]

Thanks, we just posted an interview with the authors on a site that I run: http://www.wreckedfortheordinary.com/category.asp?category=culture&filename=interview-with-barna-group-and-fermi-project-presidents. Very interesting. great book review. i also hope to read it with a community of twenty-somethings and figure out how to make it practical.

I also very much love the Journey of Desire by Eldredge, as well. nice tastes!