If you like reading biographies and/or autobiographies and theology then you’ll like this, because it’s both an autobiography of the author, an influential Pastor and Blogger in the States, and a very readable systematic theology.
Joshua Harris traces his life from being raised in an evangelical Christian family through his years of rebellion, his conversion to Christ, his time in a charismatic fellowship and on to his present ministry. The journey was necessary because, as Harris admits, “The bottom line is that my parents’ faith wasn’t really my faith. I knew how to work the system. I knew the Christian lingo, but my heart wasn’t in it. My heart was set on enjoying the moment.”
Interwoven with his voyage of discovery of self and of grace Harris teaches, explains and applies some of the core doctrines of the faith – God, the Bible, Christ, the Holy Spirit, redemption and salvation, the Church and sanctification. He has a truly engaging style and is disarmingly honest without majoring on his own sins and shortcomings. There’s also a moving chapter where he weaves his father’s life story and conversion into the mix.
Aimed primarily, I suspect, at a youth audience this book would also make an excellent, thought-provoking introduction to true Christianity for a non-believer who was willing to genuinely explore biblical truth or even as a theological/discipleship primer for a new Christian. I would unreservedly recommend it for either group, or indeed for anyone who wants to be reminded in a straight-forward, jargon free way of the great doctrines of our faith.
For the purpose of review, I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.
Multnomah UK (17 May 2011) Review written in 2011