Category Archives: The Reading Life

Book and article recommendations

The Long-Awaited Sequel…

A couple of years ago I got a hold of a book that dramatically shifted my paradigm on how Christians live out their faith when it comes to education and worship. That book, which I have recommend to many since then, is Desiring the Kingdom. Since I finished it I have been impatiently waiting for the sequel — Imagining the Kingdom: How Worship Works (working title). It won’t be long now. Apparently Smith has just sent the manuscript to his publisher. Let’s hope the editing process goes swiftly — I can’t wait to read it!

Check out Smith’s blog for more information: http://forsclavigera.blogspot.com/

#GOOD READ! After You Believe: Why Christian Character Matters

I have been enjoying this book for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I find it timely and challenging in my personal life as I think through the substance of my own character. Secondly, I think Wright again does a great job of illuminating a simple truth by way of pointing out the complexities and nuances that have generally been overlooked on the subject of Christian morality.

His mission is two-fold: (1) to address the question of, “What do we do once we believe; what are we supposed to be about once we find faith, as Christians?” (2) to offer an alternative to two competing (and misguided) approaches to Christian morality — living by rules vs. living authentically. His alternative is to focus on Christian character and virtue, which are formed over time through habits that become second-nature.

Through poignant examples, Wright demonstrates that character goes through us to our core and uncontrollably “spills out” in moments of crisis or moments when we can only respond from moral “muscle memory.”

This book will help you think through your own character, which is confirming and convicting. But just as important, it offers a needed correction for problematic ways that Christians have approached behavior and morality.