![]() He argues that the Christian faith was once “irresistible,” but now it is being easily rejected by growing numbers of Americans. Stanley also notes that in the early centuries of Christianity, the Church was growing rapidly to the point that it dominated the Roman Empire and its society. Stanley notes, “I’ve yet to hear a story from anyone who abandoned Christianity based on anything directly related to Christianity-at least the original version, anyway” (18). Many of these people grew up in church but have given up the faith of their youth. Stanley’s heart is to lead people to Christ that the typical church misses. With that said, let me wade into Stanley’s main arguments and then point out some areas where we disagree. Finally, his purpose in writing this book is noble: returning the Church to the dynamism with which it began. In this book, he also makes a number of great points. And, whether or not I always agree with him, he generally makes a compelling case and challenges me to think. So, let me say, I am not attempting to do any of those things! I usually enjoy Stanley’s writing. In the process, the reviewer often demonstrates that they have not fully read the book in question, taken many passages out of context, or set up straw men so they can then deftly strike them down. But it is annoying when people self-righteously try to “take down” an author and simultaneously prove they are far smarter and more righteous than that author. I don’t necessarily mind when people disagree with me. Now, I need to tell you, I’ve had my books reviewed and critiqued over the years. My friend was troubled by some statements in the book, and he wanted my opinion. This review is also a bit of a challenge for me because I had a good friend ask me to read it and let him know what I thought. Andy Stanley is an excellent communicator, an insightful thinker, and has a passion for connecting the Gospel with people who don’t think they need it. ![]() First, it was written by Andy Stanley, the extremely popular and influential pastor of North Point Ministries and son of Charles Stanley. This book is challenging for me to review for several reasons. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Reflective, 2018. Andy Stanley, Irresistible: Reclaiming the New that Jesus Unleashed for the World. ![]()
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