Why God Won't Go Away: Is the New Atheism Running on Empty? - Alister McGrath

Why God Won't Go Away: Is the New Atheism Running On Empty? by Alister McGrath, is a thought-provoking book about the flaws of the New Atheist movement. While the title is a bit misleading - McGrath states in the final chapter that this book isn't the forum to explain why humans continue to be drawn to a higher power - the book is an interesting read.

The first section of the book contains a literature review of New Atheist authors and ideals. It also discusses the difference between New Atheism and more traditional atheist views. McGrath then goes on to discuss what he feels are key tenets of New Atheism - namely the ideas that religion promotes violence, that religion stands in opposition to reason, and that religion is at war with science.

The discussion of religion  and violence was moot for me - after all, there are many other things besides religion that humans use as an excuse for their violent tendencies. This led straight into the discussion on reason. I enjoyed McGrath's assertions that while the New Atheism purports to belittle belief systems, theirs is a belief system as well.

However, it was the discussion of the so-called war between religion and science that I found to be the most compelling. McGrath takes a look at the view that religion and science must naturally stand against each other, with surprising insights.

In conclusion, I enjoyed this book for the ideas it presented. Highly recommended for anyone interested in apologetics.

Four out of Five Stars

Disclaimer: I was provided this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Women of Faith

 

I'm excited to report that I will be attending the Women of Faith conference in September, courtesy of Thomas Nelson Company. I've been wanting to attend this conference for a long time. Many of my friends have been, and I've heard it's very powerful. I can't wait!

God's Love Letters to You: A 40-Day Devotional Experience, by Dr. Larry Crabb

As the title says, this book is a devotional that was designed to be read over forty days. It focuses on ridding our minds and souls of the negative thoughts that bombard us from all directions in a fallen world. The author seeks to remind us of the positive thoughts that are sent to us by God through the Bible.

At first glance, this book seems to be a very good devotional. It's something that could be done quickly each morning. It's similar in style to publications such as "Our Daily Bread" - although the study questions that go with each reading are better at helping the reader apply each section to his or her own life. People who love to write journals will appreciate these study questions, although the answers certainly don't need to be written down.

Furthermore, each reading focuses on one book from the Bible. I can easily see how a reader might be able to turn the forty days in this devotional into a longer study of each book that is included. Although the book was designed for individual use, I can see how it could be used in a group setting, as well.

All in all, this is a great little devo. I'd recommend it for anyone, man or woman, who is looking for something extra for quiet interludes with God.

Five out of Five Stars

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a favorable review.