When Christians Get It Wrong

Why are growing numbers of American young people choosing not to affiliate with churches? Head of the Leawood, Kans., Church of the Resurrection, Hamilton (Confronting the Controversies: A Christian Looks at the Tough Issues) views this well-documented phenomenon from a pastoral perspective. Threading his reflections with anecdotes and conversations with younger adults both inside and outside church walls, the author takes a look at some of the hot button issues younger adults report as divisive. These include Christians and judgmentalism; science and Christian practice; how believers relate to those of other faiths; how to understand God's role when tragedy strikes; and what happens when the church focuses on such issues as homosexuality. “When Christians get it right they love and give, they work for justice and demonstrate kindness,” asserts the author. He makes the argument throughout this slender volume that when nonbelievers see the faithful “knocking holes in the darkness” by deeds done in Jesus’ name, they see evidence for Christian faith that attracts rather than repels. (Aug.)