Monday, March 18, 2013

Reasons For Belief - A Review


I first met Norman Geisler in April 1974 when I entered my first seminary course at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.  The course was “Introduction to Apologetics”.  Reasons For Belief covers much of the same material in that course; though in  a much more readable format.


Geisler’s latest book is both valuable and readable.  It serves as a valuable resource to both the lay reader and the ministerial professional.  The book addresses “10 Essential” issues:


  1. Why Are  You a Christian?
  2. Real Truth Does Not Exist.  ‘Truth’ is just truth to you.
  3. God does not exist (Part 1)
  4. God does not exist (Part 2)
  5. If God exists, He isn’t necessarily the God of the Bible
  6. Miracles don’t happen
  7. The New Testament’s many errors make it unreliable.  It’s more like a collection of myths and legends
  8. Is Jesus God? (Part 1)
  9. Is Jesus God? (Part 2)
  10. Jesus did not rise from the dead
  11. The Bible isn’t the only true religious book
  12. Christianity is too narrow.  There are many ways to God besides Jesus
  13. What does the evidence mean for me?


A number of factors give this book significant value.  The authors knowledge of the field is first - he has spent more than 40 years developing the material.  The book, being primarily a monograph, also include a variety of charts and diagrams that help the reader understand the Geisler’s message.  Finally, the final chapter makes this text stand out - in that it address both the academic questions listed above, but also assisting the reader in applying it to his or her own life.  


Though read for the purpose of writing this review, the book was well worth the time I spent reading it over the last two weeks.  It comes with a strong recommendation.
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This review is based on a free copy of this book provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are mine alone.  

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