Author: Brian D. McLaren
Publisher: Thomas Nelson, 2007
Before you read this book review, let me ask you something. Do you enjoy reading books that make you think; the ones that make you uncomfortable, and lead you to face difficult questions and answers? If not, this book is not for you, because it will definitely take you out of your comfort zone.
If, on the other hand, you are challenged by people who are bold enough to ask the tough questions, discuss the sometimes, uncomfortable answers, and who challenge you to rethink everything you believe, then, this book is for you. If you feel that way, I highly recommend Brian McLaren’s latest book, Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crises, and a Revolution of Hope.
More than ten years ago, McLaren identified two penetrating questions. He wanted to know, “What are the biggest problems in the world?” and “What does Jesus have to say about these problems?” McLaren saw these two questions as a huge challenge to the church, and sought to answer them. These two questions and their answers, became McLaren’s obsession for ten years, and were the impetus for writing the book. What you find in this work is, in a very real sense of the word, a personal quest for answers, a journey that took him literally, around the world.
His travels through Africa, Asia and
The author spends much of the first seven chapters identifying the "systems" that contribute to the global crises we face today: the prosperity crisis, the equity crisis, the security crisis, and the spirituality crisis.
Even though I did not always agree with his assumptions and conclusions, I could not avoid asking myself this question, "Does our interpretation of Jesus' message honestly address, and deal with the urgent issues mankind faces today?" More importantly, "Do we even understand the issues?"
Reading this book did one thing for me. It challenged me to be more cognizant of the "here and now"; to be more in the moment.
The bottom line of this book is the revolutionary hope found in the message of Christ. He insists, "Jesus offers a new way of life and it changes everything."
What Jesus offers is not just a new system of beliefs, nor is it just a promise of eternal life after death. The message of Jesus Christ impacts every area of human existence, and its significance should not be reduced. It is a “revolution of hope,” demanding radical commitment and response.
The best use of this book would be in a small group setting for pastors or leaders. It is not a book for everyone, and certainly is not for those who only want easy answers. Nothing about this book is easy. It will make you take a second look at how you see the role of Christians in the world today. It is a fresh, provocative approach to the message of Jesus Christ, and how the message addresses the economic, environmental, military, political and social dysfunction plaguing our world today. I learned a lot.
Reviewed by
Dr. Larry S. Doyle, Director of Missions
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