We Christians tend to have a bad rep among the wider culture. You probably know all the stereotypes: Christians are too political, anti-science, anti-intellectual, anti-fun. And so on.
Is there truth to these? Maybe, maybe not. But it’s helpful to examine what the culture says about us if we’re going to effectively share our faith. That’s why I’d like you to read The Armageddon Factor by Marci McDonald.
Some who know me pretty well might be surprised that I’d recommend this book, one that holds a pretty negative (although unintentionally funny) view of Christianity in Canada.
Reading a book like this one can help us better understand what those who do not align with our faith believe is true about us. We can examine, ask questions, identify where they might be right, and look for opportunities for discussion.
For example, what would the reaction of a non-Christian friend be if we asked, “So I’m reading a book on what the author calls ‘Christian nationalism’ — what do you think that means? Why do you think she’d say that? Do you agree or disagree?”
Simply reading a book like The Armageddon Factor — even where there are parts we might strongly disagree with — gives us an opportunity to engage in real discussion with those around us and maybe begin to change a few incorrect perceptions.
That’s something worth trying, isn’t it?
How would better understanding non-Christians’ fears about Christianity change how you live out your faith, if at all?
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I’ve never really considered reading a book like this before, I am surprised I find it really interesting. I know there are a lot of misconceptions about us Christians out there, but never really thought they would be compiled in one single place for close examination. I will give this a read in the near future.