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Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder
Philosophy is often seen as anything but practically relevant to everyday life. In this brief, accessible introduction, Ross Inman explores four hidden assumptions that lurk behind questions involving philosophy's relevance. He shows that philosophy is one of most practical subjects of study, for it satisfies our deep human need to make sense of it all.
This book recovers a more classical vision of Christian philosophy as an entire way of life. Inman shows that wonder is the distinctively human posture that drives and sustains the examined life and makes a compelling case that philosophy is valuable, practical, and significant for every aspect of Christian life and ministry. Living philosophically as a Christian enables us to be properly attuned to what is true and good in Christ and to orient our lives to the highest goals worth pursuing.
This is an ideal introductory book for students of philosophy, Christian thought, and worldview studies. It will also work well in classical school, high school, and homeschool contexts.
This book recovers a more classical vision of Christian philosophy as an entire way of life. Inman shows that wonder is the distinctively human posture that drives and sustains the examined life and makes a compelling case that philosophy is valuable, practical, and significant for every aspect of Christian life and ministry. Living philosophically as a Christian enables us to be properly attuned to what is true and good in Christ and to orient our lives to the highest goals worth pursuing.
This is an ideal introductory book for students of philosophy, Christian thought, and worldview studies. It will also work well in classical school, high school, and homeschool contexts.
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2023
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502 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 10, 2025
Read this little gem on a flight from Abu Dhabi to India. A great intro to philosophy.
January 15, 2024
"Thinking well about life is hard; living well is even harder. There are no shortcuts."
"It is arguably impossible to have a properly ordered will, and thus properly ordered actions, without having at some level and to some degree a properly ordered mind. ...one cannot live well in the truest, biblical sense of the term and be fundamentally mistaken about what truly is and what goals are ultimately worth pursuing."
"It is arguably impossible to have a properly ordered will, and thus properly ordered actions, without having at some level and to some degree a properly ordered mind. ...one cannot live well in the truest, biblical sense of the term and be fundamentally mistaken about what truly is and what goals are ultimately worth pursuing."
March 9, 2024
A beautiful and winsome invitation to embrace the philosophical life from a robust Christian perspective.
September 15, 2025
I didn't have high hopes for a college course book my professor wrote, but I'm shocked! I am a massive fan of Boethius and Augustine, and this is a fantastic follow-up to their works!
This book is highly accessible and applicable for those new to ancient philosophers and engaging to those not. This book is now my top scholarly work. I can't recommend this enough for those wondering why philosophy is worth studying and those who love philosophy and are searching for a way to live it. The author grounds his reasoning in reality and God's truth, proving that every Christian should aspire to live the wonder-filled and truth-seeking way of life as a philosopher.
I tend to almost hyperfixate at times on the next world. I've often wondered if this is a bad thing or if this really helps those in the present. Well, this book answers those questions, in that the author proves how wonder and the longing for the beatific vision can drive how we live. If you're a dreamer about the land further up and further in, this book is a need to read.
This book is highly accessible and applicable for those new to ancient philosophers and engaging to those not. This book is now my top scholarly work. I can't recommend this enough for those wondering why philosophy is worth studying and those who love philosophy and are searching for a way to live it. The author grounds his reasoning in reality and God's truth, proving that every Christian should aspire to live the wonder-filled and truth-seeking way of life as a philosopher.
I tend to almost hyperfixate at times on the next world. I've often wondered if this is a bad thing or if this really helps those in the present. Well, this book answers those questions, in that the author proves how wonder and the longing for the beatific vision can drive how we live. If you're a dreamer about the land further up and further in, this book is a need to read.
April 1, 2025
The author’s dedication reads “may you be eternally enthralled by the Supreme Wisdom and Wonder of it all,” and I feel really grateful to have read a book that has oriented me in this direction. I learned so many things I hope to be thinking about for a long time in this book! Would highly recommend!
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February 12, 2026I didn't need convicing, but this book had great arguments for the place of philosophy in the Christian life addressing popular modern objections about philosophy being "not practical," "useless" or irrelevant to Christian living. Borrowing from Aristotle, Boethius, Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Pieper and contemporaries like Hadot and Nussbaum, Inman gives us a strong intro to philosophy and why it is essential to being a Christian. Inman's writing is clear and methodical which made it a pleasure to read. I would recommend this.
November 25, 2023
“you were specifically made to marvel, to see and savor the truth, goodness, and beauty of God as well as the marvelous works of his hands.”
made me think a lot about wonder and what it means to embrace the idea of philosophy as a God-intended design of who I am!! at times it was a bit over my head in terms of scholarship, but a slower reading pace was helpful for understanding
made me think a lot about wonder and what it means to embrace the idea of philosophy as a God-intended design of who I am!! at times it was a bit over my head in terms of scholarship, but a slower reading pace was helpful for understanding
March 16, 2025
Loved it.
“God has set the stage for us to experience a life of soul-satisfying wonder. He has done this by creating us with the unique capacity to know and be enthralled by his vastness, both now and forever, by giving us a front-row seat in the theater of his radiant glory and by endowing us with the specific intellectual equipment to lovingly behold it all in contemplation.” (33)
“God has set the stage for us to experience a life of soul-satisfying wonder. He has done this by creating us with the unique capacity to know and be enthralled by his vastness, both now and forever, by giving us a front-row seat in the theater of his radiant glory and by endowing us with the specific intellectual equipment to lovingly behold it all in contemplation.” (33)
December 15, 2023
A wonderful, accessible introduction to philosophy for Christians.
January 11, 2024
Simply amazing. One of the best books on Christian philosophy I have read in recent years. More thoughts to come.
February 13, 2025
Such a delight to read.
“We might summarize the Christian philosophical life as a life that is devoted to cultivating a deep sense of the wonder of it all, ultimately in light of the true meaning and purpose of all created things in Christ.”
“We might summarize the Christian philosophical life as a life that is devoted to cultivating a deep sense of the wonder of it all, ultimately in light of the true meaning and purpose of all created things in Christ.”
September 13, 2025
“We might summarize the Christian philosophical life as a life that is devoted to cultivating a deep sense of the wonder of it all, ultimately in light of the true meaning and purpose of all created things in Christ.”
A great book on the importance of philosophical reasoning, as well as the character necessary for proper philosophizing. For Inman, a virtuous character is necessary for reasoning and thinking well. He also confronts the presuppositions in our contemporary “workaday world” that have led many people to consider philosophy as useless and unpractical. He shows how Christian philosophy is practical for the Christian life as it forms us intellectually into greater conformity to Christ. Philosophy helps us to live along the grain of reality and to seek the true, the good, and the beautiful in the world. I love Inman’s writing style, though I do feel that the book was somewhat repetitive at times. Overall, this is a book that will get Christians excited to study philosophy and see the immense significance of philosophy for living well.
A great book on the importance of philosophical reasoning, as well as the character necessary for proper philosophizing. For Inman, a virtuous character is necessary for reasoning and thinking well. He also confronts the presuppositions in our contemporary “workaday world” that have led many people to consider philosophy as useless and unpractical. He shows how Christian philosophy is practical for the Christian life as it forms us intellectually into greater conformity to Christ. Philosophy helps us to live along the grain of reality and to seek the true, the good, and the beautiful in the world. I love Inman’s writing style, though I do feel that the book was somewhat repetitive at times. Overall, this is a book that will get Christians excited to study philosophy and see the immense significance of philosophy for living well.
December 20, 2023
I really loved the content of this book, but it has also solidified this sentiment: Philosophers are bad at writing for lay audiences. It's not that the ideas were too complex to comprehend, its that they seemed to be presented in one of the least sticky ways possible. I liked the content a lot, but presentation was very middling
January 18, 2024
Inman's book wonderfully situates philosophy as a handmaiden for Christian spirituality. God created us with the capacity to be intellectual and moral pilgrims so we might experience a "life of soul-satisfying wonder" (33), one that prefigures the beatitude to come. Christian philosophy is a heart posture of openness to the Good, the True, and the Beautiful in Jesus Christ.
August 17, 2025
Amazing introduction to christian philosophy. Would definitely recommend. I think his views on the christian philosophical way of life is a bit off, but is 95% of the way there. He needs a bit more emphasis on the role of the Spirit in philosophy and embodied Christianity. But, would recommend to anyone interested in christian philosophy.
His section on pastoral ministry and philosophy was the best section of the book. The pastor as a “contemplative in action” just changed my ministry philosophy. Shoutout St. Ignasius and Gregory the Great.
His section on pastoral ministry and philosophy was the best section of the book. The pastor as a “contemplative in action” just changed my ministry philosophy. Shoutout St. Ignasius and Gregory the Great.
March 11, 2025
Definitely one of the better Christian philosophy books I’ve read. Inman loves to focus less on philosophical ideas, but more on philosophical motives. He isn’t writing this to find the meaning behind the world, but to encourage you to find it for yourself through a Christian perspective.
February 4, 2026
Chapters 1 and 7-10 are well worth their weight in gold. The first 6 chapters are fine. A good argument for a philosophical way of life. An invitation to wonder.
November 4, 2023
Ross Inman has successfully written a book that a layperson can actually read. But I wish chapters 7-10 were sold as a standalone pamphlet, and that there was an audiobook, but those are my only negative comments.
When I was fourteen, this was the book I needed, and later when in college and people were saying "Why are you reading Augustine" or "What kind of job will that get you," this is the book I needed. Almost everything he said of philosophy would also stand as an apologetic for art, writing, theology, etc.
Inman pleads, argues, and shows that philosophy is practical. He begins with "wonder" and ends with an example of philosophy transforming a life, namely, Augustine of Hippo.
He gives a diagnosis for modern man, and then proposes Christian Philosophy as a remedy.
He encourages the reader to
1. Commit to an existential map shaped by the Christian story.
2. Orient your life around a Christian existential map.
3. Engage in grace-empowered, truth-directed practices
One section of interest to me was the intellectual virtues he listed:
1. Carefully attend to their own beliefs, the reasons that support those beliefs, and the process by which those beliefs were formed (intellectual care and attentiveness)
2. They strive to be aware of, own, and correct for their intellectual limitations and blind spots (intellectual humility)
3. They avoid playing fast and loose with the truth for the sake of personal gain (intellectual honesty)
4. They transcend their own perspectives by taking the merits of others for you seriously (intellectual open-mindedness)
5. They think as well of others intelligence and intellectual character as a reasonably can (intellectual charity)
6. They hold on to their well-supported beliefs unless given good reasons for revising them (intellectual firmness)
7. And they continue to uphold their well-supported beliefs in the face of great risk and loss, such as loss of social status (intellectual courage)
He recommends several spiritual exercises. I am hesitant to accept the work of Dallas Willard, but it would stop provoking, nonetheless.
1. Solitude and silence
2. Self-examination and meditation
3. Spiritual friendship
4. Existential rest
Then he delves into practicality questions as he calls them. He refutes our lurking assumptions.
How in the world is philosophy even remotely practical?
He refutes the assumption that "if an activity or pursuit is valuable, it's valuable only for the sake of something else"
"If I carry out action A (getting a job) for the sake of some good B (acquiring money), and if I carry out B for the sake of C (paying rent), and if I carry out C for the sake of D (not getting evicted), and so on indefinitely without ever reaching a goal worth valuing for its own sake, then one would be right to question whether A, B, C, or D are even instrumentally valuable in the first place. As with the stepping stones, unless he's valuable pursuits ultimately bring us to an end that is good for its own sake and not pursued for the sake of anything else, we might begin to doubt whether A--D are ultimately good for anything. If this little argument is right (and I encourage you to try it on and see whether it fits), then there must be some activities or pursuits that are intrinsically valuable (Good for their own sake) and who's merits are not found in some good beyond them; such activities and ends are their own reward, we might say."
The book overall was a pleasure to read, even the footnotes were slim and enjoyable.
Highly recommend for the the Christian that doesn't understand or believe that philosophy is a good way of life.
"What are you waiting for?"
Age 12+
(Typed on phone, sorry)
Postscript: I think "The Love of Wisdom" by Cowan and Spiegel would be a good follow-up read. I think I am going to read "Jesus the Great Philosopher" by Jonathan Pennington to round out my thoughts on this topic as well.
Grace and peace,
B. Grizenko
When I was fourteen, this was the book I needed, and later when in college and people were saying "Why are you reading Augustine" or "What kind of job will that get you," this is the book I needed. Almost everything he said of philosophy would also stand as an apologetic for art, writing, theology, etc.
Inman pleads, argues, and shows that philosophy is practical. He begins with "wonder" and ends with an example of philosophy transforming a life, namely, Augustine of Hippo.
He gives a diagnosis for modern man, and then proposes Christian Philosophy as a remedy.
He encourages the reader to
1. Commit to an existential map shaped by the Christian story.
2. Orient your life around a Christian existential map.
3. Engage in grace-empowered, truth-directed practices
One section of interest to me was the intellectual virtues he listed:
1. Carefully attend to their own beliefs, the reasons that support those beliefs, and the process by which those beliefs were formed (intellectual care and attentiveness)
2. They strive to be aware of, own, and correct for their intellectual limitations and blind spots (intellectual humility)
3. They avoid playing fast and loose with the truth for the sake of personal gain (intellectual honesty)
4. They transcend their own perspectives by taking the merits of others for you seriously (intellectual open-mindedness)
5. They think as well of others intelligence and intellectual character as a reasonably can (intellectual charity)
6. They hold on to their well-supported beliefs unless given good reasons for revising them (intellectual firmness)
7. And they continue to uphold their well-supported beliefs in the face of great risk and loss, such as loss of social status (intellectual courage)
He recommends several spiritual exercises. I am hesitant to accept the work of Dallas Willard, but it would stop provoking, nonetheless.
1. Solitude and silence
2. Self-examination and meditation
3. Spiritual friendship
4. Existential rest
Then he delves into practicality questions as he calls them. He refutes our lurking assumptions.
How in the world is philosophy even remotely practical?
He refutes the assumption that "if an activity or pursuit is valuable, it's valuable only for the sake of something else"
"If I carry out action A (getting a job) for the sake of some good B (acquiring money), and if I carry out B for the sake of C (paying rent), and if I carry out C for the sake of D (not getting evicted), and so on indefinitely without ever reaching a goal worth valuing for its own sake, then one would be right to question whether A, B, C, or D are even instrumentally valuable in the first place. As with the stepping stones, unless he's valuable pursuits ultimately bring us to an end that is good for its own sake and not pursued for the sake of anything else, we might begin to doubt whether A--D are ultimately good for anything. If this little argument is right (and I encourage you to try it on and see whether it fits), then there must be some activities or pursuits that are intrinsically valuable (Good for their own sake) and who's merits are not found in some good beyond them; such activities and ends are their own reward, we might say."
The book overall was a pleasure to read, even the footnotes were slim and enjoyable.
Highly recommend for the the Christian that doesn't understand or believe that philosophy is a good way of life.
"What are you waiting for?"
Age 12+
(Typed on phone, sorry)
Postscript: I think "The Love of Wisdom" by Cowan and Spiegel would be a good follow-up read. I think I am going to read "Jesus the Great Philosopher" by Jonathan Pennington to round out my thoughts on this topic as well.
Grace and peace,
B. Grizenko
August 29, 2023
Title: A Thoughtful Review of "Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder" by Ross D. Inman
Introduction:
"Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder" by Ross D. Inman challenges the perception that philosophy is detached from practical relevance in our daily lives. With a focus on four underlying assumptions that question philosophy's applicability, Inman makes a compelling case for the practicality and significance of philosophy as a means to satisfy our innate human need for understanding. This review delves into the essence of the book, highlighting its exploration of Christian philosophy as a way of life and its impact on various aspects of existence.
Exploring Hidden Assumptions:
Inman's work begins by dissecting common assumptions that undermine philosophy's practical relevance. By addressing these misconceptions head-on, he paves the way for readers to recognize philosophy's intrinsic value in helping us comprehend the world around us and our place in it. This initial exploration sets the stage for a deeper understanding of philosophy's practicality.
Rediscovering Christian Philosophy:
Central to the book is the notion of Christian philosophy as a way of life. Inman delves into the idea that embracing a philosophical mindset is an integral aspect of the Christian journey. By highlighting the role of wonder as a uniquely human quality that fuels the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, he reconnects readers to the profound joy of asking questions and seeking answers. This perspective offers a refreshing departure from the notion that philosophy is merely theoretical.
Integration into Christian Life and Ministry:
Inman compellingly demonstrates that philosophy and Christianity are not mutually exclusive domains, but rather intertwine in meaningful ways. He argues that a philosophical orientation enables Christians to align themselves with what is true and virtuous in Christ, effectively guiding their lives toward higher goals. By presenting philosophy as a tool that supports Christian life and ministry, the book bridges the gap between intellectual exploration and faith.
Relevance in Educational Settings:
The book's accessibility and insightful content make it suitable for a wide range of readers, from students of philosophy and Christian thought to those engaging with worldview studies. Its adaptability for use in various educational contexts, including classical schools, high schools, and homeschooling, underscores its ability to resonate with individuals at different stages of learning and personal growth.
Conclusion:
"Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder" invites readers on a transformative journey that challenges preconceived notions and celebrates the profound connection between philosophy and Christian living. Through Inman's thought-provoking exploration, philosophy emerges as a practical and enriching tool for understanding, questioning, and navigating the complexities of existence. By framing philosophy as an invitation to wonder, the book redefines its place in our lives and invites us to engage with it as a way of discovering deeper truths and attaining a more profound sense of purpose. Ross D. Inman's work stands as an invaluable guide for those seeking to enrich their faith, deepen their understanding, and embrace philosophy as an integral part of a meaningful life journey.
Introduction:
"Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder" by Ross D. Inman challenges the perception that philosophy is detached from practical relevance in our daily lives. With a focus on four underlying assumptions that question philosophy's applicability, Inman makes a compelling case for the practicality and significance of philosophy as a means to satisfy our innate human need for understanding. This review delves into the essence of the book, highlighting its exploration of Christian philosophy as a way of life and its impact on various aspects of existence.
Exploring Hidden Assumptions:
Inman's work begins by dissecting common assumptions that undermine philosophy's practical relevance. By addressing these misconceptions head-on, he paves the way for readers to recognize philosophy's intrinsic value in helping us comprehend the world around us and our place in it. This initial exploration sets the stage for a deeper understanding of philosophy's practicality.
Rediscovering Christian Philosophy:
Central to the book is the notion of Christian philosophy as a way of life. Inman delves into the idea that embracing a philosophical mindset is an integral aspect of the Christian journey. By highlighting the role of wonder as a uniquely human quality that fuels the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, he reconnects readers to the profound joy of asking questions and seeking answers. This perspective offers a refreshing departure from the notion that philosophy is merely theoretical.
Integration into Christian Life and Ministry:
Inman compellingly demonstrates that philosophy and Christianity are not mutually exclusive domains, but rather intertwine in meaningful ways. He argues that a philosophical orientation enables Christians to align themselves with what is true and virtuous in Christ, effectively guiding their lives toward higher goals. By presenting philosophy as a tool that supports Christian life and ministry, the book bridges the gap between intellectual exploration and faith.
Relevance in Educational Settings:
The book's accessibility and insightful content make it suitable for a wide range of readers, from students of philosophy and Christian thought to those engaging with worldview studies. Its adaptability for use in various educational contexts, including classical schools, high schools, and homeschooling, underscores its ability to resonate with individuals at different stages of learning and personal growth.
Conclusion:
"Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder" invites readers on a transformative journey that challenges preconceived notions and celebrates the profound connection between philosophy and Christian living. Through Inman's thought-provoking exploration, philosophy emerges as a practical and enriching tool for understanding, questioning, and navigating the complexities of existence. By framing philosophy as an invitation to wonder, the book redefines its place in our lives and invites us to engage with it as a way of discovering deeper truths and attaining a more profound sense of purpose. Ross D. Inman's work stands as an invaluable guide for those seeking to enrich their faith, deepen their understanding, and embrace philosophy as an integral part of a meaningful life journey.
September 17, 2024
This is one of those books I wish I had encountered earlier in life, but I’m unsure if I would have fully appreciated its depth back then. The author opens with the notion that philosophy begins with awe and wonder, suggesting that we all have a "philosophical way of life," shaped by our personal vision of reality and the good life. He emphasizes that wonder diminishes our self-importance, prompting us to become more responsive to the world around us. This realignment with the cosmos helps us recognize our God-given limits and fosters a deeper connection with the divine order.
The author then dives into the intellectual life of Christians, calling attention to the works of figures like Kierkegaard, C.S. Lewis, Aquinas, and Gregory of Nyssa. He argues that Christians should embrace a life of wonder, enriched by spiritual exercises and a disciplined, grace-empowered "daily regimen." These practices help Christians, become more attuned to truth and God, guiding them toward a fulfilling and philosophically grounded life.
For those seeking to live thoughtfully and philosophically within their Christian faith and existential map, this book offers a vast world of wonders to explore. Although there is nothing really new or ground breaking, there's a vast amount of first hand sources quoted throughout the book that I am looking forward to diving into. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking invitation to integrate intellectual rigor with spiritual growth in a balanced, intentional way.
The author then dives into the intellectual life of Christians, calling attention to the works of figures like Kierkegaard, C.S. Lewis, Aquinas, and Gregory of Nyssa. He argues that Christians should embrace a life of wonder, enriched by spiritual exercises and a disciplined, grace-empowered "daily regimen." These practices help Christians, become more attuned to truth and God, guiding them toward a fulfilling and philosophically grounded life.
For those seeking to live thoughtfully and philosophically within their Christian faith and existential map, this book offers a vast world of wonders to explore. Although there is nothing really new or ground breaking, there's a vast amount of first hand sources quoted throughout the book that I am looking forward to diving into. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking invitation to integrate intellectual rigor with spiritual growth in a balanced, intentional way.
July 11, 2024
Gold! A great introduction to philosophy for Christians — clear, concise, well organized, easy to understand, very practical, and lots of great recommendations for further reading. A few highlights/takeaways for me: (1) wonder as perceived vastness and a need for accommodation; (2) creation as a rich surplus of wonder because it is the self-revealing work of a wondrous Creator, and thus wonder can be found in great things and in the seemingly mundane alike; (3) wonder as the lifeblood of philosophy — first in ignorance, then in adoration, yet wonder throughout; (4) philosophy as one's existential map for successful navigation in life; (5) philosophy as therapeutic — not in the thin sense of feeling good about yourself, but in an older, thicker sense of the objective health of your soul (i.e., for treating existential ailments); (6) philosophy involving not just the mind and reasoning but one's being — i.e., your state precedes and determines your ability to see what is true, good, and beautiful in the world and in life. Many, many more could be listed. But if any of these sound intriguing to you, I would highly recommend this great book!
March 2, 2025
I honestly found this book to be absolutely brilliant. Inman encourages Christians to embrace philosophy in a way that is encouraging, spirited, and inviting even to the unfamiliar. The author did three things that I think helped set this book apart. First, he tackles the common misconceptions and questions that are leveled toward the study of philosophy. He precisely pointed out the implicit values that are displayed in the questions and counters them clearly. The second part is that he connects the reader to Christian philosophers of the past. In an introductory type book you want to yearn for more. I believe Inman makes the reader eager to immediately pick up Boethius, Anselm, or Augustine as quickly as they can. That is the whole point of it after all. The third part was that Inman displays the beautiful commingling of the philosophical and the theological that makes a philosophy truly Christian. I highly recommend this book!
October 6, 2025
A gift from my friend Beltran, this book advocates, exactly as the title says, for Christian philosophy as a way of life. In other words, philosophy is a way we come to know God more and follow him. It covers a wide range of topics, from wonder, to “going with the grain of reality”, and to the current prevailing false vision of the good life - the ‘workaday world’ focused on efficiency and productivity as the height of human purpose. It made me consider how I was already living philosophically without even realizing. Making up a large percentage of this book are quotes from many well-known philosophers and believers throughout history. The author’s writing style could be repetitive at times, but as a result, he does a great job of making his main points stick. I also appreciated his definitions and analogies. I’m not sure exactly who this book is for - it seems to me to be preaching to the choir, as anyone willing to read this book is probably already inclined towards philosophy (or won’t be convinced by the author’s academic presentation). I enjoyed so much of the truth the author had to say, both new material and portions that reminded me of other Christian books I love. I hope to return to reread my highlighted sections to help the message sink further into my being.
January 6, 2024
I'm not quite finished yet but I've seen enough to give it 5 stars.
This book is a tour de force. Not only is it shockingly accessible, but it is a beautifully written synthesis of theology, philosophy, and cultural analysis that makes the Christian philosophical tradition look as relevant and satisfying as it actually is. It's been a LONG time since I read a book that did that.
Some will likely wish the author went deeper in certain areas. I disagree. The book, in shorter trim and fewer than 200 pages, is a masterclass in conciseness. This is the kind of book that people will say in 20 years inspired them into a life or career of Christian philosophy. A game-changer that I cannot recommend highly enough.
This book is a tour de force. Not only is it shockingly accessible, but it is a beautifully written synthesis of theology, philosophy, and cultural analysis that makes the Christian philosophical tradition look as relevant and satisfying as it actually is. It's been a LONG time since I read a book that did that.
Some will likely wish the author went deeper in certain areas. I disagree. The book, in shorter trim and fewer than 200 pages, is a masterclass in conciseness. This is the kind of book that people will say in 20 years inspired them into a life or career of Christian philosophy. A game-changer that I cannot recommend highly enough.
January 21, 2024
What a powerful blessing this book as been to me
There are books that are intellectual and stimulating. And this book is certainly that. But then there are book that are ALSO life-changing, life-altering. This book was that for me.
I read it during a very dry patch in my life and Ross Inman diagnosed my malady. Acedia. He told me how to over come it. He provided examples, exercises, and actions that will help. I am very thankful to have read this book.
The book is highly researched, but never dry. It is intellectually stimulating, but grounded in the Scriptures. The book doesn’t ride a Bible hobby horse—focusing on only select and favorite passages. Inman takes in the whole counsel of God.
Well done!
There are books that are intellectual and stimulating. And this book is certainly that. But then there are book that are ALSO life-changing, life-altering. This book was that for me.
I read it during a very dry patch in my life and Ross Inman diagnosed my malady. Acedia. He told me how to over come it. He provided examples, exercises, and actions that will help. I am very thankful to have read this book.
The book is highly researched, but never dry. It is intellectually stimulating, but grounded in the Scriptures. The book doesn’t ride a Bible hobby horse—focusing on only select and favorite passages. Inman takes in the whole counsel of God.
Well done!
January 22, 2025
“To perceive all that is unusual and exceptional, all that is wonderful, in the midst of the ordinary things of everyday life, is the beginning of philosophy.”
Really enjoyed this book recommended by my church a few months ago. Not quite 5 stars for some of it being a little too dense for me in the middle, but I loved a lot of the chapters, especially the ones talking about contemplation and wonder as the root of philosophy in the Christian life. definitely gives you a lot to think about! So rooted in scripture and well researched. I would take it reallyyyyy slow though because it’s a lot to unpack
Really enjoyed this book recommended by my church a few months ago. Not quite 5 stars for some of it being a little too dense for me in the middle, but I loved a lot of the chapters, especially the ones talking about contemplation and wonder as the root of philosophy in the Christian life. definitely gives you a lot to think about! So rooted in scripture and well researched. I would take it reallyyyyy slow though because it’s a lot to unpack
November 8, 2023
This is a book that any Christian could benefit from reading. Philosophy is not just something done in ivory towers or classrooms, but is helpful as we seek to be followers of the Way. Done well, it is intensely practical, and Inman shows us the various benefits of a philosophical way of life. At its heart, philosophy is the love of wisdom. For Christians, wisdom is personified by Christ himself. Philosophy, then, can help us deepen our knowledge of and union with Christ and help us love and serve others. Highly recommended.
January 19, 2024
This book talks about the importance of philosophy, in particular Christian philosophy, and why it should be pursued.
This book does that well, but doesn’t give the reader practical areas of study to go and pursue a philosophically Christian life.
Granted that wasn’t the point of the book, it was just to convince the reader of the need for it. However, I think that would have made it much better.
My low rating is not to say it was a bad book by any means, rather that, for me, I wanted more from it.
6/10
This book does that well, but doesn’t give the reader practical areas of study to go and pursue a philosophically Christian life.
Granted that wasn’t the point of the book, it was just to convince the reader of the need for it. However, I think that would have made it much better.
My low rating is not to say it was a bad book by any means, rather that, for me, I wanted more from it.
6/10
May 23, 2024
This was a short, pleasurable read that was also a great introduction to the world of wonder through the lens of philosophy.
I especially liked the Christian approach to this field of study. Throughout the Bible we are constantly called and invited to grow closer to God, which is also to know Him better. This can naturally spill over into philosophizing; as the author put it in his introduction, “the primary purpose of this book is to help you take a few small steps toward reframing the way you (likely) think about philosophy as a Christian.”
Definitely worth the read!
I especially liked the Christian approach to this field of study. Throughout the Bible we are constantly called and invited to grow closer to God, which is also to know Him better. This can naturally spill over into philosophizing; as the author put it in his introduction, “the primary purpose of this book is to help you take a few small steps toward reframing the way you (likely) think about philosophy as a Christian.”
Definitely worth the read!
March 12, 2024
Despite the fact that I always feel like an outsider looking into the world of "philosophy," I enjoyed this book by Inman. I particularly liked the early chapters that dealt with wonder as it relates to humanity and philosophy. In the end, Inman makes a convincing (and biblical) case that one's understanding of truth is what fuels one's experience of wonder - specifically as it relates to our relationship with the Father.
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