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The Reason Why: Faith Makes Sense
Everyone wants to believe in something beyond or someone bigger than themselves, but nobody wants to be duped. In order to provide answers to people who are seeking the truth, Mark Mittelberg updates for today the classic book by Robert Laidlaw that sold millions, The Reason Why. This short book gives clear, concise reasons why belief in God makes sense.
135 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 29, 2011
26 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Mark Mittelberg
51 books23 followersMark Mittelberg is a best-selling author, sought-after speaker, and a leading strategist in evangelism and apologetics-oriented outreach. He is the primary author (with Lee Strobel and Bill Hybels) of the updated Becoming a Contagious Christian Training Course, through which more than a million people have learned to effectively and naturally communicate their faith to others. Mark’s newest book, The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask, is based on a survey of 1000 Christians commissioned through the Barna organization, and deals with the ten issues that believers most want to avoid—but must not! Prior to that Mark collaborated with Lee Strobel to develop The Unexpected Adventure, a six-week devotional designed to inspire Christians and churches to enter into the excitement of sharing Christ. His previous book, Choosing Your Faith ... In a World of Spiritual Options, strengthens the faith of believers and is a great resource to give to friends who are figuring out what to believe — and he’s developed a DVD study course for Christians based on that book, Faith Path: Helping Friends Find Their Way to Christ. Mark also wrote the articles for the Choosing Your Faith New Testament. His other books include the updated Becoming a Contagious Church, which sets forth an innovative blueprint for mobilizing churches for evangelism, and the classic best-seller Becoming a Contagious Christian, which he co-authored with Hybels. In addition, Mark was contributing editor for The Journey: A Bible for the Spiritually Curious, and a contributor to Reasons for Faith: Making a Case for the Christian Faith, edited by Norman Geisler and Chad Meister, and God Is Great, God Is Good: Why Believing in God Is Reasonable & Responsible, edited by William Lane Craig and Chad Meister — which won the 2010 Christianity Today award for best book in the area of apologetics and evangelism. Mark was the evangelism director at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago for seven years and for the Willow Creek Association for a decade. He is a frequent contributor for Outreach magazine, and he was an editorial consultant and periodic guest for Lee Strobel’s Faith Under Fire television show. He and Strobel have been ministry partners for over twenty years. After receiving an undergraduate degree in business, Mark earned a Master's Degree in Philosophy of Religion from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. In recognition of his achievements in the areas of evangelism and apologetics, he was recently honored by the conferring of a Doctor of Divinity degree from Southern Evangelical Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mark and his wife, Heidi, have two teenage children, and live near Denver, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 11, 2012
This is the kind of book a Christian would buy for a non-believer. Not particularly useful for someone looking for truth, but very convincing to someone who's already accepted the ideas presented. In short, it's a (very) brief rehash of the same old arguments that have been used in apologetics for years. However, his sources are well documented. Which is more than I can say for some other popular apologetics books. Still, there are far superior books on the topic.
April 3, 2022
Spectacular little book
This book is good because it goes through a few areas of apologetics. "Is there a God?" deals with the latest scientific findings and give great examples. I like the manuscript evidence presented here as well, crisp and clear. Then on to the resurrection and who Jesus is. Very disgestable, very clear. Great book to give away to people who are evaluating and for those who could use strengthening. My 15 y.o son is reading it. Really like his writing. I'm on to his other books now.
This book is good because it goes through a few areas of apologetics. "Is there a God?" deals with the latest scientific findings and give great examples. I like the manuscript evidence presented here as well, crisp and clear. Then on to the resurrection and who Jesus is. Very disgestable, very clear. Great book to give away to people who are evaluating and for those who could use strengthening. My 15 y.o son is reading it. Really like his writing. I'm on to his other books now.
November 28, 2018
It's trash garbage created to lure more sheep to be felled in the name of mythical cloud man. Same old arguments of "you just haven't found Jesus yet" and "when you make the 'right' choice to follow Jesus". On the other hand, it's a great way to help you pinpoint any idiots roaming around you--ask them for money, they'll believe ANYTHING.
January 12, 2021
Great for teens
I used this with my high school apologetics class as an intro and it was perfect!! The kids found it easy to read and understand, and that made the transition to more complex books much easier!
I used this with my high school apologetics class as an intro and it was perfect!! The kids found it easy to read and understand, and that made the transition to more complex books much easier!
October 7, 2020
I use this book with my high schoolers. It's a quick read and doesn't go super-deep, but hits the highlights well. A good intro.
December 22, 2021
This is a great reminder of the basic truths about faith in Jesus. I can see myself coming back to this one in the future if I'm ever in need.
July 14, 2016
Apologetics and material setting forth of the Christian argument are quite prevalent these days, especially since there seem to be quite a few who stand up loudly against Christianity in society and popular culture. Yet far too many in our society have not even stopped to give the matter much thought-- they have gone along with the currents of society and do not really know any better. They might imagine that science has disproven the existence of God, or that any higher power might remain unknowable. Regardless of their views, they are not extremely well thought out, and spiritual concern may not be very high.
Mark Mittelberg is well-known for his apologetic material; he has now worked to revise Robert Laidlaw's The Reason Why, and the work is now available as The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense. While some of Laidlaw's original material is quoted, most of it seems to come from Mittelberg. The book is designed as a basic discussion of the big issues involved-- the origins of everything, who God is, who we are, what the problem is, and how we get to the solution.
The book is quite short-- 120 smaller pages using a large font. It could easily be read in the space of an hour or two in an afternoon or evening, and that is its purpose. It is really designed for the person we described above: someone who may not agree with the Christian perspective on things but mostly because they are not aware of the arguments for Christianity. The book cogently sets forth the gist of the arguments in a fairly understandable way, starting with the existence of God the Creator, moving on to the Bible as His revelation, why it is that we are accountable before God, who Jesus was and what He did, how forgiveness is available, and what must be done about it. There are some notes at the back that go into some of the issues in more detail, but the overall material remains quite basic.
The material is very consistent with what Mittelberg has written elsewhere; The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense can properly be seen as the small handout edition of his apologetic works.
For its purpose, the majority of The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense is excellent. It is just too bad that when he gets to the point of discussing how to "accept Christ," Mittelberg deviates from the Biblical pattern of confession, repentance, baptism, and obedient discipleship (Romans 10:9-10, Acts 2:38, Romans 6:3-7, 1 Peter 3:21), and instead advocates for the non-Scriptural innovation of the "sinner's prayer". Mittelberg also highly recommends the NLT, probably not least because it is the translation printed by Tyndale, the publisher of his book. One can find an easy to understand version (e.g. ESV) without getting an interpretive version (the NLT).
If one is looking for a basic way to present the main arguments for the Christian faith, there is value in The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense. Sadly, however, it cannot be really recommended for its target audience-- the "ignorant unbeliever"-- because of how it would lead them astray at the end.
*--book received as part of early review program
Mark Mittelberg is well-known for his apologetic material; he has now worked to revise Robert Laidlaw's The Reason Why, and the work is now available as The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense. While some of Laidlaw's original material is quoted, most of it seems to come from Mittelberg. The book is designed as a basic discussion of the big issues involved-- the origins of everything, who God is, who we are, what the problem is, and how we get to the solution.
The book is quite short-- 120 smaller pages using a large font. It could easily be read in the space of an hour or two in an afternoon or evening, and that is its purpose. It is really designed for the person we described above: someone who may not agree with the Christian perspective on things but mostly because they are not aware of the arguments for Christianity. The book cogently sets forth the gist of the arguments in a fairly understandable way, starting with the existence of God the Creator, moving on to the Bible as His revelation, why it is that we are accountable before God, who Jesus was and what He did, how forgiveness is available, and what must be done about it. There are some notes at the back that go into some of the issues in more detail, but the overall material remains quite basic.
The material is very consistent with what Mittelberg has written elsewhere; The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense can properly be seen as the small handout edition of his apologetic works.
For its purpose, the majority of The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense is excellent. It is just too bad that when he gets to the point of discussing how to "accept Christ," Mittelberg deviates from the Biblical pattern of confession, repentance, baptism, and obedient discipleship (Romans 10:9-10, Acts 2:38, Romans 6:3-7, 1 Peter 3:21), and instead advocates for the non-Scriptural innovation of the "sinner's prayer". Mittelberg also highly recommends the NLT, probably not least because it is the translation printed by Tyndale, the publisher of his book. One can find an easy to understand version (e.g. ESV) without getting an interpretive version (the NLT).
If one is looking for a basic way to present the main arguments for the Christian faith, there is value in The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense. Sadly, however, it cannot be really recommended for its target audience-- the "ignorant unbeliever"-- because of how it would lead them astray at the end.
*--book received as part of early review program
December 22, 2011
Why believe in God?
And furthermore, why have active, evident faith in God? After all, "even the demons believe." (James 2:19)
In times like ours as well as throughout history, many people question their once firm faith in God and many others do not believe that God exists at all. In fact, many of those who do not believe have made it their mission to prove it so and even to convince believers to give up their faith in God.
Mark Mittlelberg has done quite the opposite for us in his book The Reason Why: Faith Makes Sense.
If you recognize the title, it is because Mittlelberg has updated and expanded the original book The Reason Why which was written by Robert A. Laidlaw almost a hundred years ago. Mittelberg has done a fabulous job updating this little (a.k.a. short) treasure of a book.
Mittelberg walks the reader through several tough but necessary topics such as "Matters of Faith that Really Matter", "Is there a God?", "Can the Bible be Trusted?", "Are We Accountable to God?", "Who Was Jesus and What Was His Purpose?", "Is Divine Forgiveness Available?", and such. He covers all of this in a book whose dimensions are about the size of a postcard and includes 127 pages. Short, small, easy to read but tackles some heavy topics. Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum of faith in God, I challenge you to get a copy of this book and read it and see what revelations may happen in your heart and mind.
If you are skeptical, I challenge you with Mark's words, "May I encourage you to think again, and at least to say, 'Maybe'? Admit to yourself that if these things are true, then Jesus' point about the importance of the soul is valid---big time! Do you doubt that? Then at least be consistent enough as a skeptic to also doubt even your own doubts..."
Mittelberg, once a skeptic himself set on disproving God, states, "I am confident of this: the deeper you look---assuming you'll read with a receptive mind and an open heart---the more you'll become persuaded concerning the basic claims of the Christian faith. I say this because after more than three decades of studying both the attacks against that faith and the evidence for it, I'm surer than ever that it is based on real facts. In short, I'm convinced that Christianity is true."
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers. No other compensation was received. The fact that I received a complimentary product does not guarantee a favorable review.
And furthermore, why have active, evident faith in God? After all, "even the demons believe." (James 2:19)
In times like ours as well as throughout history, many people question their once firm faith in God and many others do not believe that God exists at all. In fact, many of those who do not believe have made it their mission to prove it so and even to convince believers to give up their faith in God.
Mark Mittlelberg has done quite the opposite for us in his book The Reason Why: Faith Makes Sense.
If you recognize the title, it is because Mittlelberg has updated and expanded the original book The Reason Why which was written by Robert A. Laidlaw almost a hundred years ago. Mittelberg has done a fabulous job updating this little (a.k.a. short) treasure of a book.
Mittelberg walks the reader through several tough but necessary topics such as "Matters of Faith that Really Matter", "Is there a God?", "Can the Bible be Trusted?", "Are We Accountable to God?", "Who Was Jesus and What Was His Purpose?", "Is Divine Forgiveness Available?", and such. He covers all of this in a book whose dimensions are about the size of a postcard and includes 127 pages. Short, small, easy to read but tackles some heavy topics. Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum of faith in God, I challenge you to get a copy of this book and read it and see what revelations may happen in your heart and mind.
If you are skeptical, I challenge you with Mark's words, "May I encourage you to think again, and at least to say, 'Maybe'? Admit to yourself that if these things are true, then Jesus' point about the importance of the soul is valid---big time! Do you doubt that? Then at least be consistent enough as a skeptic to also doubt even your own doubts..."
Mittelberg, once a skeptic himself set on disproving God, states, "I am confident of this: the deeper you look---assuming you'll read with a receptive mind and an open heart---the more you'll become persuaded concerning the basic claims of the Christian faith. I say this because after more than three decades of studying both the attacks against that faith and the evidence for it, I'm surer than ever that it is based on real facts. In short, I'm convinced that Christianity is true."
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers. No other compensation was received. The fact that I received a complimentary product does not guarantee a favorable review.
January 28, 2016
1CThe Reason Why 1D by 18Mark Mittelberg 19 from Tyndale House Publishers is a short and crisp book on the subject of apologetics. It is based on the classic bestseller by Robert A. Laidlaw. The book is precise and the message is head on.
Mittelberg draws inspiration from Laidlaw throughout this book and does not fail to quote his words at appropriate places. He begins by engaging the readers with meaningful and thought provoking questions like --
1CIs there meaning to life?
Does faith make sense?
Can logic or evidence point me toward a trustworthy set of beliefs? 1D
Mittelberg goes on to present his case with credible arguments to substantiate the truth about God. The questions about existence of God, authenticity of the Bible, accountability to God, Jesus and His purpose, availability of divine forgiveness are dealt in a professional and convincing way by the author.
This book is highly recommended for any of our non-believing friends and acquaintances. The questions and answers spelt out in the book will make the readers have clarity of idea and the reason behind every spiritual belief and system. The questions are intriguing and capable of arousing interest or curiosity in the mind of audience to have a heightened awareness about the rationality behind every spiritual faith.
I would give this one four out of five stars.
Please note that I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through its book review bloggers program in exchange for an honest review. Also be informed that the opinions I have expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Mittelberg draws inspiration from Laidlaw throughout this book and does not fail to quote his words at appropriate places. He begins by engaging the readers with meaningful and thought provoking questions like --
1CIs there meaning to life?
Does faith make sense?
Can logic or evidence point me toward a trustworthy set of beliefs? 1D
Mittelberg goes on to present his case with credible arguments to substantiate the truth about God. The questions about existence of God, authenticity of the Bible, accountability to God, Jesus and His purpose, availability of divine forgiveness are dealt in a professional and convincing way by the author.
This book is highly recommended for any of our non-believing friends and acquaintances. The questions and answers spelt out in the book will make the readers have clarity of idea and the reason behind every spiritual belief and system. The questions are intriguing and capable of arousing interest or curiosity in the mind of audience to have a heightened awareness about the rationality behind every spiritual faith.
I would give this one four out of five stars.
Please note that I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through its book review bloggers program in exchange for an honest review. Also be informed that the opinions I have expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
January 24, 2016
The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense is an update of a book called The Reason Why written by Robert A Laidlaw in 1913. Laidlaw, a successful New Zealand businessman, wrote the book for his employees to provide simple answers to complex questions about God and Christianity. Laidlaw's little (37-page) book eventually reached more than fifty-million people around the world.
Mittelberg recreated the book with contemporary expressions and updated evidence to support Laidlaw's conclusions.
The book is organized around the following questions:
Is there a God?
Can the Bible be trusted?
Are we accountable to God?
Who was Jesus and what was his purpose?
Is divine forgiveness available?
What do I need to do?
Answers for each question are given with both Bible references and logic provided by experts in fields other than theology. Stephen Hawking, for example.
What I like about this book is that the answers are succinct while being full of information. My notes from reading the book are nearly as long as the book itself.
This is the type of book you'll want to read over and over again. You'll also want to have a few extra copies to share with friends and family. I feel more comfortable with my beliefs from reading it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advance review copy of this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Mittelberg recreated the book with contemporary expressions and updated evidence to support Laidlaw's conclusions.
The book is organized around the following questions:
Is there a God?
Can the Bible be trusted?
Are we accountable to God?
Who was Jesus and what was his purpose?
Is divine forgiveness available?
What do I need to do?
Answers for each question are given with both Bible references and logic provided by experts in fields other than theology. Stephen Hawking, for example.
What I like about this book is that the answers are succinct while being full of information. My notes from reading the book are nearly as long as the book itself.
This is the type of book you'll want to read over and over again. You'll also want to have a few extra copies to share with friends and family. I feel more comfortable with my beliefs from reading it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received an advance review copy of this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
December 9, 2011
The universe exists but why do we? What is the nature of life? The evidence that God exists is all around us, yet so many do not believe in him, despite the heavens seen and the feeling that a belief in God holds a person accountable. Jesus paid the penalty for our sins, which he did out of love for us, but what does his sacrifice mean to us in today's world? The answer to these and others can be found within the pages of this thought provoking book. The book also uses a scientific approach as part of its presentation and includes views from known scientists. I felt the material presented was geared toward the non-Christian looking for direction in his/her life but has valid confirmation for Christians as well. This book being short in length gets to the point quickly listing key points to back up thoughts and questions raised, but you will want to read it slower to absorb the content.
December 19, 2011
The Reason Why was originally written almost 100 years ago by Robert Laidlaw, a successful businessman, to explain in a reasonable way why faith in God makes sense. Mark Mittelberg has updated this book using the language and examples of our day, but keeping the content true to the original. This little book was a wonderful reminder of why I believe in God and am thankful for the difference that His son Jesus Christ makes in my life.
August 13, 2011
My church gave everyone a copy of this book. It was originally written in the early 1900's by a businessman for his employees and Mittleberg has updated it with current language and examples. It lays out exactly why you should believe and accept Jesus as your savior. It was easy to read and very logical. Good book to make you think.
December 1, 2013
A very short apologetic case for Christian Theism. It is certainly not the best book on the topic, but that was not Mittelberg's purpose in writing this book. It is brief enough to hand out to, say, a nonbelieving friend, but comprehensive enough to put a rock in his shoe.
May 17, 2015
This book is a great start on apologetics. It answers some important questions that a non-believer may have. This book is also a good resource for Christians who may need a little help in being ready to share a reason for the hope they have.
August 15, 2011
Very easy to read. Easily understood. Nice!
June 12, 2012
Small apologetics book that is actually a rewrite of a much older book by the same name... clear & concise - not the equal of MERE CHRISTIANITY or THE REASON FOR GOD but a good place to start.
May 17, 2021
I plan on reading this again in a week or two after I have given "The Reasons Why" some thought. If nothing else, it has also made me want to delve deeper.
May 1, 2014
Good book, easy read, very convincing. Worth a read for the open minded individual.
August 8, 2020
I just love how the author can explain in detail on the feelings of others.. It is great to get other peoples reviews ...
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews