Life's Biggest Questions: What the Bible Says about the Things That Matter Most

by Erik Thoennes

Since the beginning of time, people everywhere have asked the same Does God exist? Is there life after death? What is the meaning of life? The superabundance of these invariable questions, asked over and over, leads us to believe that there just might be answers to be found. Professor Erik Thoennes knows the importance of questioning the fundamental things that we all wonder about. If you aren’t really sure what to believe, or if you’ve been sure of the answers for a long time but want to solidify the foundation of your faith, this concise book takes seriously the inquiries of the ages and leads us all to investigate the truth for ourselves.

Genres: Faith, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published June 23, 2011

Reviews

[Travis Wussow · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of the Bible's responses to many serious questions. I expected the book to be more philosophical, but Dr. Thoennes' responses to these questions are primarily rooted in Scripture. So this book is not necessarily helpful for those that don't believe the Bible is authoritative, but it provides an excellent first start for those that do trust the Bible. Each chapter also includes a number of good resources for further reading on each topic. A good reference to be sure.

[Adam Shields · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short review: this is a decent introduction to systematic theology book. Fairly easy to read, covers all the major topics it should and uses many of the correct theological words with fairly good definitions. I am not a fan of the title. I think it is misleading and potentially inappropriate. But the book has good discussion questions and good (but conservative) further reading suggestions. I think this is good for a small group or adult education class. Probably not great for individual reading.

My full review on my blog at http://bookwi.se/thoennes/

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides a Biblical basis for the answers to some of life's big questions. It is a constructive overview for individuals who believe in the authority of the Bible or are curious about what a Biblical perspective would say about questions such as the existence of God and the meaning of life.

[Justin Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful Distilled Knowledge of the Faith

I loved the focus on the essentials of the faith from a protestant perspective. A valuable read for anyone who needs a quick overview of what it truly means to be a Christian.

[Deb Pinyerd · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read this with Discipleship Institute class for the 2nd block.

[curtis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Full marks for accessibility and clarity, but it endorses an unorthodox construction of the Trinity (eternal functional subordination) and so cannot be recommended.

[Sir Luke Boggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read it because it was the coursework for a Bible Study at my church. Was a good book and brings many things into thought and mind about what God’s Word tells us about many things we wonder about.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Source: Received a free copy through Amazon's Vine program.

I realized I kind of made a mistake in requesting this book once I started reading it. Not because it wasn't good, well-written, interesting, engaging. But because I wanted to be reading it with a book club and taking part in a discussion. I also wanted to add the many suggested books to my already massive to-be read list.

This is a tiny book but a really excellent one that packs a punch. There are sixteen chapters answering the questions posed on the cover that are answered in clear language; Thoennes also includes end of chapter discussion questions and extensive additional reference suggestions. I found this book filled with good stuff.

My favorite chapter was probably the one about the Trinity, an idea which I've struggled with since I prepared for my baptism. It's so hard for me to wrap my mind around but the description and questions posed within have already helped me. As I continue to mull and pray about the Trinity, I feel that I will gain more understanding about the Trinity and thus about God.

Overall: A good, deep, biblical read; recommended especially for people just starting to study the Christian faith.

[Rod Evans]

I wonder why he doesn't answer life's MOST IMPORTANT question: How can a sinner be spiritually right with Holy God as to escape hell and, instead, enter heaven? That's the question. If that doesn't matter to you, then you will die in your sins!

[Adam Shaeffer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A clear and concise summary of what the Bible says regarding these questions.

[David Kakish · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderfully short yet theologically significant synopsis of Orthodoxy. This would serve as a fantastic book to give to first time guests or for leading a group/individual of new believers.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was very basic and not what I was hoping for, but I intend to keep it on hand for any questions the kids will face or a new believer. I think it’ll be a handy resource.