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The End of Religion: Encountering the Subversive Spirituality of Jesus
In The End of Religion, Bruxy Cavey shares that relationship has no room for religion. Believers and seekers alike will discover anew the wondrous promise found in our savior. And Christ’s eternal call to walk in love and freedom will resonate with readers of all ages and denominations.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2005
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March 9, 2012
Bruxy Cavey has provided a powerful book in the Spirituality vs. Religion Discussion that is going on in the wake of a decline in church attendance in the US and Canada (the author is Canadian). In order to provide some context to this review it's helpful to know the context in which the book was written by the author as well as the perspective of the reviewer.
Bruxy Cavey is a pastor of sorts in a non-traditional fellowship located near Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The church he is involved with puts itself forward as a church for people who don't like church. It appears to have an appeal for people who either have not been raised in a more traditional, formal church setting or who have come from such a background but come to a place in their life where religious tradition and things such as liturgy and orders of service have lost their appeal or usefulness in following Christ. That's not to say that Bruxy doesn't have some elements of his own church tradition and perspective present in this book. He does. While the expression of his beliefs may be seen as somewhat non-traditional, many of the perspectives he provides are coming from a Mennonite/Brethren point of view or what some might describe as a modified Anabaptist perspective.
This reviewer is a former pastor and church worker who has left institutional church and is moving toward what is commonly known as "organic church." The reviewer therefore is coming from a position that is highly sympathetic to the author and for that reason it will be no surprise that the book is rated accordingly. The measure of a book however, is not necessarily that there is agreement with the author going in, but rather how well the author presents his material and states his case. It is in this measure that this book excels and met most of the reviewer's expectations.
In reading some of the evaluations from different sources, it appears there is a small contingency of those who look at the title of the book, "The End of Religion" and draw from it an assumption that this is a book written in the vein of a recent resurgence in militant atheism or as it's referred to recently by the misnomer of "New Atheism." Such a perception would be dispelled by reading the continuing sub-title, "Encountering the Subversive Spirituality of Jesus." What is at work in this book is not a blanket condemnation of all religion, or specifically in this instance, of the Christian religion. This book is primarily an examination of those elements of religion which have become blockages for many people in seeing, understanding and coming to know Jesus Christ in a relationship that doesn't mistake religious trapping for the substance of genuine spiritual renewal.
This is the "Religion" that Cavey speaks of ending and in many ways it ties into what appears to be an expanding dialog that focuses upon "Spirituality" as opposed to "Religion." Depending upon the point of view of the reader and whether they are defensive of these elements of religious tradition or as noted before, unreasonably expecting an atheist diatribe, there is something here for most followers of Christ who might happen upon it.
More than anything, the predominant theme of this book is a focus upon Jesus Himself in the context of the times in which he lived and ministered. An examination of the Gospels (from which is where most scripture in the book is drawn) shows Jesus as someone who if anything, was a subversive figure, challenging the religious norms of his time and proclaiming that religious forms had come to replace the substance of genuine love for God. Extending this forward to today, Bruxy shows the irony that the "religion" that Jesus came to overthrow has in many regards come to be established and continued under the name of Christianity but completely foreign to the values and teaching of Jesus Christ and even more-so, the person of Jesus Christ.
Cavey has a gift for taking these premises and through the use of well researched quotes or in his own writing, turning phrases that are pithy and on target in illustrating his point. Through a simple progression of examining the roots of Christ in the Gospels, the history of the religious establishment in place that Christ can to dismantle and then a comparison to today's religious establishments Cavey arrives at the primary purpose of this book, a challenge to retreat from the empty shell of what much of Christianity has become and to return to Christ in the context of relationship.
This reviewer is accustomed to charging through and reading books quickly. This book however demanded a slower pace with pauses to ruminate and chew over the messages contained.
In short, if you've ever found yourself frustrated by a shallow, systemic religion that seems to have lost sight of the person of Jesus Christ, or if you're a believer in Christ who longs for revival and personal renewal, this book is a strong offering in addressing where religion gets off the path and how to return to Christ as central to your spiritual life.
5 stars. A profound and highly effective read.
bart breen
Bruxy Cavey is a pastor of sorts in a non-traditional fellowship located near Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The church he is involved with puts itself forward as a church for people who don't like church. It appears to have an appeal for people who either have not been raised in a more traditional, formal church setting or who have come from such a background but come to a place in their life where religious tradition and things such as liturgy and orders of service have lost their appeal or usefulness in following Christ. That's not to say that Bruxy doesn't have some elements of his own church tradition and perspective present in this book. He does. While the expression of his beliefs may be seen as somewhat non-traditional, many of the perspectives he provides are coming from a Mennonite/Brethren point of view or what some might describe as a modified Anabaptist perspective.
This reviewer is a former pastor and church worker who has left institutional church and is moving toward what is commonly known as "organic church." The reviewer therefore is coming from a position that is highly sympathetic to the author and for that reason it will be no surprise that the book is rated accordingly. The measure of a book however, is not necessarily that there is agreement with the author going in, but rather how well the author presents his material and states his case. It is in this measure that this book excels and met most of the reviewer's expectations.
In reading some of the evaluations from different sources, it appears there is a small contingency of those who look at the title of the book, "The End of Religion" and draw from it an assumption that this is a book written in the vein of a recent resurgence in militant atheism or as it's referred to recently by the misnomer of "New Atheism." Such a perception would be dispelled by reading the continuing sub-title, "Encountering the Subversive Spirituality of Jesus." What is at work in this book is not a blanket condemnation of all religion, or specifically in this instance, of the Christian religion. This book is primarily an examination of those elements of religion which have become blockages for many people in seeing, understanding and coming to know Jesus Christ in a relationship that doesn't mistake religious trapping for the substance of genuine spiritual renewal.
This is the "Religion" that Cavey speaks of ending and in many ways it ties into what appears to be an expanding dialog that focuses upon "Spirituality" as opposed to "Religion." Depending upon the point of view of the reader and whether they are defensive of these elements of religious tradition or as noted before, unreasonably expecting an atheist diatribe, there is something here for most followers of Christ who might happen upon it.
More than anything, the predominant theme of this book is a focus upon Jesus Himself in the context of the times in which he lived and ministered. An examination of the Gospels (from which is where most scripture in the book is drawn) shows Jesus as someone who if anything, was a subversive figure, challenging the religious norms of his time and proclaiming that religious forms had come to replace the substance of genuine love for God. Extending this forward to today, Bruxy shows the irony that the "religion" that Jesus came to overthrow has in many regards come to be established and continued under the name of Christianity but completely foreign to the values and teaching of Jesus Christ and even more-so, the person of Jesus Christ.
Cavey has a gift for taking these premises and through the use of well researched quotes or in his own writing, turning phrases that are pithy and on target in illustrating his point. Through a simple progression of examining the roots of Christ in the Gospels, the history of the religious establishment in place that Christ can to dismantle and then a comparison to today's religious establishments Cavey arrives at the primary purpose of this book, a challenge to retreat from the empty shell of what much of Christianity has become and to return to Christ in the context of relationship.
This reviewer is accustomed to charging through and reading books quickly. This book however demanded a slower pace with pauses to ruminate and chew over the messages contained.
In short, if you've ever found yourself frustrated by a shallow, systemic religion that seems to have lost sight of the person of Jesus Christ, or if you're a believer in Christ who longs for revival and personal renewal, this book is a strong offering in addressing where religion gets off the path and how to return to Christ as central to your spiritual life.
5 stars. A profound and highly effective read.
bart breen
February 16, 2017
Bruxy Cavey definitely has some good things to say and throughout this book I found a number of good insights. I think this book would best be for someone who has been burned by religion, especially Christianity. He does a good job of basically summing up Jesus and calling on people to focus on the major important things.
Yet I found a lot in this book that disappointed me or gave me questions. First, Cavey spends so much time taking shots at church history that it quickly got old. He dedicates a chapter to showing that the evils of church history do not line up with Jesus' teaching, and I agree that this is an important point to make. But in coming back to the point that church history failed over and over again Cavey begins to sound arrogant, as if where so many other who claimed to be following Christ have failed, he now has discovered the right way. It is easy to point a finger at others, but in doing so the implication is that finally now, after 2000 years, Cavey and those like him have it all figured out.
Along those lines, Cavey tells us that followers of Jesus are not to judge others (p. 213), yet throughout the book he appears to often judge the way other Christians live, whether it be in church history or in contemporary life.
Another inconsistency is that on page 66-7 he laments that at the end of the council of Nicea the "formerly united-although-diverse Christ-followers could not be officially divided into 'orthodox' and 'heretics' with the heretics being given the option of exile or death." He oversimplifies these debates because what we believe about Jesus influences how we live and worship. It sounds nice to say that we are just going back to the Bible, we are simply going to live the way Jesus taught. At some point we can't just say "let's all just follow Jesus" because there are theological (doctrinal?) questions to answer: which Jesus? Inevitably, answering that question is going to cause divisions.
My point is that it is very easy to call on us to just go back to Jesus, to dismiss all of church history, or to claim we are doing things the way Jesus wanted. But upon deeper reflection, we realize things are not that easy. When we get back to Jesus, which Jesus is it: Jesus the man, Jesus who was not man, Jesus the fully God and fully man, Jesus the half God and half man? If this question does not matter, why write a book which says certain things about Jesus thus implying other things about Jesus are not true. In chapter 15 he writes that Jesus was God in the flesh, following the orthodox at Nicea, and on p. 213-4 he writes of conversations with Jehovah's Witnesses who follow the theology of the heretics of Nicea. So it appears Cavey thinks that some beliefs matter, that there is right and wrong. He bashes church history on one page while taking a side on another page.
Overall, he has some good insights on the life of Jesus. If he had focused on that, on the positives of Jesus and how Jesus' teaching affects our life, and left his inconsistent critique of church history and historical theology out of it, this would have been a much better and more even book.
Yet I found a lot in this book that disappointed me or gave me questions. First, Cavey spends so much time taking shots at church history that it quickly got old. He dedicates a chapter to showing that the evils of church history do not line up with Jesus' teaching, and I agree that this is an important point to make. But in coming back to the point that church history failed over and over again Cavey begins to sound arrogant, as if where so many other who claimed to be following Christ have failed, he now has discovered the right way. It is easy to point a finger at others, but in doing so the implication is that finally now, after 2000 years, Cavey and those like him have it all figured out.
Along those lines, Cavey tells us that followers of Jesus are not to judge others (p. 213), yet throughout the book he appears to often judge the way other Christians live, whether it be in church history or in contemporary life.
Another inconsistency is that on page 66-7 he laments that at the end of the council of Nicea the "formerly united-although-diverse Christ-followers could not be officially divided into 'orthodox' and 'heretics' with the heretics being given the option of exile or death." He oversimplifies these debates because what we believe about Jesus influences how we live and worship. It sounds nice to say that we are just going back to the Bible, we are simply going to live the way Jesus taught. At some point we can't just say "let's all just follow Jesus" because there are theological (doctrinal?) questions to answer: which Jesus? Inevitably, answering that question is going to cause divisions.
My point is that it is very easy to call on us to just go back to Jesus, to dismiss all of church history, or to claim we are doing things the way Jesus wanted. But upon deeper reflection, we realize things are not that easy. When we get back to Jesus, which Jesus is it: Jesus the man, Jesus who was not man, Jesus the fully God and fully man, Jesus the half God and half man? If this question does not matter, why write a book which says certain things about Jesus thus implying other things about Jesus are not true. In chapter 15 he writes that Jesus was God in the flesh, following the orthodox at Nicea, and on p. 213-4 he writes of conversations with Jehovah's Witnesses who follow the theology of the heretics of Nicea. So it appears Cavey thinks that some beliefs matter, that there is right and wrong. He bashes church history on one page while taking a side on another page.
Overall, he has some good insights on the life of Jesus. If he had focused on that, on the positives of Jesus and how Jesus' teaching affects our life, and left his inconsistent critique of church history and historical theology out of it, this would have been a much better and more even book.
November 12, 2020
A challenging and inspiring book.
December 4, 2013
I had such high hopes from this book, hoping to be led to a spirituality free from the trappings of burdensome human traditions that have no link or lineage to Scripture. I wanted to be free to follow Jesus without hindrance or presuppositions. This book, however, was not such a catalyst.
Almost the entire book I questioned if the author was following the same Jesus I was following as given to us in Scripture. His mantra seems to be just to follow Jesus, but the question I kept asking is which Jesus is he talking about? Is he talking about some new age, emergent Jesus, or is he talking about the Jesus of the Bible? I found myself asking: does this author believe in the inerrancy of Scripture or doesn't he, because he never is clear about that? There was even a point I asked: is this author denying the Trinity? I also wondered if he was promoting some form of antinomianism. He is not clear at all about his theology or beliefs, and that takes away from the message he is trying to convey.
I get that we need to follow Jesus in the Spirit, but at the same time you need to follow Jesus in truth as well. The author tells us we just need to have faith in Jesus, but your faith is only as good as the object of your faith. If your faith is in a Jesus that is not of Scripture, how do you know you're following the right Jesus?
All in all I would not recommend this book because it might lead many astray who are not mature in the faith.
Almost the entire book I questioned if the author was following the same Jesus I was following as given to us in Scripture. His mantra seems to be just to follow Jesus, but the question I kept asking is which Jesus is he talking about? Is he talking about some new age, emergent Jesus, or is he talking about the Jesus of the Bible? I found myself asking: does this author believe in the inerrancy of Scripture or doesn't he, because he never is clear about that? There was even a point I asked: is this author denying the Trinity? I also wondered if he was promoting some form of antinomianism. He is not clear at all about his theology or beliefs, and that takes away from the message he is trying to convey.
I get that we need to follow Jesus in the Spirit, but at the same time you need to follow Jesus in truth as well. The author tells us we just need to have faith in Jesus, but your faith is only as good as the object of your faith. If your faith is in a Jesus that is not of Scripture, how do you know you're following the right Jesus?
All in all I would not recommend this book because it might lead many astray who are not mature in the faith.
September 19, 2016
I can't say enough good about this book. If you've ever been fed up with the church, or gotten into silly theological debates, read it! It has completely opened my mind to what Jesus really came to do, and I can't believe I've been so clouded in my brain until now.
September 1, 2016
My last religious days were spent trying to find some redeeming value to faith and I stumbled across this book. If I remember correctly it was Mr. Cavey's interview on the Infidel Show that sparked my interest in his book.
While reading, one foot was hesitantly planted in Christianity, and the other held in agnostic limbo, pointed toward atheism. His ideas did give me pause and I appreciate his approach, it is certainly a kinder more liberal outlook than the Christianity I was used to. A subversive Jesus is the kind of Jesus I can dig. I even went as far as to listen to and watch a number of Mr. Cavey's sermons.
Ultimately, I did give up faith and superstition and the religions that go with them. My husband remains Christian, exposure to a different way of looking at scripture has helped him have a more relaxed view.
While reading, one foot was hesitantly planted in Christianity, and the other held in agnostic limbo, pointed toward atheism. His ideas did give me pause and I appreciate his approach, it is certainly a kinder more liberal outlook than the Christianity I was used to. A subversive Jesus is the kind of Jesus I can dig. I even went as far as to listen to and watch a number of Mr. Cavey's sermons.
Ultimately, I did give up faith and superstition and the religions that go with them. My husband remains Christian, exposure to a different way of looking at scripture has helped him have a more relaxed view.
December 27, 2008
A book that cuts through the rough history of Christianity and the organized establishments that have built up around Jesus, who, Cavey argues, actually came to break down the walls of religion. The irony is bittersweet but Cavey writes a most refreshing book that moves the focus to the teachings of Christ himself and not the establishments built up around him.
January 24, 2018
Deep, Jesus centric and grace based all as well as a very well researched, biblically accurate history lesson.
Defiantly recommend this book to all those looking for a deeper understanding of what Jesus was, did and how He changed heaven and earth forever for everyone!
Defiantly recommend this book to all those looking for a deeper understanding of what Jesus was, did and how He changed heaven and earth forever for everyone!
January 31, 2023
I begin by noting that disagreed with a great deal of the author’s conclusions. I think he uses semantics and diverse unfamiliar translations to validate his bolder, less traditional points.
So why the 4-star rating? Even though I disagree with his conclusions, he makes his points in an accessible way that I think is executed well. He centers faith on/in Christ- even as he has little time for any religious trappings. I think some of this is due to his use of terms like “religion,” “faith,” “church,” and so on. He freely admits that people define these concepts very differently through time and setting, but then grapples with some of the most common ways that people use/misuse(?) these terms in relationship to the message of Jesus.
Although I did not end up in the same place overall, the book did provoke/promote thought in a way that was helpful and caused me to think out some of my own assumptions.
So why the 4-star rating? Even though I disagree with his conclusions, he makes his points in an accessible way that I think is executed well. He centers faith on/in Christ- even as he has little time for any religious trappings. I think some of this is due to his use of terms like “religion,” “faith,” “church,” and so on. He freely admits that people define these concepts very differently through time and setting, but then grapples with some of the most common ways that people use/misuse(?) these terms in relationship to the message of Jesus.
Although I did not end up in the same place overall, the book did provoke/promote thought in a way that was helpful and caused me to think out some of my own assumptions.
August 29, 2021
I liked this. I liked much of it. I hadn’t thought of how irreligious much of the gospels are. I walked away feeling tense about HOW irreligious the book was, though. Like maybe he was soft on sin? I think the church needs more voices like Bruxy but I wouldn’t want this to be an overcorrection. Even the fundamentalists say we need Jesus more than religion. I guess I still need help applying this book.
April 15, 2021
Thorough, thought-provoking examination of the difference between religion and following Jesus.
June 24, 2023
becomes a bit repetitive towards the end, but overall, it's pretty interesting
August 21, 2025
“Our world is full of people on a quest for ultimate reality- truth seekers who are moving toward spirituality as quickly as they are moving away from religion.”
April 18, 2013
Religion has different meanings for each of us. Some good, some bad. In this read we are given a description of religion which is taken from the book-Religion uses rules to force our steps, guilt to keep us in line and rituals to remind us of our failure to live up to those rules. By this definition, people tend to refer to an established sytems of belief about ultimate reality and the institutions that maintain them. I would have to agree to a point, but is it a bad thing. It can be, however, it can be a good thing as well. God is not a God of chaos and what is described above can avoid chaos. The bad thing is we can be so caught up in the "religion" that we are not free to love others and not deal with the issues of our heart. What is Christianity? According to Cavey, it is not assent to our belief in tenets of truth and then he goes on to say it is being in the participation in the activity of the Being of the one who is Truth. This statement is confusion. When we grasp the truth of the gospel and the amazing Grace of what Jesus did on the cross, the "activity" will come from a heart full of the grace which we have received.
Another claim of Cavey is that Religion killed Christ. I think a more direct truth is that I killed Christ, you killed Christ. He goes on to say yes, the bible says that Jesus died for our sins, but it also says he died for our religion...What Cavey should have said that our religion is self. We can make Christianity about ourselves. The gospel is about Him and His glory. Cavey does not mention the gospel until the very end of the book and it lacking of depth of Christ.
Another claim of Cavey ...As we have already seen, Jesus treated the Torah as God's word, but not God's final word. Intead, Jesus acted like his own teaching, and even his own teaching, and even his very life was God's ultimate message to humanity. I would have to agree however, I think this statement leads to confusion. The book of Revelation is not mentioned in this book which I find surprising since Christ wrote a letter to 7 churches about overcoming. Also not consistent with Cavey claim is not to add to the word of God and to take away. And of course, not mentioned was Christ's temptation with Satan. Where Satan tempted Jesus with the word of God-using half truth's and Jesus used the word to battle. Just like with Adam and Eve, Satan used questions Did God say, and Jesus 2000 years ago and today is saying IT IS WRITTEN.
Cavey had some good words but with some good words, it was not complete.
Another claim of Cavey is that Religion killed Christ. I think a more direct truth is that I killed Christ, you killed Christ. He goes on to say yes, the bible says that Jesus died for our sins, but it also says he died for our religion...What Cavey should have said that our religion is self. We can make Christianity about ourselves. The gospel is about Him and His glory. Cavey does not mention the gospel until the very end of the book and it lacking of depth of Christ.
Another claim of Cavey ...As we have already seen, Jesus treated the Torah as God's word, but not God's final word. Intead, Jesus acted like his own teaching, and even his own teaching, and even his very life was God's ultimate message to humanity. I would have to agree however, I think this statement leads to confusion. The book of Revelation is not mentioned in this book which I find surprising since Christ wrote a letter to 7 churches about overcoming. Also not consistent with Cavey claim is not to add to the word of God and to take away. And of course, not mentioned was Christ's temptation with Satan. Where Satan tempted Jesus with the word of God-using half truth's and Jesus used the word to battle. Just like with Adam and Eve, Satan used questions Did God say, and Jesus 2000 years ago and today is saying IT IS WRITTEN.
Cavey had some good words but with some good words, it was not complete.
August 28, 2022
Good. Not sure what happened to him in his personal life. Good info based on scripture.
March 24, 2015
I debated between giving 3 or 4 stars. I chose 3. While there are some great points made, he seems to really put down or judge a lot of people who do things differently than he does. yes I hate religion and the rules and I agree with his points made against it. But he almost seems to have something against Christians in general. like other churches not like his are based on religion and not Jesus. That Christians in general follow religion vs Jesus. I don't agree with that. While I do agree that some churches are terribly legalistic and focused on religion and are a big reason why people hate Christians, there are a lot of churches who are focused on Christ rather than religion. Sometimes I get the feeling he has some sort of chip on his shoulder or something.
chapter 17 kind of got to me as well. It is called love instead of law. While he does make good points yet again, he also basically says if you truly love the other person in a relationship that you will do everything out of love and will know how to treat the other person. That you don't need to discuss what love looks like and you don't need to set rules. why do I disagree? Because love is shown and felt in different ways by different people. something you may see as loving isn't seen the same way by the other person. His example of knowing that you should call if you are late bc that is what you do when you love someone isn't quite right. You can love someone and be clueless about that sort of thing. I don't condone not calling if you are late but it does happen. It doesn't mean you don't love them. Certain things do need to be discussed. People don't have arguments because they don't love each other. Arguments can happen out of misunderstandings. Misunderstandings happen when you don't talk or discuss. I could continue here but will stop. Maybe I am reading into it too far but just an example of something I struggled with.
chapter 17 kind of got to me as well. It is called love instead of law. While he does make good points yet again, he also basically says if you truly love the other person in a relationship that you will do everything out of love and will know how to treat the other person. That you don't need to discuss what love looks like and you don't need to set rules. why do I disagree? Because love is shown and felt in different ways by different people. something you may see as loving isn't seen the same way by the other person. His example of knowing that you should call if you are late bc that is what you do when you love someone isn't quite right. You can love someone and be clueless about that sort of thing. I don't condone not calling if you are late but it does happen. It doesn't mean you don't love them. Certain things do need to be discussed. People don't have arguments because they don't love each other. Arguments can happen out of misunderstandings. Misunderstandings happen when you don't talk or discuss. I could continue here but will stop. Maybe I am reading into it too far but just an example of something I struggled with.
July 20, 2011
Bruxy Cavey offers us a tour de force with this engaging discussion of the subversive and scandalous nature of Jesus. It is an excellent book for anyone to read and to be challenged by our human tendency to be more in love with our rules than the reasons why we created the rules in the first place. Cavey is biblically accurate and writes so that he is easy to understand, but remains deeply challenging. You will need to have a bible or at least the internet open while reading this book. Cavey uses scripture as the basis for his arguments against religion, but is also simultaneously able to engage a reader who is not of Christian background.
Without ruining the book with spoilers I will stick to this: Bruxy Cavey states that instead of having "organized religion" we should instead be striving for "organized irreligion" with Jesus being the center of our focus and our organization. The life and love of Jesus sums up the entire Bible.
Again, a very highly recommended read. I may have to read it again to pull out even more gems!
"The problem with organized religion is not that it is organized. The problem with organized religion is that it is religious - believing that its own set of rules, regulations, rituals and routines are the exclusive way to God." - Bruxy Cavey p.223
Without ruining the book with spoilers I will stick to this: Bruxy Cavey states that instead of having "organized religion" we should instead be striving for "organized irreligion" with Jesus being the center of our focus and our organization. The life and love of Jesus sums up the entire Bible.
Again, a very highly recommended read. I may have to read it again to pull out even more gems!
"The problem with organized religion is not that it is organized. The problem with organized religion is that it is religious - believing that its own set of rules, regulations, rituals and routines are the exclusive way to God." - Bruxy Cavey p.223
February 10, 2021
I greatly enjoyed reading Bruxy Cavey for the first time. This book was eye-opening for me. Cavey wants people to understand the irreligious agenda of Jesus. Through Jesus, God shows humanity the importance of relationship over religion (in Bruxy's definition of the word), love over law.
Probably my favorite quote (pg.98): "Rather than give us new rules, Jesus took the principles embedded within the rules and wrapped them in a human life. So the entire life of Jesus, his teachings and his example, become 'God's Word' to us. This is good news, because it is easier, or at least clearer, to follow an example of a person than to try to translate into living action a collection of commandments that have no context. Jesus called his followers to live by a higher standard, the way of love instead of the way of law (see Matthew 7:12). And to drive home his point, he had to break the rules over and over again."
This is an important book. However, I still have questions about his perspective on the local church body. What is the role of a local church? Also, what are the guidelines or boundaries for church membership (since he makes sure to emphasize the inclusivity of Christ's body)? How does he view evangelism? How does he view discipleship? I guess I'll have to read his next book...
Probably my favorite quote (pg.98): "Rather than give us new rules, Jesus took the principles embedded within the rules and wrapped them in a human life. So the entire life of Jesus, his teachings and his example, become 'God's Word' to us. This is good news, because it is easier, or at least clearer, to follow an example of a person than to try to translate into living action a collection of commandments that have no context. Jesus called his followers to live by a higher standard, the way of love instead of the way of law (see Matthew 7:12). And to drive home his point, he had to break the rules over and over again."
This is an important book. However, I still have questions about his perspective on the local church body. What is the role of a local church? Also, what are the guidelines or boundaries for church membership (since he makes sure to emphasize the inclusivity of Christ's body)? How does he view evangelism? How does he view discipleship? I guess I'll have to read his next book...
April 7, 2021
I tend to like stuff like this that pushes against religion, but I am wondering hese days if such categories are nuanced enough. I liked the book but suspect I will end up finding other stuff that makes me want to nuance its conclusions, its language. Can't figure out how to synthesize this stuff with stuff that points out how Jesus carries the Jewish tradition forward...still learning more from the enormous amounts of literature there. We'll see where all this stuff takes me...
March 30, 2011
Good Book, it made me think alittle. (Not alot though). I think most church-goers should read this, just for a healthy challenge.
I somehow think this book needs more. I'm not convinced its deep enough and deals with all the issues the modern church must overcome to get closer to God. But its a good first step.
April 2, 2008
one of the best book i read this year. a great fresh perspective admist all the other 'hip' and 'cool' and 'anti-establishment' perspectives which seem to be so popular right now.
December 29, 2008
This is a really excellent book if you want to discover the difference between faith and "going to church."
May 16, 2020
Before I read this book I did not know much about Bruxy Cavey except for his retro-wild hairstlyle and that he is Canadian and appeared quite trendy in progressive Christian circles. The title of the book then seems almost stereotypical by being subversive (oh yes, it’s in there…) and revolutionary (so we should like it…). One could think that Bruxy Cavey writes mainly against established Christianity (yes, he does that, too) and promotes a wishy-washy trendy spirituality…
Admittedly, the words he is using might appear like that but the content is not. His theology is solid (read the footnotes!) although not everyone will agree. His writing style, his illustrations and the whole reading experience is pleasant, he is funny and deep at the same time and one feels that it is not just hot air, but that his thoughts are backed by a pastors life caring for and loving his flock (also the extended one and the sceptics he is reaching through this book).
Two things stood out to me:
1. The core of what he promotes is that religion is a dead end and was never God’s intention. It was always about an intimate relationship between humanity and God (as with most authors he could have defined this relationship a more extensive). What Bruxy promotes is not mainly anti-religious, but pro-relationship – a relationship revolution! Obviously, we love this since it is our declared focus and the reason for this website.
2. While the title, his language and the overall impression might give the impression of an extreme or lopsided approach, the opposite is the case. Bruxy is very balanced (again, read the footnotes!). For example he even has a place for “religion” and rituals – simply relationally redefined.
Conclusion: A profound yet easy read with explosive potential!
Check out my blog for this review and more: https://www.relavution.net/review-the...
Admittedly, the words he is using might appear like that but the content is not. His theology is solid (read the footnotes!) although not everyone will agree. His writing style, his illustrations and the whole reading experience is pleasant, he is funny and deep at the same time and one feels that it is not just hot air, but that his thoughts are backed by a pastors life caring for and loving his flock (also the extended one and the sceptics he is reaching through this book).
Two things stood out to me:
1. The core of what he promotes is that religion is a dead end and was never God’s intention. It was always about an intimate relationship between humanity and God (as with most authors he could have defined this relationship a more extensive). What Bruxy promotes is not mainly anti-religious, but pro-relationship – a relationship revolution! Obviously, we love this since it is our declared focus and the reason for this website.
2. While the title, his language and the overall impression might give the impression of an extreme or lopsided approach, the opposite is the case. Bruxy is very balanced (again, read the footnotes!). For example he even has a place for “religion” and rituals – simply relationally redefined.
Conclusion: A profound yet easy read with explosive potential!
Check out my blog for this review and more: https://www.relavution.net/review-the...
September 30, 2020
I debated for a long time over whether to start or end with my criticism and finally decided I'd do both.
Likes: Bruxy Cavey is passionate about wanting people to catch a fire-breathing dragon of a relationship with Jesus. He's also a great communicator.
Dislikes: The title and every reference in the book towards it. It should have been the end of (legalistic or idolatrous) religion. The argument is draining at best and condescending at the worst. Lastly, the rhetoric of religion he tries to redeem near the end of the book falls flat because of constant hammering. I know religion gets a bad wrap but if the practices you are describing look and quack like a duck of religion.... then it's a religion.
Putting it together: I get where he's heading and coming from. I'm of like mind and Cavey has some exquisite gems. One part in particular is the way we've been idolatrous and legalistic to our religious denomination to the point of strangling the gospel from those that desperately need to hear and see it lived out today. One need not look further than the way the so-called "orthodox" Methodist Christians have decimated The United Methodist Church. They spent several years creating district and dissension to win the fight for a more legalistic and constraining representation and then when their side won at General Conference decided it wasn't enough.
Recommended for anyone wanting to break away from the legalistic and idolatrous hold your denomination may or may not have on you and for anyone stuck in a tribal religious stronghold.
**This was a review copy provided of the updated version by NetGalley for an honest review**
Likes: Bruxy Cavey is passionate about wanting people to catch a fire-breathing dragon of a relationship with Jesus. He's also a great communicator.
Dislikes: The title and every reference in the book towards it. It should have been the end of (legalistic or idolatrous) religion. The argument is draining at best and condescending at the worst. Lastly, the rhetoric of religion he tries to redeem near the end of the book falls flat because of constant hammering. I know religion gets a bad wrap but if the practices you are describing look and quack like a duck of religion.... then it's a religion.
Putting it together: I get where he's heading and coming from. I'm of like mind and Cavey has some exquisite gems. One part in particular is the way we've been idolatrous and legalistic to our religious denomination to the point of strangling the gospel from those that desperately need to hear and see it lived out today. One need not look further than the way the so-called "orthodox" Methodist Christians have decimated The United Methodist Church. They spent several years creating district and dissension to win the fight for a more legalistic and constraining representation and then when their side won at General Conference decided it wasn't enough.
Recommended for anyone wanting to break away from the legalistic and idolatrous hold your denomination may or may not have on you and for anyone stuck in a tribal religious stronghold.
**This was a review copy provided of the updated version by NetGalley for an honest review**
October 19, 2023
“We condemn and kill while God loves and forgives” Religion means different things for everyone. So many people are hurt from religion but they blame Jesus, but they don't realize it's the religion and not Jesus. Lots of people blame the church but yet the church is a changed place. Churches are turning away from the fundamentals of the good news and changing it into “just for show”. The Church is supposed to be a hospital for sinners. “Come as you are '' but they don't really want that. If they really did every church would be filled for we are all sinners. When Jesus was crucified on the cross religion died with him. Jesus died to show us love, save us from sin, set up God's kingdom, and shut down religion.
This book was eye-opening for me. He gives truth from scripture and how I should be living a life for Jesus and not my religion. Bruxy says some powerful words that make me say “wow” He goes on to say “I killed Christ, you killed Christ.” I am truly a sinner but in God's eyes I was worth dying for. This was the first of Bruxy Cavey's books I have read and it makes me sad about what has happened in his personal life. But this book I would say goes hand in hand with what happened. His book is easy to read but some parts I do have to disagree with because it doesn't have enough biblical and theological information to back it up. Overall I did like this book.
Those interested in learning the theological background and facts about their faith would love to read this book. Readers who have lost the love for Christ because of something in the church this is a good book that would open your eyes.
This book was eye-opening for me. He gives truth from scripture and how I should be living a life for Jesus and not my religion. Bruxy says some powerful words that make me say “wow” He goes on to say “I killed Christ, you killed Christ.” I am truly a sinner but in God's eyes I was worth dying for. This was the first of Bruxy Cavey's books I have read and it makes me sad about what has happened in his personal life. But this book I would say goes hand in hand with what happened. His book is easy to read but some parts I do have to disagree with because it doesn't have enough biblical and theological information to back it up. Overall I did like this book.
Those interested in learning the theological background and facts about their faith would love to read this book. Readers who have lost the love for Christ because of something in the church this is a good book that would open your eyes.
September 12, 2022
I think this would be really helpful for new believers and those interested in exploring Christianity. It’s pretty much Christianity 101.
“End of Religion” covers a lot of information, but doesn’t go into a lot of depth. It’s broad rather than deep, which again I think would be great for someone wanting to know what following Jesus is all about. Although I didn’t often disagree with the author, I didn’t find it personally very helpful. At times I felt like the book was trying to do too much—addressing the Torah, why Jesus died, the resurrection, heaven, pacifism, the trinity, the purpose of the Bible… so much in one book.
And then this quote near the end:
“I have so many books on my bookshelf that I’ve never finished. You too? At some point I drop out, feeling that I got the gist of the author’s aim and I’m ready to move onto something else. This is especially true for large books, like this one. If you’ve made it this far in this book, you are my hero.” Page 347 😄😄😄
It’s funny the author would include this, because I totally felt that was about this book 😬 About halfway through I was like, “Okay, I got the idea” and was ready to be done. However, I’m a chronic book finisher and so I made it to the end. Not bad. Just looonnnngg. (And it seems like the author knew, so I appreciate the self-awareness 😆)
“End of Religion” covers a lot of information, but doesn’t go into a lot of depth. It’s broad rather than deep, which again I think would be great for someone wanting to know what following Jesus is all about. Although I didn’t often disagree with the author, I didn’t find it personally very helpful. At times I felt like the book was trying to do too much—addressing the Torah, why Jesus died, the resurrection, heaven, pacifism, the trinity, the purpose of the Bible… so much in one book.
And then this quote near the end:
“I have so many books on my bookshelf that I’ve never finished. You too? At some point I drop out, feeling that I got the gist of the author’s aim and I’m ready to move onto something else. This is especially true for large books, like this one. If you’ve made it this far in this book, you are my hero.” Page 347 😄😄😄
It’s funny the author would include this, because I totally felt that was about this book 😬 About halfway through I was like, “Okay, I got the idea” and was ready to be done. However, I’m a chronic book finisher and so I made it to the end. Not bad. Just looonnnngg. (And it seems like the author knew, so I appreciate the self-awareness 😆)
November 18, 2020
To quote the author in the beginning of his book, “Jesus says he came to help not those who think they’ve got it all together, but the rest of us who know we don’t. That’s good news. And if we really want to understand how his subversive spirituality gets worked out in the real world, Jesus tells us where to go and look. To the religious leaders who repeatedly misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misapplied their own Scriptures, Jesus gave them the key to see it differently: Go and learn what this means, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” If you want to understand my subversive spirituality, says Jesus, go back into the Bible and focus on figuring out the meaning of this one verse, the verse Jesus quotes as part of his answer: Hosea 6:6.
And towards the end of the book, the author writes “The final chapters of the Bible describe where God is leading the world—back to the garden, to a world where religious rituals and institutions are noticeably absent.”
And this is the just of this book. Proving that it’s not about religious perception and practices that count, it’s the relationship between God and His people.
I received an advance copy of this book through #Netgalley, but my review is of my own volition.
And towards the end of the book, the author writes “The final chapters of the Bible describe where God is leading the world—back to the garden, to a world where religious rituals and institutions are noticeably absent.”
And this is the just of this book. Proving that it’s not about religious perception and practices that count, it’s the relationship between God and His people.
I received an advance copy of this book through #Netgalley, but my review is of my own volition.
May 26, 2021
No false advertising; Bruxy Cavey writes what he means by “The End of Religion.” Well resourced and thoughtfully put together, TEoR gives a wonderfully creative and deeply (and I mean deep) rooted basis in Scripture. The blessed wonder that is Jesus, he isn’t complicated to follow, and what is required to be his follower? Love. It isn’t a life focused on any work or means of effort on anybody’s part. Just a life that loves like he loved. Neighbourly, other-serving, life-light love.
Honestly, I had concerns that much of the topics Cavey was taking us into was a repeat from other authors. It is fair to say that he must cover ground in apologetics and theological framework to take us where we’re ready to hear what needs to be heard - man, that’s downright biblical!
My concerns melted away as I felt concern and love oozing from the pages of TEoR. These feelings were sincere towards the reader and reflects Casey’s genuine love for Christ.
I say that with respect and my attempt at assessing this book; I don’t know Bruxy personally. The effort in writing, his honouring others for their contributions, and his deliberate direction to the majesty and truth of Jesus Christ gives me cause to believe that the book comes from love. Life-giving, Jesus love.
Thanks Bruxy.
Honestly, I had concerns that much of the topics Cavey was taking us into was a repeat from other authors. It is fair to say that he must cover ground in apologetics and theological framework to take us where we’re ready to hear what needs to be heard - man, that’s downright biblical!
My concerns melted away as I felt concern and love oozing from the pages of TEoR. These feelings were sincere towards the reader and reflects Casey’s genuine love for Christ.
I say that with respect and my attempt at assessing this book; I don’t know Bruxy personally. The effort in writing, his honouring others for their contributions, and his deliberate direction to the majesty and truth of Jesus Christ gives me cause to believe that the book comes from love. Life-giving, Jesus love.
Thanks Bruxy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2022
4.5 Stars!
I wish more preaching would go in depth into cultural relevance and context of certain scriptures and stories like this book did. The cultural context adds so much relevant knowledge into who Jesus was and what he was trying to accomplish when you look at the scandal he created within religious practices and religious leaders. The book challenged me in the best ways as someone who is immersed in religion every week.
I can't say enough good things so here are some of my favorite quotes from the book that might just draw you in to want to read more...
"Anyone who holds too tightly to his or her religious preconceptions will sooner or later become offended at Jesus."
"The real problem Christians need to face is not the exaggerated criticism of secular people, but the mind-blowing extend of the church's failure to follow Jesus."
"Like any message, when we lift Jesus' teachings out of their context, we can make Jesus say almost anything we like, rather than what he intended. If we want to understand what that message is, we need to acknowledge that it was not said in a vacuum. If following Jesus is our goal, it will radically change how we read, interpret, and apply the Bible."
I wish more preaching would go in depth into cultural relevance and context of certain scriptures and stories like this book did. The cultural context adds so much relevant knowledge into who Jesus was and what he was trying to accomplish when you look at the scandal he created within religious practices and religious leaders. The book challenged me in the best ways as someone who is immersed in religion every week.
I can't say enough good things so here are some of my favorite quotes from the book that might just draw you in to want to read more...
"Anyone who holds too tightly to his or her religious preconceptions will sooner or later become offended at Jesus."
"The real problem Christians need to face is not the exaggerated criticism of secular people, but the mind-blowing extend of the church's failure to follow Jesus."
"Like any message, when we lift Jesus' teachings out of their context, we can make Jesus say almost anything we like, rather than what he intended. If we want to understand what that message is, we need to acknowledge that it was not said in a vacuum. If following Jesus is our goal, it will radically change how we read, interpret, and apply the Bible."
February 21, 2021
Overall I found myself reading this book and agreeing with so much of what was written because I’ve experienced some of it in ministry.
He writes in a way that is super easy to read (although the extended revised version is long) and at times is a little casual and flippant but I appreciate that’s just his style. I think he gives a very good critique of the abhorrent parts of Church history but at times may not acknowledge the helpful and transformative parts.
I think what drew me to rate it highly was his overall premise that faith is more than dry doctrines that become puffed up head knowledge. Faith is a dynamic, always moving, every reforming movement of people called to be radical followers of Christ. If we’re honest for most of us that’s not the experience of our faith and personally I’m longing for more.
I want books that will challenge me, cause me to reflect and at times reconsider. I want books that I don’t always agree with, but cause me to delve deeper into relationship with Christ. This book does those things.
The Pharisees would’ve hated this book (as will the modern day equivalent) but that’s ok- they hated Jesus too.
He writes in a way that is super easy to read (although the extended revised version is long) and at times is a little casual and flippant but I appreciate that’s just his style. I think he gives a very good critique of the abhorrent parts of Church history but at times may not acknowledge the helpful and transformative parts.
I think what drew me to rate it highly was his overall premise that faith is more than dry doctrines that become puffed up head knowledge. Faith is a dynamic, always moving, every reforming movement of people called to be radical followers of Christ. If we’re honest for most of us that’s not the experience of our faith and personally I’m longing for more.
I want books that will challenge me, cause me to reflect and at times reconsider. I want books that I don’t always agree with, but cause me to delve deeper into relationship with Christ. This book does those things.
The Pharisees would’ve hated this book (as will the modern day equivalent) but that’s ok- they hated Jesus too.
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