The Evolution of Faith: How God Is Creating a Better Christianity – A Kind and Provocative Guide for Living, Flexible Personal Christianity

by Philip Gulley

"No one raises provocative questions about Christianity more kindly than Philip Gulley. " --Diana Butler Bass, author of "Christianity for the Rest of Us"

"Every serious Christian ought to read this book, ponder it, wrestle with it, but above all, be grateful for its presence in today's urgent conversation about what we are and are becoming as a people of God." --Phyllis Tickle, author of" The Great Emergence"

Renowned Quaker minister Philip Gulley, bestselling author of "If the Church Were Christian," delivers a practical, insightful guide to developing a living, flexible, personal Christianity--a faith that allows you to confront the profound challenges facing every believer in today's difficult world.

Genres: Religion, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Theology, Christianity, Faith, Christian

224 pages, Paperback

First published June 7, 2011

About the author

Philip Gulley has become the voice of small-town American life. Along with writing Front Porch Tales, Hometown Tales, and For Everything a Season, Gulley is the author of the Harmony series of novels, as well as If Grace Is True and If God Is Love, which are coauthored with James Mulholland.

He hosts "Porch Talk with Phil Gulley" on the Indiana PBS affiliate WFYI television's flagship show Across Indiana.

Gulley lives in Indiana with his wife, Joan, and their sons, Spencer and Sam—in a rambling old house with Gulley’s eclectic chair collection (64 at last count) and a welcoming back porch.

Gulley is also the Pastor at Fairfield Friends Meeting House in Camby, Indiana. If you find yourself in Camby, you're invited to attend a sermon.

Reviews

[David Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Post read Update: As we Quaker's say -- This Friend speaks to my condition.

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Anxious to read this from Phil. He's a Quaker paster (some would say that's an oxymoron) and an author of If Grace Is True: Why God Will Save Every Person and the Harmony series. In an excerpt of this he asked; "How a book that has been altered numerous times over the decades can now be viewed as God's unchanging truth is a mystery to me." (He is talking about the Quaker book "Faith and Practice" but it could also easily apply to many "Holy Books," I think.) Agree or disagree with Phil, he will always raise provocative questions for folks who consider themselves "Christians" or followers of Christ.

[Cindy Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you know, that you know, that you know that what you believe is absolute truth and that Christianity has not changed one iota since it's inception....well, this would either piss you off, scare you to death, rock your world, or maybe say what you've been thinking for a very, very long time....Gulley has been one of my favorite authors for about a decade now and he never lets me down...enjoy...and "stay thirsty my friends"....:)

[Elyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely could not have loved this book more! Every page had some sort of idea or tidbit of information that would just floor me, and that I totally agreed with. I really identify with Gully's views on religion, and Christianity today. I myself consider myself spiritual because I don't believe or follow everything that the Christian religion practices or believes today. I felt validated that Gulley touched on this issue, and I didn't feel alone that I am the only one that feels this way. Gulley feels that people identify themselves as being spiritual because they don't believe everyone is born a sinner, because "God" in his view is a loving being who wants people to start out as being good human beings. I would say this is why I consider myself spiritual as well.

He also refers to God as "she" rather than "he," which I appreciated because I (and Gulley) see God as a higher power with no designation of "he" or "she," but he used "she" because it is not commonly used. I could easily read this book over again because I think you could catch more and be able to interpret and better understand his words. It is rare that I find a person who shares practically the same religious views as me. It is great to read this and feel like I belong somewhere since I live in an area where I feel like I don't belong religiously. I think every person should read this book, no matter their religion. Gulley is a huge proponent of all religions coming together and making the world a better place, rather that butting heads and going against each other. How can you not agree with that?

[Stacy Wilhoit DeCoste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philip Gulley is a Quaker minister and author of a gentle reads series set in Harmony, Indiana. When he is not writing fiction, he is tackling topics of faith, love, heaven and hell. In The Evolution of Faith, Gulley offers his personal growth experiences and understanding of how God works in us and through us to better our world for others. Regardless of religious belief or denomination, regardless of what name we call our God, we are all God's people. We have the power within ourselves to show mercy, to show kindness and to show love towards each other. Gulley says,"If we cannot see God in all, we cannot see God at all."

[H. Givens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book came just at the right time. It provides a window into an optimistic faith, even if yours will look different and have different beliefs. It shows that different coherent and workable beliefs really do exist. I don’t know enough about the Quakers to say for sure, but perhaps it’s that Quaker background that gives Gulley such an emphasis on community and sharing what he calls the Divine Presence (nothing like “sharing the gospel.”) There’s a strong idea that god loves everyone equally. A lot of churches will say that, but I’ve never seen one believe it like this -- they’re too busy trying to simultaneously hold the beliefs that god is omnipotent and that god hates all of us so much that he’d kill us if Jesus didn’t stop him. It took me a while to figure out why Gulley’s belief that god loves everyone equally sounded so odd, because seriously everyone says that, but Gulley really believes it. He says toward the end, “For if there is a heaven, but it is only for us, that would surely be hell.” I think I see where he’s coming from. Another quote I love: “It is, of this I am convinced, impossible to think too generously of God.”

[Marty Solomon · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the things I love about reading more liberal authors (which Gulley most certainly is) is that they have this ability to be so truly honest about the spiritual journey and the realities therein. This honesty give them freedom to probe questions that others may not feel comfortable asking and therefore allows them to encounter perspectives that I find incredibly valuable to my own.

This is what I love about Gulley's book here. While I dont share his tendency to lean away from the Story rather than into it, I do love his fresh perspective that brings life into dusty, old conversations. I thought his chapter on prayer was one of the most honest, thought-provoking, and therefore relevant pieces I've read on that topic.

I also enjoyed his perspective of how dangerous it is to hold dogmatic positions with such unbendable fervor that we ostracize others with a destructive worldview.

All that being said, I think this is a very thought-provoking read that is refreshing in it's honesty.

[Zane Akers · Rating 2 out of 5]

A book by a Quaker pastor that basically espouses Enlightenment-era Deism mixed with some Unitarianism. Gulley, while he clearly knows the Scriptures well, puts little value on them in this book, quoting them only a few times in among his midwesterny anecdotes and generally viewing "revelation" as a bad, war-starting kind of thing. He also insists on the essential impotence of deity in the world and the futility of most kinds of prayer, so much so that I found the title and subtitle to be disingenuous: if God is unable to do anything, how is he creating a better Christianity? Logically, he can't be. Furthermore, he gives no reason for his optimism that a big-tent, non-dogmatic Christianity will join forces with similarly progressive faith movements to counter the cruel but immensely popular fundamentalist strain of American Christianity.
The book is folksy, if you like that sort of thing, conscientiously organized and generally well written, but I just disagreed with and disliked its central message that I had to give it a lower rating.

[Kittykate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thought provoking and accessible. You don't need a background in theology to appreciate this book. I agree with many of Gulley's ideas and disagree with others, but I am glad to have read The Evolution of Faith.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though a big part of me wants to insist I'm done with organized religion and I feel suspicious of most things promoted as Christian, it seems I continue to be drawn in by such titles as this.

I found the book helpful as I continue to move further and further from traditional Christianity. Many of Gulley's insights resonate with me and some of his writing brought clarity to unarticulated leanings. He does a great job addressing the major tenets of faith, expanding each one into an inclusive and universalist perspective. Jesus is one of many God-bearers, e.g. He deconstructs (I think that's an appropriate term here) the atonement theory and orginal sin. He talks about the ways prayer changes. He upholds the value of community and humanity's inherent goodness.

He is more optimistic than I am about the future of the church in embracing and valuing the Jesus-types of all religions. He seems to think the larger Christian church is evolving in that direction.

[NancyL Luckey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philip Gulley is such a gentle soul. I'd love to sit and talk with him. I'm going to have to really do some thinking and possibly rereading of this book before it becomes as good to me as his others. As Phyllis Tickle said on the back of the jacket "Whether you agree with all of Philip Gulley's theology - and in several places I don't - there is no question about the fact that he has defined her more clearly than perhaps any other contemporary commentator the current truth about the church." He does make you think.

[Sharon Neufer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very readable book for the average layperson in the church (or out of it). Gulley weaves into it lots of examples from his own experience as he helps the reader see how his faith has evolved over the years and how older ideas of God, Jesus, and the Christian faith are no longer meaningful to large numbers of people in modern society. However, he believes that a new Christianity is possible and that it can help bring about a much better world. He does all this in his usual humorous style that is able to get right to the heart of the matter.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like Bill and Ted, Gulley's religious philosophy is "be excellent to each other." And I enjoy that. I'm left wondering, however, what he actually believes. He seems to dismiss most conventional Christian dogma -- particularly about salvation. I'm not sure what use he gets from the Bible. At several points in the book I thought, "Why doesn't he just accept that he's an atheist?" That said -- I liked his anecdotes and personal remembrances, and his notion of God does appeal to me. I'll be thinking about this one for a while.

[Dave Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Phillip Gulley. Always have. To me, this book is the next logical step in his last few books If God is Love and If Grace is True, I would describe it as a kinder gentler and much more folksy "Why Christianity Must Change or Die" by Bishop John Shelby Spong which was written about 15 years ago. That book caused a bit of controversy, mostly from people who didn't actually read it. The same may be true about a book like this with such a provocative title and cover but I do hope folks will give it a chance.

[Tasiyagnunpa · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I'm not swallowing every bit of his constructs, I do know I hold room for much of what he's writing. As a Lakota Christian, I especially appreciate his realization of God's witness across the earth. I tossed this book as I finished reading to my 14-year-old as he prepares for confirmation in the Episcopal Church. The Quaker understandings are important for our ecumenical understandings and for us to become a prophetic voice to preach love in a world of formulaic prayers in Evangelical American Christianity.

[Joey Dye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I read it in 2 days, but there is much food for thought that will last me for days. Gulley gives voice to many strands of belief coming from the progressive wing of the Christian family. Its refreshing to read a book and not feel like you're the only one who thinks a certain way or believes a certain thing. I definitely recommend this book.

[Sarah Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful message presented in a straightforward, unpretentious manner. From the closing chapter: "God is creating a better Christianity. God is doing it right now, through people just like you, who refuse to worship a cultural deity whose compassion extends no further than the horizon..." To that, I can say a hearty "Amen!"

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. It spoke to a lot of what I'm struggling with as a Christian right now and it made me feel better knowing I'm not the only one struggling and it made be good that I'm struggling.

Need to buy it and re-read it to get everything, I think. It's a tough read (to really grasp all of it... it's an easy read but in-depth)

[Jen]

If Philip Gulley were a minister in Houston, despite my lack of faith, I would be in his congregation every Sunday. He espouses the closest thing to a belief system I could claim. I loved If Grace Is True and If God Is Love so very much as well. I can't understand why more faiths can't embrace his loving, inclusive theology.

[Chris Unterreiner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Gulley's books and count more than one among my all time favorites. He always has something to say that makes me think differently, and deeper, about my spirituality. I took too long reading this book and probably will have to go back and read it in less time to get the most out of it.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been a fan of Philip Gulley for many years now so I expected to enjoy this book and I did. I don't always agree with everything he says, but for the most part I do. If you are a progressive thinker and lean toward universalism, you'll like this book. If not, you probably won't.

[Tenille Shade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, Phillip Gully delivers a book that resonates with my spiritual journey. I appreciate his candor and willingness to speak truth that defies tradition.

[Kathleen Wells · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book, written by a Quaker pastor. Although I don't share in all his conclusions, his questions are questions that all serious Christians ask in the course of their lives.

[Marianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a refreshing way of looking at the Christian faith. This book should be required reading in theology schools.

[Emmanuelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gulley says a lot of things that I have thought and felt ... I wish that every Christian would read this. Inspiring ...

[Linda · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sad.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Tackled meaty issues of religion and spirituality in an understandable, thought-provoking way. Wish I would have read it much earlier in my faith journey.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully optimistic description of a changing faith. Lots of historical perspectives. Offers the reader to use an open minded, critical view in examining their beliefs.

[Tim Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Merton is reputed to have said 'If the you of five years ago doesn't consider the you of today a heretic, you are not growing spiritually.' Well, I guess five years ago I'd have found what Philip Gulley has to say a little too progressive to my taste, but not now. I loved this book and I'm so glad I read it. With humour and honesty he carefully tackles issues facing those of us who are daring to think critically about the content and the practice of our faith. For me personally I found the chapter on prayer the most helpful, but each of us is on our own particular faith journey so by all means pick the chapter that spoke more directly to you. Without disparaging the beliefs of more fundamentalist or conservative Christians, Gulley offers an open-minded and inclusive approach to (Christian) faith that I have found liberating, encouraging and inspiring. In many ways he echoes some of what e.g Marcus Borg have been saying for years, but I have found Gulley's way of writing to so much more practical and pastoral, oriented to the general enquirer than an academic theologian - although as a theologically educated minister I was not in any way disappointed by the clarity of his argument and the evidence used to support it. In fact it was a breath of fresh air. Through this work and his 'If the Church were Christian' we are being encouraged to look more towards the practical outworking of religion instead of the doctrinal content, to embrace truth from sources outside of the narrow confines of the past, to show love to all people without qualification, and to face up to the faults and failings of our own (often much loved) traditions with honesty.

[Greg Schloesser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently discovered author Philip Gulley's writings and have become addicted. His spiritual journey from a Catholic upbringing to a fundamentalist, evangelical view of Christianity and on to a more Progressive, wider understanding of God and Jesus is essentially the same path I have trodden ... and continue to walk. As a result, I can relate to his journey, his questions, his doubts and, in most cases, his conclusions (although even conclusions can change!).

The Evolution of Faith speaks both to the individual faith journey, as well as the overall church's evolution ... or lack thereof. He discusses such topics as the Holy Spirit, Jesus and Jesus-types, Suffering and Evil, Prayer and so much more. He discusses this in language that anyone can understand, and offers personal stories that provide greater impact on the topic he is discussing. It is truly amazing and encouraging when you find someone whose journey is so similar to one's own.

If you have doubts and questions about what you have been taught and want to explore beyond the fundamentalist dogma, Gulley is an excellent place to begin and continue your journey.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book on Progressive Christianity. Having too often experienced the frustration of trying to find well-written statements by other authors which I want to cite in my own writing, I have become more diligent about marking them as I read. This book would require a bookmark on every page!
That said, anyone who already believes they have the correct beliefs, practices, or only path to heaven will be offended by this book. I would recommend it to them when their narrowly defined system fails them and they wonder if God or their faith failed. There is much comfort to be found in this book for the reader open to, or desperately in need of, new ways to look at ancient scriptures and practices, themselves, and what it means to be fully human in the twenty-first century.
I will be reading more by Philip Gulley!