The Insanity of Unbelief: A Journalist's Journey from Belief to Skepticism to Deep Faith

by Max Davis

How Science and the Supernatural Changed My Life

“One day one of my professors asked me if it was true that I was a Bible-believing Christian. When I answered yes, his polite, upbeat attitude instantly turned rude and arrogant. In front of my peers, he insulted my intelligence, belittled my faith, and discredited the Bible. To him there was absolutely no doubt that science and academia had shown the pure ‘insanity of such belief,’” writes author Max Davis. Written from his journalistic point of view, The Insanity of Unbelief is a result of the author’s 30-year walk from childlike belief, to skepticism, and finally deep, secure faith. The contents are based on his expert and thorough research of solid facts versus what many atheists, agnostics, and even some believers tout. Different from other apologetic books is the addition of true, documented, supernatural experiences and miracles making a compelling—and exciting—argument for the reality and power of God!

Genres: Christian, Religion, Spirituality, Faith, Ebooks, Amazon, Nonfiction

250 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 16, 2012

Reviews

[Carol Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderfully written exploration of the path to vibrant "real" faith

I've long said that it takes more "faith" to disregard the evidence for God than to accept that "He is who He says He is". A terrific read, akin to Lee Stroebel's "The Case for------" series. All delve into the many questions & arguments about the existence in God, with impressive details on instances where it's really hard to doubt His intervention in human lives. I enjoy reading these types of books as they provoke a lot of thought about why I believe & prepare me to answer some of those tough questions for unbelievers or those asking questions. Straightforward & honest, taking on some tough issues. Definitely worth the read!

[Keith Gandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful book! Grab a copy, a pen and paper and be blessed. These are wonderful and powerful arguments that provide convincing arguments for a loving God who pours out his affection on us through his Son, Jesus Christ. Truly a remarkable experience for me.

[Sandra Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting and thoughtfully presented book that speaks of faith in God and insecurities and miracles. I especially loved the chapters that gave stories of miracles that the author had witnessed. The author speaks truthfully and openly about his feelings and doubts, but also his deep love for Jesus and God, saying, "God is absolutely real to me and is the core reason for my existence." I feel the same way and so the things that he writes strike a chord in my heart. I was blessed by this book.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book demonstrating that unbelief in God truly is insanity

[Jeammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can you be a believer and a skeptic at the same time? As a skeptic myself who do not trust easily to any information given at hand, this is really helpful in solidifying my faith in God. This book talks about numerous evidences about the credibility of the Bible and the existence of God. For instance, the Bible is the most historically accurate document than any other ancient texts (e.g. Homer's Iliad) having over 10,000 ancient manuscripts. More copies means that there are more references to compare and confirm the accuracy and consistency of the text. Additionally, archeological artifacts which are non-biblical sources supported the scriptures. King David's dynasty was proven to be true when they found a basalt stone with an inscription of the House of David. Other significant discoveries include the stele of Mesha (proved the existence of King Omri), Sargon's Palace (King of Syria indicated in Isaiah 20:1), and Belshazzar Cylinders (Belshazzar being the King of Babylon during the time of Daniel).

Scientific knowledge, in one way or another, has been stated in the Bible long before it was even discovered. I love how the author (Max Davis) quoted Sir Isaac Newton: No sciences are better attested to than the science of the Bible . For example, as lately as 1993, Noah's Ark was examined by Dr. Seon Hong based on the three main needs of modern cargo vessels - stability, comfort, and strength. Different hydrodynamic tests were conducted and it was confirmed that it was impossible to make the boat unstable. This claim was also supported by the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. If the dimensions were slightly altered, then the performance of the boat will change drastically making it unstable, prone to rupture, or uncomfortable. How did Noah knew all engineering and applied mechanics to come up with the said dimensions? Only a supernatural encounter that is greater than all of us can design this boat in that crucial time. It really amazes me how scientific knowledge discovered today was already applied thousands of years ago. Other statements in the Bible that is scientifically proven nowadays include the weight of the air which was already stated in Job 28:24-26 long before Toricelli discovered the barometric pressure. Originally, it was believed that air was weightless. Only after Toricelli devised a mercury barometer wherein the weight of the air pushed the mercury inside a column to rise did the people knew that air has weight.

My conclusion? I think it is better to believe that somebody smarter than all of us inspired the Bible and preserved it exceptionally well, than to say that it was fabricated 4000 years ago by people with no scientific knowledge whatsoever. God is real and Jesus proved it by fulfilling more than 100 prophecies. According to the book, the probability of fulfilling about eight of these prophecies is already nearly impossible - 1 in 10 to the 17th power as stated by Prof. Peter Stoner, a statistician.

Highly recommend this book to anyone. Literally anyone. This is not only for religious people but also to those that are doubtful and eager to learn facts vs. fiction.

[gloria.pagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly Recommend!
For anyone who is battling with doubts on their faith in Christ or wants to be better equipped to defend their faith...i HIGHLY recommend this book.This is one the best books I have ever read on the subject. Max Davis explains it in a way that's easy to understand and apply to conversations we may have with family or friends. He also goes into detail on the reliability of the Bible, the claims that Jesus is who He says He is, etc... This is the first book I have read from the author but it won't be my last.

[Dave Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Great Debate

This is a term well over used, but this really is the greatest of debates. For those that believe in GOD and HIS son plus the HOLY SPIRIT this simply argues very powerfully what we believe, but if you are a unbeliever this will test your resolve and test your arguments. A great book in my opinion Max, thanks

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough about this book. Everyone should read it. It would make a nice gift for non-believers.

[Michael K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting book to read. While many around you will taunt you over your religious beliefs, challenge you, cajole you, even denigrate you...all the while they act as though they are the tollerant one. The irony kills me each and every time that stuff like this happens. I get into "spirited debates" quite often online. Most of those same people will not say anything to your face, but online they are completely different people where there is a safety barrier that protects them. I am an unapologetic Christian, I let people know what I stand for and what I believe, but I also let them know at the same time I am human and I screw up quite often. Does every Christian act Christian enough? NO! All of us can do better, but the thing that we must do is to read, study, learn, and study some more so that we know what we believe and why also we must learn to defend our Christian position with love and meekness. This book is that same trek that each and every one of us needs to walk. It is a start on that path to a better understanding. A good book to read!

[Ron W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Max Davis does a good job at providing various apologetics for the Christian faith and its truth claims. Covering reason, the philosophical, and existential, Davis details true accounts of miracles as well as historical events to point towards the truth of the Gospel, and the divinity of Christ. I found, however, that at some points, Davis waffles a bit and you find a few times saying "OK, I get it" to yourself. I do feel the book could have been perhaps a little shorter. Maybe 50 to 100 pages. Nevertheless, it's a great text to get you through a lazy afternoon or a long train / bus / boat / plane ride. If you are truly seeking verification as to whether the Bible is true or not, this is a great text to start that journey. As a Christian, I did find some parts did intrigue me (mainly the miracle healings) while already understanding most of the author's other topics.

[D'anah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changing, if you let it

A really well presented book of facts with irrefutable evidence and corroboration of the Word of God being true. Anyone who truly wants to know the truth would find this book useful and convicting. It is very readable and interesting. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in the truth. Enjoyed every minute of it.

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book, but rehashes a lot of the same arguments as "I Don't have enough faith to be an atheist" and "The Case for Christ" with just new personal stories. Something different could have made this book great. If you haven't read those books, then maybe given this one a chance.

[ms k temple · Rating 5 out of 5]

To read is to believe

I would recommend this book to everyone not just those that are unbelievers or fence sitters. I am a believer myself and found the title grabbed me. After going through a difficult situation, this book has challenged me with truth.

[Lucette N Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great History Lesson on God and His Promises

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It taught me a great deal about how God works and how incredibly patient he is. He will carry out his words in his time, not mine!

[Sonja Seeber · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. A MUST READ. This is probably the most important book out there if one is wondering.....after reading this one knows the BIBLE and it's "stories" are true, that this is real. Author backs this all up with scientific DATA!!!

[Dennis Thiessen · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good science based facts. particularly liked the part about the speed of light!

[Wayne Pelren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

An excellent work with just the right balance of scriptural teaching and indisputable testimonies of how God still does miracles today.

[Karen Caires · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read. Very interesting the way scripture was related to science and history.

[Mike Crafton]

Wonderful and powerful read!

This book is a clear and powerful presentation of the evidence for belief in Jesus the Son of God and Savior of all who trust themselves to Him.

[Matthew Angle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was truly and inspiration. Max David writes with a true desire to show how completely insane it is to not believe in God. It is a quick read with a lot of insight.

[Alan · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're on the journey

This, in my opinion, is an ideal book for anyone still on a seekers journey. An easy, well written book just waiting to be read.

[Harrison Staab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most compelling are medical miracles, documented in careful detail, that defy natural explanation.

[Frits Bax · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book to rebuke unbelief. Yet his book has more than enough with “hundreds” of concrete sold facts.
The only. Conclusion is TO BELIEVE IN JESUS.!

[Lisa Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

thought provoking

Invaluable resource
Gave me opportunity to stop and really reflect on some issues
I wish there wasn’t a word count requirement on these things

[Heidi Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good ideas and insights but the writing is awkward.

[Cassie Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes I need to be reminded of all the evidence of God to combat the insanity of unbelief. This book is a journalist’s collection of various proofs that helped to bring him to Christ from a place of skepticism. The different chapters explore different questions that many people have if they seriously look into Christianity. From talking about the supernatural origin of the Bible to asking if miracles still happen, Davis offers the answers he’s collected during his own journey and put them together for others. If you’re struggling to hold onto your faith because of questions about miracles, the spiritual enemies we have, or even something like When was God born’, this book is one I have to recommend.

[Anne M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book cannot be read in a hurry, you really have to think about what the author is saying.
Max Davis a practicing Christian when at university was demoralised on front of other students by one of the professors. He was belittled for his faith in God on front of them all. Later the same professor spoke to Max alone, admitting he didn't have all the answers. This taught the young Max something, always question, listen to the other person, but challenge and research.
Max calls himself a skeptic although he is a devout Christian. However he questions everything. On his chapter about miracles, he visits the person who has been cured, looks at their medical records, speaks to doctors, before admitting that yes this was a miracle. He questions why his own son is blind despite so many prayers for a cure. He tells of the many scientists and people knowledgeable in all walks of life who believe in God. He reads of their reasons for believing that there is a God despite science which in many cases actually proves the case for God. There is so much in this book that if you have any interest in God or Christianity or are just curious, it is a must read.

[Emily Howitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is definitely an emphasis on facts in this book. I know that "facts" is a relative word when dealing with things such as belief in God, but Max really does try to get as many facts as he can from the people he interviews. I also like that he included quotes from people in different fields, both present and past, about their belief. If you're already a believer, I think this book will definitely strengthen your faith. And if you're not a believer, I'd like to know how you'd respond to some of the things Max talks about. Either way, I'd recommend this book to anyone who was curious about God.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Max's background in journalism helps him write a compelling, looking-at-the facts kind of book about his journey from skepticism to faith, helping the reader confront many of his or her own doubts head on. Different from many apologetic books, he spends a lot of time investigating the supernatural a Christian yet journalistic standpoint. Very fun.

[Lee Button · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the book contains more quotes than most apologetics books and traces Davis' journey to faith it is just another apologetics book. I was not moved by the author's attempt to demonstrate that remarkable (he calls them miraculous) healings prove the existence of God.