Right Thinking in a World Gone Wrong: A Biblical Response to Today's Most Controversial Issues

by John F. MacArthur Jr. (Editor)

Today's culture has a powerful influence on the way people think and act. How can Christians know what to believe...or not believe? This book will equip believers with scriptural guidelines for viewing today's controversies and concerns through God's eyes.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Christian Living, Nonfiction, Christianity, Faith, Cultural

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2009

About the author

John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

Reviews

[Shauna · Rating 1 out of 5]

There is nothing new here and the writing is dry. If you have read your Bible and/or attend a Bible centered church, you have as much knowledge as this book will impart. Save yourself the time.

[Debbie Wentworth Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Right Thinking in a World Gone Wrong helps believers analyze how they should look at controversial issues, such as the environment, abortion, suffering. poverty, sex, and other issues, from a scriptural perspective. So many churches have lost their mooring that Christians can become confused between right and wrong. MacArthur and other pastors from Grace Community Church tie the issues back to their biblical foundations.

I found the book helpful and thought-provoking mostly. One chapter raised my ire on a minor issue that has bothered me since I was a kid. The writer was doing a good job dealing with suffering. Then he lost me when he referred to Job's "nagging wife." Why not Job's devastated wife, Job's grieving wife, Job's distraught wife? The pastors I've heard preach on the issue don't realize that two people are hit by the great calamity--Job and his wife. We get two reactions to tragedy. One reaction is that of Job's because he took his responsibilities before God more spiritually than anyone else in the world at the time. Job's wife did not. When the tragedy occurred, Job clung to God, but his wife was overwhelmed. The cattle and sheep and camels provided her financial security too. She carried those children who died in her womb, felt their hiccups, labored in birthing them, nursed them at her breasts, cheered on their efforts to walk, watched with joy and pride as they matured. Then they were gone. All of them. In one day. How would these preachers think their wives would respond to the deaths of all their children in one day? If that wasn't enough, Job appeared to be dying before her eyes. He was in horrible pain from sores over his body, and she could do nothing to relieve his suffering. Nothing. (Been there, done that, no fun.) Her future is to be one of the widowed beggars like those Job contributed to unless an extended family member takes her in. Did she respond right when she told Job to curse God and die? No. Of course not. But who would most of us respond like--Job or his wife? When preachers and writers dismiss her as a "nagging wife, " they are not seeing the human reaction that most of us would have--shock, grief, and being totally overwhelmed. If they don't see it, how can they minister to it? How can they help us build a Job-like spirit in preparation for the disasters we face in life?

Done with raving. I've got it out of my system for the first time in 50 years. So there.

However, the book was good, helpful, thought-provoking, and upbeat, mostly. The authors included a scriptural reference guide at the end. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to others, though I might rave about that one chapter.

[Pamela Poole · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The simplest Christian knows a lot of things that many scholarly unbelievers do not know (Psalm 119:99)." This is a good quote to summarize the theme of Right Thinking in a World Gone Wrong, found on page 11 in this book's Introduction. Readers who look up the verse referenced in scripture will find this truth: "I have more insight than all my teachers because Your decrees are my meditation." HCSB.

MacArthur and other contributing pastors to this book point out the painfully obvious -most people, even Christians in churches, look to psychology and sociology for their morality, ethics, and questions, rather than the pages of the Bible. They use fault-free labels for sin and look to failed formulas in self-help books to find the peace and prosperity they feel they deserve. The authors give examples to show how an unbiblical tolerance of right and wrong, veiled in the name of love, has left churches and their members soft on truth and sin. God's word is no longer viewed as the final source of truth about God, creation, life, death, men, women, children, families, friends, and enemies. (2 Peter 1:3, John 8:31-32).

I picked up Right Thinking in a World Gone Wrong in my church's library to find some encouragement about my own personal weariness in doing good (Galations 6:9) and keeping my mind set on things above (Colossians 3:2). Many Christians will know what it's like to struggle against the spiritual warfare that happens when we stand firm on scripture in our daily walk while people around us label us as "judgmental." The book did not disappoint me in that goal, for it backs up every view or claim with scripture to affirm that God's word is timeless and universal for real life.

Most readers who pick up this book will find conviction within its pages, as I did, but they will also find encouragement. A Christian ethic is only possible with the transforming power of the Holy Spirit within a believer, and that believer will eagerly desire to learn and follow God's word. In that regard, this book will be best enjoyed by those who have an open heart to think from a Biblical worldview instead of the opinions of society. They must also prepare themselves to pay a cost for their faith - and to reap the blessings!

The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is that because technology and other worldly trappings have morphed in our culture since it was published in 2009, a book of this type could be updated with helpful topics that today's generations could relate well to.

[Ben Zajdel]

John MacArthur's latest book tries to answer some of the most controversial and engaging questions that Christians are asking today. MacArthur isn't the only author of this book. It's more of a compilation of essays by MacArthur and his leadership team, which includes Rich Holland, Nathan Busenitz, and Jonathan Rourke. Some of the chapters aren't written specifically by one author; they are adapted from staff discussions.

The topics covered in this book are diverse, and it seems as if the Grace Community team left no stone unturned. Some of the issues discussed include homosexuality, internet dating, video games, celebrity, divorce, birth control, in vitro fertilization, capital punishment, environmentalism, suffering, and many more. Each chapter is written by a different author, who usually specializes in the topic covered. The writing is concise and organized, but never very lively. If you want doctrine, Biblical quotation, and clear-cut answers, this book is for you.

I was unhappy, however, with their treatment of certain issues, or rather their lack of treatment. Abortion is discussed, but cases of rape, mental and physical handicaps aren't mentioned at all. I'm assuming that because of their pro-life stance that they articulate clearly, they didn't feel the need to include those subjects. But I feel that in a book of this genre, every inch of the issue should be covered, and the author's omission of critical questions and information severely undermines the book's overall theme.

MacArthur and his team use the Bible as their authority, and though I don't agree with some of their interpretations, they are consistent. This is a thoughtful read that will help many Christians who are unsure of God's perspective on certain topics.

[Ezechel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've read half of it and I don't think I'm gonna finish it, so I might as well write a few review words before I forget about it.
Look, I grew up in the evangelical community, so most of this stuff is regular traditional moral norms for someone like me. Nothing new, nothing deep, nothing surprising. Just a (very dry) exposition of the expected fare.
Except too many times those ideas deviate into unjustified prejudice: out of step with the Bible, with the cultural reality, and even bizarre at times. If a heterosexual young guy in the church is "effeminate" he needs to be counseled by the church on how to be more masculine. Huh? If a lady who was a lesbian for many years joins the church but never married a man and now wants to be involved in a women's Bible study, she most likely is just engaging in predatory behavior. Huh? Capital punishment is apparently clearly sanctioned by the Bible so it's not something to debate. Huh? Moreover, the reason we have moral corruption increasing in this country is because we are not consistently applying capital punishment where it's warranted. Yeah...
So after a few of these head scratchers I kinda gave up on the book.
I guess it's a good opportunity for one to see the moral compass of Grace Community Church and the worldview of its pastor team... I mean, if one is really curious about that stuff. I have better things to read. Not sure they really understand what that "grace" in the title is all about (and I know that as a calvinist church they think they understand grace better than most, but it's still ironic).

[Annalisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent source, because it isn't just good advice; its principles are saturated with Scripture. It is easy to read, which would make it an excellent source for teens. This is the type of literature that youth groups should be studying in addition to plain Biblical exegesis. Buy a copy, read it, and pass it on.

[Rod Innis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book. It is edited by Dr. MacArthur and most chapters are written by pastors and staff of Grace Community Church. It deals with many issues that face Christians today and give Biblical responses. Most people won't need every chapter but there may be issues that each of us needs to see what the Bible says about the subject.

[Andy Febrico Bintoro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe these are controversial topics, but not contemporary topics.

[Sverre · Rating 2 out of 5]

==God has control??!!==
Here is a detailed guide for American conservative, fundamentalist, evangelical Christians about how to conduct themselves in every conceivable personal and social situation. To the authors' credit they have meticulously referenced all advice and directives with Scriptural backing. This is serious stuff. The amount of good and useful advice offered by the team of authors is considerable but some of it will not rest easy with biblical nonliteralists. There is hardly any room for ambiguity, or humour for that matter. There is a useful topical reference guide, with scripture references, in the appendix.

From a theological and doctrinal liberal, or even centrist standpoint--and definitely from an atheistic one--this book can represent the scary, immovable fanatical side of Christianity. These authors are people who leave no room for metaphorical, symbolic or allegorical interpretations of the Bible. So, this book can be a refuge for the insecure seeker. To the writers every word in the Bible is indisputably the WORD of God, as if dictated verbatim from on High. Theological legalism (i.e. the acceptance or rejection of personal conduct in terms of adherence to precise doctrinal laws) is abjured by the authors but reading this book could suggest otherwise. Many would call its tone oppressively legalistic. And, their assertion is that the Word of God trumps any scientific or academic evidence to the contrary.

There is a passivity about how or whether we choose to act. Here is the conviction that leaders and governments are put in place by God and their laws must be followed. Hence even tyrannical regimes [Mao's, Stalin's and Hitler's come to mind] must be obeyed. Seemingly the democratic process is not essential because the results are foreordained. Concerning saving the planet from man's ecological destructiveness, it ultimately does not much matter because the earth's fate is apocalyptic. Its destruction is preordained. Free will may also seem redundant when God is proclaimed to be in total control of all, everyone and everything at all times. These are themes that for some may raise the spectre of "God the puppeteer."

"The earth we inhabit is not a permanent planet. It is, frankly, a disposable planet--it is going to have a very short life....(it) was created 10,000 years ago, and its end may be very close at hand. When God's purposes for it are fulfilled, He will destroy it with fire..." p. 148
"...we would necessarily reject any conservationist position that opposes population growth, gives a higher priority to environmental concerns than to the well-being of human beings, unduly restricts the cultivation of the earth for food, or mandates a vegetarian diet." p. 153
"God did not completely destroy the earth with the Flood, but there will be an ultimate destruction in the Creator's plan in which everything sin has contaminated will be consumed." P. 218

[Anna-Kate Bailey · Rating 1 out of 5]

Honestly one of the worst books I’ve read in college. Very outdated, hard read because of MacArthur’s biases

[Andrew Neveils · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite being about 11 years old, it’s still relevant and applicable. Throughout each chapter/topic is a constant reiteration of the importance of the gospel above all else — a message that will never get old.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid. This is a greatly needed resource that deals with all sorts of issues that Christians have probably not done enough to engage, such as media consumption, environmental issues, capital punishment, and euthanasia. The book is a collaboration of John MacArthur and the other leaders at his church, which means that some chapters are written by one of them in particular and others are written as a collective statement. The chapter on homosexuality by John Street is worth the whole book, but many other chapters are quite valuable too (especially the chapters on life issues and the chapter on the environment).

However, one downside is that the authors of the book basically take a position regarding politics that I think can be fairly described as "hands off." They say that in relationship to the government, the main thing a Christian is to do is to submit unless commanded to do something that Christians are specifically commanded against in Scripture. This means, according to the authors, that Christians are not to take part in protests or pursue political activism. The book at points even seems to imply that advocacy for specific governmental policies is out of line, although thankfully it does this inconsistently (see the aforementioned important chapter advocating the use of the death penalty). While it is true that Christians are to submit to their governing authorities, the Bible has a lot more to say about politics and governmental than just that. I knew going into this that MacArthur would disagree with me about the application of Old Testament case law, but I was honestly surprised by how small the place is for Christians to influence public policy outlined by the book authors. Given MacArthur's very public stands about some of these issues (including clashes with specific government officials), I am inclined to believe that some of the stronger statements in the book are just poorly written or thought through, rather than serious attempts to get Christian influence out of politics.

With all that said, the emphasis given to trusting God is valuable, as it can be so easy to think it is all up to us to change the world. Additionally, MacArthur points out that it is a command to pray for our leaders whether we like them or not, so we would not only be foolish, but disobedient servants not to do so. All of the rest of the book is great. Would recommend.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Bible is an ancient book and has no significance in today's society."

This is a statement of an average person who may or may not be acquainted with biblical Christianity. They think that the Bible is one of those books that has no significance in the modern world. To them I can recommend this book.

This book, produced by the elders of Grace Community Church, offers a sound biblical response to the most controversial issues that Christians inevitably will encounter. From video-games and online dating to contraceptions and even immigration issues, what we thought to be "gray areas", the Bible can offer guidelines as to how we can glorify God and live as true Christians amid these affairs of the modern world.

What is even better is that this is not just a cold, running commentary on issues and relating it to various passages on your Bible. This book also provides a pastoral perspective to show how pastors can apply it on their local congregation, and individual Christians to their daily walk.

Personally, I am excited to study more about this and teach it to my fellow believers.

[Chase Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful compilations of articles and writings on various biblical topics from controversial, political, moral, ethical, and theodicy subjects.

Parts of particular interest to me was the topic of IVF/surrogacy, an intensely practical theological question that addresses how modern medicine and the will of God collide and how to work through that. Also, the issue of theodicy and how to deal with this question was done very well. MacArthur states there are three ways to deal with the sovereignty of God, the goodness of God, and the reality of evil; 1. Emotionally, 2. Philosophically, 3. Theologically. The first two are deemed as insufficient and ultimately unsatisfactory in their answers and lead to a consideration of theology, especially in the doctrine of God and the deadness of man.

Highly recommend this book with prayerful consideration of its contents.

[Vadim Pasnicenco · Rating 4 out of 5]

review written by ChatGPT:
-the book provides a thoughtful exploration of contemporary issues through a biblical lens. MacArthur emphasizes the book's core message that every life matters, highlighting the inherent value and dignity of each individual as rooted in biblical principles. However, readers may find the book's stance on the death penalty to be a point of contention, as MacArthur argues in favor of its moral permissibility. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the author's overall argument, engaging readers in a thought-provoking examination of ethical considerations within a biblical framework.

[Ari Damoulakis · Rating 1 out of 5]

When I heard that this bastard had finally died, I felt really happy and had a gloriously wonderful bottle of expensive importedginger beer to celebrate.
This book, like him and many of his books were harmful and unfortunately his writings and sermons live on.
He was an intolerant master of sophistry and hate.
If reincarnation exists, coming back as a lovely animal would be too good for him.
He can be the new MLK by reincarnated to a place where modern slavery is still practiced.
Or a woman who has to stay in the kitchen.
Don’t worry, we’ll put lovely photos of Beth Moore all around for you Johnny.

https://youtu.be/gW15FoAdp2g?si=4aqYR...

[Jacob Sabin · Rating 3 out of 5]

While John MacArthur is the headliner, there are a number of contributions from the different pastors at the church. Some are more engaging than others, but as a whole, the book reads a little on the dryer side. To be fair, the book would be more helpful to some than me (as far as giving answers they might not know). The book could be helpful extremely helpful to some in that regard. I do appreciate all the advice is taken with a Biblical approach. It has a helpful section of Scripture references in the back. It certainly has value, I was just hoping for more from it.

[Edy Gies · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this on the recommendation of a pastor friend. The pastors who serve under John MacArthur wrote this collectively and he compiled and edited it. It was good although John MacArthur seems to have violated his own beliefs in the chapter on Christians in politics in this last election cycle. I appreciate the desire of the writers to stay very close to the Bible and connect all their viewpoints to it.

[Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a bit outdated because there are many different issues we are dealing with in the world today than there was at the time this was written. I was saying "Amen!" to a lot of what was said but not so much to other things. Macarthur's pessimistic eschatology and "just preach the Gospel" message always drives me a bit crazy. I thought what was said about things like social justice, abortion, euthanasia, and other areas were excellent.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Macarthur takes on some of the most popular ethical and moral issues of our days, offering his perspective on the reasons why things came about and how to overcome them Biblically. Per usual, Macarthur approaches every answer with a handful of scripture. And also per usual, Macarthur swings and misses on some pretty straightforward issues. There was more good than bad so I rounded to three stars.

[Monte Hickingbottom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid biblical truths we’ve all come to expect from MacArthur. I was a bit disappointed that a good portion of this book was just taken from Grace Community Churches position papers, and not written by the author. He does give credit to each staff member that was responsible for each paper, though.

[Tilak Sinha-Gröger · Rating 1 out of 5]

Curious how every value in vogue with contemporary conservative American culture is "Biblical." Includes powerful teachings of Jesus such as counselling boys to not be too feminine, working hard for your boss is a duty, and that environmentalism is idolatry.
One star just for the occasional anti consumerist message: broken clocks.

[Rodney Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

MacArthur provides solid Biblical teaching on a variety of topics. Others have complained that it is old hat, but I would suggest that in today’s church world we need a solid guide that lays out what we believe. This book does that without too much deviation into disputable doctrines for which MacArthur is sometimes known.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This covered many topics that are meaningful for this day in age but for some reason I just felt like it fell flat in most of the areas. It's either because I already agreed with the authors or that it just didn't go deep enough. Still a good read and not academic or out of reach for the everyday believer.

[Adrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

FAN-TAST-IC! Such a relevant book today and it makes clear so many gray issues. I loved the section on homosexuality because it has helped me reach out to a friend of mine who struggles with this issue. Highly, highly recommended!

[M.L.S. Weech · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like having an official list of views on a lot of issues. I like that the fact that love, respect, and (most importantly) the desire to spread the Gospel so that all may be saved is the primary goal, and Biblical doctrine is the source of each view.
Full review to appear on my website in time.

[Karina Dulin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful to have wise, cogent thinkers write through the difficult issues of our day in ways that help us explicate the danger zones and apply biblical truth practically. One to revisit again and again.

[Kelly Fauver · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read. Helpful in navigating how Christian’s can think about relevant issues by using scripture and not just opinions. I am always thankful for the wisdom that comes from Grace Community Church.

[Tom Roldan · Rating 5 out of 5]

MacArthur is an inspiration to me

John MacArthur is a Godly man, I have read several of his books. I enjoy reading his boos, because his logic is based solely on scrioture. God bless you Pastor MacArthur.

[Juan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that gives a firm foundation on what a follower of Jesus should consider when facing some gray areas of our modern life.