The Supernatural Worldview is a book of Christian apologetics from an apocalyptic perspective. Many supernatural and paranormal phenomena are examined with biblical discernment and some of the usual evangelical answers are found wanting. Even so, cautiousness is encouraged and an ominous trumpet sounded in light of prophetic predictions.
As America follows the world into a post-Christian era (or slides into the Great Apostasy, for those with an eye on Bible prophecy), we are not, contrary to the wishes of neo-atheists such as Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris, becoming a "rational", atheistic culture, but transforming into one based on New Age and pagan beliefs.
The purpose of The Supernatural Worldview is to offer evidence for the existence of the supernatural realm and to demonstrate that even the scientific and academic communities are beginning to acknowledge it. Christians should be aware of this worldview shift and prepared to offer our friends, colleagues, and family members appropriate and accurate guidance on how to process a supernatural worldview based on the Guidebook to the Supernatural -- the Bible.
An interesting thesis, but the attempt to confine the definition of "daimon" to--"spirits of dead men"--is an exercise in crass reductionism. Putnam surveys a world of references and conveniently ignores all definitions unsuited to his own purposes. Readers would do better to consult Kittel for serious study. Even so, it is an interesting read, though his writing lapses into affectation--he seems to take on the tone of a 19th century Brit, lecturing to his Explorers'Club--you can almost see his gloves and bowler hat. It can be embarrassing to read at times. Despite these shortcomings, he makes an interesting case for reconsidering the basic nature of demons. This is a fair read for Christians who are a little "too" into spiritual warfare lingo and for those who have accepted--lock, stock and barrel--the over-elaborated mythologies of Cristian dualism. NOT for serious study.
You will be stretched, challenged, and even convicted. I highly recommend this what I believe will prove the crowning achievement of the late Cris Putnam's life work.
I shelved the drivel called a book where it belongs...
In the garbage can.*
Holy Moly this book is problematic and has a lot of grammatical issues as well as general scientific issues. I mostly got this book a while ago when I was still brainwashed into believing in the "truth" of Christianity.
It's BS btw.
I also find the supernatural and the paranormal to be absolutely fascinating, but that's another topic for another day. Cris Putnam acts like a Karen every other page, hiding under his lie that he's being objective and that he isn't discrediting other people's experiences. This is a huge issue and I hope he no longer has a book contract.
Horrible book. Do not recommend.
*The real reason why I threw the book away instead of donating is because a while ago there was a water spill I never noticed and it ruined the bottom of the book. Best be safe and throw the book away. Wasn't expecting the content of the book to be problematic in the beginning!
Putnam did a great service in addressing this long-neglected topics from a Christian perspective. Even though I only picked up this book after completing my own forthcoming volume did I realize how much our reasoning and conclusions overlap (though with some substantial differences as well). Putnam's early death is a shame, as such creative thinkers are sorely in need in this age of spiritual wonderment.
Some makes a lot of sense other parts, questionable. One of the interviews towards the end I found particularly odd. My advice would be to read it with a very open mind to reach (or help drive) toward your own conclusions
This book was well documented with lots of footnotes. I really liked that the author did not feel the need to have an answer for everything. I also like the fact that he also interviews other people who have different ideas than him. This book is based on the Bible and I like how the author gives the verses that address the various topics. When the Bible really isn't clear on a topic he presents many views as well as his own and lets the reader decide. I really like this style of writing. This book talked about a lot of things that Christians just don't talk about, ghosts, near death experiences, etc... and does not dismiss these as all being rubbish or works of the devil.
Cris Putnam never leaves a stone unturned. His research is always thorough and thoroughly explained. I love his work but you can't rush through it. It must be savored.
For anyone who's read the Bible and understood it knows that it is a highly supernatural source. We were created by the supernatural. Only those who have believed the lies would un-believe these powers. If you read it, think and digest slowly.
Chris has done an awesome job on writing this book . Is packed full of information . Everyone should read this book because it will change your life for the better.