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A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What It Means to Follow Jesus Today
BONNIE KRISTIAN shows that a vibrant diversity within Christian orthodoxy-which is simply to say a range of different ways to faithfully follow Jesus-is a strength of our faith, not a weakness.
It is all too easy to fail to grasp the diversity of the Christian faith-especially for those who have grown up in one branch of the church and never explored another. We fail to realize how many ways there are to follow Jesus, convinced that our own tradition is the one Christian alternative to nonbelief.
A FLEXIBLE FAITH is written for the convinced and confused believer alike. It is a readable exploration of the lively theological diversity that stretches back through church history and across the spectrum of Christianity today. It is an easy introduction to how Christians have historically answered key questions about what it means to follow Jesus. Chapters will include 17 big theological questions and answers; profiles of relevant figures in church history; discussion questions; single-page Q&As-profiles of more unusual types of Christians (e.g., a Catholic nun or a member of an Amish community); and a guide to major Christian denominations today.
As Bonnie shares her wrestlings with core issues-such as who Jesus is, what place the Church has in our lives, how to disagree yet remain within a community, and how to love the Bible for what it actually is-she teaches us how to walk courageously through our own tough questions.
Following Jesus is big and it is something that individual believers, movements, and denominations have expressed in uncountably different ways over the centuries. In the process of helping us sort things out, Bonnie shows us how to be comfortable with diversity in the Body. And as we learn to hold questions in one hand and answers in the other, we will discover new depths of faith that will remain secure even through the storms of life.
It is all too easy to fail to grasp the diversity of the Christian faith-especially for those who have grown up in one branch of the church and never explored another. We fail to realize how many ways there are to follow Jesus, convinced that our own tradition is the one Christian alternative to nonbelief.
A FLEXIBLE FAITH is written for the convinced and confused believer alike. It is a readable exploration of the lively theological diversity that stretches back through church history and across the spectrum of Christianity today. It is an easy introduction to how Christians have historically answered key questions about what it means to follow Jesus. Chapters will include 17 big theological questions and answers; profiles of relevant figures in church history; discussion questions; single-page Q&As-profiles of more unusual types of Christians (e.g., a Catholic nun or a member of an Amish community); and a guide to major Christian denominations today.
As Bonnie shares her wrestlings with core issues-such as who Jesus is, what place the Church has in our lives, how to disagree yet remain within a community, and how to love the Bible for what it actually is-she teaches us how to walk courageously through our own tough questions.
Following Jesus is big and it is something that individual believers, movements, and denominations have expressed in uncountably different ways over the centuries. In the process of helping us sort things out, Bonnie shows us how to be comfortable with diversity in the Body. And as we learn to hold questions in one hand and answers in the other, we will discover new depths of faith that will remain secure even through the storms of life.
272 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2018
51 people are currently reading
720 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie Kristian
3 books38 followersBonnie Kristian (MA, Bethel Seminary) is a seasoned journalist who writes on religion, foreign policy, technology, criminal justice, civil liberties, electoral politics, and more.
She is the author of Untrustworthy: The Knowledge Crisis Breaking Our Brains, Polluting Our Politics, and Corrupting Christian Community( Oct. 11, 2022) and A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What It Means to Follow Jesus Today (2018).
Bonnie's column, "The Lesser Kingdom," appears in print and online at Christianity Today, and she is a fellow at Defense Priorities, a foreign policy think tank. Her work has also been featured in other outlets, including The New York Times, The Week, USA Today, CNN, Politico, and Reason.
Bonnie lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and twin sons.
She is the author of Untrustworthy: The Knowledge Crisis Breaking Our Brains, Polluting Our Politics, and Corrupting Christian Community( Oct. 11, 2022) and A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What It Means to Follow Jesus Today (2018).
Bonnie's column, "The Lesser Kingdom," appears in print and online at Christianity Today, and she is a fellow at Defense Priorities, a foreign policy think tank. Her work has also been featured in other outlets, including The New York Times, The Week, USA Today, CNN, Politico, and Reason.
Bonnie lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and twin sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 30, 2018
All too often faith is presented as a black and white endeavor where there is little to no wiggle room. Questions are discouraged. Too much pressure on any belief, idea, or tenant is viewed as heresy (at least in my religious experiences). As a result, many people tend to either dig in and become as hard nosed as those before them or they fall away because they’re left with questions and wounds.
In her book, Bonnie Kristian presents readers with the reality that all aspects of faith are not rigid, fixed points, rather many have a variety of interpretations and beliefs that all have validity—that faith is big and strong enough to be flexible.
The strength of this book comes from her thoughtful discussions of the main beliefs covering a wide variety of topics, as she helps others to see through new lenses and understand often overwhelming subjects. In addition to these discussions, Kristian includes brief interviews with people from different faith traditions. In these, readers can see similarities in belief while also seeing what differences exist and how those differences are still rooted in the Bible and faith. I especially appreciate the lists of further resources to learn more about each of the highlighted faith traditions.
As someone who has always asked questions (and almost always been shut down), and as the mother of a child with lots of questions in a fairly stiff faith setting, I am grateful for the hard work of this book. Kristian provides readers with a practical, informative, easy-to-access guide to the faith topics that so many hold dear. My favorite part, though, is that her work here helps readers give themselves permission to ask questions and be assured that God is big enough to handle them.
In her book, Bonnie Kristian presents readers with the reality that all aspects of faith are not rigid, fixed points, rather many have a variety of interpretations and beliefs that all have validity—that faith is big and strong enough to be flexible.
The strength of this book comes from her thoughtful discussions of the main beliefs covering a wide variety of topics, as she helps others to see through new lenses and understand often overwhelming subjects. In addition to these discussions, Kristian includes brief interviews with people from different faith traditions. In these, readers can see similarities in belief while also seeing what differences exist and how those differences are still rooted in the Bible and faith. I especially appreciate the lists of further resources to learn more about each of the highlighted faith traditions.
As someone who has always asked questions (and almost always been shut down), and as the mother of a child with lots of questions in a fairly stiff faith setting, I am grateful for the hard work of this book. Kristian provides readers with a practical, informative, easy-to-access guide to the faith topics that so many hold dear. My favorite part, though, is that her work here helps readers give themselves permission to ask questions and be assured that God is big enough to handle them.
May 20, 2018
This is a great overview of the width and breadth of orthodoxy. Useful for the person struggling to find their place in the faith and useful as a reminder that just because someone disagrees with you doesn't mean they're a heretic!
Seriously, this is a great overview to the varied and various perspectives within Christianity on a wide range of issues.
Seriously, this is a great overview to the varied and various perspectives within Christianity on a wide range of issues.
May 7, 2021
I'm so glad this book exists.
I grew up in a very exclusive Christian tradition in which it was contrary to church doctrine to pray alongside members of any denomination other than our own. While the church acknowledged that adherents to those alternative traditions were *probably* going to heaven, too, I recall very explicit expressions that *our* synod really was the fairest of them all. I imagine this sort of denominational pride - for lack of a better term - exists to at least some degree in virtually every tradition. However, the theological snobbery I witnessed (and, unfortunately, internalized) served to bolster the idea that to question doctrine and consider alternative understandings was unnecessary, dangerous, and even traitorous.
Enter "A Flexible Faith!" Bonnie Kristian does an outstanding job of presenting - in an enjoyable and readable format - the diversity of understanding across the Christian tradition concerning topics such as: Biblical interpretation, baptism, pacifism, and beliefs about the afterlife, among many others. Interspersed among her brief but informative reviews of each topic are interviews with Christians partaking in less commonly known faith traditions. Kristian's desire to foster an understanding and appreciation of the diversity in "the body of Christ" is refreshing.
Kristian also demonstrates an effort to give the viewpoints with which she disagrees a fair treatment. Only on occasion - when she imagines her bias may influence her portrayal of doctrine - does she share her personal beliefs on a topic.
The book does not read as an argument for any particular expression of Christian theology. Rather, Kristian invites the reader to draw his or her own conclusions. After all, Kristian reasons, would it not be a tragedy if one were to leave the faith because of the unfortunate belief that there is only one "Christian" way to interpret ideas over which theologians have wrestled for centuries?
"If there's a version of Christianity someone *can* accept," Kristian asks, "why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?"
I grew up in a very exclusive Christian tradition in which it was contrary to church doctrine to pray alongside members of any denomination other than our own. While the church acknowledged that adherents to those alternative traditions were *probably* going to heaven, too, I recall very explicit expressions that *our* synod really was the fairest of them all. I imagine this sort of denominational pride - for lack of a better term - exists to at least some degree in virtually every tradition. However, the theological snobbery I witnessed (and, unfortunately, internalized) served to bolster the idea that to question doctrine and consider alternative understandings was unnecessary, dangerous, and even traitorous.
Enter "A Flexible Faith!" Bonnie Kristian does an outstanding job of presenting - in an enjoyable and readable format - the diversity of understanding across the Christian tradition concerning topics such as: Biblical interpretation, baptism, pacifism, and beliefs about the afterlife, among many others. Interspersed among her brief but informative reviews of each topic are interviews with Christians partaking in less commonly known faith traditions. Kristian's desire to foster an understanding and appreciation of the diversity in "the body of Christ" is refreshing.
Kristian also demonstrates an effort to give the viewpoints with which she disagrees a fair treatment. Only on occasion - when she imagines her bias may influence her portrayal of doctrine - does she share her personal beliefs on a topic.
The book does not read as an argument for any particular expression of Christian theology. Rather, Kristian invites the reader to draw his or her own conclusions. After all, Kristian reasons, would it not be a tragedy if one were to leave the faith because of the unfortunate belief that there is only one "Christian" way to interpret ideas over which theologians have wrestled for centuries?
"If there's a version of Christianity someone *can* accept," Kristian asks, "why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?"
November 8, 2019
Interesting book about the different beliefs of Christianity. It is important to know what beliefs that the different churches have to understand them better without forming your own conclusion. There are so many different forms of Christianity and it is important to remember that we are loving the same God, just in different ways.
December 9, 2019
Handy, well-written overview of the range of beliefs different Christians hold on a variety of doctrinal issues. Bonnie does a good job of presenting things without taking sides or making certain groups/views sound superior, though she does share her opinions every once in awhile in the name of transparency (always in clearly marked sections). Particularly enjoyed the chapter on biblical inerrancy vs. infallibility vs. inspiration.
Worth the easy, quick read, both for an education/refresher on others' perspectives and because it naturally encourages you to interrogate your own.
Worth the easy, quick read, both for an education/refresher on others' perspectives and because it naturally encourages you to interrogate your own.
April 23, 2019
It was impossible for me to read this book and not compare it to my own religious upbringing. There were two main ideas that stood out prominently for me. First, the non-denominational churches that I grew up in were rigid and non-intellectual. We never had opportunities to learn about Christian history, other denominations, or have opportunities to question and challenge passages from the Bible. I distinctly remember one point where I was trying to understand the trinity and my youth pastor said that my ideas were boarding on blasphemy. I can think of no better way to silence an inquisitive young mind than basically saying having questions can lead you to damnation.
I don't know if my head pastors had any formal pastoral education or not, but I am sure that other people in leadership positions (including the youth pastor) did not. They were volunteers that were doing their best but looking back I realize they had as little understanding of nuance and variety within Christian beliefs as I did. As a result, issues like evolution, marriage equality, drug legalization, immigration, history, and a plethora of other current issues and subjects were treated as if the answer was clear and any one who disagreed with what we were taught were automatically sinners. This approach creates an environment that encourages youth to leave the church when they learn more about a subject or begin to think critically and feel like they were deceived. When I learned that the true theory of evolution was significantly different than what I learned in church cracks started to form in my faith. When I found out that stories I learned about history that were meant to show the power of God were outright lies my trust in the church began to die.
Looking back, I think that my eventual rejection of Christianity was based heavily on the anti-intellectualism and "believe what I believe or you are going to hell" mentality. If I had been raised in an environment that truly worked to provide an intellectual foundation for believing in Christ and encourages me to learn about and from other denominations then maybe I would have shopped around for a new church instead of casting aside the religion entirely. Now, I don't know if I would still be a Christian today or if I eventually would have rejected the core dogma of the church in its entirety, but it certainly would have happened later than it actually did.
Postscript: I hope that someday Kristian writes an expanded version of this book that covers additional topics like:
- Must Christians obey the law?
- Can Christians drink alcohol or use drugs?
- How should Christians treat animals?
- What obligation do Christians have to protect the environment?
- Can Christians use profanity?
I don't know if my head pastors had any formal pastoral education or not, but I am sure that other people in leadership positions (including the youth pastor) did not. They were volunteers that were doing their best but looking back I realize they had as little understanding of nuance and variety within Christian beliefs as I did. As a result, issues like evolution, marriage equality, drug legalization, immigration, history, and a plethora of other current issues and subjects were treated as if the answer was clear and any one who disagreed with what we were taught were automatically sinners. This approach creates an environment that encourages youth to leave the church when they learn more about a subject or begin to think critically and feel like they were deceived. When I learned that the true theory of evolution was significantly different than what I learned in church cracks started to form in my faith. When I found out that stories I learned about history that were meant to show the power of God were outright lies my trust in the church began to die.
Looking back, I think that my eventual rejection of Christianity was based heavily on the anti-intellectualism and "believe what I believe or you are going to hell" mentality. If I had been raised in an environment that truly worked to provide an intellectual foundation for believing in Christ and encourages me to learn about and from other denominations then maybe I would have shopped around for a new church instead of casting aside the religion entirely. Now, I don't know if I would still be a Christian today or if I eventually would have rejected the core dogma of the church in its entirety, but it certainly would have happened later than it actually did.
Postscript: I hope that someday Kristian writes an expanded version of this book that covers additional topics like:
- Must Christians obey the law?
- Can Christians drink alcohol or use drugs?
- How should Christians treat animals?
- What obligation do Christians have to protect the environment?
- Can Christians use profanity?
June 19, 2022
I am not a Christian by pretty much any definition. I would more likely describe myself as Jesus-curious. And one of the biggest issues that I've had with Christianity in the past is the idea that one way is the right way. And if that's not your belief, you can hit the highway to hell.
Bonnie Kristian does a wonderful job of bringing light to many different viewpoints within Christianity. I especially love her visual of concentric circles of Jesus, dogma, and doctrine. Where all Christians have Jesus at the center and the dogma of the faith in the middle. And doctrine is what isn't in scripture specifically but each denomination and church has their own views - and they can all be different.
I learned a LOT from this book and especially enjoyed the Q&A sections and learning about religious figures from the past. Kristian does especially well at keeping as unbiased as she can within each section - leaving it to the reader to bring their own opinion or philosophy to their interpretation. I could have used a longer description in some areas and was incredibly grateful that she finished each chapter with more resources to read.
Bonnie Kristian does a wonderful job of bringing light to many different viewpoints within Christianity. I especially love her visual of concentric circles of Jesus, dogma, and doctrine. Where all Christians have Jesus at the center and the dogma of the faith in the middle. And doctrine is what isn't in scripture specifically but each denomination and church has their own views - and they can all be different.
I learned a LOT from this book and especially enjoyed the Q&A sections and learning about religious figures from the past. Kristian does especially well at keeping as unbiased as she can within each section - leaving it to the reader to bring their own opinion or philosophy to their interpretation. I could have used a longer description in some areas and was incredibly grateful that she finished each chapter with more resources to read.
April 30, 2022
I bounced between a 3 & 4 during this read as it fell very midway between those stars. Ultimately I chose a 4 because I want this book to reach people and it was a very good entrance into theology without being boring or overwhelming. The chapters were short, easy to read and understand. The author even added page numbers to areas where she discussed a previous idea to help guide you through the book.
The personal input that the author wrote was both relevant and irrelevant in spots. I didn't mind it as it did not take up much space and was clearly defined as her opinion. She was not trying to guide you one way or another. The book as a whole was well researched with supporting scripture, historical background and allowed the reader to see different view points of Christian sects. The short introductions to sects that I had never even heard of helped to break up the chapters and give natural breaking points.
The book is American Christian centric and I dislike the inclusion of links, I think I recall a bit-ly, these date the book as URLs change over time. The questions at the end of the chapters are very similar and seemed almost unnecessary. I did enjoy the Learn More sections at the end of each book which allowed for one to further research individual topics and view points.
The personal input that the author wrote was both relevant and irrelevant in spots. I didn't mind it as it did not take up much space and was clearly defined as her opinion. She was not trying to guide you one way or another. The book as a whole was well researched with supporting scripture, historical background and allowed the reader to see different view points of Christian sects. The short introductions to sects that I had never even heard of helped to break up the chapters and give natural breaking points.
The book is American Christian centric and I dislike the inclusion of links, I think I recall a bit-ly, these date the book as URLs change over time. The questions at the end of the chapters are very similar and seemed almost unnecessary. I did enjoy the Learn More sections at the end of each book which allowed for one to further research individual topics and view points.
June 8, 2024
"If there’s a version of Christianity someone can accept, why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?"
Bonnie Kristian provides a well-researched overview of Christian doctrine in a way that's accessible to those who don't have a Master's in Divinity. Those hoping to grow their scholarly knowledge shouldn't despair, as each chapter refers the reader to both ancient and modern resources to continues their studies, several of which have been added to my TBR. The quick overview provided in each chapter is a more than sufficient place to start for those interested in the scope of Christian doctrine.
Though Kristian occasionally shares her own view as a Mennonite, she typically refrains. This is not a book that lays out the options only to share the "right" answer at the end. Kristian actively leans against this tendency, treating topics with which she does not agree with the same respect as those she does. By doing this, she accomplishes her goal of allowing the readers to consider topics for themselves. Her thoughtful discussion questions (though some are repetitive, she always asks what your Sunday school teacher taught) make this an ideal read for a group setting.
Alongside simple explanations of doctrine, she also includes a introduction to a historical Christian figure (think Augustine and Calvin) and an interview with a modern Christian who holds a unique perspective at the end of each chapter. I most enjoyed her interview with Native American Follower of Jesus Randy Woodley, who has one of my favorite quotes from the book. Speaking of American colonization he says, "The Indigenous peoples were more like Jesus, without knowing his name, than the Europeans, who did claim to follow him." Each interviewee is asked the same set of questions, and some provide better answers than others. I wish Kristian would have taken more time to tailor the questions or further explain the communities. Due to the vagueness of the questions, some of the interviews with interesting people come off a little bland.
Kristian's guide to finding a church in the final chapter is quite valuable and balanced. She cautions that no church is perfect, and explains the benefit she found attending churches with different doctrinal leanings than those she currently holds. She urges the reader to look for churches based on community, theology, service, structure and style and goes on to explain the main American denominations (a helpful guide for those of us who did not grow up Protestant).
While the educational material was sufficient on its own, Kristian concludes with a plea for more unity and cooperation among Christians. She describes a dream she has as a child, that all the churches in her small Southern community would come together and fund a swimming pool, an idea that was scoffed at by the adults in her life. Her childhood conviction that this is not the way it should be carries into her adult life. She writes, "When we insist our version of Christianity is Christianity, we unnecessarily cut ourselves off from partnering with and learning from so many fellow followers of Jesus."
Churches decisions that their building or denomination (or as is so often in the case, non-denomination) is superior is not only arrogant, it's also non-Christian. As Kristian points out, "Some of Jesus’ harshest words of exhortation were for religious people who claimed to be following God but got nitpicky over doctrinal issues while neglecting the really big stuff—“justice, mercy, and faithfulness.” “You blind guides!” he scolded. “You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel” (Matt. 23:23–24)."
Bonnie Kristian provides a well-researched overview of Christian doctrine in a way that's accessible to those who don't have a Master's in Divinity. Those hoping to grow their scholarly knowledge shouldn't despair, as each chapter refers the reader to both ancient and modern resources to continues their studies, several of which have been added to my TBR. The quick overview provided in each chapter is a more than sufficient place to start for those interested in the scope of Christian doctrine.
Though Kristian occasionally shares her own view as a Mennonite, she typically refrains. This is not a book that lays out the options only to share the "right" answer at the end. Kristian actively leans against this tendency, treating topics with which she does not agree with the same respect as those she does. By doing this, she accomplishes her goal of allowing the readers to consider topics for themselves. Her thoughtful discussion questions (though some are repetitive, she always asks what your Sunday school teacher taught) make this an ideal read for a group setting.
Alongside simple explanations of doctrine, she also includes a introduction to a historical Christian figure (think Augustine and Calvin) and an interview with a modern Christian who holds a unique perspective at the end of each chapter. I most enjoyed her interview with Native American Follower of Jesus Randy Woodley, who has one of my favorite quotes from the book. Speaking of American colonization he says, "The Indigenous peoples were more like Jesus, without knowing his name, than the Europeans, who did claim to follow him." Each interviewee is asked the same set of questions, and some provide better answers than others. I wish Kristian would have taken more time to tailor the questions or further explain the communities. Due to the vagueness of the questions, some of the interviews with interesting people come off a little bland.
Kristian's guide to finding a church in the final chapter is quite valuable and balanced. She cautions that no church is perfect, and explains the benefit she found attending churches with different doctrinal leanings than those she currently holds. She urges the reader to look for churches based on community, theology, service, structure and style and goes on to explain the main American denominations (a helpful guide for those of us who did not grow up Protestant).
While the educational material was sufficient on its own, Kristian concludes with a plea for more unity and cooperation among Christians. She describes a dream she has as a child, that all the churches in her small Southern community would come together and fund a swimming pool, an idea that was scoffed at by the adults in her life. Her childhood conviction that this is not the way it should be carries into her adult life. She writes, "When we insist our version of Christianity is Christianity, we unnecessarily cut ourselves off from partnering with and learning from so many fellow followers of Jesus."
Churches decisions that their building or denomination (or as is so often in the case, non-denomination) is superior is not only arrogant, it's also non-Christian. As Kristian points out, "Some of Jesus’ harshest words of exhortation were for religious people who claimed to be following God but got nitpicky over doctrinal issues while neglecting the really big stuff—“justice, mercy, and faithfulness.” “You blind guides!” he scolded. “You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel” (Matt. 23:23–24)."
November 23, 2022
At first glance, A Flexible Faith, sounds interesting with its tagline, "rethinking what it means to follow Jesus today." The author is a good writer as she attempts to present doctrinal soundbites and her ideological pieces of serious biblical teachings of which the Body of Christ, the church, has been built upon for the past two thousand years. Not an easy task for anyone!
In eighteen brief summaries, she tries to answer questions such as, "What Does It Mean to Say the Bible is God's Word?" and "Are Gay Relationships Sinful?" and "Should Christians Vote?" But, chapter 16 stands out like a sore thumb, "Does God Really Torment People in Hell Forever" (pg, 99).
Going back to page 18, the author affirms, "Like C.S. Lewis, I affirm the Bible to be true and trustworthy, unfailing in all matters of faith and practice." Yet, here's where the glaring contradictions begin. Obviously, Kristian is trying to appeal to younger, more liberal millennials, or perhaps the unchurched through her book. I am not sure.
However, on page 204, in her chapter on the eternal punishment of unbelievers, "That said, annihilationism is where I land today. This view is persuasive to me on biblical grounds...[as it] makes sense to me because of what we know about God's character---His love and His justice." Then, she quotes a couple of Scripture verses out of Psalms to justify what she describes as "My View."
Truly, it is "her view" because, without question, it isn't Scriptural in even the remotest sense of the word. In fact, it would classify as "heretical" since it blatantly contradicts Scripture and the time-honored, solid, doctrinal teachings of the church for the past two millennia.
"Annihilationism" is the un-biblical teaching that says the wicked, unsaved will not be punished eternally, but just cease to exist or be 'annihilated.' Of course, this flies straight into the face of tons of Scripture and such prominent Christian leaders today such as; J.I. Packer, John Piper, Wayne Grudem, R.C. Sproul, Albert Mohler, Tim Keller, Franklin Graham, Billy Graham, John McArthur, Rick Warren and scores of many more which space will not allow me to cite here.
Pg 205, "I feel the appeal of universalism...part of my confidence is that somehow God will save everyone in the process." Again, she has aligned her views against the church perhaps for the sake of appealing to those who may find her "progressive opinion" popular, if not comforting for all the wrong reasons.
In summary, I would pass on this book. "Flexible Faith" does not mean we have to discard the clear, abundant teaching of the Bible in the process. Unfortunately, I believe the author has missed her mark in her attempt to "rethink what it means to follow Jesus today."
In eighteen brief summaries, she tries to answer questions such as, "What Does It Mean to Say the Bible is God's Word?" and "Are Gay Relationships Sinful?" and "Should Christians Vote?" But, chapter 16 stands out like a sore thumb, "Does God Really Torment People in Hell Forever" (pg, 99).
Going back to page 18, the author affirms, "Like C.S. Lewis, I affirm the Bible to be true and trustworthy, unfailing in all matters of faith and practice." Yet, here's where the glaring contradictions begin. Obviously, Kristian is trying to appeal to younger, more liberal millennials, or perhaps the unchurched through her book. I am not sure.
However, on page 204, in her chapter on the eternal punishment of unbelievers, "That said, annihilationism is where I land today. This view is persuasive to me on biblical grounds...[as it] makes sense to me because of what we know about God's character---His love and His justice." Then, she quotes a couple of Scripture verses out of Psalms to justify what she describes as "My View."
Truly, it is "her view" because, without question, it isn't Scriptural in even the remotest sense of the word. In fact, it would classify as "heretical" since it blatantly contradicts Scripture and the time-honored, solid, doctrinal teachings of the church for the past two millennia.
"Annihilationism" is the un-biblical teaching that says the wicked, unsaved will not be punished eternally, but just cease to exist or be 'annihilated.' Of course, this flies straight into the face of tons of Scripture and such prominent Christian leaders today such as; J.I. Packer, John Piper, Wayne Grudem, R.C. Sproul, Albert Mohler, Tim Keller, Franklin Graham, Billy Graham, John McArthur, Rick Warren and scores of many more which space will not allow me to cite here.
Pg 205, "I feel the appeal of universalism...part of my confidence is that somehow God will save everyone in the process." Again, she has aligned her views against the church perhaps for the sake of appealing to those who may find her "progressive opinion" popular, if not comforting for all the wrong reasons.
In summary, I would pass on this book. "Flexible Faith" does not mean we have to discard the clear, abundant teaching of the Bible in the process. Unfortunately, I believe the author has missed her mark in her attempt to "rethink what it means to follow Jesus today."
September 19, 2018
This book is all about making room at the Christian table. Bonnie Kristian addresses many historically divisive issues in the Christian faith, things like baptism, communion, hell, violence, and she does so in a way that helped me realize my understanding of these aspects of my faith is not the only acceptable understanding. I may understand a certain issue a certain way, but it doesn't mean I can't participate in the Body of Christ with someone who understands it differently. Ultimately, Jesus is what we Christians agree on, and there is always room at Jesus' table.
The format of the book is very easy. The chapters are titled with a question that is discussed from multiple angles. Each angle is given equal respect and validity and where she has a strong opinion, Kristian openly reveals that so as to avoid unintended bias. The discussions are written in an easy to read, easy to understand style. And especially thoughtful is at the end of each chapter, Kristian gives a bibliography of other texts that discuss that issue more in depth. So if you like to read your way through a question in your faith, these bibliographies will be a gold mine! You also do not have to read the book cover to cover, you can skip to the chapter that interests you now, then put the book on the shelf until your next faith question.
A unique and very valuable addition to the questions is an interview with a person from what you might call a "fringe" movement in Christianity. Kristian asks the same questions of several different followers of Jesus who are not mainstream, someone who lived in a Christian community, a Native American believer, a Quaker, an Amish couple. Hearing directly from them, and again being directed toward further resources to learn about their faith, shows how big the Christian table is and what we have in common, not just to focus on our differences.
I see this book being valuable to any believer, but especially anyone who guides other believers. Everyone has questions about their faith at one point or another, so as a parent, teacher, pastor, etc. it would be helpful to have this book to turn to when your child or student or congregant comes with a question. You can read and discuss the basics that Kristian writes in each chapter, and have the additional resources if/when that question needs more consideration. Questions about faith should not be scary and Bonnie Kristian gives us the tools to ask these questions and wrestle with multiple ways to answer them in a way that doesn't lead us to abandon our faith altogether.
The format of the book is very easy. The chapters are titled with a question that is discussed from multiple angles. Each angle is given equal respect and validity and where she has a strong opinion, Kristian openly reveals that so as to avoid unintended bias. The discussions are written in an easy to read, easy to understand style. And especially thoughtful is at the end of each chapter, Kristian gives a bibliography of other texts that discuss that issue more in depth. So if you like to read your way through a question in your faith, these bibliographies will be a gold mine! You also do not have to read the book cover to cover, you can skip to the chapter that interests you now, then put the book on the shelf until your next faith question.
A unique and very valuable addition to the questions is an interview with a person from what you might call a "fringe" movement in Christianity. Kristian asks the same questions of several different followers of Jesus who are not mainstream, someone who lived in a Christian community, a Native American believer, a Quaker, an Amish couple. Hearing directly from them, and again being directed toward further resources to learn about their faith, shows how big the Christian table is and what we have in common, not just to focus on our differences.
I see this book being valuable to any believer, but especially anyone who guides other believers. Everyone has questions about their faith at one point or another, so as a parent, teacher, pastor, etc. it would be helpful to have this book to turn to when your child or student or congregant comes with a question. You can read and discuss the basics that Kristian writes in each chapter, and have the additional resources if/when that question needs more consideration. Questions about faith should not be scary and Bonnie Kristian gives us the tools to ask these questions and wrestle with multiple ways to answer them in a way that doesn't lead us to abandon our faith altogether.
May 20, 2018
I am very impressed with this book. I grew up in a church with a narrow view of faith. Questioning any part of it was discouraged. But times have changed. New discoveries in science and the awareness of other faith traditions suggest we need to revisit what it means to be a Christian. Kristian has done an excellent job of identifying essential Christian beliefs and then those in which there has always been diversity.
Kristian explores seventeen theological issues and explains the various major beliefs Christians have historically held on them. She is wonderfully objective in her presentations and clearly identifies a view when she feels strongly about it. She ends each chapter on an issue with good questions for personal thought or group discussion and a list of resources for further study. She has several interviews with contemporary people, introducing us to a variety of faith experiences. There are also articles about several historically important people, such as Anselm.
I have to admit that, though I have studied theology a great deal, I really understood postmortem evangelism for the first time by reading Kristian's section on it. And I was introduced to the Eastern Orthodox view of hell, something I had not considered before. Her explanation of amillennialism, the tradition in which I was raised, may be the best concise one I've ever read.
I like the humility with which Kristian addresses these topics. Her writing style does not have an overly authoritative voice but is rather more like I was having a conversation with her. I felt comfortable and non-threatened, even when reading viewpoints with which I disagree. I felt I was being informed, not trying to be convinced. I especially liked her section on church denominations, introducing them as they developed, historically.
I highly recommend this book to readers who have been troubled by the very narrow path of Christian belief some demand. This book explores the rich and broad historical road of Christian belief within orthodoxy. The essentials of the faith are preserved while those areas open to interpretation are explained well. This book would be a great choice for a small group study.
Food for thought: “In a time of divisive and downright nasty public debate, Christians, of all people, ought to be able to disagree without hostility.” (Loc 3076/3184)
Kristian explores seventeen theological issues and explains the various major beliefs Christians have historically held on them. She is wonderfully objective in her presentations and clearly identifies a view when she feels strongly about it. She ends each chapter on an issue with good questions for personal thought or group discussion and a list of resources for further study. She has several interviews with contemporary people, introducing us to a variety of faith experiences. There are also articles about several historically important people, such as Anselm.
I have to admit that, though I have studied theology a great deal, I really understood postmortem evangelism for the first time by reading Kristian's section on it. And I was introduced to the Eastern Orthodox view of hell, something I had not considered before. Her explanation of amillennialism, the tradition in which I was raised, may be the best concise one I've ever read.
I like the humility with which Kristian addresses these topics. Her writing style does not have an overly authoritative voice but is rather more like I was having a conversation with her. I felt comfortable and non-threatened, even when reading viewpoints with which I disagree. I felt I was being informed, not trying to be convinced. I especially liked her section on church denominations, introducing them as they developed, historically.
I highly recommend this book to readers who have been troubled by the very narrow path of Christian belief some demand. This book explores the rich and broad historical road of Christian belief within orthodoxy. The essentials of the faith are preserved while those areas open to interpretation are explained well. This book would be a great choice for a small group study.
Food for thought: “In a time of divisive and downright nasty public debate, Christians, of all people, ought to be able to disagree without hostility.” (Loc 3076/3184)
October 23, 2018
Can a Catholic believe in A Flexible Faith? That is the question that ran through this reviewer’s mind upon setting out to read the first published book of theological and political writer Bonnie Kristian. A book with a promising and timely premise in an era where the secular world seems to be uniting in opposition to Christianity.
A work that is more ecumenical than theological in nature, it fits into a vein similar to...
Read More at: https://keepgovlocal.com/catholic-rev...
A work that is more ecumenical than theological in nature, it fits into a vein similar to...
Read More at: https://keepgovlocal.com/catholic-rev...
September 11, 2018
I received a promotional copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed here are my own.
“A Flexible Faith” written by Bonnie Kristian is a whirlwind tour of Christian theology. She starts with a well-thought-out metaphor differentiating among the person of Jesus Christ who is the center of our faith, and dogmas in Christianity, and those two from from the many doctrines which function at the denominational level. She approaches her task energetically:
“Here’s the plan: I’ll run through seventeen big theological questions and for each one explain the main ways Christians have answered over the last two millennia. In some cases, there will be as few as two options, but most will have three or four. Every option I present is safely inside the range of orthodoxy—in other words, they’re the sort of thing where one Christian might say to another, ‘If you believe this, I think you’re wrong,” but never the sort of thing where we might fairly say, ‘If you believe this, you can’t be considered a Christian.’”
The rest of the book is made up of fact-packed, easy-to-consume information about numerous orthodox Christian beliefs and practices. In the first chapter, she establishes the format that will continue throughout the book:
- Question: “What does it mean to say the Bible is God’s Word?”
- Options: Inerrant, Infallible, or Inspired
- Notes: on biblical literalism and biblical authority.
- Profile historic figure: John Wycliffe
- Discussion questions and recommended reading list
- One community’s beliefs and practices: Common Purse Community.
The book remains diverse, engaging, and informative throughout. It addresses questions ranging from how Jesus’ dying means that we can be saved, to what the Lord’s Supper means, and profiling communities as different as Eastern Orthodox Monasticism and Quakerism.
I enjoyed reading A Flexible Faith, and learned about some distinctions that, even with a lifetime as a Christian, I was hazy about. I will likely consult it in the future, too. I definitely recommend it for those curious about Christianity. It helps to have some overall familiarity with the tradition, but it’s a great way to dig a bit deeper into the definitions and doctrines. The discussion questions and reading lists in each chapter suggest that A Flexible Faith is intended to work in settings like a Christian book/discussion/ study group, or a teen/adult Sunday School class.
“A Flexible Faith” written by Bonnie Kristian is a whirlwind tour of Christian theology. She starts with a well-thought-out metaphor differentiating among the person of Jesus Christ who is the center of our faith, and dogmas in Christianity, and those two from from the many doctrines which function at the denominational level. She approaches her task energetically:
“Here’s the plan: I’ll run through seventeen big theological questions and for each one explain the main ways Christians have answered over the last two millennia. In some cases, there will be as few as two options, but most will have three or four. Every option I present is safely inside the range of orthodoxy—in other words, they’re the sort of thing where one Christian might say to another, ‘If you believe this, I think you’re wrong,” but never the sort of thing where we might fairly say, ‘If you believe this, you can’t be considered a Christian.’”
The rest of the book is made up of fact-packed, easy-to-consume information about numerous orthodox Christian beliefs and practices. In the first chapter, she establishes the format that will continue throughout the book:
- Question: “What does it mean to say the Bible is God’s Word?”
- Options: Inerrant, Infallible, or Inspired
- Notes: on biblical literalism and biblical authority.
- Profile historic figure: John Wycliffe
- Discussion questions and recommended reading list
- One community’s beliefs and practices: Common Purse Community.
The book remains diverse, engaging, and informative throughout. It addresses questions ranging from how Jesus’ dying means that we can be saved, to what the Lord’s Supper means, and profiling communities as different as Eastern Orthodox Monasticism and Quakerism.
I enjoyed reading A Flexible Faith, and learned about some distinctions that, even with a lifetime as a Christian, I was hazy about. I will likely consult it in the future, too. I definitely recommend it for those curious about Christianity. It helps to have some overall familiarity with the tradition, but it’s a great way to dig a bit deeper into the definitions and doctrines. The discussion questions and reading lists in each chapter suggest that A Flexible Faith is intended to work in settings like a Christian book/discussion/ study group, or a teen/adult Sunday School class.
December 30, 2021
I found myself fluctuating on my opinions on this book, and I think I’ve landed on liking it simply because of its breadth of ideas. That earned it the 4 stars rather than the 3 I was contemplating.
First the good: There’s lots. 17 chapters dealing with a variety of things that churches tend to be dogmatic on but Christian history shows that orthodoxy is a much wider stream than we would like to admit. Subjects covered such as free-will, predestination, atonement, sacraments, sexuality, Holy Spirit, violence and wealth. Each chapter considers the main positions on the subject in a fair and open way. The author then offers their own summary, some discussion questions and then introduces you to a key historical figure related to the discussion. There’s a very balanced bibliography for each subject too. Each chapter is then followed by an interview with a representative from a different theological tradition.
For a person not wanting to dive into the monumental volume of sources out there this book is a really helpful at growing your awareness of the field and areas to study.
The bad: At some level my main issue is with the section where the author offers their own view. It seems to come across a little aloof and disconnected. I realise the book is aiming to promote flexibility, but the author gives the impression of being slightly out of their depth - but only in that section. I’m not sure it adds anything to the book but detracts from the quality elsewhere. If someone is buying this to help find some solidity then this isn’t the book for you - although hopefully the title tells you that. Finally there seems to be considerable reliance on Boyd and Eddy’s “Across the Spectrum” and eventually I found myself wondering if I should just have read that instead.
So if you’re looking for a broad strokes intro to many areas of theology that will point out briefly the breadth of the subject and essentially leave you to search from there, then you’ll like this book a lot. If you’re looking for something more decisive, we’ll you probably shouldn’t buy a book called “flexible faith”!
Final note: the last chapter which gives some pointers on how to find a church is really good.
First the good: There’s lots. 17 chapters dealing with a variety of things that churches tend to be dogmatic on but Christian history shows that orthodoxy is a much wider stream than we would like to admit. Subjects covered such as free-will, predestination, atonement, sacraments, sexuality, Holy Spirit, violence and wealth. Each chapter considers the main positions on the subject in a fair and open way. The author then offers their own summary, some discussion questions and then introduces you to a key historical figure related to the discussion. There’s a very balanced bibliography for each subject too. Each chapter is then followed by an interview with a representative from a different theological tradition.
For a person not wanting to dive into the monumental volume of sources out there this book is a really helpful at growing your awareness of the field and areas to study.
The bad: At some level my main issue is with the section where the author offers their own view. It seems to come across a little aloof and disconnected. I realise the book is aiming to promote flexibility, but the author gives the impression of being slightly out of their depth - but only in that section. I’m not sure it adds anything to the book but detracts from the quality elsewhere. If someone is buying this to help find some solidity then this isn’t the book for you - although hopefully the title tells you that. Finally there seems to be considerable reliance on Boyd and Eddy’s “Across the Spectrum” and eventually I found myself wondering if I should just have read that instead.
So if you’re looking for a broad strokes intro to many areas of theology that will point out briefly the breadth of the subject and essentially leave you to search from there, then you’ll like this book a lot. If you’re looking for something more decisive, we’ll you probably shouldn’t buy a book called “flexible faith”!
Final note: the last chapter which gives some pointers on how to find a church is really good.
September 15, 2018
This review and many more like it are available on
Read Till Dawn
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This book is so awesome.
No, seriously. Just to start with, it's so nice to read a book about Christian theology that's not trying to make every reader believe exactly the same thing as the author.
Kristian starts the book by laying out a few main beliefs all Christians must have to be counted as Christians (basically believe in the Bible, Jesus, and the Holy Trinity), and makes the argument that all other issues are open for interpretation by different denominations. Then, each chapter in the rest of the book describes the logic behind all the main opposing viewpoints on a given topic. Kristian offers her own viewpoint at the end of a handful of chapters, but never implies that her perspective is the only valid one; on the rest of them, she doesn't even offer any hints about what she believes.
I love it. I love that she's fighting the "my way or the highway" attitude in so many churches, that she's showing her readers all the valid options for personalizing their faith. I may not agree with all of the options she lists (in fact, I'm quite strongly opposed to a few of them!), but I love that she lays everything out in a way that lets every reader draw their own conclusions.
She also has an interview with a different "out of the box" Christian in between the chapters. Some people might find those really interesting as well, but I found myself skimming over them a fair bit.
A Flexible Faith is a wonderful resource for nonbelievers as an overview of Christian beliefs, for questioning Christians trying to get away from a denomination that's just not right for them, and for established Christians with a shallow understanding of competing Christian ideals. Basically, for anyone with any questions about any area of Christianity, A Flexible Faith is a wonderful starting point.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book is so awesome.
No, seriously. Just to start with, it's so nice to read a book about Christian theology that's not trying to make every reader believe exactly the same thing as the author.
Kristian starts the book by laying out a few main beliefs all Christians must have to be counted as Christians (basically believe in the Bible, Jesus, and the Holy Trinity), and makes the argument that all other issues are open for interpretation by different denominations. Then, each chapter in the rest of the book describes the logic behind all the main opposing viewpoints on a given topic. Kristian offers her own viewpoint at the end of a handful of chapters, but never implies that her perspective is the only valid one; on the rest of them, she doesn't even offer any hints about what she believes.
I love it. I love that she's fighting the "my way or the highway" attitude in so many churches, that she's showing her readers all the valid options for personalizing their faith. I may not agree with all of the options she lists (in fact, I'm quite strongly opposed to a few of them!), but I love that she lays everything out in a way that lets every reader draw their own conclusions.
She also has an interview with a different "out of the box" Christian in between the chapters. Some people might find those really interesting as well, but I found myself skimming over them a fair bit.
A Flexible Faith is a wonderful resource for nonbelievers as an overview of Christian beliefs, for questioning Christians trying to get away from a denomination that's just not right for them, and for established Christians with a shallow understanding of competing Christian ideals. Basically, for anyone with any questions about any area of Christianity, A Flexible Faith is a wonderful starting point.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2018
Bonnie Kristian has created an amazing resource in A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What It Means to Follow Jesus Today. Even after having taken college classes on religions and studying the doctrines of other denominations I still felt I was able to learn new and interesting things. Her inclusion of a Q&A section following each chapter was a wonderful addition.
I feel that this is a book that not only allows us to wrestle with our own faith but to better understand the history and rationale that has gone into other denominations and faith walks as well. I realized that as open-minded as I might try to be I still had some pre-conceived ideas related to denominations outside of my own. I really appreciated the way that Bonnie incorporated parts of her own journey of faith and belief in various areas without pushing any particular view on the reader.
I found this book current and relevant as it left the reader to contemplate and even wrestle with the various views of how faith relates to the hot-button topics of our current culture related to same-sex marriage, politics, violence. Bonnie does an excellent job of presenting the reader with information and historical context and leaving the reader to explore their own faith and beliefs in a deeper way.
I found very helpful the fact that she includes readings suggestions for the various denominations and doctrines that she explores. This struck me as a very well thought out book and one that could easily serve as a primer for those new to the faith and the language of doctrine. It also, however, serves as a great resource for those more mature in their faith but who want to go a little deeper in their understanding of others perspectives.
I feel that this is a book that not only allows us to wrestle with our own faith but to better understand the history and rationale that has gone into other denominations and faith walks as well. I realized that as open-minded as I might try to be I still had some pre-conceived ideas related to denominations outside of my own. I really appreciated the way that Bonnie incorporated parts of her own journey of faith and belief in various areas without pushing any particular view on the reader.
I found this book current and relevant as it left the reader to contemplate and even wrestle with the various views of how faith relates to the hot-button topics of our current culture related to same-sex marriage, politics, violence. Bonnie does an excellent job of presenting the reader with information and historical context and leaving the reader to explore their own faith and beliefs in a deeper way.
I found very helpful the fact that she includes readings suggestions for the various denominations and doctrines that she explores. This struck me as a very well thought out book and one that could easily serve as a primer for those new to the faith and the language of doctrine. It also, however, serves as a great resource for those more mature in their faith but who want to go a little deeper in their understanding of others perspectives.
September 10, 2018
"A Flexible Faith" delves into all those questions you've always wanted to ask about theology, but were afraid or discouraged to do so. This is not a light read, but it is an informative one and leads to many definitions of ideas, theology, hard issues and even explores denominational mores.
Why do people believe what they believe? How does a Catholic differ from a Baptist? What is a charismatic? What are YOUR belief systems? Who are these founders of denominations and belief systems? What does the Bible say about it all? Where and how does Jesus fit into these churches or groups?
Bonnie explores challenging topics and opens a door to how and why others believe what they do. I enjoyed delving into the 'backstory' of many denominations and organizations. Bonnie's style is easy to understand and she has a conversational, rather than adversarial, way of sharing this information with the reader. She shares stories of those who have served and learned before us in the faith. There are short biographies, discussion questions and the author's personal viewpoints peppered in the chapters. There are also "elevator pitches" for many different, and perhaps, misunderstood, groups or people of faith.
We would all do well to take the time to examine our own belief systems and be able to express the WHYs to those who don't believe like we do. Bonnie's book does this in a way that makes you want to invite others into the conversation of faith, without the fear of doing or saying the wrong thing. We are made for community, after all.
I read an advanced reader PDF to review. I enjoyed this work very much, and all opinions are my own.
Why do people believe what they believe? How does a Catholic differ from a Baptist? What is a charismatic? What are YOUR belief systems? Who are these founders of denominations and belief systems? What does the Bible say about it all? Where and how does Jesus fit into these churches or groups?
Bonnie explores challenging topics and opens a door to how and why others believe what they do. I enjoyed delving into the 'backstory' of many denominations and organizations. Bonnie's style is easy to understand and she has a conversational, rather than adversarial, way of sharing this information with the reader. She shares stories of those who have served and learned before us in the faith. There are short biographies, discussion questions and the author's personal viewpoints peppered in the chapters. There are also "elevator pitches" for many different, and perhaps, misunderstood, groups or people of faith.
We would all do well to take the time to examine our own belief systems and be able to express the WHYs to those who don't believe like we do. Bonnie's book does this in a way that makes you want to invite others into the conversation of faith, without the fear of doing or saying the wrong thing. We are made for community, after all.
I read an advanced reader PDF to review. I enjoyed this work very much, and all opinions are my own.
August 22, 2018
A Flexible Faith turned out to be much different than I expected. I expected Kristian to be making a case for her readers to develop individual faith that adapts to changing culture and new theological concepts—but actually, this book is about all the variation and complexity in what we think of as “orthodoxy.” She writes in the introduction “We can get so stuck in our own little pool that we never notice the stream of orthodoxy is wide and deep and beautiful.” I found this to be such a wonderful and important idea.
The book also fills in a lot of gaps for me. I mostly learned about my own denomination (my own church, really), and I’ve come to feel like any other faiths were caricatured. So I found it really interesting to read how Kristian breaks down different thinking about divine providence, i.e. the differences between Calvinism and Arminianism. Other sections cover debates that go much deeper than I had any idea, like the chapter on theories of atonement.
Does this sound like a dry slog through history? It really isn’t – at least it wasn’t for me. Kristian is a lively writer, and I really enjoyed the interviews with Christians from faith communities and traditions that are really far from my own experience (like the Coptic Orthodox church). When the book deals with contemporary cultural issues (gender, wealth, voting), it avoids cranky parsing of the different sides of the debates and stays rooted in the Bible. I absolutely recommend A Flexible Faith, and I could see it working really well in a class or small group.
The book also fills in a lot of gaps for me. I mostly learned about my own denomination (my own church, really), and I’ve come to feel like any other faiths were caricatured. So I found it really interesting to read how Kristian breaks down different thinking about divine providence, i.e. the differences between Calvinism and Arminianism. Other sections cover debates that go much deeper than I had any idea, like the chapter on theories of atonement.
Does this sound like a dry slog through history? It really isn’t – at least it wasn’t for me. Kristian is a lively writer, and I really enjoyed the interviews with Christians from faith communities and traditions that are really far from my own experience (like the Coptic Orthodox church). When the book deals with contemporary cultural issues (gender, wealth, voting), it avoids cranky parsing of the different sides of the debates and stays rooted in the Bible. I absolutely recommend A Flexible Faith, and I could see it working really well in a class or small group.
February 15, 2019
People, in general, like to believe the way they do things is the only way to do things. And this can be especially true in religious settings. In A Flexible Faith, Bonnie Kristian explores the "wide and deep and beautiful" river that is Christian orthodoxy and theology.
Organized around 17 big theological issues (ex. baptism, salvation, the afterlife, the Bible, the end times, women's role in the Church, etc.), Kristian reveals the historical roots of our most cherished beliefs and doctrines. Always respectful, she also explains where, when, and why different Christian denominations split and differ on each of the topics. As a bonus, in between each chapter, the book includes Q&A-style "profile" of a more unusual Christ follower and concludes with a guide to every major Christian denomination in the U.S.
A concise and insightful read, A Flexible Faith is an easy-to-read introduction to the history and diversity of the Christian faith, and will hopefully encourage readers to seek out ideas and practices outside of their own faith tradition. If you stepped your toes into the labyrinth world of Christian theology even for a little while, there's probably little in here that'll surprise you, but even for the most seasoned "armchair theologian" is a great resource for a spark-note version of various thorny issues in the Church.
Organized around 17 big theological issues (ex. baptism, salvation, the afterlife, the Bible, the end times, women's role in the Church, etc.), Kristian reveals the historical roots of our most cherished beliefs and doctrines. Always respectful, she also explains where, when, and why different Christian denominations split and differ on each of the topics. As a bonus, in between each chapter, the book includes Q&A-style "profile" of a more unusual Christ follower and concludes with a guide to every major Christian denomination in the U.S.
A concise and insightful read, A Flexible Faith is an easy-to-read introduction to the history and diversity of the Christian faith, and will hopefully encourage readers to seek out ideas and practices outside of their own faith tradition. If you stepped your toes into the labyrinth world of Christian theology even for a little while, there's probably little in here that'll surprise you, but even for the most seasoned "armchair theologian" is a great resource for a spark-note version of various thorny issues in the Church.
February 1, 2019
I am not religious, but I enjoy learning about Christianity- particularly the little quirks and practices that separate denominations. Rachel Held Evans' "Keep Church Weird" please is a position I find fascinating and joyful. I disagree with Bonnie Kristian theologically and politically, but I am drawn to smart, thoughtful people who disagree with me. I have followed her writing and social media since I was in college.
This book was a good read. It focused more on theological beliefs that differences in practice, but that shouldn't have surprised me- it says so right there on the cover. Bonnie is very respectful of the diversity in faith, though selfishly I would have liked more "My View" sections at the end of the chapters to learn more where she stands, particularly on the social issues (I was so relieved she holds a more egalitarian approach to gender!). I also felt like some of the Q&A bits were a huge change of gears after the chapters they followed, and would have liked more meaty Q's than just a glossy PR interview. I did enjoy that there were interviews with communities I had never heard of before.
This book was a good read. It focused more on theological beliefs that differences in practice, but that shouldn't have surprised me- it says so right there on the cover. Bonnie is very respectful of the diversity in faith, though selfishly I would have liked more "My View" sections at the end of the chapters to learn more where she stands, particularly on the social issues (I was so relieved she holds a more egalitarian approach to gender!). I also felt like some of the Q&A bits were a huge change of gears after the chapters they followed, and would have liked more meaty Q's than just a glossy PR interview. I did enjoy that there were interviews with communities I had never heard of before.
September 14, 2018
I felt Kristian did an excellent job giving an overview of the different facets to Christianity. The chapters aren't very long, so it is very easy to read a chapter and then ponder the differences that Kristian suggests as well as the questions found at the end of each chapter. Having grown up Christian, I felt that this book was a great representation of many of the different types of Christianity and delineated the differences well. I really enjoyed learning about different Christians who helped establish the different faith traditions at the end of each chapter, and learning about different faith communities in a Q & A session after each chapter. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone who is curious about the differences between different Christian denominations, but are not yet ready for a deeply theological book. At the end of each chapter, Kristian offers suggestions of books that could lead into deeper reflection.
I received a copy of the book from the author.
I received a copy of the book from the author.
February 5, 2019
Bonnie Kristian says that Christians are overwhelmingly agreed about the importance of Jesus and about the main creeds—at least the Apostles’ Creed. Beyond that core, though, there a lot of questions that Christians, churches, and denominations argue about, and hold their answers as what distinguishes them from the not-so-right-minded everybody else. In A Flexible Faith, she lifts up 17 such questions, discusses the various answers and what groups hold them dear, sometimes offering her own take. What does it mean to say the Bible is God’s Word? How doe Jesus’ dying mean that we can be saved? Once you’re saved, is it permanent? Her discussions are short, fair, and to the point. Each chapter has a story about a significant Christian from the past, a short interview with a contemporary Christian leader somewhat outside the mainstream, and a bunch of suggestions for further reading. Every pastor might want two copies: one to loan, the other to consult.
October 20, 2022
This is a really interesting book about different branches of Christianity, and how they differ. The author frames it in terms of about a dozen key questions, on which she provides insight into differing views across denominations. She has a number of study questions at the end, which could easily be discussed in a group. She intersperses these chapters with others where she interviews Christians, typically from more unusual backgrounds/denominations. She also provides extensive resources for further study. The book is intended to be introductory, but she clearly has put a lot of thought into it, so it could be interesting to someone who is more advanced in their study of Christianity. The book would be particularly helpful to someone who had grown up in a particular denomination and wanted to learn more about others.
September 2, 2018
I’m doing inner cartwheels of happiness that this book exists!
As someone who was raised in the (largely evangelical) church and has been a notorious question-asker, this book was such a refreshing relief to read. Diversity?! In the faith community?! Amazing!
The author provides easy-to-understand brief breakdowns of so many different doctrines, beliefs, worship traditions, etc. AS WELL AS fantastically helpful discussion questions and lists of resources for further learning on each topic.
There are also interviews with Christians about their particular faith practice and what it means to them.
I can’t wait to reread and discover where I land on several topics.
I was given a digital copy of the book for review.
As someone who was raised in the (largely evangelical) church and has been a notorious question-asker, this book was such a refreshing relief to read. Diversity?! In the faith community?! Amazing!
The author provides easy-to-understand brief breakdowns of so many different doctrines, beliefs, worship traditions, etc. AS WELL AS fantastically helpful discussion questions and lists of resources for further learning on each topic.
There are also interviews with Christians about their particular faith practice and what it means to them.
I can’t wait to reread and discover where I land on several topics.
I was given a digital copy of the book for review.
June 7, 2023
This is a great book for learning about the great diversity of belief within orthodox churches and denominations. If you’re newer to theology or you’ve never learned about Christian communities outside your own, I’d recommend reading this!
Thai quote sums up the reason she wrote it, and I love this sentiment: “I don't want to see Christians becoming nones because they've been falsely told there's just one way to follow Jesus. That’s why I think there's a lot of value to introducing Christians to our siblings and even distant cousins in the faith, particularly if that's what it takes for some to remain in the family. If there's a version of Christianity someone can accept, why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?” (p. 6)
Thai quote sums up the reason she wrote it, and I love this sentiment: “I don't want to see Christians becoming nones because they've been falsely told there's just one way to follow Jesus. That’s why I think there's a lot of value to introducing Christians to our siblings and even distant cousins in the faith, particularly if that's what it takes for some to remain in the family. If there's a version of Christianity someone can accept, why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?” (p. 6)
April 13, 2024
At the beginning, the author asks "If there's a version of Christianity someone can accept, why would we present them only with a version they have to reject?"
A really fantastic entry point to deconstruction. Kristian dedicates a chapter to each of various major themes and questions within the church and theology and offers a handful of different theological and historical approaches. It will help build out your theological vocabulary and the "further reading" recommendations at the end of chapters are extremely beneficial to building out your reading list on the topics that matter to you most. Nothing in the book tries to convince you of anything or gives certain views more credence, but just provides the exposure so you can then delve into the new ideas more in further readings.
A really fantastic entry point to deconstruction. Kristian dedicates a chapter to each of various major themes and questions within the church and theology and offers a handful of different theological and historical approaches. It will help build out your theological vocabulary and the "further reading" recommendations at the end of chapters are extremely beneficial to building out your reading list on the topics that matter to you most. Nothing in the book tries to convince you of anything or gives certain views more credence, but just provides the exposure so you can then delve into the new ideas more in further readings.
September 15, 2018
Excellent read for all Christians!
Bonnie explains the differing beliefs among Christian denominations in an easily understandable and bias-free way. My beliefs most closely align with those of the ELCA, but it was interesting to learn more about other belief systems & why they believe what they believe. We Christians certainly don’t agree on everything (or maybe much of anything in some cases), but that shouldn’t prevent us from working together to promote peace and love in the world. I love that Bonnie empathized the importance of that. Excellent, excellent, excellent!
Bonnie explains the differing beliefs among Christian denominations in an easily understandable and bias-free way. My beliefs most closely align with those of the ELCA, but it was interesting to learn more about other belief systems & why they believe what they believe. We Christians certainly don’t agree on everything (or maybe much of anything in some cases), but that shouldn’t prevent us from working together to promote peace and love in the world. I love that Bonnie empathized the importance of that. Excellent, excellent, excellent!
September 21, 2018
I enjoyed this book but had to be in the mood to read some deep, Christian history before picking it up, so it did take me a while to read it. I totally loved that different viewpoints were described and discussed. I felt a few things were eye opening and led to thinking of why I believe what I believe. I also enjoyed the discussion questions and Q&A at the end of each chapter. I would recommend this book to people who are exploring faith or want a deeper dive into different aspects of Christianity.
September 19, 2022
With all the talk of deconstructing or doubting the faith or the church, I'm sad that so many books on the subject are recommend ded over this one. This book seems like the perfect medicine for someone who has big doubts in their church simply because their tradition of Christianity has derailed a bit. There is a big tent under orthodoxy, and Christians tend to be taught that the little corner of the tent occupied by their denomination is the only "true" church. This book can cure that particular brainwashing.
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