From Buddha to Jesus: An Insider's View of Buddhism and Christianity

by Steve Cioccolanti

Discover Buddhism the way it's actually lived, not the way it's presented in textbooks or by Hollywood! With the rise in popularity of Buddhism in the West and the world's attention on China & Tibet, a lot of people have questions about Buddhism. Steve draws on his first-hand knowledge as a Thai & living experience with God as a Christian to answer these questions. Now you can learn the 2 most popular religions in 1 book! Take an inside look into Buddhism rarely seen before! This 140 page book contains ancient parables and prophecies of Buddhism that bring us back to Buddha’s original message and real-life stories of Buddhists that illustrate Eastern thinking. This book will dispel many Western myths about Buddhism and empower Christians to engage Buddhists in a culturally relevant way. It's hard to imagine a better guide to show us how to bridge the cultural and religious gaps that exist between East & West. It's time to unlock the mysteries held in 2 of the world's Great Religions!

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

242 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 26, 2007

About the author

Born in Thailand to a family of Buddhists, Catholics, Methodists and Muslims, Steve has a unique perspective on world religions and global politics. Having traveled to 40 nations as a popular professional speaker, he is known for his passion to take common questions people ask and answer them in simple, multi-sensory ways.

Steve Cioccolanti is senior pastor of Discover Church, Melbourne, Australia, where he lives with his wife and two children.

Follow his blog on how he raises children and what issues he believes are important to growing a healthy faith:
http://www.cioccolanti.org

Interesting Personal Info
By Blogger https://www.stevecioccolanti.blog
By MannainMovies Movie Critic http://mannainmovies.wordpress.com/20...

To Become my Patron on Patreon (this is a monthly pledge which gives you access to a private online community, do not use for once off gift)
https://www.patreon.com/cioccolanti

To Donate
http://www.discover.org.au/give

More blogs and books
https://www.newswars.com.au
http://www.buddha2jesus.com
https://www.amazon.com/author/newyork...

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A formally Buddhist friend recommended this book to me when I expressed an interest in learning more about Buddhism and I am so glad he did. As someone from the U.S. currently living in Thailand and only familiar with Western Buddhism, I struggled to understand the form of Buddhism I saw around me. I found this book very clarifying and helpful for understanding the basics and some of the spiritual darkness. It particularly aims to clarify the difference between Eastern and Western Buddhism, so the 5 stars I give it really come from a place of gratitude for the clarity I received.
That said, this is not a book to pick up if you want to learn more about Buddhism or even contrast Christianity and Buddhism. It is a very short and to the point primer aimed at Christians witnessing to Buddhists. I'd even argue more specifically: it is a short and to the point primer aimed at Christians going on short term missions with the intention of witnessing to Buddhists.
In my opinion, this means you take the words with a grain of salt.
I love the book Peace Child: An unforgettable Story of Primitive Jungle Teaching in the 20th Century and have studied the role of Jesus in the Quran, so for me this book felt like a continuation of my exploration of how the gospel reveals itself in other religions.
But again, this is not really "An Insider's View of Buddhism and Christianity." Well, it sort of is. But it is a very select view with a very specific goal.
Now, I cannot speak for the Buddhist portions but I did hesitate some with the interpretations of Christianity. He tends to treat Catholic doctrine dismissively (though I understand in the context intends to only address popular understanding and not necessarily doctrinal beliefs) and his own doctrinal leanings come across quite strongly in his unqualified support of speaking in tongues. His approach to evangelism also echoes a certain approach in Christianity that I will not call right or wrong--but an approach.
So with all those caveats, I did enjoy this one. I found it easy to read, useful, and interesting. But I also brought a lot of my prior understanding and training to the reading so, outside of direct evangelism, I'm not sure what other contexts someone would want to read this one.

[Steve Cioccolanti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to you and your family / friends who have made this a bestseller in several countries, and the 2nd bestselling Christian book of all time in Thailand, my beloved nation of birth. True Buddhists are courteous, open-minded people who long for a way out of endless suffering. Christ loves Buddhists and He speaks to Buddhist hearts. True Christians will look for ways to improve their witnessing so as to share the truth of Christ every day.

God has done far more than I could have hoped for or imagine. Our ministry exists to invest in you, and I encourage you to keep spreading the Good News till He comes! Much love

[Mt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got many people saved using what I read from this telling book. I used to think I already knew Buddhism cuz my family was Buddhist, but this helped me a lot. The Buddhists I spoke to did not find this offensive.

I notice the bad reviewers are sarcastic and not credible. Hopefully they're not real Buddhist, because what kind of Buddhist would talk like them?

Highly recommend you get this read!

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gem! Written in an easy friendly manner, I learned more about Buddhism than most of my Buddhist friends were aware of. The stories were interesting & illustrative. I liked that the author was respectful of both religions because I've heard of many Christians who inadvertently offended Buddhists when trying to share Jesus with them. This book gave me confidence to engage in meaningful dialog with Buddhists about my faith

[Thinkingofpeace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Reasons Why I like this book:

1. It helps me to realize that I’m not as good as I think I am. I always thought I was a pretty good person, didn’t kill anyone, didn’t break any nations’s law etc, but reading this, makes me realize God’s standards and how I need divine help! Only the proud cannot accept help.

2. I can relate to it, I tried to get rid of karma myself. I used to attend Buddhist seminars, received a lot of blessings from Buddhist monks, even going to ceremonies to release birds and animals as part of doing good deeds etc. Incense burning was a norm and going to temples. All these I did, but I didn’t feel any different deep inside of me. Reading this book affirms that I am just like any other person, no matter how much good I do, I can’t reach perfection. Only Jesus is perfect

3. It helps me relate to Buddhists better. I believe that Christians are not against Buddhists and vice versa. The story of the Korean helps me to know how to talk to people that I meet and really helps me build a bridge with Buddhists and people of other faiths

4. It provides me clarity on reincarnation. I remembered attending a seminar where they claimed a certain baby was a reincarnation of a monk because the baby kept picking the toy that belonged to a well known monk. I didn’t know what to make out of it, and kept thinking what I would be reincarnated as in future. Now I’m not confused anymore and know the real reason behind reincarnation!

5. It gave me results! I frequently travel, and meet Buddhists and people of other faith everywhere. Reading this book gave me the confidence to go and talk to people and they actually identify and give their lives to Jesus!


This book provides so much practicality, it’s true Buddha was a kind man, but he was just a man, like any of us and didn’t claim that he was God. What I used to do to try and get rid of the karma or sin in me didn’t work, only Jesus can save!

I find this book non-offensive and is well written, clear and concise. It basically answered all the questions I had that was lingering at the back of my mind. It also provided me with step by step ways on understanding Buddhism and how to relate to them. Would recommend that you read it if you haven’t!

[Thinkingofpeace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Reasons Why I like this book:

1. It helps me to realize that I’m not as good as I think I am. I always thought I was a pretty good person, didn’t kill anyone, didn’t break any nations’s law etc, but reading this, makes me realize God’s standards and how I need divine help! Only the proud cannot accept help.

2. I can relate to it, I tried to get rid of karma myself. I used to attend Buddhist seminars, received a lot of blessings from Buddhist monks, even going to ceremonies to release birds and animals as part of doing good deeds etc. Incense burning was a norm and going to temples. All these I did, but I didn’t feel any different deep inside of me. Reading this book affirms that I am just like any other person, no matter how much good I do, I can’t reach perfection. Only Jesus is perfect

3. It helps me relate to Buddhists better. I believe that Christians are not against Buddhists and vice versa. The story of the Korean helps me to know how to talk to people that I meet and really helps me build a bridge with Buddhists and people of other faiths

4. It provides me clarity on reincarnation. I remembered attending a seminar where they claimed a certain baby was a reincarnation of a monk because the baby kept picking the toy that belonged to a well known monk. I didn’t know what to make out of it, and kept thinking what I would be reincarnated as in future. Now I’m not confused anymore and know the real reason behind reincarnation!

5. It gave me results! I frequently travel, and meet Buddhists and people of other faith everywhere. Reading this book gave me the confidence to go and talk to people and they actually identify and give their lives to Jesus!


This book provides so much practicality, it’s true Buddha was a kind man, but he was just a man, like any of us and didn’t claim that he was God. What I used to do to try and get rid of the karma or sin in me didn’t work, only Jesus can save!

I find this book non-offensive and is well written, clear and concise. It basically answered all the questions I had that was lingering at the back of my mind. It also provided me with step by step ways on understanding Buddhism and how to relate to them. Would recommend that you read it if you haven’t!

[Adam Heine · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are some interesting insights into Thai Buddhism here. But Cioccolanti plays so fast and loose with the Bible (and with logic, for that matter), that I have to assume he does the same with Buddhism. I can't really recommend it.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish there are translations of this book in different languages, ESP in Chinese. Are there? It would help bring a real perspective of what practical Buddhism is about in Asia - definitely different from the concepts I was given in a western society.

[Athanasius · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is the most poorly written, misleading book on religion I have ever read. Its authors complete lack of knowledge of Buddhism is so profoundly obvious, that it renders the book an outright piece of Christian propaganda.
Its statements and discussions vary between bewildered lack of understanding and outright lies.
Please do NOT read this book if you interested in learning about Buddhism, as this author has no knowledge whatsoever and is proselytizing Christianity.
If you are interested about Buddhism, I recommend any books by Ajahn Brahm, Ajahn Chah, Venerable Nyanatiloka Mahathera,Venerable Bhikku Bodhi, Venerable Punnaji, and Ayya Khemma.

[Riglin · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is written by an Evangelical(Steve C.) for evangelism. For that reason, it's not written fairly and justly on Buddhism. It's not a book to learn about Buddhism.

Two Buddhist monks had independently exposed the slander, deceits and lies on Buddhism in this book 'From Buddha to Jesus'.

Those who wish to read the book review by a western monk,
http://www.scribd.com/doc/13296079/Bo...

Another book review by another Buddhist monk,
http://www.scribd.com/doc/13099022/Re...

[Adeliyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good way to expose oneself to Buddhism and Christianity at the same time. It's very true that the Westerners thoughts about Buddhism is very different to real Buddhism. This book will explains things quite thoroughly and makes sound argument.

[Nick · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good effort, but bad product. Essentially the theory here is that Buddha was sort of like an Old Testament prophet. He set up rules for his followers to follow which were very strict. He also allegedly pointed to the coming of Jesus. The references to reincarnation and non-biblical beliefs are mostly brushed over or excused in some sense as a cultural accident, or at worst, a mistake. Thats ok though. This is essentially what Muslims tried to do with other religions. To incorperate them as predecessors, "people of the book". Zakir Naik tries to do this with Hinduism today. Hindus also often try to portray most other religious teachers as essentially Hindu in their message.

So the book tries to portray Jesus as the resolution to Buddha's problems of suffering and negative karma.

The book's biggest failure though, as in all these other attempts, is that it doesnt really take into account what even the most basic response would be to the claims made about Buddhism in the text. It is an evangelism guide, not a serious engagement with the ideas. It presumes that the Buddhist who the Christian is preaching to is an average person with very little knowledge of their religion. So little in fact, that a basic understanding of folk-buddhist principles will be enough to flummox them.

It pits "folk" Thai Buddhism against doctrinal high-christianity. It accurately points out that the way Buddhism is practiced in Thailand has little relationship to the type of Buddhism westerners are attracted to by reading texts. But this is kind of a nonsense point. The way Christianity is practiced in a small village in Ukraine has little relation to the theological treatises of St. Augustine.

That said I am acrtually impressed with how much christians try to at least superficially understand other religions. Its probably part of the reason why Christianity is so good at replicating itself in foreign cultures without changing those cultures dramatically. If you read a bible translation in any language youll notice how much of the pre existing religious conceptual apparatus they appropriate. They twist old concepts into new Christian meanings, and that is exactly what this book is encouraging doing. The author denies that this is syncretism (somewhat disingenuously imo, because they understand that it is impossible to really extract all of the philosophical baggage from prior concepts and categories), but I think it is a soft version of syncretism.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I shared what I learnt about Buddhism to a Buddhist friend of mine and he walked away from the conversation thinking about his believes. I know what is shared in this book is from the experiences of real Buddhists who have lived and grown in Buddhist countries where it is a culture.

Several lives have changed simply because of the truths found in this unique book that are compelling to Buddhists and equipping for Christians.

[Meichunyu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book you can read in order to help your Buddhist friends choose life. It taught me the way Jesus evangelised. True repentance starts with recognising how sinful we are. True connection starts with finding out how similar we are. Yes, you can kick out your conversation by telling your buddhist friends Christianity is so much similar to Buddhism, but...

[Edward Sok · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is such a good book. Read it through and it really helped me understand more about Buddhism and its concepts. I've found better techniques of evangelising to others through this book. Everyone should read this book! Buddhist, Christian or anything it suits everyone!

[David Joannes · Rating 4 out of 5]

TARGET AUDIENCE
This book targets three audiences: the Christian who seeks to share the Gospel in relevant ways to Buddhists, the Western individual who has got a sour taste from Christianity and therefore gravitates toward Buddhism, and the Buddhist who is seeking to find the eternal answers that Buddha himself alluded to. At certain points, each of these three demographics will be challenged by the thoughts that the author imparts. They may also, at times, be equally turned off by the author’s words as the reader unwittingly endeavors to find excuses to remain in their present state, unchanged, unchallenged, unwilling to take action.

CONTENT QUALITY
The content of this book is, in many ways, one of a kind. Rarely (if ever) will you hear that “Buddha and Jesus have a lot in common” which the author states multiple times. He also gives many examples of why he considers this a valid statement. The author says, “What I intend to emphasize are the many largely unknown similarities between Buddhism and Christianity, which can serve as a starting point for cross-cultural communication. Yet I will be clear about what the differences between Buddhism and Christianity are.” His focus on Buddha’s teachings as a bridge for Christian evangelism of Buddhists is quite powerful. There are stories about the life and teachings of Buddha that you will have never heard elsewhere, and that can certainly be used to present the Gospel in a relevant manner when sharing your faith with a Buddhist.

MESSAGE CLARITY
Some may be turned off by the correlations that the author makes in this book. The author aptly addresses “syncretism” at the end of the book. As for myself, I was not turned off in the least. The author clearly states, “Rather than attacking people’s religions or overloading them with Christianity, I believe Christians need to learn to ask better questions.” This book brings much clarity about how to effectively start by listening, learning, and understanding the worldview of a Buddhist. I think it is appropriate to mention the author’s strong distinction between cultural Buddhism (a Thai Buddhist, for example) and the unique and incomplete style of Buddhism that has permeated the West. “Buddhism is certainly not about Buddha bringing world peace to the earth,” says the author. “Buddhism is not about the goal of achieving personal happiness. Buddha did not teach this. This is Western humanism hijacking Buddhism.” I believe he clearly brings a lot to the table and challenges the reader to consider Buddha’s original intent in many of his statements, even those that direct his followers to a coming Savior.

CREATIVE STYLE
The creativity in this book can be depicted by the untold stories that the author shares about the life and teachings of Buddha. I found these very helpful in sharing the Gospel to Buddhists. The creativity of the overall layout of the book, however, suffers in some ways. The narrative often feels like it jumps back and forth between points. The redundancy (though I believe is meant by the author to serve as a nemonic for Christians who seek to witness to Buddhists) was at times irksome to me. I felt that the flow of this book might have worked better if reorganized with a bit more focus and clarity.

LANGUAGE SELECTION
The author does a good job of sharing words as found in original and Thai texts. I appreciate learning these new words as they carry the pure essence of a historical teacher like Buddha. But, in my opinion, the book is so “easy to read” that it lacks a certain poetic voice that I was expecting on the subject of Buddha and Jesus. I would have liked the author’s voice to feel more authoritative rather than colloquial and conversational. This style felt a bit too contrived for my taste.

OVERALL IMPACT
After finishing this book, I was challenged by new ways of sharing my faith with Buddhist adherents. The author often returns to his original purpose: contextualization. “We are to search for gems of truth that remain in humanity’s traditions, and dig out nuggets of life in non-Christian cultures. This is not to replace the preaching of the Gospel, but to prepare people’s hearts to hear the Gospel in a culturally relevant way.” I feel that this book will be used to embolden Christians to share God’s love with Buddhists, awaken Western adherents to Buddhism to see the truth of this religion, and help true Buddhists to understand that Jesus is the culmination of Buddha’s teachings.

10 POINT RATING
I give From Buddha to Jesus a 7/10.

[Tim Baumgartner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since I'm living in Thailand, this book by former Buddhist, now Christian, Steve Cioccolanti, is VERY helpful by including Thai theological words (which I know nothing about yet-unfortunately) that can be used in conversations with Buddhists. There are parables from the Buddha that supposedly will resonate with Buddhists I speak with. However, and maybe this is because I'm teaching World Religions, I was quite disappointed that more references were not given. There are almost 200 footnotes in this book to be exact, but many of the parables are shared as 'common knowledge,' but to someone like myself, who has been here almost 3 years, I have not heard most of these stories before. It was really nice to have just finished reading "what the Buddha Taught" by Walpola Rahula, which was much more scholarly, even though it still could be considered an introductory text on Buddhism. I can imagine speaking to my class right now about these things and lots of them would just 'write them [parables] off' and chalk them up as superstitious beliefs. I'm teaching a Buddhism unit at the moment and if he would just quote some of the Sutras (suttas), it could go a long way towards dealing with what historically has come from the Buddha (at least some great conversations could emerge).

I really tracked with most of what he shared throughout his book, although there were a few issues I had (more on that later). I was encouraged to see lots of the bridges the author attempted to build with his Buddhist friends and readers (See the Parable of the Lotus Blossom).

It was also fascinating to me to see him use the Dictionary of the Royal Institute, Aksorn Chareon Taat Publisher, Bangkok, Edition 2525 (1982), authorized by the Thai Government and approved by the Army General & (former) Prime Minister Prame Tinasulanon, p. 12. This, to me, was one of the best sources in the book. It said, "under the word karma or gum, we found three definitions: (1) gum is "an action that sends evil to the present and continues into the future;" (2) gum is "sin;" (3) gum "can also mean death" (p. 56). If this is reliable, it really impacts the way I will speak to Buddhists in the future. The author goes on to share how these definitions relate to Romans 6:23 ("The wages of sin is death") and original sin ("The Fall"). On page 57 he says, "Buddhism teaches that if we were perfect, we would not be born at all. We would cease from being reincarnated." The next page speaks of "gilead tanha," our inward problem, which relates to the war of the flesh spoken about by Paul in Romans 7:14-23.
Moreover, accumulating merit, or tam boon [which means 'sweep below,'], only lessens the sin, but never washes it away. Note two things: (1) a person may tam boom all her life and not be guaranteed escape from Hell, and (2) the main motivation of tam boom is a guilty conscience (p. 71).

It was interesting to read that a guy who tried to become a monk, but had a physical deformity due to polio was told he couldn't by a monk (p. 71).

In chapter 11 ("The Five Commandments of Buddha," or "seen ha") there are several commonalities between the 10 Commandments of the Bible. Chapter 12 ("What Would Jesus Say to Buddhists") includes "taking someone from the familiar to the unfamiliar. Sometimes, during conversations that includes talk about religion, if someone says, "I am Buddhist," it does not have to be a conversation stopper. Cioccolanti says, Christians could say, "That's great! Can you keep the Five Commandments, or seen ha?" This can lead to some of the talk just written in previous paragraphs (pages 56-7; 71; etc.). Same with Chapter 16 "Reincarnation." That's why it happens, according to Buddha and others, because sin is so bad! Steve also gave four reasons why he doesn't believe in reincarnation: 1) Hebrews 9:27; 2) All animals I have ever seen act instinctively and without concern for morals, contradicting reincarnation; 3) He uses Scott Noble (Stand to Reason Ministries) to question 'Why does a person need to be under hypnosis...or be in an altered state of consciousness during meditation, in order to have such 'memories?"; and 4) most believers in reincarnation are racist since being born with darker skin is the result of bad karma, but being born with white skin is a sign of good karma. The word 'Aryan" which Nazis used to refer to a "master race" actually comes from a Sanskrit word meaning "noble." Hitler developed his racist plans from evolution and Hinduism. Nearly all Buddhists and Hindus who believe in reincarnation desire to come back in the next life with whiter skin as Aryans are at the top of the caste system (120-1).

I appreciate the contribution he makes at the end of chapter 20 when he addresses "Is There a God in Buddhism?" The author goes on to say that Gautama’s assumption was that there is an impersonal force in the world. There is also absolute morality and a just distribution of merits and demerits. The Buddha gives no acknowledgement of the presence of an Intelligent, Personal & Moral God keeping track of every person’s moral decisions and the distribution of rewards and punishment. This happens through Jesus. He even provides a Thai phrase ("Sing Saksit Nai Sakolaloak," which means "Something Holy in the Universe") that suggests Thais 'pray' this even though they don't know His Name is Jesus (148).

Chapter 24 went into the Tripitaka (Tipitaka) and I came across what I thought was some good material, but when I looked up the sites, they didn't work (the book is from 2007). He went into some differences in translation between the Bible and Tripitaka, which were ok, but I felt some were used to make the Bible's translation history look impeccable. I think he could have included some Bible history and more specific Buddhist history.

Chapter 26 brings up a great story (and analogy) of Pra-Naresuan the son of Pra-Maha-Thammaracha. "When Thailand fought Burma and lost, Burma took the King's son in exchange for peace. Rather than allowing the whole nation to be enslaved, the Prince gave his life as security for the liberty of the rest of the Thai people. Pra-Naresuan then became highly trained in martial arts and military skills under his Burmese guardians, and three years after the Burmese King died, Pra-Naresuan led a victorious revolt against them. This can obviously be used to share how Jesus' life can be used to set us free (although differently) (200).

The Appendix gives some interesting information about Tongsuk Siriruk (see connection with Ch. 22), but I would like to explore other sources before I comment too much here.


Now for the parts of the book that were frustrating:

-Chapter 14 ("The Ten Karmas") includes some of the frustrating parts of the book. He speaks of how there are "Ten ways of karma, or Ten ways of death that will cause a human to go to Hell" (In Thai: gumma bot sip, or hon-taang hang gum sip yaang serng ja tum hai mannut pai soo narok). But where does this teaching come from? No citation!

-He did the same thing in the next chapter (15: "Is There a Hell?").

-In chapter 16 ("Reincarnation"), he includes LOTS of speculation with no real facts to back up his three main thoughts: 1) The Buddha's "Wheel of Life" COULD have been misinterpreted as the "Wheel of Reincarnation." 2) Since 200-1000 years passed from the Buddha's life to the writing of the Tripitaka, there was plenty of time for Hindus to reassert their ideas back into Buddhism. 3) The cultural factor: maybe he referred to reincarnation because that was the dominant belief locally. In other words, maybe it wasn't his teaching, it was just to "connect" to his audience before branching off and discussing other things. This is purely speculative, and I didn't think his reasoning was too convincing.

-In chapter 18 (King Asoka and the Python), three stories (1-King Asoka and the Python; 2-Blind Turtle; and 3-three stories that supposedly come from 'the last words of the Buddha.') are mentioned for cross-cultural communication. But this seems hard to do as they are myths and not reliable as no sources are provided. It could possibly work for engaging some people, but for those I mainly speak to I just do not feel comfortable sharing them.

-In chapter 20 (The King and the Ungrateful Debtor-related to Matthew 18). He does specifically mention that the Bible does not teach reincarnation, but he says how much Buddhists like this text and just seems to go completely overboard in his fantasy-land 'rationalization' of how much 'debt' has been accumulated as a result of not only the reader's personal sins, but the entire world as a whole--he actually calculates specific dollar amounts.

-Chapter 22 ("The Last Words of the Buddha") mentions the Maitreya (messianic-like figure) possibly being in the Thai Tripitaka, "but some have told me that this passage has been ripped out of the sacred texts, because it is all too clear who it is referring to" (153). Then he quotes his friend, a former monk, Tongsuk Siriruk, found a version (of Buddhist scripture) in Kampee Khom, meaning Cambodian or Khmer Canon a seemingly very meaningful text. But, again, no specific reference (154).

-The 25th chapter (on the 6 Buddhist Councils) speculated that the Tripitaka was changed (197), but he provides no evidence--again a lack of resources.

-Chapter 27 ("Summary") uses the "debt" information that I disliked from earlier.

[Joseph Yue · Rating 2 out of 5]

Since I myself is raised in a Mahayana Buddhist family and have read part of the Chinese Buddhist canon, most concepts are quite familiar and easy to read. It's not, however, a piece of objective academic work demonstrating the difference between Buddhism and Christianity - rather it's more like a very basic introduction to Christian who know absolutely nothing about Buddhism. Since the author is from Thailand, I can't blame him for writing only from the Theravada perspective, but there are other defects too: the language is loose and theme unorganised; extremely under-referenced, no reliable source is referred to for most of the Buddhist texts or stories cited; significant part of conclusions are based on arguments that are, although reasonable, highly speculative. the pre-1956 Cambodian Buddhist canon mentioned is nowhere to be found. I don't doubt the sincerity and personal testimony of the author, but the academic veracity of this book should be questioned constructively.

[Kathy S · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was very excited to start this book because -as a Christian - I wanted to learn more about Buddhism. Soon it became clear however, that the book was written from a very conservative perspective with a side kick of almost extreme evangelism at times.
I wanted to learn more about Buddhism, and thought it would be helpful to compare it what I know (how it’s different/similar). Throughout the whole book, it became clear that it was written with the intention to evangelise Buddhists, which fundamentally I think is a bad idea because how can we accept other religions and encourage more tolerance and understanding, if we start from this angle?! Anyway, in short, it was informative but I didn’t like the conservative, evangelistic stance - also, just a warning, there’s a pretty nasty homophobic paragraph in there but no surprise considering all else I said about the book.

[Girlie Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly speaking, i don't have that much knowledge about Buddhism except what the western movies showed to me which i found it to be wrong after reading this book. I've learn a lot of new things that i didn't know before. My view of Buddhism was really changed. I've realized that as a christian it's not that hard to reach out to buddhist. All i need to have is to be equipped with the right and accurate information which Steve Cioccolanti provided in this book. It is not just informative but also very practical. Excellent!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Class reading. Steve Cioccolanti's unique bicultural identity gives him insight into both worlds. Half Thai and raised Buddhist, he converted to Christianity after exploring a few different religions. His Christian theology bends a little conservatively, but he's identified inroads for how Christianity makes sense in a Buddhist context.

[Jocelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aside from a few specific theological rants that he could have done without, the content and delivery serve the purpose of helping Westerners better understand the true day to day practical belief of SE Asian Buddhists. I particularly found the Buddhist parallels and specific comparisons of Christianity and Buddhism interesting and thought provoking.

[Ye Min · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lotus to the Cross

Loved how insightful the writer is, since he’s coming from the Thai perspective. Gave me new knowledge of how different Buddhism is across culture. And I fully agree his views on Buddha being a truth seeker at any cost.

[Emma Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy the insight into Buddhism and how to cross cultural and religious divides in order to make the message of Jesus Christ more understandable to Buddhists.
Some of the information was repetitive, but the beginning and middle sections on Buddhism were very insightful.

[Margaret Makewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed it. Steve's style is so easy to read and follow. If you're a Christian around Buddhists, you need to read this.

[Danaka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! what an empowering book.

This is a must read for anyone in the presence of Buddhist people. We need to understand Buddha before we can bring the light of Christ to them.

[Rod Horncastle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Although half way through I started getting a little sceptical and doubting the authors abilities. It seems like his heart is in the right place but his facts seemed questionable. I know very little about Buddhism (doesn't everyone?) - although I have read quite abit. The problem seems to be that everytime i read something it disagrees with other things i've read: oh well, that's religions for you. It's apparently impossible to put any core Buddhist writings together in a Bible like format. (maybe their deity should have given this more thought?)

But the one thing i do know is the Bible (Yes, i've been reading and studying it for 30 years). And I found a few problems with Cioccolanti's reading abilities.
In the chapter: Is there a Hell.
He says; "worms, maggots, snakes, beasts and terrible monstrosities. All of which hate you because they hate God...in hell you will be stung, bitten, beaten and torn apart without ever dying."
I don't see that in my Bible Steve. The verses you mentioned don't clearly say that. Would a loving God do that? some people would ask: NO, and the Bible says so. God will leave you alone to your own torment and anguish (Yes, read Luke 16:19-31). I think Steve has seen too many horror movies. You are making the Christian God out to be just as nasty as the Allah of Islam. (He seems to like burning people's flesh off and replacing it endlessly.) The Biblical God is LOVE and justice. There is a Hell - but people won't have normal bodies to be tortured OR BITTEN, or eat food for that matter. No where in the Bible does God torture people. Simply death is enough - people can mentally torture themselves EMOTIONALLY for all eternity. NO reason for God to do it.

There was almost a glimmer of hope for this book until Steve thought it was important to mention Crazy old Smith Wigglesworth (a some-what infamous Christian Evangelist who supposedly raised around 20 people from the dead - mostly his wife numerous times, yes - now is a goodtime to laugh). That alone is embarrassing enough. I won't even get into the speaking in tongues foolishness. But if you were going for credibility? You blew it buddy. I will now lump all of your Buddhist expertise right beside your Biblical expertise (in the who-cares file.) You gave me some interesting things to think about in the area of Buddhism. Thanks for that.

Sorry Steve; you sound like a really nice guy who is working hard for Jesus but...you are starting down a dark dangerous road. Be careful.

Jan. 2016 update.
Apparently some comments misunderstand my discussion of biblical hell.
Yes there is a hell, indeed it is fiery and eternal for those who have NOT been covered by the Righteousness of Christ. But my Bible still doesn't have any verses that match Steve's imagination:

" ...maggots, snakes, beasts and terrible monstrosities. All of which hate you because they hate God...in hell you will be stung, bitten, beaten and torn apart without ever dying"

The verses Steve's Goodreads soldiers mentioned don't state this stuff either. But please keep trying... Hopefully you have now realized that Isaiah 14 is some impressive POETIC prophecy. Valid indeed - but no mention of being stung, bitten or beaten and torn apart in hell.

[Thinkingofpeace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Reasons Why I like this book:

1. It helps me to realize that I’m not as good as I think I am. I always thought I was a pretty good person, didn’t kill anyone, didn’t break any nations’s law etc, but reading this, makes me realize God’s standards and how I need divine help! Only the proud cannot accept help.

2. I can relate to it, I tried to get rid of karma myself. I used to attend Buddhist seminars, received a lot of blessings from Buddhist monks, even going to ceremonies to release birds and animals as part of doing good deeds etc. Incense burning was a norm and going to temples. All these I did, but I didn’t feel any different deep inside of me. Reading this book affirms that I am just like any other person, no matter how much good I do, I can’t reach perfection. Only Jesus is perfect

3. It helps me relate to Buddhists better. I believe that Christians are not against Buddhists and vice versa. The story of the Korean helps me to know how to talk to people that I meet and really helps me build a bridge with Buddhists and people of other faiths

4. It provides me clarity on reincarnation. I remembered attending a seminar where they claimed a certain baby was a reincarnation of a monk because the baby kept picking the toy that belonged to a well known monk. I didn’t know what to make out of it, and kept thinking what I would be reincarnated as in future. Now I’m not confused anymore and know the real reason behind reincarnation!

5. It gave me results! I frequently travel, and meet Buddhists and people of other faith everywhere. Reading this book gave me the confidence to go and talk to people and they actually identify and give their lives to Jesus!


This book provides so much practicality, it’s true Buddha was a kind man, but he was just a man, like any of us and didn’t claim that he was God. What I used to do to try and get rid of the karma or sin in me didn’t work, only Jesus can save!

I find this book non-offensive and is well written, clear and concise. It basically answered all the questions I had that was lingering at the back of my mind. It also provided me with step by step ways on understanding Buddhism and how to relate to them. Would recommend that you read it if you haven’t!

[Rebecca Adelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

#LTO

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author was born in Thailand in a family of Catholics, Buddhists, Methodists and Muslims and now is a follower of Jesus who pastors a church in Melbourne, Australia.
This book serves as a fine basic primer to Buddhism, especially from the perspective of other followers of Jesus. It convinced me that what most Westerners think they know about Buddhism is wrong. Certainly most of what I thought I knew about Buddhism was wrong. We use the word "karma" to mean things the Buddha never would have recognized.
It surprised me to learn that Buddha had a lot to say about sin and also about hell. Steve Cioccolanti doesn't think Buddha even believed in reincarnation but only referred to it out of respect for his Hindu roots.
Most important, Cioccolanti says, Buddha's teaching points to the lostness of the human race -- there is no escape from our karma, and that is not a good thing at all. In fact, Buddha's teachings, like the Hebrew Bible, point to the need for a savior -- and that savior, Cioccolanti says, was provided through Jesus Christ.
I think "From Buddha to Jesus" could have used stronger editing. It seems a bit disorganized and occasionally repetitive. On the other hand, it has a nice conversational feel, as if Cioccolanti is so excited to share his observations with you that he can't wait long enough to present it in a perfectly uncluttered way.