Gospelbound: Living with Resolute Hope in an Anxious Age

by Collin Hansen, Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra

A profound exploration of how to hold on to hope when our unchanging faith collides with a changing culture, from two respected Christian storytellers and thought leaders.
 
“Offers neither spin control nor image maintenance for the evangelical tribe, but genuine hope.”—Russell Moore, president of ERLC

As the pressures of health warnings, economic turmoil, and partisan politics continue to rise, the influence of gospel-focused Christians seems to be waning. In the public square and popular opinion, we are losing our voice right when it’s needed most for Christ’s glory and the common good. But there’s another story unfolding too—if you know where to look. 
 
In  Gospelbound,  Collin Hansen and Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra counter these growing fears with a robust message of resolute hope for anyone hungry for good news. 
 
Join them in exploring profound stories of Christians who are quietly changing the world in the name of Jesus—from the wild world of digital media to the stories of ancient saints and unsung contemporary activists on the frontiers of justice and mercy. 
 
Discover how, in these dark times, the light of Jesus shines even brighter. You haven’t heard the whole story. And that’s good news.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Faith, Discipleship

240 pages, Paperback

Published April 6, 2021

About the author

Collin Hansen is editorial director for The Gospel Coalition and was previously an associate editor for Christianity Today. He has written for Books & Culture, Leadership, and Christian History & Biography, and is the author of Young, Restless, and Reformed.

Reviews

[Ivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5. Discouraged by the headlines and social media?Then read these stories of God at work in the world and the gospel’s advance.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christianity in America is changing. In Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra share stories that teach us how to live with resolute hope in shaky times. With real-life stories and Gospel truth, Hansen and Zylstra show how Christians can stand in our anxious age.

Resolute Hope

The key to living with resolute hope is to think big and small – at the same time. What this means is to trust God and look for small ways in the ordinary rhythms of life to make an impact for the kingdom. The people in these stories are Gospelbound because they are tied to the Gospel, they are bound by love, and they are bound for glory.

These stories of Gospelbound Christians share themes of hope in that they: (1) embrace the future, (2) live with honor, (3) suffer with joy, (4) care for the weak, (5) set another seat at the table, (6) love their enemies, and (7) give away their freedom. Faith and love drive these stories and set them apart as distinctly following the way of Jesus.

Practical Examples, Biblical Principles

What I appreciate about this book is that it gives practical examples of how to live out Biblical principles. When speaking about how Christians are to live honorably, it is straightforward in saying we can be living with sexual honor. We can love everyone not as objects for self-fulfillment but as subjects of God’s beautiful design.

You won’t find sugarcoated stories of the Christian life in this book. Suffering is the subject of Chapter 4, and stories are told of suffering Christians from around the world. But it is a suffering that sparks into joy when we hold on to the hope that Jesus will never leave or forsake us.

Count the Cost, Picture the Prize

This book also combats the notion that Christians only do good works when we are being watched. In Chapter 5, we see how Christians care for the weak when the cameras aren’t rolling. In fact, Christians care even when there seems to be no end to suffering. We serve in the supernatural strength that God supplies. And we serve acknowledging that we, too, are weak and need God to help us.

I was challenged by this book with the stories of how Christians are called to love our enemies. The closing chapter acts as a real reminder of the world we live in. The West is shaping up so that there is no social benefit to being a Christian. Instead, there is a very high social cost. And so this book asks us to count the cost, but look to the prize. We can be confident in Christ, bound to and for the Gospel. And for glory.

I received a media copy of Gospelbound and this is my honest review.

[Michelle Walsh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Had high hopes after the introduction, which I really enjoyed! I think the chapter length was really a struggle for me to get through

[Jonathan Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid book on the implications of the gospel. This is really a book about what life looks like for those who are out there applying the gospel to the needs of the world. Less of a how to and more of a “here’s what people are doing” kind of book. Recommended

[Derek Plegge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hansen & Zylstra have accomplished their goal in wanting to bring forth stories that will give hope and encouragement to followers of Jesus. If your a Christian discouraged by all the constant negative news in the media, check out this book and be awed and inspired by what God is doing in the lives of others.

[Chris Sigfrids · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read. Thoughtful, provactive, encouraging and a reminder to stay focused on the things of the Kingdom. A few of my favorite quotes:

“If we feel comfortable here, in a world we know is broken and sinful, what does that say about us?”

“You’re not bur¬dening your friend when you tell her about Jesus.”

“While we wait for heaven, we’re working toward it. Through us, some of heaven is breaking through on earth.”

[Josiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! Hansen and Eekhoff Zylstra helpfully contrast the anxious state of the world with the resolute hope of Christians. This book illustrates how Christians are living radical lives for the sake of the gospel in a way that inspires others to do likewise. I'm encouraged by the stories of ordinary people finding joy in sacrifice.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had just spoken to one of my ESL students who said she has little or no hope for the world in which we live. Her vocal tone was almost a monotone and she rarely smiles. I am not sure how I can help this beautiful young woman. I want to help. I want everyone to understand that they were put on earth, at just this time and place, because God has a plan and purpose for their lives. Then I came across this book – Gospel Bound by Collin Hansen and Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra.

The authors of this book suggest that the key to living a hopeful and rewarding life is ‘to think big and small at the same time.'  What does that mean? Thinking big for me means trusting God for everything. Thinking small means helping others. Buy a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk and take it to the young mother who commented she didn’t have any. Call the friend who is making some tough decisions and simply listen to her talk. Giving what I can when I can is often just a little thing but it makes a God-sized difference in someone else’s life.

One of the problems in the US right now is that we do not understand or perhaps even recognize the amount of suffering that is going on around us. We have isolated our thoughts and actions to our own small group of people and rarely reach out to others. That’s not the way it’s supposed to be. The question becomes – is what I’m doing making any difference at all?  Gospel Bound suggests that it’s rare to be able to change someone else’s habits. But we must keep on helping others. Some will eventually see the Light. Others will go on as they always have. The Bible doesn’t say each endeavor will be successful, it just says do it! (Be obedient!) We are not asked to do miracles, that’s God’s job anyway, we’re asked to use what we have been given and get on with it.

How do we show God’s love in this topsy-turvy world? Here are a few examples from the book:

          God’s Word is and must be our guide.

          Live and work with integrity.

          Give the best we have in all circumstances.

          Show hospitality by sitting with newcomers in worship.

          Volunteer in ways we never thought we could.

          GET INVOLVED. Don’t just sit back when you see a need.

          Be holy, godly, diligent, at peace (2 Peter 3:11,14).

          Work while we wait because our minds are set on heaven.

          Invest your love (of Jesus) in all your relationships. Take the focus off yourself.

          Visit the lonely, feed the hungry, care for the sick.

          Do what’s right even when you don’t want to. Even if no one notices. In other words, live with honor. Romans 12:17

          Plant a church.

          Pray through all your decisions and then stick with them.

Favorite Quote: “When billionaires like Bill Gates give away their fortunes to fight diseases and help the world’s poorest people, we recognize God’s provision, even if Gates does not recognize God.”

Although I recognized the value of this book I was a bit disturbed by some vulgar language and way too much explicit description of sexual activity. I simply want to warn you with this statement. I hope it doesn't keep you from reading it.

[Kati Higginbotham · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m so disappointed about this one. I love both of these authors and this Bible Study on the Bible app was actually really good (which is saying something because the Bible app has terrible Bible studies). This was just so…. Meh. Normally these people are more thoughtful than this, but this comes out as just cringy evangelicalism. “I live my faith by not offering p0rn in my hotel I operate for profit” and “I yell at unwed mothers outside planned parenthood” are annoying examples of how to live for Jesus. I wanted this to be better. These people have done really hard pieces and moved the conversation forward. This feels really pander-y.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

It seems to be a tough time for religion in the U.S. Confidence in religion is in decline. Only about half of Americans think religion does more good than harm. (154/4739) Christians feel they are losing influence on society. We've lost ground in sexual ethics and religious liberty. (3297/4739

The authors want Christians to have a broader perspective and not lose heart. A look at history and activities around the world will remind readers of the power of the gospel. The authors tell many amazing stories of people whose lives and actions are bound by the gospel. They are laying down their lives for the weak, the sick, the poor, the lonely, and their enemies. The stories give great hope and assurance of the power of the gospel to a needy world.

But the authors take the American church and American Christians to task as well. The church is concerned about losing privilege and power it was never meant to have. (308/4739) The authors ask if the power the American church experienced did not make it stronger but rather sapped its potential for genuine Christlike faith. (295/4739) American Christians are especially unprepared to suffer for their faith. Part of the reason is because they have been a favorite in American society. (1253/4739) We need to have faith in the midst of this anxious age and be prepared to suffer with joy.

So there is good news in that we see the power of the gospel working in so many ways in the world today. But we also are admonished to personally act and sound like Jesus and to make sure our actions do not hinder others from believing the gospel. If you are discouraged, this book will encourage you. The book will also challenge you to be the example of Jesus to your next door neighbor.

There are Questions for Reflection for each chapter so this book would be a good choice for a small group to read and discuss.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gospelbound, was an excellent wake up call for the Christians who are discouraged with the modern-day world and all of it’s complex issues within the church and in the neighborhoods and schools we see. It is a rugged telling of many real live tales of Christians who have made a difference and have maintained their focus on the Lord and our mission. It is not preachy in any way, but has example after example of real Christians overflowing with love and making a difference.
Much of our modern world is in a panic attack mode and is deeply searching for the true meaning and purpose. They give us different type of news, stories of Christians caring for the weak, loving their enemies, and suffering with joy. It is modern with the pandemic and politics but without taking a side other than our mandate to be a servant for Christ. It doesn’t just attack the easy subjects but shines a light of hope, that calms the angry forces and marches in the street, not by moving to the suburbs but by wading into the thick of things with his love. Eight chapters which start with a highlighted Bible verse, usually from Romans, and nice size bites of examples. Some chapters had as many as 46 footnotes in the back to support their examples. I found it had to read more than a few pages at a time, it was so emotional and positive about how real Christians made a difference. In the back also were 10 questions that could be used to study and talk out the issues highlighting in the chapter.
The light of Jesus shines brighter with this excellent small book to guide you, or a group, or a church to feel the hope in this day and age, and not be discouraged. I was interested to see that a book I picked up at my public library “The righteous mind, why good people are divided by politics and religion by Jonathan Haidt. Both titles will encourage you greatly, give them a try.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that most of us have felt anxious at some point in the past year. So much has been going on in the realms of health, cultural divide, and more. Collin Hansen and Sarah Zylstra combined their talents to write a book which helps Christians deal with the anxiety in our nation.
This is very much a “thinker” book which is best digested in small amounts at a time. The authors include Questions for Reflection which helps to make this an excellent book for small group study.
Collin Hansen and Sarah Zylstra identify themselves when speaking in first person, which I really appreciated. I also appreciated the many “real life” examples for the concepts they were trying to convey. Chapters focus on: Resolute Hope, Embracing the Future, Living with Honor, Suffering with Joy, Caring for the Weak, Hospitality, Loving Enemies, and Giving Freedom Away.
I highly recommend Gospel Bound for those Christians who want to live a life that exemplifies living by the Gospel. It would be great for small group study.
I think Gospel Bound: Living with Resolute Hope in an Anxious Age is appropriate for older secondary students. English teachers may want to consider adding it to their Christian Living book report lists. Bible teachers may want to consider making it required reading in their classes which teach students how to live out their faith.
I received a complimentary uncorrected e-copy of Gospel Bound. This is my honest review.

[ladydusk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I tried a few times to read the Kindle edition and just was not having success, so I decided it would be faster for me to listen before Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra is here this weekend for our Women's Retreat.

I think I'd give this 3.5 stars, really (if GR gave us that capability).

Most of the content and ideas I liked. A few things annoyed me about the writing itself. I'm not a fan of the modern usage of the title-as-modifier. "Gospelbound Christian" grated on my nerves. This is a book for our time now and perhaps not for the church at large for all time; most (but not all) of the examples are current and limited. The stories did not always help me with the concept they were expanding upon and, generally, rightly using scripture to show a proper submission to Christ.

I am very conversant with the modern Classical Christian Ed/Homeschool movement and the high-level completely positive spin given does not encourage me in the rest of the stories shared. While I do believe good work is being done, shadows remain. This portrayal was very glossy. How glossy are the other portrayals?

Overall, there was some good here, there was also some meh. I'm not sure the writing style is one that I hugely appreciate. Not disappointed to have read it, but not a must-read by any stretch.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really convicting read, on a lot of levels. "Gospelbound" calls the American church today--no matter what side of the political aisle we fall on--back to Jesus.

In John 13:35, Jesus told his disciples, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another" (ESV). We dont' see that in the world today, nor (all too often, alas), in the church. Many of us spend more time in the black hole known as social-media comment threads, getting in arguments with virtual (literally) strangers, than we do being Jesus' hands and feet to them--even if we both profess to be Christians.

This is incredibly timely and something I think a lot of folks could learn from, myself included. We all have our roles to play in Jesus' kingdom ... will we lean on him to show the way, and follow through even--especially--when it costs us something?

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Skip Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of stories of people truly living out their faith. If I’m told to live with an eternal perspective, that is good. But if I’m told a story of someone doing that in their circle of influence, complete with their sometimes failings short and doubts, there is another leave of inspiration. This encourages without making a hero of anyone specifically. For instance there’s a girl who feels called to love the women at strip clubs. But it starts with a simple call. And she’s simply a preachers kid. But O what God can do!

This book reminded me of “Finding God in Unexpected Places” by Philip Yancey.
It’s 4/5 stars and highly recommended

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah and I were in the same graduating class and loved playing basketball together for our small Christian school. I’ve read her articles over the years and am thrilled she wrote Gospelbound. The gospel is “good news” and that hasn’t changed! Followers of Jesus all over the globe are serving Him in their homes, neighborhoods, communities, and churches. And although good news is often something we have to dig for (negativity & division sells), we can live with resolute hope in who our Savior is and what He is doing in this generation!

[Josh Howeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really encouraging book on what it should look like to live as faithful Christ followers in our age. We need more books like this telling stories of the amazing things God is doing through people. The last line of the book is a good summation: “When talk is cheap, our actions speak. And no apology is needed.”

[Rich Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The authors share insights and real-life interviews and stories of Christians making a positive impact. There is a lot of negative feeling toward Christians but this book points out that Christians who are bound to the Gospel live out their faith in simple ways that continue to impact perhaps just one person but also many more.

[Laurie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book just wasn't for me. I was already on the defensive after reading the introduction. Maybe once I flesh out a fuller review for my blog, I'll be able to better verbalize my thoughts on this book.

[Deborah Maganza · Rating 5 out of 5]

A favorite quote (among many): “ It’s when you’re so sure of whom God made you to be, you don’t need to worry so much about what everyone else thinks of you. You’re wearing your own oxygen mask; now you can help others put theirs on.”

[Paul Elliott · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. A really intriguing premise and introduction, but it felt disjointed after that. A ton of fascinating stories, analysis, and statistics, but the authors had a hard time tying it all together.

[Jacob Prince · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a lot like Some Good News with John Krasinski, a compilation of stories of ministry taking place across the world. It’s inspirational and little bit of visionary work as you are challenged to consider how you can replicate some of it.

[Lee Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not really sure what I think about this book. It is a generational book that is a recurring theme in Christianity.

A gospelbound Christian is, according to the authors, one who takes the claims of scripture seriously and puts the gospel into practice.

A very good primer with good examples and role models.

Worth the time and a recommended read.

[Anna Sangrey Roussel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed a hopeful, thoughtful yet not too deep read. Fascinated by the presence of the Church in today's world. A nonfiction read of friends i have known and know. Encouraging.

[Maddie · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5, some encouraging stories and takeaways but overall the book felt really choppy.

[Caroline Garza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Encouraging book about God’s people following God faithfully all around the world.

[D.K. Brantley]

Good stuff. Challenging.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

GOSPELBOUND is a guide for Christians on how to navigate the world we now live in. This book addresses the current state of our world and how we got here. It provides “resolute hope” in often discouraging circumstances and encourages Christians to keep their eyes on Jesus and their hearts leaned towards His calling, despite the outcome. I highly recommend!

I received an advance digital copy of this book. I was happy to provide an honest review.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book filled with information that gives the reader a look into the thoughts of people in today's time of uncertainty. One thing we can be sure of is the love God has for us. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.