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We Will Not Be Silenced: Responding Courageously to Our Culture's Assault on Christianity
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed,
for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Each day, you watch America turn further from Christian values and the core principles of liberty. It’s frustrating to feel you can’t assert biblical truth without facing condemnation, and fearful to witness outrage and victimhood replace respect and reason. Amidst this dissent, how can you not only stay rooted in your own faith, but continue publicly testifying for Jesus?
In We Will Not Be Silenced, Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer prepares you to live out your convictions against a growing tide of hostility. Gain a better understanding of nonbelievers’ legitimate hurts and concerns regarding issues like racism, sexism, and poverty—and identify the toxic responses secular culture disguises as solutions. In the process, you’ll see how you can show compassion and gentleness to those outside of the faith without affirming their beliefs.
We Will Not Be Silenced will ready you to move beyond fear and boldly accept the challenge of representing Christ to a watching world that needs Him now more than ever before.
for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Each day, you watch America turn further from Christian values and the core principles of liberty. It’s frustrating to feel you can’t assert biblical truth without facing condemnation, and fearful to witness outrage and victimhood replace respect and reason. Amidst this dissent, how can you not only stay rooted in your own faith, but continue publicly testifying for Jesus?
In We Will Not Be Silenced, Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer prepares you to live out your convictions against a growing tide of hostility. Gain a better understanding of nonbelievers’ legitimate hurts and concerns regarding issues like racism, sexism, and poverty—and identify the toxic responses secular culture disguises as solutions. In the process, you’ll see how you can show compassion and gentleness to those outside of the faith without affirming their beliefs.
We Will Not Be Silenced will ready you to move beyond fear and boldly accept the challenge of representing Christ to a watching world that needs Him now more than ever before.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
918 people are currently reading
2249 people want to read
About the author
Erwin W. Lutzer
165 books276 followersErwin W. Lutzer is senior pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and Loyola University, he is the author of numerous books, including the Gold Medallion Award winner "Hitler's Cross" and the best seller "One Minute After You Die". He is also a teacher on radio programs heard on more than 700 stations throughout the United States and the world, including "Songs in the Night," "The Moody Church Hour," and the daily feature "Running to Win." He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area and have three married children and seven grandchildren.
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August 29, 2020
This is a reminder. A strong reminder. And no doubt many will think it is an overly harsh reminder. It reminds us that we are a country blessed because of our Christian heritage, but it also reminds us that we are squandering those blessings because of our rejection of Christianity. But it is also a review. It holds up God’s Word to the mirror of our political, sexual, and racial culture. Not to judge God’s Word, but to determine how well those ideas reflect God’s order and truth. It asks tough questions, such as…Does socialism or capitalism better reflect God’s command to care for the poor? Does affirming championship or loving repentance better reflect God’s eternal plan for homosexuals? Does mass guilt/privilege or individual repentance better reflect God’s plan for reconciliation?
Much of this book is depressing. It takes you through the development, acceptance, and implementation of many of the most blatantly un-Biblical programs or practices in recent years. But at the end of each chapter, there are a few paragraphs that remind the church that we have the answers to all confusion and fear. That is followed by a brief prayer and a couple of verses of encouragement. The last chapter discusses in more detail why we must stand for the Gospel as presented in the whole Word of God.
It’s good for everyone. It’s vital for every Christian parent, though. Lutzer challenges them to carefully consider the influences they subject their children to, by carefully explaining the world view that has come to dominate American education. Please, prayerfully consider what he has to say here. It may have eternal consequences for your children.
I received this as a free ARC through NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. No favorable review was required, and it was my honor to provide my honest opinions.
Much of this book is depressing. It takes you through the development, acceptance, and implementation of many of the most blatantly un-Biblical programs or practices in recent years. But at the end of each chapter, there are a few paragraphs that remind the church that we have the answers to all confusion and fear. That is followed by a brief prayer and a couple of verses of encouragement. The last chapter discusses in more detail why we must stand for the Gospel as presented in the whole Word of God.
It’s good for everyone. It’s vital for every Christian parent, though. Lutzer challenges them to carefully consider the influences they subject their children to, by carefully explaining the world view that has come to dominate American education. Please, prayerfully consider what he has to say here. It may have eternal consequences for your children.
I received this as a free ARC through NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. No favorable review was required, and it was my honor to provide my honest opinions.
September 16, 2020
I read this book as a pre-release e-book obtained through NetGalley, provided by the publisher.
I selected this book, wondering, “How can a majority be silenced?”.After having read this, it is summed up by the unattributed "When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."
The author claims that he, as well as other Evangelical Christians are “shamed into silence”. There are hundreds of thousands of Christian churches, from upward of 30,000 denominations, all over the US, and all with a tax-exempt status. Christmas and Easter are Federal holidays, and 80% of the population identifies as Christian. Christians are the majority. Christians are not the oppressed. Should all of these religions be taught in the public schools? If so, where is the time for teaching academic subjects?
This seemed more akin to a treatise put out by the Taliban than any group that belongs in contemporary American society. If we reversed the terms “Islam” and “Christian” and “Bible” and Koran”, it would read much as a treatise put out by a Conservative Muslim cleric might produce. It seems to espouse a theocracy, which would be very like Islamic theocracies in the middle east, meeting out punishments according to Old Testament Biblical Law.
Moreover, the book contains references of Jesus’ writing to cities and churches. There were no churches while Jesus was alive, and we have no writings by Jesus.
While the author says he is against slavery, the Bible is full of references to slavery, how to treat slaves, when they can or should be freed. There is even a set of instructions on how to sell your own daughter into slavery! Furthermore, "No nation on earth has worked as hard as America to make right the wrongs of the past." REALLY? Aside from America being two connected continents rather than a nation, what about Germany and the de-Nazification program after World War 2?
The claim is that there is so much in society, including schools, media, and internet, that usurps or replaces the moral and religious teachings of parents. Parents have a responsibility to guide their own children, and teach them their own morals and values! Giving a child a cell phone or computer with internet access, with no guidance, is a very good example of not parenting! It is a good example of abdicating responsibilities to “society”.
He goes on to criticize everything from the gay rights movement to black lives matter, and “removing” Christian teaching from the public schools. He goes on to explain how Islam is being taught in the public schools, prayer rooms exclusively for Muslims are being built, and Hallal food served to Muslim students, while other special diets are not accommodated. If this is happening in his community, he can go to the school board and complain about the teaching materials or facilities. I find this difficult to believe when schools struggle to find enough instruction rooms or money for nutritious food in the school lunch program. Evidence for this claim is lacking. Vouchers for private schools come from tax money from all taxpayers. Insisting on these not being used to espouse discrimination against those very same taxpayers is hardly oppression.
The author brings up an odd conspiracy theory, of “THEY” are going to divide the District of Columbia into 127 states, and ram through all sorts of things. The author should read the Constitution. This cannot happen without a vote from 2/3 of the Senate. Count to 13. When you’ve got that many states which would reject this absurd proposal, it fails.
The United States has not been the world’s beacon of hope, nor the leader in scientific or technological breakthroughs for decades. It’s quickly becoming seen as very under-educated.
The author should read his history better. “Wage and Price Controls” were instituted under Nixon, a conservative Republican, in the 1970s. They were not part of “Marxism” or “socialism”. The author conflates Marxism with everything from organized boycotts of corporations which its customers do not support the policies (including discrimination or religious claims) of the corporation. Free market capitalism contains the freedom for anyone to not patronize any business for any reason whatsoever. Meanwhile, he does not appear to notice the outright Communism described in the epistles of early Christian communities that held everything in common, giving to those in need. Private property is not granted by God. It is granted by governments, using various schemes – including land grants to individuals or collectives, paying for that property, paying taxes on what is produced by that property.
The author has a great deal to say about the GLBTQ movement. He brings up an apocryphal story about the APA in 1973. Gays were hardly treated “civilly” before 1973! But, he has a lot to say about the sin of homosexuality. Nothing at all about Jesus’ many teachings about the correct use of money. He ignores the fact that many of those other 30,000 denominations of Christianity have no problem with homosexuality.
Traditional Biblical marriage is another subject that seems to be a favorite of the author. Many types of marriage are brought up in the Bible: a man and a women, a man and several women, a man and several women along with their servants, a man and prisoner(s) of war, a man and his rape victim(s). This would be considered a war crime today, but it constitutes "blblical marriage".
I gave it two stars because it is important to actually read what Evangelical Christians are saying. The author has given a bibliography in the back, although referencing was lacking. Some of the grammar is not good either – it needs a copy editor.
I selected this book, wondering, “How can a majority be silenced?”.After having read this, it is summed up by the unattributed "When you are accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."
The author claims that he, as well as other Evangelical Christians are “shamed into silence”. There are hundreds of thousands of Christian churches, from upward of 30,000 denominations, all over the US, and all with a tax-exempt status. Christmas and Easter are Federal holidays, and 80% of the population identifies as Christian. Christians are the majority. Christians are not the oppressed. Should all of these religions be taught in the public schools? If so, where is the time for teaching academic subjects?
This seemed more akin to a treatise put out by the Taliban than any group that belongs in contemporary American society. If we reversed the terms “Islam” and “Christian” and “Bible” and Koran”, it would read much as a treatise put out by a Conservative Muslim cleric might produce. It seems to espouse a theocracy, which would be very like Islamic theocracies in the middle east, meeting out punishments according to Old Testament Biblical Law.
Moreover, the book contains references of Jesus’ writing to cities and churches. There were no churches while Jesus was alive, and we have no writings by Jesus.
While the author says he is against slavery, the Bible is full of references to slavery, how to treat slaves, when they can or should be freed. There is even a set of instructions on how to sell your own daughter into slavery! Furthermore, "No nation on earth has worked as hard as America to make right the wrongs of the past." REALLY? Aside from America being two connected continents rather than a nation, what about Germany and the de-Nazification program after World War 2?
The claim is that there is so much in society, including schools, media, and internet, that usurps or replaces the moral and religious teachings of parents. Parents have a responsibility to guide their own children, and teach them their own morals and values! Giving a child a cell phone or computer with internet access, with no guidance, is a very good example of not parenting! It is a good example of abdicating responsibilities to “society”.
He goes on to criticize everything from the gay rights movement to black lives matter, and “removing” Christian teaching from the public schools. He goes on to explain how Islam is being taught in the public schools, prayer rooms exclusively for Muslims are being built, and Hallal food served to Muslim students, while other special diets are not accommodated. If this is happening in his community, he can go to the school board and complain about the teaching materials or facilities. I find this difficult to believe when schools struggle to find enough instruction rooms or money for nutritious food in the school lunch program. Evidence for this claim is lacking. Vouchers for private schools come from tax money from all taxpayers. Insisting on these not being used to espouse discrimination against those very same taxpayers is hardly oppression.
The author brings up an odd conspiracy theory, of “THEY” are going to divide the District of Columbia into 127 states, and ram through all sorts of things. The author should read the Constitution. This cannot happen without a vote from 2/3 of the Senate. Count to 13. When you’ve got that many states which would reject this absurd proposal, it fails.
The United States has not been the world’s beacon of hope, nor the leader in scientific or technological breakthroughs for decades. It’s quickly becoming seen as very under-educated.
The author should read his history better. “Wage and Price Controls” were instituted under Nixon, a conservative Republican, in the 1970s. They were not part of “Marxism” or “socialism”. The author conflates Marxism with everything from organized boycotts of corporations which its customers do not support the policies (including discrimination or religious claims) of the corporation. Free market capitalism contains the freedom for anyone to not patronize any business for any reason whatsoever. Meanwhile, he does not appear to notice the outright Communism described in the epistles of early Christian communities that held everything in common, giving to those in need. Private property is not granted by God. It is granted by governments, using various schemes – including land grants to individuals or collectives, paying for that property, paying taxes on what is produced by that property.
The author has a great deal to say about the GLBTQ movement. He brings up an apocryphal story about the APA in 1973. Gays were hardly treated “civilly” before 1973! But, he has a lot to say about the sin of homosexuality. Nothing at all about Jesus’ many teachings about the correct use of money. He ignores the fact that many of those other 30,000 denominations of Christianity have no problem with homosexuality.
Traditional Biblical marriage is another subject that seems to be a favorite of the author. Many types of marriage are brought up in the Bible: a man and a women, a man and several women, a man and several women along with their servants, a man and prisoner(s) of war, a man and his rape victim(s). This would be considered a war crime today, but it constitutes "blblical marriage".
I gave it two stars because it is important to actually read what Evangelical Christians are saying. The author has given a bibliography in the back, although referencing was lacking. Some of the grammar is not good either – it needs a copy editor.
February 23, 2021
I initially planned to give this work a 4-Star rating; really good, but could have been better. Frankly, at the halfway point of the first chapter, I almost decided to stop reading (listening) to it. I had no desire to hear yet another perspective on a politicized Christian faith. Reluctantly, I pressed on, and on, and on. It was that hard to keep going. As my rating would indicate, I am glad I did. There are portions of this work that truly shine, and they shine bright enough that it is worth the effort to get through it.
Lutzer communicates well. His purpose is to show how the core, mostly biblical values once embraced by a large majority of Americans have been systematically removed from the fabric of our culture. He tackles everything from the denigration of our founding fathers and the heroes of our past, to the riots over racism, threats to capitalism, and the growing dominance of the transgender movement. Chapter six was a very difficult chapter to listen to, as it deals with the sexual exploitation of children.
The work is informative, reasoned, and balanced. Where it truly shines though is in the threefold strategy that emerges from the book. How is a Christian to respond to a rapidly changing culture that is growing increasingly intolerant of a biblical faith? His answer, which I will leave you to discover for yourself, is the reason for the five stars. There is a way to engage the culture of our day that is biblical and Christlike, and. I believe Lutzer makes a good case for it.
Lutzer communicates well. His purpose is to show how the core, mostly biblical values once embraced by a large majority of Americans have been systematically removed from the fabric of our culture. He tackles everything from the denigration of our founding fathers and the heroes of our past, to the riots over racism, threats to capitalism, and the growing dominance of the transgender movement. Chapter six was a very difficult chapter to listen to, as it deals with the sexual exploitation of children.
The work is informative, reasoned, and balanced. Where it truly shines though is in the threefold strategy that emerges from the book. How is a Christian to respond to a rapidly changing culture that is growing increasingly intolerant of a biblical faith? His answer, which I will leave you to discover for yourself, is the reason for the five stars. There is a way to engage the culture of our day that is biblical and Christlike, and. I believe Lutzer makes a good case for it.
May 29, 2021
Truly absurd. I hate judging books by their cover, but I was not encouraged when I saw that David Jeremiah's recommendation was right there on the cover. As someone who has, in many ways, had close ties with the Christian publishing industry for about three decades now, I do not respect that man's writing. I believe he is a fear-monger who preys on the vulnerabilities of certain populations within Christianity in order to sell books, who presents information in such a disingenuous manner so that he scares people into being angry and buying more books by him and his peers. In other words, a false prophet. However, I also saw that Tony Evans, who I enjoy and respect, recommended this book. And I must say I am so very disappointed in anyone who has added their name to this.
I truly tried to go into the book with an open heart. I do not believe Christianity is under attack in the United States, because I have so many friends and loved ones who live in countries where it actually is. Rather, I believe the way of life and personal preferences of some subsets of Christianity is "under attack" (and by that I mean "changing" or "no longer popular.") I understand why they would feel that way, though I do not always agree with it. But when a book starts out with the line “The secular left does not believe that America can be fixed; they say it must be destroyed," we are not in for a great time. The entire book alternates between vitriolic, divisive statements about millions upon millions of people, and twisted backpedaling to take the edge off, lest any domestic terrorist cite this book in his future manifesto, I suppose. It is rife with factual inaccuracies and half-truths designed to divide. Oddly enough, not every word of the book was horrible. There are places, perhaps one every ten pages or so, where it's possible the holy spirit is trying to steer the author in another, more honest, more Christlike direction. This is not "speaking truth in love," for sure, and most of the time it's not speaking truth at all.
I tried taking notes because I knew that some people would not believe me as to how bad this book actually is. I was exhausted after the first chapter. I kept reading, but not note-taking. I would like to provide a sampling of them here, just so you know why exactly I am encouraging literally EVERYONE to steer clear of this book. This is just from one and a half pages of my NINETEEN pages of notes. Again, on the first chapter and foreword alone. These notes were mostly correcting inaccuracies from history and current events, but there was a good deal of spiritual commentary as well, as I was frequently filled with such righteous anger and deep hurt that so many Christians are having their perspectives shaped by this instead of the Bible
-Beyond the first line, the foreword of the book is spent painting the conflict between Christians and secularists/leftists (always used interchangeably, but usually presented together as if there is no difference between the terms- and to be clear, the author does not seem to comprehend that a Christian "left" exists and came to be because of the teachings of Jesus. But I digress) as a competition, a battle, a baseball game (?) but always with aggressive language such as "enemy." It is un-Biblical to view people in this way.
-The first chapter sets the stage for the book, explaining that America is changing because of racism (in the author's view, racism exists, but at the same time, marginalized groups talking about their experiences is "furthering the divide"), cultural Marxism (which is not a thing, but rather the author's blanket term for so many things that seem to upset him), the erasure of history (more on that later) and Margaret Sanger. Now, Margaret Sanger was not a good person; she was a racist and a eugenicist, which I hate. But the author twists her words here in a way I cannot abide. He used a quote from Sanger about the freedom women would experience with birth control, and uprooting evil that is wrought through submission, and then went on to talk about Sanger wanting women to be able to be promiscuous, which would be an option for them with birth control. The author never seems to consider- or admit- that sometimes men use the idea of submission, which is Biblical, to force women into sexual encounters (which is rape, even if you're married) and the product of those encounters is HARD. Many women, at one point, had no control over how many babies their bodies were forced to produce, carry, and care for, and it sometimes killed them. Women who tried to avoid their "wifely duty" or asked their husbands to use barriers were sometimes beaten. That is evil. Women literally succumbed to mental illness under the burden of caring for 6, 8, 10 or more children. The news of a pregnancy was not always a happy one, sometimes for the fathers as well. That's a lot of mouths to feed. There are so, so many ways that birth control gave freedom to women (and families) that have nothing to do with women sinning. To think otherwise at this point is to be willfully obtuse.
-Stories are presented to the books readers to accomplish many ends, from painting "enemies" to be ridiculous, overemotional hypocrites to illustrating the author's disdain for certain social movements. People hear a lot about groups like BLM, or protestors trying to remove monuments, on the news. If the information you are getting is from this author, the image you have of these movements is not going to be based in reality. For example, he starts by saying that Confederate monuments are, basically, bad. The Confederacy is not praised and no excuses are made for them. At all. He then dips a toe into "but we don't want to erase history" territory (which I always find personally ridiculous; I have never seen a statue of Robert E. Lee in person, and yet I'm quite aware of who he is and what all he did, thanks. Read a book. Just not this one.) He seems to recognize that maybe Confederate statue removal would be justified based on the nature of who is being honored through those statues, but then he reports that other "founding fathers" are having their statues challenged with an air of surprise and disbelief. Christopher Columbus, for example. But this is intentionally misleading, as Christopher Columbus is not a founding father, and also he literally never accomplished anything in the United States. He never came here. He never set foot on any bit of land that is part of the USA. So even if Columbus wasn't a rapist and a murderer who sexually trafficked Taino women and beheaded their fathers and husbands as a warning to other Indigenous people (a fact you can read about in Columbus's own journals) there is absolutely no reason for us to have so many statues of him, let alone a federal holiday. And then, the hilarious kicker: the author reports that these anti-racist activists are pushing for a statue of Lincoln to be removed. Lincoln! Don't they know that man freed the slaves? But he either was too lazy to find out or too duplicitous to report that the statue in question shows tall, proud, saintly Lincoln looking down on a half-nude cowering former slave (modeled after a real person, in a most undignified way.) It's not a good image. It is not uplifting or victorious. It is bad. And it is time to remove it. Removing the statue will not cause collective amnesia throughout the United States, driving us all to forget Lincoln and what he did. We can even put up a new statue, honestly. But the author doesn't want you to know any of that. Because it wouldn't support his ongoing narrative (not just his, but an entire industry's, at this point) that the people who want to do this are stupid and out of control.
-Some of the "reporting" in here is outright lies. Bessie Coleman is presented as an example of an upstanding Black person we should look up to. The author seems to be under the impression that she was a mathematician (his words, not mine) and happened to fly airplanes. He mentions her great contributions to the field of mathematics. She wasn't a mathematician. I actually went out of my way to do some digging and see how he could have possibly come to this conclusion. I already knew that Bessie had tried going to college (I think for agriculture) and left after maybe a semester. The best I can come up with is a footnote in a Wikipedia article sharing that in elementary school, she took well to math in particular. Seriously. That's it. The mathematician claim is, on the surface, a harmless lie (and extremely lazy editing) but at the same time, it just goes to show how little thought went into the writing of this book. It's all emotion, and so much of it is misplaced.
-The last note I will make here is about history. The author repeatedly claims that revisionist history is contributing to the destruction of America. And yet every example he gives is based in fact. Every person he mentions and the quotes he provides are sharing factual information. He even talks about it himself, reminding us that Martin Luther did a lot of great stuff but was an antisemite. Thomas Jefferson talked a lot about freedom for a guy who owned slaves. But if a leftist/secularist is mentioning these things, they're trying to "erase" history. I don't understand why anyone would believe that sharing a more complete view of history (such as the Columbus information I shared earlier) is "erasing" anything. It's not. What is being erased is the extremely narrow view, or sometimes incorrect view, of history we have been presented for the last two centuries or so. That's not a bad thing. It's not bad to share information. And by sharing information, we aren't training anyone to hate America, as the author claims repeatedly (again, his words, not mine.) By that logic, the public library in which I currently sit would be a wellspring of anti-American radicalization simply by nature of its existence. This place is full of books sharing details, perspectives, and evidence that goes beyond the scope of what you or I had glossed over in our classroom textbooks growing up. And it's based in fact. I can read about Columbus's evil deeds in translated copies of his journals (or just copies, if I spoke the language.) Archivists and historians have preserved these things. Am I anti-American for being aware of them, for thinking that his sins were in fact sin? No, and not just because, again, he had nothing to do with America. Am I wickedly indoctrinating my children if I share what I have learned with my children? No. But if a public school, or a left-leaning author, or a Buzzfeed article talks about these things, they are suddenly labeled with so many negative terms, including those examples above. It's nonsense. And again, it's dishonest, and I don't think than anyone who strives so hard to tell half truths and bald-faced lies should be advising anyone on how to live a good Christian life or return a nation to some mythical moral high ground.
As a final note, I mentioned before that there were a few good quotes here and there, and I so wish the author would read them himself. Taken out of the context of the book, they're quite good. As a reminder, I'm just sharing my notes from the foreword and first chapter:
*The author says that the #MeToo movement has sometimes been misused, but on the whole it was long overdue and he rejoices that "lecherous" men are finally being held accountable and the church should listen to women
*He ironically devotes a passage to "secularists" love of cherry-picking parts of the Bible they love and leaving the rest, ignoring the fact that the Bible talks about honesty and God's hatred and abhorrence of lies and false testimony more than it talks about sexual immorality (and then proceeds to mislead and fabricate.)
*"We must interact with groups and individuals giving 'a reason for the hope' that is within us, and doing it with 'gentleness and respect,'" dropped in the middle of a book that uses over the top hyperbolic language to name call, malign, and slander political opponents, religious groups, nonprofit organizations, and anyone else he can come up with that he remotely disagrees with. This is one of those times I thought maybe the holy spirit was trying to bring the author back around, reminding him of how his own behavior should be as a man who professes to love Christ. No such luck.
Oh! And before I forget: Orwell is quoted OVER AND OVER in this book. I know that a lot of Christians think they have some kinship with Orwell if they are politically right-leaning. The author seems to, as he uses Orwell's stories and words as a warning on so many topics. I just wanted to be sure to remind everyone that Orwell was an atheist ("secularist") and a socialist (another "enemy!") who hated religious dogma and theocrats and eventually moved toward an appreciation of anarchism. Nothing about Orwell's personal life or his beliefs meshes at all with any of the things this book claims are right, true, American, etc. Everything he loved and stood for is decried as evil in these pages. And yet he is such a poster boy for many who would enjoy this book. I assume it's because they've not bothered to try to understand any of Orwell's works? Or perhaps they are just going by sound bytes and quotes offered to them by people like the author himself. It never ceases to amuse me.
I truly tried to go into the book with an open heart. I do not believe Christianity is under attack in the United States, because I have so many friends and loved ones who live in countries where it actually is. Rather, I believe the way of life and personal preferences of some subsets of Christianity is "under attack" (and by that I mean "changing" or "no longer popular.") I understand why they would feel that way, though I do not always agree with it. But when a book starts out with the line “The secular left does not believe that America can be fixed; they say it must be destroyed," we are not in for a great time. The entire book alternates between vitriolic, divisive statements about millions upon millions of people, and twisted backpedaling to take the edge off, lest any domestic terrorist cite this book in his future manifesto, I suppose. It is rife with factual inaccuracies and half-truths designed to divide. Oddly enough, not every word of the book was horrible. There are places, perhaps one every ten pages or so, where it's possible the holy spirit is trying to steer the author in another, more honest, more Christlike direction. This is not "speaking truth in love," for sure, and most of the time it's not speaking truth at all.
I tried taking notes because I knew that some people would not believe me as to how bad this book actually is. I was exhausted after the first chapter. I kept reading, but not note-taking. I would like to provide a sampling of them here, just so you know why exactly I am encouraging literally EVERYONE to steer clear of this book. This is just from one and a half pages of my NINETEEN pages of notes. Again, on the first chapter and foreword alone. These notes were mostly correcting inaccuracies from history and current events, but there was a good deal of spiritual commentary as well, as I was frequently filled with such righteous anger and deep hurt that so many Christians are having their perspectives shaped by this instead of the Bible
-Beyond the first line, the foreword of the book is spent painting the conflict between Christians and secularists/leftists (always used interchangeably, but usually presented together as if there is no difference between the terms- and to be clear, the author does not seem to comprehend that a Christian "left" exists and came to be because of the teachings of Jesus. But I digress) as a competition, a battle, a baseball game (?) but always with aggressive language such as "enemy." It is un-Biblical to view people in this way.
-The first chapter sets the stage for the book, explaining that America is changing because of racism (in the author's view, racism exists, but at the same time, marginalized groups talking about their experiences is "furthering the divide"), cultural Marxism (which is not a thing, but rather the author's blanket term for so many things that seem to upset him), the erasure of history (more on that later) and Margaret Sanger. Now, Margaret Sanger was not a good person; she was a racist and a eugenicist, which I hate. But the author twists her words here in a way I cannot abide. He used a quote from Sanger about the freedom women would experience with birth control, and uprooting evil that is wrought through submission, and then went on to talk about Sanger wanting women to be able to be promiscuous, which would be an option for them with birth control. The author never seems to consider- or admit- that sometimes men use the idea of submission, which is Biblical, to force women into sexual encounters (which is rape, even if you're married) and the product of those encounters is HARD. Many women, at one point, had no control over how many babies their bodies were forced to produce, carry, and care for, and it sometimes killed them. Women who tried to avoid their "wifely duty" or asked their husbands to use barriers were sometimes beaten. That is evil. Women literally succumbed to mental illness under the burden of caring for 6, 8, 10 or more children. The news of a pregnancy was not always a happy one, sometimes for the fathers as well. That's a lot of mouths to feed. There are so, so many ways that birth control gave freedom to women (and families) that have nothing to do with women sinning. To think otherwise at this point is to be willfully obtuse.
-Stories are presented to the books readers to accomplish many ends, from painting "enemies" to be ridiculous, overemotional hypocrites to illustrating the author's disdain for certain social movements. People hear a lot about groups like BLM, or protestors trying to remove monuments, on the news. If the information you are getting is from this author, the image you have of these movements is not going to be based in reality. For example, he starts by saying that Confederate monuments are, basically, bad. The Confederacy is not praised and no excuses are made for them. At all. He then dips a toe into "but we don't want to erase history" territory (which I always find personally ridiculous; I have never seen a statue of Robert E. Lee in person, and yet I'm quite aware of who he is and what all he did, thanks. Read a book. Just not this one.) He seems to recognize that maybe Confederate statue removal would be justified based on the nature of who is being honored through those statues, but then he reports that other "founding fathers" are having their statues challenged with an air of surprise and disbelief. Christopher Columbus, for example. But this is intentionally misleading, as Christopher Columbus is not a founding father, and also he literally never accomplished anything in the United States. He never came here. He never set foot on any bit of land that is part of the USA. So even if Columbus wasn't a rapist and a murderer who sexually trafficked Taino women and beheaded their fathers and husbands as a warning to other Indigenous people (a fact you can read about in Columbus's own journals) there is absolutely no reason for us to have so many statues of him, let alone a federal holiday. And then, the hilarious kicker: the author reports that these anti-racist activists are pushing for a statue of Lincoln to be removed. Lincoln! Don't they know that man freed the slaves? But he either was too lazy to find out or too duplicitous to report that the statue in question shows tall, proud, saintly Lincoln looking down on a half-nude cowering former slave (modeled after a real person, in a most undignified way.) It's not a good image. It is not uplifting or victorious. It is bad. And it is time to remove it. Removing the statue will not cause collective amnesia throughout the United States, driving us all to forget Lincoln and what he did. We can even put up a new statue, honestly. But the author doesn't want you to know any of that. Because it wouldn't support his ongoing narrative (not just his, but an entire industry's, at this point) that the people who want to do this are stupid and out of control.
-Some of the "reporting" in here is outright lies. Bessie Coleman is presented as an example of an upstanding Black person we should look up to. The author seems to be under the impression that she was a mathematician (his words, not mine) and happened to fly airplanes. He mentions her great contributions to the field of mathematics. She wasn't a mathematician. I actually went out of my way to do some digging and see how he could have possibly come to this conclusion. I already knew that Bessie had tried going to college (I think for agriculture) and left after maybe a semester. The best I can come up with is a footnote in a Wikipedia article sharing that in elementary school, she took well to math in particular. Seriously. That's it. The mathematician claim is, on the surface, a harmless lie (and extremely lazy editing) but at the same time, it just goes to show how little thought went into the writing of this book. It's all emotion, and so much of it is misplaced.
-The last note I will make here is about history. The author repeatedly claims that revisionist history is contributing to the destruction of America. And yet every example he gives is based in fact. Every person he mentions and the quotes he provides are sharing factual information. He even talks about it himself, reminding us that Martin Luther did a lot of great stuff but was an antisemite. Thomas Jefferson talked a lot about freedom for a guy who owned slaves. But if a leftist/secularist is mentioning these things, they're trying to "erase" history. I don't understand why anyone would believe that sharing a more complete view of history (such as the Columbus information I shared earlier) is "erasing" anything. It's not. What is being erased is the extremely narrow view, or sometimes incorrect view, of history we have been presented for the last two centuries or so. That's not a bad thing. It's not bad to share information. And by sharing information, we aren't training anyone to hate America, as the author claims repeatedly (again, his words, not mine.) By that logic, the public library in which I currently sit would be a wellspring of anti-American radicalization simply by nature of its existence. This place is full of books sharing details, perspectives, and evidence that goes beyond the scope of what you or I had glossed over in our classroom textbooks growing up. And it's based in fact. I can read about Columbus's evil deeds in translated copies of his journals (or just copies, if I spoke the language.) Archivists and historians have preserved these things. Am I anti-American for being aware of them, for thinking that his sins were in fact sin? No, and not just because, again, he had nothing to do with America. Am I wickedly indoctrinating my children if I share what I have learned with my children? No. But if a public school, or a left-leaning author, or a Buzzfeed article talks about these things, they are suddenly labeled with so many negative terms, including those examples above. It's nonsense. And again, it's dishonest, and I don't think than anyone who strives so hard to tell half truths and bald-faced lies should be advising anyone on how to live a good Christian life or return a nation to some mythical moral high ground.
As a final note, I mentioned before that there were a few good quotes here and there, and I so wish the author would read them himself. Taken out of the context of the book, they're quite good. As a reminder, I'm just sharing my notes from the foreword and first chapter:
*The author says that the #MeToo movement has sometimes been misused, but on the whole it was long overdue and he rejoices that "lecherous" men are finally being held accountable and the church should listen to women
*He ironically devotes a passage to "secularists" love of cherry-picking parts of the Bible they love and leaving the rest, ignoring the fact that the Bible talks about honesty and God's hatred and abhorrence of lies and false testimony more than it talks about sexual immorality (and then proceeds to mislead and fabricate.)
*"We must interact with groups and individuals giving 'a reason for the hope' that is within us, and doing it with 'gentleness and respect,'" dropped in the middle of a book that uses over the top hyperbolic language to name call, malign, and slander political opponents, religious groups, nonprofit organizations, and anyone else he can come up with that he remotely disagrees with. This is one of those times I thought maybe the holy spirit was trying to bring the author back around, reminding him of how his own behavior should be as a man who professes to love Christ. No such luck.
Oh! And before I forget: Orwell is quoted OVER AND OVER in this book. I know that a lot of Christians think they have some kinship with Orwell if they are politically right-leaning. The author seems to, as he uses Orwell's stories and words as a warning on so many topics. I just wanted to be sure to remind everyone that Orwell was an atheist ("secularist") and a socialist (another "enemy!") who hated religious dogma and theocrats and eventually moved toward an appreciation of anarchism. Nothing about Orwell's personal life or his beliefs meshes at all with any of the things this book claims are right, true, American, etc. Everything he loved and stood for is decried as evil in these pages. And yet he is such a poster boy for many who would enjoy this book. I assume it's because they've not bothered to try to understand any of Orwell's works? Or perhaps they are just going by sound bytes and quotes offered to them by people like the author himself. It never ceases to amuse me.
May 1, 2021
I do believe that most of his analysis is correct and Marxist ideology is behind many of the problems we are facing as a society and as the church. However, I can only handle this kind of stuff in very small doses.
I think this is mostly because I can picture specific kinds of Christians using information like this to demonize the outside world. They foster an “us vs them” mentality rather than building a compassionate heart for the lost.
I’m not saying that is the author’s intent or that he is doing that, but this information gets turned into rhetoric by them to make the lost their enemy rather than sin and Satan.
I think this is mostly because I can picture specific kinds of Christians using information like this to demonize the outside world. They foster an “us vs them” mentality rather than building a compassionate heart for the lost.
I’m not saying that is the author’s intent or that he is doing that, but this information gets turned into rhetoric by them to make the lost their enemy rather than sin and Satan.
December 26, 2023
I read this book as a part of a book club at my church, and only finished it to stay informed in our weekly discussions. This book is a near definition of Christian nationalism in written form and only serves to further the unification in the minds of Christians between their faith in Christ and their political (Republican) beliefs. I mean, the book uses Breitbart as a genuine source…
Though I agreed with some of the general points the author made about the problems in our nation (e.g. the sexualization of our media and the stifling of free speech), I was often frustrated by the negative attitude and arrogance presented by the author. After reading this book, I feel more informed about the intense beliefs of politically far-right Christians and saddened that fans of this book think this is a helpful way to engage in conversations with their opponents.
Though I agreed with some of the general points the author made about the problems in our nation (e.g. the sexualization of our media and the stifling of free speech), I was often frustrated by the negative attitude and arrogance presented by the author. After reading this book, I feel more informed about the intense beliefs of politically far-right Christians and saddened that fans of this book think this is a helpful way to engage in conversations with their opponents.
March 28, 2021
Insights and Answers for Every Christian
WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED is lifted from the pages of our newspaper and television as Dr. Lutzer addresses racism, socialism, sexuality and many other ills in our culture against Christianity and the Bible. Each chapter ends with a prayer but overall it is a stirring clarion call to action for Christians.
As Dr. Lutzer writes, “Let us determine that we will not be shamed into silence or inaction. We will speak, and like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Book of Daniel, let us resolve that we will not bow.” (Page 39)
I highly recommend WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED for Christians who want to know how to defend our faith and take action in our world for Christ.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his latest 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED is lifted from the pages of our newspaper and television as Dr. Lutzer addresses racism, socialism, sexuality and many other ills in our culture against Christianity and the Bible. Each chapter ends with a prayer but overall it is a stirring clarion call to action for Christians.
As Dr. Lutzer writes, “Let us determine that we will not be shamed into silence or inaction. We will speak, and like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Book of Daniel, let us resolve that we will not bow.” (Page 39)
I highly recommend WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED for Christians who want to know how to defend our faith and take action in our world for Christ.
W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his latest 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .
August 14, 2021
We Will Not Be Silenced was a great nonfiction read. I feel like it had a lot of truths in it and definitely helps you understand what is going on better. I didn't agree with everything 100%, but it was interesting to read and I recommend the book. I highlighted a lot of quotes and really liked the read.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
July 11, 2021
Read for book club, this isn’t the kind of book I would usually pick up. I was pleasantly surprised to find Lutzer more nuanced than I had expected in the way he called out racism still existing today even while criticizing CRT and also his graciousness and compassion towards single moms and calling the church to care for the needy.
Most of what Lutzer writes and warns of is not new or surprising to those who have followed conversations in the last year and a half about socialism, CRT, sexuality, etc. I do agree with him most of the time on these issues.
Yet I find his book extremely lacking.
First, I felt it added to an us versus them mentality by making all progressives look like their aim is to demolish Christianity. Yet many progressives I know have no desire for that to happen, though they may be naïve about implications of liberal politics.
Secondly, and this is my biggest gripe with this book, is that Lutzer focuses more on the “assault” than the “courage,” to draw from the book’s subtitle. Only a few pages of each chapter is about the Church’s response, and usually that is basically “so be courageous! Speak up!” I’m not really sure how that’s supposed to help strengthen the church. What this book is lacking is a high view of God, and His worth and character and the worship of Him to counter any fear of anything that may arise. I read Psalm 46 while reading this book and the tone of the two is so different.
The best way for the Church to grow and prepare and push back on any assault is by growing in our understanding of the worth and majesty of God, and while Lutzer mentions this, it is such a tiny blip in the book that it doesn’t do much.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall--but be still and know that He is God, and that He will be exalted among the nations. Here we have no lasting kingdom, but look to a better city. Even the gates of hell will not prevail against His Church.
Most of what Lutzer writes and warns of is not new or surprising to those who have followed conversations in the last year and a half about socialism, CRT, sexuality, etc. I do agree with him most of the time on these issues.
Yet I find his book extremely lacking.
First, I felt it added to an us versus them mentality by making all progressives look like their aim is to demolish Christianity. Yet many progressives I know have no desire for that to happen, though they may be naïve about implications of liberal politics.
Secondly, and this is my biggest gripe with this book, is that Lutzer focuses more on the “assault” than the “courage,” to draw from the book’s subtitle. Only a few pages of each chapter is about the Church’s response, and usually that is basically “so be courageous! Speak up!” I’m not really sure how that’s supposed to help strengthen the church. What this book is lacking is a high view of God, and His worth and character and the worship of Him to counter any fear of anything that may arise. I read Psalm 46 while reading this book and the tone of the two is so different.
The best way for the Church to grow and prepare and push back on any assault is by growing in our understanding of the worth and majesty of God, and while Lutzer mentions this, it is such a tiny blip in the book that it doesn’t do much.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall--but be still and know that He is God, and that He will be exalted among the nations. Here we have no lasting kingdom, but look to a better city. Even the gates of hell will not prevail against His Church.
January 14, 2022
Good book. Lutzer is not presenting a comprehensive philosophical look at Critical Theory, rather, he is tracing the way the various streams of attack on Christianity have developed over the last fifty years or so (as the application of Critical Theory). Well documented, with plenty of quotations and references to back up his points. One of Lutzer's anchor sources is Saul Alinsky's Rules for Radicals. Lutzer points out all the different ways Alinsky's playbook is being used by modern progressive activists. Lutzer does not hesitate to draw lines connecting the dots of recent progressive demands to Marxist thought.
Very accessible, very readible. Four stars at least.
Very accessible, very readible. Four stars at least.
September 3, 2022
I am Christian. I confess Jesus Christ is my Lord and Saviour as per Romans 10:9. I was raised in the Charismatic Renewal movement, and I largely maintain the doctrines and beliefs with which I was raised. Politically, I lean toward the progressive left side of the spectrum (in the North American context), which is a shift from my right-leaning conservative roots and family. I have come to reject the notion that any faith, let alone Christianty, can only be expressed through one political ideology. Faith is greater than political ideology and most ideologies are workable within the framework of Christianity - if allowed.
However, Dr. Erwn W. Lutzer seems to disagree with my viewpoint. After reading his book, I understand Lutzer to believe there is no chance that any left leaning person could actually be an authentic Christian. According to Lutzer, any leftist person, including myself, is actively trying to destroy the United States with a dangerous Marxist worldview that promotes wanton sin; therefore, how could any leftists be a Christian? Considering the fact that Christianity exists well beyond the United States (I am Canadian), and that the faith is the basis for several prominent right and left leaning political ideas, it is absolutely false to suggest that it is impossible for a person to hold both Christian and leftist values and to believe that all leftists have a dark agenda at their core. Nevertheless, there are numerous people (some I know personally) who agree with Lutzer and are completely fearful of the left. I found Lutzer’s book was largely a vehicle that promotes fear of the political left in right-leaning Christians, and encourages them to view those who lean left as enemies of the Gospel rather than co-builders of the same nation in which they live. What Lutzer writes is an argument that feels meant to provoke believing Christians into actively taking an antagonistic stance against anyone that disagrees with their political views, regardless whether that person is a practising Christian themselves.
“The secular left does not believe that America can be fixed; they say it must be destroyed.” This is the opening sentence to Lutzer’s first chapter, and it carries the tone and message the reader finds throughout the rest of the book. Lutzer’s main argument is that the secular leftists, who he frequently defines as ‘the Marxists’, are trying to promote social change that undermines Christianity in the United States and threatens to destroy the country. Lutzer’s desire is to see the church withstand what he believes is a direct assault against the Christian faith and to act as a line of defence for God against this evil.
Perhaps the biggest fallacy of this book is its failure to portray the left, or even the United States, in an accurate light. Lutzer does not understand the place in the world in which both the United States and Christianity sit. Early on, he makes the statement that, “[T]he United States has achieved the greatest civilization in history and is the envy of the world.” This is utter nonsense for a book written in 2020, the country consistently features extremely high incarceration and gun violence rates, and is frequently plagued by political and racial turmoil that is simply not present in several other comparable nations.
Aside from Lutzer’s grandiose and prideful view of the United States, he also fails to consider that any goodness could come out of the political left. To him, it is only the policies of the right that align with the Christian scriptures and gospel. Lutzer’s descriptions of the political left are just plain deception, especially seeing how the fundamental roots of both left and right leaning political ideas can find basis in strong Christian thinkers and theologians.
It is evident in several places that not enough thought or research was put into some of Lutzer’s key ideas. One example comes toward the end of his book where he describes how protests are allowed under the Constitution. He cites an example of a protest in Toronto, a city that is not under the jurisdiction of the Constitution.
Lutzer does not honour, respect, or give reverence to the majority of people he talks about in his book. He does have a clear reverence for God and Christians who agree with his viewpoint, but he villainizes any group he perceives as opposing the Christian cause. This includes, but is not limited to: political left-leaners, socialists, marxists, many members of the feminist movement, many members of the LGBTQA+ community, and many Muslims. Lutzer’s fear of these groups fundamentally undermines the Christian mission to reach all peoples with God's message of forgiveness and reconciliation. He forgets that Christians are not to fight against flesh and blood - people are never the enemy.
I can give Lutzer some credit for writing a book with integrity. I do not think Lutzer intends to promote fear or to villainize; I think he genuinely wants to save Christianity in the United States. He clearly means every word he says, whether the reader agrees with him or not is entirely another matter, and his clear aim is to encourage Christians to genuinely live out their faith without giving in to the ideologies that oppose their faith. I support this general concept, but I disagree with Lutzer’s assessment of the culture (which takes up a majority of the book).
I cannot suggest in good faith that others go out of their way to read this book - with one exception: if the reader intends to understand the thinking of the radical Christian right in the United States. Aside from this specific circumstance, I recommend that others actively avoid reading this material. Lutzer does not accurately describe how the left thinks and operates, and his writing supports a number of conspiracy-like ideas that further demonise those with whom he disagrees.
However, Dr. Erwn W. Lutzer seems to disagree with my viewpoint. After reading his book, I understand Lutzer to believe there is no chance that any left leaning person could actually be an authentic Christian. According to Lutzer, any leftist person, including myself, is actively trying to destroy the United States with a dangerous Marxist worldview that promotes wanton sin; therefore, how could any leftists be a Christian? Considering the fact that Christianity exists well beyond the United States (I am Canadian), and that the faith is the basis for several prominent right and left leaning political ideas, it is absolutely false to suggest that it is impossible for a person to hold both Christian and leftist values and to believe that all leftists have a dark agenda at their core. Nevertheless, there are numerous people (some I know personally) who agree with Lutzer and are completely fearful of the left. I found Lutzer’s book was largely a vehicle that promotes fear of the political left in right-leaning Christians, and encourages them to view those who lean left as enemies of the Gospel rather than co-builders of the same nation in which they live. What Lutzer writes is an argument that feels meant to provoke believing Christians into actively taking an antagonistic stance against anyone that disagrees with their political views, regardless whether that person is a practising Christian themselves.
“The secular left does not believe that America can be fixed; they say it must be destroyed.” This is the opening sentence to Lutzer’s first chapter, and it carries the tone and message the reader finds throughout the rest of the book. Lutzer’s main argument is that the secular leftists, who he frequently defines as ‘the Marxists’, are trying to promote social change that undermines Christianity in the United States and threatens to destroy the country. Lutzer’s desire is to see the church withstand what he believes is a direct assault against the Christian faith and to act as a line of defence for God against this evil.
Perhaps the biggest fallacy of this book is its failure to portray the left, or even the United States, in an accurate light. Lutzer does not understand the place in the world in which both the United States and Christianity sit. Early on, he makes the statement that, “[T]he United States has achieved the greatest civilization in history and is the envy of the world.” This is utter nonsense for a book written in 2020, the country consistently features extremely high incarceration and gun violence rates, and is frequently plagued by political and racial turmoil that is simply not present in several other comparable nations.
Aside from Lutzer’s grandiose and prideful view of the United States, he also fails to consider that any goodness could come out of the political left. To him, it is only the policies of the right that align with the Christian scriptures and gospel. Lutzer’s descriptions of the political left are just plain deception, especially seeing how the fundamental roots of both left and right leaning political ideas can find basis in strong Christian thinkers and theologians.
It is evident in several places that not enough thought or research was put into some of Lutzer’s key ideas. One example comes toward the end of his book where he describes how protests are allowed under the Constitution. He cites an example of a protest in Toronto, a city that is not under the jurisdiction of the Constitution.
Lutzer does not honour, respect, or give reverence to the majority of people he talks about in his book. He does have a clear reverence for God and Christians who agree with his viewpoint, but he villainizes any group he perceives as opposing the Christian cause. This includes, but is not limited to: political left-leaners, socialists, marxists, many members of the feminist movement, many members of the LGBTQA+ community, and many Muslims. Lutzer’s fear of these groups fundamentally undermines the Christian mission to reach all peoples with God's message of forgiveness and reconciliation. He forgets that Christians are not to fight against flesh and blood - people are never the enemy.
I can give Lutzer some credit for writing a book with integrity. I do not think Lutzer intends to promote fear or to villainize; I think he genuinely wants to save Christianity in the United States. He clearly means every word he says, whether the reader agrees with him or not is entirely another matter, and his clear aim is to encourage Christians to genuinely live out their faith without giving in to the ideologies that oppose their faith. I support this general concept, but I disagree with Lutzer’s assessment of the culture (which takes up a majority of the book).
I cannot suggest in good faith that others go out of their way to read this book - with one exception: if the reader intends to understand the thinking of the radical Christian right in the United States. Aside from this specific circumstance, I recommend that others actively avoid reading this material. Lutzer does not accurately describe how the left thinks and operates, and his writing supports a number of conspiracy-like ideas that further demonise those with whom he disagrees.
November 12, 2020
Erwin Lutzer does a superb job of explaining what has been going on in our culture and it suddenly seems that our culture is unraveling. I appreciate that the author states his purpose is not to “take America back. “His purpose is not so much to reclaim the culture as to reclaim the church. I heartily applaud this purpose as something that is much needed. Below is my summary of the contents of the book
Chapter 1 - It would appear that a subtle form of Marxism (cultural Marxism) has been at work for some time in our culture and that it has been successful in persuading many people that Marxism is, in fact, a good thing. This is going to be a challenge to the church because true Marxism, when it does get control, will not tolerate anything that opposes it and biblical Christian beliefs are opposed to many Marxist beliefs.
Chapter 2 - Marxist activists want to bring down our country by acknowledging only its faults. And because our history is so flawed, they are striving to erase it entirely and rebuild the nation as reflect Marxist ideals. It is important for us to acknowledge our admittedly dark past. Slavery was an abominable sin and we should seek forgiveness for it. However, there is also much good in our past and it should also be acknowledged. We have managed to create a great deal of wealth, even for our poorest citizens and there is opportunity for anyone in our country to be very successful, regardless of his or her economic or ethnic background.
Chapter 3 - Our nation’s founders intended for all Americans to have equal opportunity under the law – for the laws of our nation to apply equally to all men and therefore provide equal protections for all. Critical Race Theory (CRT) advocates for social justice – meaning a redistribution of resources and power to “oppressed” minorities. CRT also doesn’t seem to want racial reconciliation, but rather continues to use race to keep us separated and at odds with each other. CRT does not try to persuade with cogent arguments and evidence, but rather with social force and shaming.
Chapter 4 - Marxist radicals are using our first amendment right of free speech to get their message out, but are also attempting those who disagree with them from using the same right to free speech by redefining opposing views as hate speech. If an opposing view can be construed as “offensive” to an oppressed minority, it is called hateful and therefore not permitted. Christians have benefitted from freedom of speech for a long time now, but that has not always been the case. It has often been illegal for Christians to spread the good news of the gospel. We may, once again have to face persecution for having the boldness to tell others of our faith.
Chapter 5 - This chapter reminds of the adage, “tell a lie often enough, and people will believe it.” Radicals have been using our mass media, especially TV and movies, to convince us that wrong is right and right is wrong – especially in matters of sexuality. Now we are expected to accept homosexuality and transgender as acceptable and normal. Anyone who dares to disagree is labeled as hateful and bigoted.
Chapter 6 - Our children are being taught to accept and even embrace all sorts of sexual perversion without any input from parents. In fact, educators are mostly hiding this agenda from parents and when parents do complain, they are accused of being intolerant and hateful toward the LGBT community. This is resulting in confusing children about their sexuality – and that appears to be the intended goal. The more confused the children are, the easier it is to manipulate them into Marxist beliefs.
Chapter 7 - Socialism looks attractive because it promises to lift people from poverty and eliminate the inequities between the rich and the poor. But Socialism is incapable of keeping that promise. It is incapable of creating wealth and eventually runs out of wealthy people’s money to redistribute. Socialism cannot create wealth because it denies basic human nature. With no incentive (ability to earn and accumulate wealth) there is no reason for anyone to work hard. All earn the same wages, regardless of effort, so why try. Capitalism is not perfect and is also capable of corruption, but it is possible to regulate and weed the corruption out of capitalism.
Chapter 8 - As unlikely as it seems, the secular left and radical Islam have joined forces (temporarily) to destroy a common enemy – the US. Both groups vision a utopia (one religious and the other secular) that cannot be realized until Christianity and capitalism have been destroyed. Both groups are trying to use our constitutional rights to undermine the constitution and do away with it. We have stupidly allowed political correctness to keep us from seeing the existential threat Islam is to our way of life. As Christians, we need to view this as an opportunity to present the gospel to Muslims and be prepared for the potential to become martyrs.
Chapter 9 - One of the radicals’ primary strategies is to vilify those who don’t agree with them as unloving and bigoted. They will heap endless amounts of shame on any who do not wholeheartedly accept them and their agenda. We should pray for courage to stand for Biblical truth and do our best to present it in love for our neighbor.
Chapter 10 - It appears that it is going to get very difficult for the church to remain faithful. We need to keep reminding ourselves of what Jesus has done for us, resist the culture around us, and repent often.
Chapter 1 - It would appear that a subtle form of Marxism (cultural Marxism) has been at work for some time in our culture and that it has been successful in persuading many people that Marxism is, in fact, a good thing. This is going to be a challenge to the church because true Marxism, when it does get control, will not tolerate anything that opposes it and biblical Christian beliefs are opposed to many Marxist beliefs.
Chapter 2 - Marxist activists want to bring down our country by acknowledging only its faults. And because our history is so flawed, they are striving to erase it entirely and rebuild the nation as reflect Marxist ideals. It is important for us to acknowledge our admittedly dark past. Slavery was an abominable sin and we should seek forgiveness for it. However, there is also much good in our past and it should also be acknowledged. We have managed to create a great deal of wealth, even for our poorest citizens and there is opportunity for anyone in our country to be very successful, regardless of his or her economic or ethnic background.
Chapter 3 - Our nation’s founders intended for all Americans to have equal opportunity under the law – for the laws of our nation to apply equally to all men and therefore provide equal protections for all. Critical Race Theory (CRT) advocates for social justice – meaning a redistribution of resources and power to “oppressed” minorities. CRT also doesn’t seem to want racial reconciliation, but rather continues to use race to keep us separated and at odds with each other. CRT does not try to persuade with cogent arguments and evidence, but rather with social force and shaming.
Chapter 4 - Marxist radicals are using our first amendment right of free speech to get their message out, but are also attempting those who disagree with them from using the same right to free speech by redefining opposing views as hate speech. If an opposing view can be construed as “offensive” to an oppressed minority, it is called hateful and therefore not permitted. Christians have benefitted from freedom of speech for a long time now, but that has not always been the case. It has often been illegal for Christians to spread the good news of the gospel. We may, once again have to face persecution for having the boldness to tell others of our faith.
Chapter 5 - This chapter reminds of the adage, “tell a lie often enough, and people will believe it.” Radicals have been using our mass media, especially TV and movies, to convince us that wrong is right and right is wrong – especially in matters of sexuality. Now we are expected to accept homosexuality and transgender as acceptable and normal. Anyone who dares to disagree is labeled as hateful and bigoted.
Chapter 6 - Our children are being taught to accept and even embrace all sorts of sexual perversion without any input from parents. In fact, educators are mostly hiding this agenda from parents and when parents do complain, they are accused of being intolerant and hateful toward the LGBT community. This is resulting in confusing children about their sexuality – and that appears to be the intended goal. The more confused the children are, the easier it is to manipulate them into Marxist beliefs.
Chapter 7 - Socialism looks attractive because it promises to lift people from poverty and eliminate the inequities between the rich and the poor. But Socialism is incapable of keeping that promise. It is incapable of creating wealth and eventually runs out of wealthy people’s money to redistribute. Socialism cannot create wealth because it denies basic human nature. With no incentive (ability to earn and accumulate wealth) there is no reason for anyone to work hard. All earn the same wages, regardless of effort, so why try. Capitalism is not perfect and is also capable of corruption, but it is possible to regulate and weed the corruption out of capitalism.
Chapter 8 - As unlikely as it seems, the secular left and radical Islam have joined forces (temporarily) to destroy a common enemy – the US. Both groups vision a utopia (one religious and the other secular) that cannot be realized until Christianity and capitalism have been destroyed. Both groups are trying to use our constitutional rights to undermine the constitution and do away with it. We have stupidly allowed political correctness to keep us from seeing the existential threat Islam is to our way of life. As Christians, we need to view this as an opportunity to present the gospel to Muslims and be prepared for the potential to become martyrs.
Chapter 9 - One of the radicals’ primary strategies is to vilify those who don’t agree with them as unloving and bigoted. They will heap endless amounts of shame on any who do not wholeheartedly accept them and their agenda. We should pray for courage to stand for Biblical truth and do our best to present it in love for our neighbor.
Chapter 10 - It appears that it is going to get very difficult for the church to remain faithful. We need to keep reminding ourselves of what Jesus has done for us, resist the culture around us, and repent often.
April 13, 2021
This is very solid.
It has its issues. You'd have to be living under a rock not to see some of the things he is talking about. He explains them like they are brand new and nobody has ever heard of Critical Race Theory or Cancel Culture. At that point, I'm not sure who he is writing this too . . . anyone who has been paying attention over the past 10 years can see we've got some problems.
He also gives the left far too much credit. He tries hard to say all the right things. Love, compassion, understanding, etc., etc. and while he isn't wrong to want to offer those things (that's what Christians are called to do), he also struggles to put his boot in their rear end. Not until the very end does he begin vilifying the liberal church. He mentions the "murder of George Floyd" multiple times, besides the fact that that trial is not headed in the direction of murder. Several of his arguments give credence to the left, but don't add up. While he does push against the left; he also tends to prop up their side and give them more benefit than I would have. He is borderline too nice, especially considering they will not be reading his book, and he will never change their minds.
On the topic of changing minds, he gets right to the point within the first section. Good ideas and rational arguments are never going to penetrate the wall of people screaming at you; it really isn't worth trying to have a rational argument. We are to the point where the Christian will win the battle through Romans 12. Only through our actions will we be able to show the left they are wrong. The problem is the actions. We've lost what these actions look like and mean. We can all point to the Good Samaritan and say "do likewise," but that doesn't make sense in our culture. The book should have trended in a more practical line and gone through actions we should take as opposed to arguments we can make.
At the end of the day, Lutzer is right. Our culture is going up in flames, the church is just as much to blame, and seems to do very little to hold off the attack. Many churches have sided with the culture, and a period of persecution is coming. I agree with him that we probably can't win this battle, but the church needs to become the church again. We have hope that the war is already won. God is on His throne, Christ is risen, and we have already won.
Definitely worth the read. For a more stringent and intense focus I'd recommend Live Not By Lies or The Devil and Karl Marx. This book is kind of a watered down version of those two.
It has its issues. You'd have to be living under a rock not to see some of the things he is talking about. He explains them like they are brand new and nobody has ever heard of Critical Race Theory or Cancel Culture. At that point, I'm not sure who he is writing this too . . . anyone who has been paying attention over the past 10 years can see we've got some problems.
He also gives the left far too much credit. He tries hard to say all the right things. Love, compassion, understanding, etc., etc. and while he isn't wrong to want to offer those things (that's what Christians are called to do), he also struggles to put his boot in their rear end. Not until the very end does he begin vilifying the liberal church. He mentions the "murder of George Floyd" multiple times, besides the fact that that trial is not headed in the direction of murder. Several of his arguments give credence to the left, but don't add up. While he does push against the left; he also tends to prop up their side and give them more benefit than I would have. He is borderline too nice, especially considering they will not be reading his book, and he will never change their minds.
On the topic of changing minds, he gets right to the point within the first section. Good ideas and rational arguments are never going to penetrate the wall of people screaming at you; it really isn't worth trying to have a rational argument. We are to the point where the Christian will win the battle through Romans 12. Only through our actions will we be able to show the left they are wrong. The problem is the actions. We've lost what these actions look like and mean. We can all point to the Good Samaritan and say "do likewise," but that doesn't make sense in our culture. The book should have trended in a more practical line and gone through actions we should take as opposed to arguments we can make.
At the end of the day, Lutzer is right. Our culture is going up in flames, the church is just as much to blame, and seems to do very little to hold off the attack. Many churches have sided with the culture, and a period of persecution is coming. I agree with him that we probably can't win this battle, but the church needs to become the church again. We have hope that the war is already won. God is on His throne, Christ is risen, and we have already won.
Definitely worth the read. For a more stringent and intense focus I'd recommend Live Not By Lies or The Devil and Karl Marx. This book is kind of a watered down version of those two.
July 29, 2021
A very good critique of Critical Race Theory/Progressivism/Post Modern history and goals as it relates to our culture and Christianity. Well-documented research combined with everyday English makes this study reliable and understandable by those "in the pew" as well as behind the pulpit. There are so many books on this issue being written right now (2021). For general use, this one is exceptional.
January 21, 2021
There are some sound warnings and guidance here. But too many sentences like, "Let me be clear: not all leftists/BLM marchers/Muslims... are Nazis/Marxists/terrorists..." followed by several pages comparing these groups. There are real challenges facing the evangelical church in America, but we can do better than argue using scary anecdotes and making Hitler comparisons.
September 28, 2021
Every one who has a deep love for this country should read this book. It exposes the undercurrent of Marxist philosophies that intend to destroy this republic and our way of living. A must read for patriots!Erwin Lutzer
August 12, 2024
Super good!! It definitely should not have taken me as long as it did to read this but I would absolutely recommend
November 30, 2021
Typical Evangelical culture war pandering. Mostly just strawman arguements based on anecdotes. I kept waiting for him to clearly define terms instead of just vaguely referring to anything left of Conservative Evangelicalism as in the same group. For example BLM = Marxism = Socialism = Progressivism = Evil.
August 28, 2022
"When you're accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."
September 22, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
I've enjoyed other books from Lutzer, and enjoyed this one as well. However, I thought this strayed from its intent many times. Lutzer states his intention with this book was to encourage the Church to return to Biblical principles and to understand how to navigate the social issues of our day. Unfortunately, the Biblical references seemed like an afterthought after a detailed, often political, explanation of the issues and the sides to be taken. The Scripture eventually came, but I had expected more of it and for it to be at the forefront of each issue. It felt like George Orwell was referenced and quoted more than the Word of God. Orwell is one of my favorite authors, so I appreciated and enjoyed this element, but overall was not what I wanted from this book.
I've enjoyed other books from Lutzer, and enjoyed this one as well. However, I thought this strayed from its intent many times. Lutzer states his intention with this book was to encourage the Church to return to Biblical principles and to understand how to navigate the social issues of our day. Unfortunately, the Biblical references seemed like an afterthought after a detailed, often political, explanation of the issues and the sides to be taken. The Scripture eventually came, but I had expected more of it and for it to be at the forefront of each issue. It felt like George Orwell was referenced and quoted more than the Word of God. Orwell is one of my favorite authors, so I appreciated and enjoyed this element, but overall was not what I wanted from this book.
November 24, 2021
Hard read/listen exploring the reality of our country and the direction it continues to head. It is, however, a great reminder to not place our hope in America or anything/anyone in this world. Overall, the church needs to respond and we need to be ready to suffer for Jesus.
“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” -Hebrews 11:16 ESV
“But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” -Hebrews 11:16 ESV
June 27, 2021
Not an easy read because of the subject matter. The writing style is very readable. A book all need to read even if it is not going to lull anyone to sleep.
November 27, 2022
I think Luther provided some interesting perspectives regarding Marxism, cultural revolution, and the Christian response. Although there is definitely truth to his ideas, I think he carries some of his conclusions a bit too far drawing relationships between ideas that could be considered more like conspiracies than logical conclusions. I would recommend this book to fellow Christians because it does encourage thinking in areas that are necessary, as long as the reader is planning to think critically about the text rather than just absorb and accept it all at face value.
July 21, 2022
My women's Bible study group read this book (Note: Spring 2022 - before Roe v. Wade was overturned).
When this book was selected, I (and others in the group) knew nothing about it or the author. Based on the title, I thought the author would offer a biblical approach for how Christians could approach tough conversations, sort of akin to Ken Sande's "The Peace Maker". Sadly I was wrong.
Instead Lutzer shares his views on a myriad of political topics that are being hotly debated today. And while the views are clearly his own, he presents them as though they are facts. He includes references from writings or statements made by others, and often includes anecdotal interpretations of his own as to what the originator meant. After reading the first sentence in chapter one, I knew the book would be filled with provocative statements and beliefs that did not align with mine and I was right. At times, I did not think I could stomach finishing the book, but out of a desire to understand why Lutzer and others who share his beliefs believe what they do, I persevered.
Instead of writing a review that attempts to respond to Lutzer's views on the various topics addressed in his book, I offer my overall impressions. Overall, I didn't feel that any of the topics were adequately covered, and most definitely not in a balanced manner. While entire books could be and have been written on each topic introduced by Lutzer, I found his approach was to introduce a topic (often beginning with inflammatory language) then boiling down his arguments into a few paragraphs or a few pages. For me, his commentary seemed to be presented as though they were being offered as speaking points for fellow followers. What stood out to me most was the lack of balance. Without getting bogged down in detail, the focus of the book seems to be to present to the reader all of the of the failings of people who Lutzer refers to as the "secular left" (among other terms used to reference this group). Conversely, throughout the book he seems to imply that Evangelical Christians, those who share his views have no failings. What is glaringly lacking is the acknowledgment that all humans have failings (we are all sinful by nature). I kept feeling a sense of Deja-vu, similarities to how the Jews (especially the Pharisees) viewed themselves compared to the Gentiles, and how the Pharisee's adherence to "The Law" rather than "Grace" played out in the Old Testament. Also, his manner of separating Christians into "Progressives" vs "Evangelicals" as I interpret his descriptions implies that he knows the hearts of everyone, which of course he cannot. Only God does.
I'd also like to note that while Lutzer covers a vast array of topics, there are some that are obviously missing or downplayed. To name a few, he makes many references to what he views as sexual immorality, however he makes no mention of the sexual crimes that have been committed in the church. And while he makes many references to violent crimes, he makes only a couple of paltry references to "white-collar" crimes. Furthermore, when it comes to the sanctity of life, why does he call out Roe v. Wade, but not say a word about the 2nd amendment? Haven't lives been lost due to both?
In conclusion, I ask myself, "Did this book tell me how to take action, "to not be silenced"? The only comment that sticks out to me was on page 250, where Lutzer states, "We as Evangelicals need to return to our biblical roots. We need to talk about heaven and warn against hell." As a Christian myself, I disagree with his statement. My understanding is that we are not called to focus on heaven, but rather to focus on Jesus. Heaven is the reward not the way! What we do and what we say should reflect Jesus' teachings.
The above views are solely my opinion. I understand others views may differ from mine and pass no judgment. Matthew 7:1-2 "Judge not, that you be not judged."
I do not recommend this book. If I could give it zero stars, I would have.
When this book was selected, I (and others in the group) knew nothing about it or the author. Based on the title, I thought the author would offer a biblical approach for how Christians could approach tough conversations, sort of akin to Ken Sande's "The Peace Maker". Sadly I was wrong.
Instead Lutzer shares his views on a myriad of political topics that are being hotly debated today. And while the views are clearly his own, he presents them as though they are facts. He includes references from writings or statements made by others, and often includes anecdotal interpretations of his own as to what the originator meant. After reading the first sentence in chapter one, I knew the book would be filled with provocative statements and beliefs that did not align with mine and I was right. At times, I did not think I could stomach finishing the book, but out of a desire to understand why Lutzer and others who share his beliefs believe what they do, I persevered.
Instead of writing a review that attempts to respond to Lutzer's views on the various topics addressed in his book, I offer my overall impressions. Overall, I didn't feel that any of the topics were adequately covered, and most definitely not in a balanced manner. While entire books could be and have been written on each topic introduced by Lutzer, I found his approach was to introduce a topic (often beginning with inflammatory language) then boiling down his arguments into a few paragraphs or a few pages. For me, his commentary seemed to be presented as though they were being offered as speaking points for fellow followers. What stood out to me most was the lack of balance. Without getting bogged down in detail, the focus of the book seems to be to present to the reader all of the of the failings of people who Lutzer refers to as the "secular left" (among other terms used to reference this group). Conversely, throughout the book he seems to imply that Evangelical Christians, those who share his views have no failings. What is glaringly lacking is the acknowledgment that all humans have failings (we are all sinful by nature). I kept feeling a sense of Deja-vu, similarities to how the Jews (especially the Pharisees) viewed themselves compared to the Gentiles, and how the Pharisee's adherence to "The Law" rather than "Grace" played out in the Old Testament. Also, his manner of separating Christians into "Progressives" vs "Evangelicals" as I interpret his descriptions implies that he knows the hearts of everyone, which of course he cannot. Only God does.
I'd also like to note that while Lutzer covers a vast array of topics, there are some that are obviously missing or downplayed. To name a few, he makes many references to what he views as sexual immorality, however he makes no mention of the sexual crimes that have been committed in the church. And while he makes many references to violent crimes, he makes only a couple of paltry references to "white-collar" crimes. Furthermore, when it comes to the sanctity of life, why does he call out Roe v. Wade, but not say a word about the 2nd amendment? Haven't lives been lost due to both?
In conclusion, I ask myself, "Did this book tell me how to take action, "to not be silenced"? The only comment that sticks out to me was on page 250, where Lutzer states, "We as Evangelicals need to return to our biblical roots. We need to talk about heaven and warn against hell." As a Christian myself, I disagree with his statement. My understanding is that we are not called to focus on heaven, but rather to focus on Jesus. Heaven is the reward not the way! What we do and what we say should reflect Jesus' teachings.
The above views are solely my opinion. I understand others views may differ from mine and pass no judgment. Matthew 7:1-2 "Judge not, that you be not judged."
I do not recommend this book. If I could give it zero stars, I would have.
April 18, 2021
This is a well written book that describes why we in the United States are so divided. Lutzer follows the societal changes that have lead us to this place. It enables the readers to be well versed in how to have meaningful discussions with all, including those with opposing views.
July 21, 2021
Dr David Jeremiah is quoted on the cover, “If I could, I would put this book into the hands of every Christian in America.” And he’s absolutely right. You hear bits and pieces in the news and over social media, Dr Lutzer presents today’s cultural changes in an eye opening way, that frankly makes me realize I’ve been the “frog in a slow boiling pot”. The subtle word or phase changes. The removal of anything Christian because it’s offensive but other religions or belief are ok to share and teach so we don’t offend their beliefs. And we’ve seen the tactics of shaming and terrorizing being used against Christians when we don’t agree with those opposing views. Read and heed the words of Christ. “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
April 18, 2021
"We make men without chests and expect from them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honor and are shocked to find traitors in our midst." ― C.S. Lewis, The Abolition of Man
How many are without "chests" in the church today? It seems many have been gutted of biblical conviction to stand for truth. There has been a polarization of the gospel from its moral application to culture. So many of the great insights of this book will fall on deaf ears because Christians in general won't see a problem with the issues raised or they will and won't care. Affluence, apathy, and compromise are mortal enemies of the wisdom to see the problems coming and of the courage to stand in the face of adversity. Isaiah 59:14,15 seems to share the same concern that Lutzer has in his book as it says "Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away; for truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter. Truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. The Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice" and most likely the courage to stand for it. I hope the church takes its head out of the sand and awakens to the time it is living in. Lutzer's book is most definitely a clarion call to that end.
How many are without "chests" in the church today? It seems many have been gutted of biblical conviction to stand for truth. There has been a polarization of the gospel from its moral application to culture. So many of the great insights of this book will fall on deaf ears because Christians in general won't see a problem with the issues raised or they will and won't care. Affluence, apathy, and compromise are mortal enemies of the wisdom to see the problems coming and of the courage to stand in the face of adversity. Isaiah 59:14,15 seems to share the same concern that Lutzer has in his book as it says "Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away; for truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter. Truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. The Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice" and most likely the courage to stand for it. I hope the church takes its head out of the sand and awakens to the time it is living in. Lutzer's book is most definitely a clarion call to that end.
May 1, 2021
Perhaps we have lost our capacity to despise sin, whether it be our own or the sin prevalent in our culture
Our calling and privilege is to represent Christ at this turbulent moment in history
There is no method to make people both free and equal
At the foot of the cross we confess that there is common ground between all racial and ethnic diversity in the world
You don’t believe in free speech till you give others the right to offend you by what they say
Progress in the wrong direction is not something to celebrate—especially when it goes against the natural order of creation or even the established facts of science
Political correctness divorced from common sense has discouraged people from taking care to wisely discriminate against harmful and dangerous ideologies and influences
Courage armed with truth is out calling
We do not love our neighbor when we tell them they can continue to engage in unrepentant rebellion against God. We are to be kind and gracious, we are not called to become allies by Boeing the knee to cultural pressure
God is calling together in multinational community, believers of every race and culture, but such unity can only be built in the gospel itself
Social justice is not the gospel
Our calling and privilege is to represent Christ at this turbulent moment in history
There is no method to make people both free and equal
At the foot of the cross we confess that there is common ground between all racial and ethnic diversity in the world
You don’t believe in free speech till you give others the right to offend you by what they say
Progress in the wrong direction is not something to celebrate—especially when it goes against the natural order of creation or even the established facts of science
Political correctness divorced from common sense has discouraged people from taking care to wisely discriminate against harmful and dangerous ideologies and influences
Courage armed with truth is out calling
We do not love our neighbor when we tell them they can continue to engage in unrepentant rebellion against God. We are to be kind and gracious, we are not called to become allies by Boeing the knee to cultural pressure
God is calling together in multinational community, believers of every race and culture, but such unity can only be built in the gospel itself
Social justice is not the gospel
December 9, 2020
Powerful, timely, hope-giving. Dr. Lutzer is a name I trust for Biblical integrity and accurate analysis of a wide variety of subjects. Current events are chaotic and dismaying on all sides. But Dr. Lutzer provides a Biblical way of looking at the current events and helping us to formulate a Biblical response. He provides ample documentation and citation for his assertions of what is transpiring and who is behind the changes, so this isn't just a "conspiracy theory" wacko sounding off. I found his analysis and suggestions to be very helpful and insightful.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
April 26, 2021
I am so relieved to be finished with this book. If you appreciate fear mongering, misrepresentation of events, and every logical fallacy being used, then go ahead and read this. For me it was just so frustrating; I agreed with about 30% of what he said, but completely disagreed with his methods. There were were several instances where he didn't refer to any citations but was asserting unsupported claims as factual. There were two notable instances where he didn't cite a primary source, but instead cited a book where someone else discussed something, which is just lazy. My biggest complaint, as stated above, was all the fear permeating his words. As Christians, we are specifically commanded to NOT be fearful, and yet Lutzer was using that as his primary driver.
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