Questioning God?: Answers to Questions Worth Asking

by John Hopper

"How can anyone believe in God in this scientific age?"
"Haven't Christians caused more harm than good?"
"I'm a good person. Isn't that good enough?" For so many people today, Christianity raises questions just like these. And to that, John Hopper says, "Great!" In Questioning God? , John invites those skeptical of Christianity or those doubting the faith they've long held to consider honest answers to many commonly asked questions. "You have questions. Good questions. They deserve well-reasoned answers," John says. "In this book I aim simply to put the facts on the table and let you decide for yourself whether there is any credence to the idea of God, the Bible, or Christianity." With its highly conversational style, Questioning God? Answers to Questions Worth Asking is the perfect book for anyone wanting to explore, challenge, or understand why Christianity remains relevant—even vital—for our times. – – – " Questioning God? makes a compelling case for the Christian worldview, showing how philosophy, history, psychology, and science point toward the truth of the gospel. It doesn't dodge the hard questions, wrestling with many of the most nettlesome objections raised by skeptics. This book is practical and to the point, filled with common-sense illustrations, and it's sure to help any open-minded thinker take steps closer to God." Lee Strobel , author of The Case for Christ , and Founding Director of the Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University

Genres: Theology

343 pages, Paperback

Published November 30, 2021

Reviews

[J. Wootton · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you were looking for a book that succinctly covers pretty much the full sweep of Christian apologetics without being too long, too technical, or too boring: Here it is!

In 15 chapters, Hopper covers some 50 areas of inquiry, gently advocating for his own perspective while acknowledging the reasonableness of other points of view. There is more to be said on each of these subjects of course--there are academics who devote entire careers to minutely examining specialized subtopics in this field--but for most of us, Hopper's work will suffice on most subjects and provide a starting point for more deeply exploring the few that may interest us further.

The disadvantage of a generalist offering like this is unevenness of quality. Hopper generally skirts this problem with broad research and strong organization and presentation skills; still, chapters 1 ("Life is Good, So Why Be Concerned with God?"), 4 ("How Can a Person Believe in God in this Scientific Age?"), 6 ("Haven't Christians Caused More Harm than Good?") were particular stand-outs while chapters 8 ("How Can a Rational Person Accept the Miracle Stories in the Bible?"), 10 ("If God is Real, Why is There so Much Evil and Suffering?"), and 13 ("If God is Loving, Why Would He Send Anyone to Hell?") are a bit lacking.

There is also the matter of Hopper's writing style, which manages somehow to be simultaneously conversational and stilted. The result is accessible, but wordy: ruthless copyediting is wanted here.

Yet these minor faults do not much detract from an overall valuable book, and are little more than opportunities for an improved 2nd edition.

Disclaimer: I was provided this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Taylor Barkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best “one stop shop” for updated answers to common objections and questions about Christianity. Not too academic and not too surface level.

[Kristin Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read for believer and non believer alike. As a believer, I had forgotten many of the questions that brought me to Christ. While reading this book, I had a feeling of nostalgia. I would also recommend this to anyone currently seeking God. It is written in a friendly, conversational style. You can also skip around in the book. You don't have to read it front to back. You can simply read and examine the spiritual questions you are interested in.

[Matthew Pascavage · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good. It gives such well thought out, and easy to understand answers, to questions that we all have asked. Questions about a higher power, questions about the trustworthiness of the Bible, questions about the hypocrisy of Christians. All pointing back to the truth of Jesus. Great for people who are asking questions, and great for people who are being asked tough questions and don’t know how to respond.

[Melanie Irizarry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed it. It was engaging. Fun and questionitive. I will definitely have to keep this book around to reference back to every once in awhile.

[Jrmckins · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm sure if you're a believer, you'll enjoy this book and will find the arguments put forward very compelling. If you're not a believer, this book won't change your mind. It's not "preachy" or really trying to convert anyone.