Religious

The Evolution of God

Background

Published in 2009, “The Evolution of God” by Robert Wright explores the development of the concept of God in the three main Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Wright examines how the idea of God has transformed over time, influenced by cultural, political, and social factors. He utilizes insights from archaeology, history, theology, and evolutionary psychology to trace these changes. Wright also discusses the role of evolutionary biology in the development of religion and speculates on the future of the concept of God.

The Evolution of God
The Evolution of God

My Thoughts

I was uncertain about this book a few times but it grew on me as he was finishing it out. This book is pieced together with secular evidence (e.g. existing documents, physically evidence, etc.) and is examined through the same lens. Ultimately, religion without faith can feel dry, disjointed, or incomplete. Or to put it another way, “They who dance are thought mad by those who hear not the music.”

There is an article of faith in my religion that reads in part, “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly.” The need for that qualifier is apparent throughout this book as numerous inferences are made through questionable translations and quotations.

Regardless, Wright did the best he could with the tools available and even tries to excuse believers as well. Unfortunately, he likely would be pilloried for any attempt simply due to the subject matter. Hopefully, our society will continue to grow along with our understanding of God and each other.

Recommendation

This one is worth the time. However, make sure to read through to the end.

Killing Jesus

Background

Published in 2013, “Killing Jesus” written by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard, provides a historical account of the life and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. The book explores the political, social, and religious dynamics of the Roman Empire and Jewish leadership, setting the stage for the events that culminated in Jesus’s execution. Drawing from historical sources, the authors detail the intersections of power, betrayal, and faith, presenting the crucifixion not only as a pivotal religious moment but also as a political event shaped by the tensions of its time.

Killing Jesus
Killing Jesus

My Thoughts

O’Reilly and Gugard tried to only use information they were able to cite from specific contemporary sources. However, there simply isn’t many contemporary sources and so they used the four gospels as well. Of course, there are some minor differences in the narrative such as the final words on the cross, Matthew (27:46) & Mark (15:34), “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Luke (23:46), “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” John (19:30),”It is finished.” The latter being used by the authors. (Unfortunately, they didn’t include the phrase from Luke, (23:34) “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” I love that line. Even the movie “Ben Hurr” makes a big of it!)

Regardless, I think they did a good job of putting forth a decent secular narrative of the life of Jesus of Nazareth. However, for roughly a third of the world, Jesus is more than a man. He is the Christ, the Son of God, our Redeemer, and Savior. I tip my hat to the authors for the sheer gall of writing the book as it is riddled with opportunities to offend someone. (Perhaps that’s merely a 2024 way of thinking about it.)

Recommendation

Not bad. It helped by keeping in mind, the authors did their best with what they had.

The Book of Job: When Bad Things Happened to a Good Person

Published in 2012, “The Book of Job: When Bad Things Happened to a Good Person” Rabbi Harold S. Kushner delves into the biblical story of Job, a righteous man who endures profound suffering. Kushner examines the age-old question of why bad things happen to good people, exploring themes of faith, justice, and the human condition. Drawing from the text and his own experiences, he offers perspectives on coping with adversity and finding meaning amid life’s challenges.

The Book of Job When Bad Things Happened to a Good Person
The Book of Job When Bad Things Happened to a Good Person

My Thoughts

A very enjoyable book that peaked my curiousity in several areas. For example, I didn’t know there was a fable of Job and a poem of Job sandwiched in the current version. And that the fable was known in other ancient societies. Also, that it was originally packaged with Psalms and the Songs of Solomon.

The book covers a lot of ground for it relatively small size. Once again, I am reminded that I need to read through the Torah so I can better understand the Jewish perspective.

Recommendation

I highly recommend it!

Christlike Parenting

Background

Published in 2002, “Christlike Parenting” by Glenn I. Latham, presents a approach to raising children emphasizing the importance of kindness, patience, positive reinforcement in parenting, and encouraging parents to model their behavior after Christ. By focusing on building positive relationships and avoiding punitive discipline, Latham shows how effective parenting can lead to happier, more respectful children. The techniques are explained and both scriptural references and psychological insights are cited, making the book a useful guide for Christian families and those looking for practical parenting advice rooted in love and understanding.

Christlike Parenting
Christlike Parenting

My Thoughts

While I felt some of Dr. Latham’s methods were a little too “Pollyanna” for the real world, I do agree with most of what he put in the book. Kids really don’t need you yelling at them and the world heaps plenty of problems on them without their parents adding to the load. As much as I believe all parents try to stay in control of the situation, they typically aren’t in an environment of stress. That said, I thought the majority of the book to be pretty well spot on.

What I believe was missing from the book is how to “repair” the damage after it occurs. Likely his response would be something along the lines of being consistent, forgiving, and being the role model for the children to emulate. However, I believe that would include owning our issues and apologizing to children when appropriate. That can be a hard pill to swallow by several families, but I believe it to be worth it.

Also, Dr. Latham quoted my Psychology Chair at Utah State, Dr. Carl Cheney on page 115. That really made my day! He is an incredible man and loved seeing his name in print.

Recommendation

Not bad. It was a quick read and a good reminder.

The Problem of Pain

Background

Published in 1940, “The Problem of Pain” by C.S. Lewis is an exploration of the theological and philosophical issue of human suffering. Drawing from his understanding of Christian theology and classical philosophy, Lewis delves into the nature of pain and its relationship to the existence of a loving God. Through logic and stories, Lewis tackles complex questions surrounding theodicy, free will, and divine justice, offering readers profound insights into the nature of suffering and why we have to endure it.

The Problem of Pain
The Problem of Pain

My Thoughts

C.S. Lewis is a favorite of mine and I love to hear him reason through arguments. I very much wish I could talk to him about my understanding of the gospel and the nature of God. In this publication, Lewis expounds on why we are subject to pain and suffering. In short, our loving God gave it to us to make us better. We have the opportunity to give God the only real gift we can give, which is our freedom of choice and choose to become better than what we are.

Recommendation

This one is a must read. Possibly several times to get my head wrapped around it.

The Book of Mormon

Background

Published back in the 1830s, “The Book of Mormon” is the book which inspired the name “Mormons” to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This book is another testament to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and, with the Bible, testifies that He is the Christ! He asks that we follow him and that He loves us all.

The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon

My Thoughts

I read through this book about twice a year and read verses from it nearly daily. I am convinced it is scripture along with the Bible and they contain the words of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Recommendation

Read it and pray to the Father in the name of the Son if the book is true.

How the Talmud Can Change Your Life

Background

Published in October of 2023, “How the Talmud Can Change Your Life” Liel Leibovitz illustrates how the ancient teachings of the Talmud provide practical insights and guidance for modern living, addressing a wide array of challenges and moral questions. Leibovitz encourages readers to engage with the Talmud’s rich narratives and debates, revealing its relevance to contemporary issues and personal growth.

How the Talmud Can Change Your Life
How the Talmud Can Change Your Life

My Thoughts

The book was very informative and gave me a much better hold on Jewish thought and Rabbinical teaching, in particular. I enjoy the idea of debate going on throughout time and circumstance to make the scriptures relevant in our day. However, Leibovitz makes the claim that if God Himself made a statement, it would be debated and wouldn’t carry any weight. I can’t get on board with that.

Recommendation

This was a good book as a primer into Jewish writing and theology. Particularly, their cannon of scriptures.

100 Places to See After You Die

Background

Published in June of 2023, Ken Jenning’s “100 Places to See After You Die” is a meta-analysis of the afterlife from every corner of history and popular fiction. From the circles of Dante’s Inferno to the ancient Egyptian underworld to NBC’s The Good Place, this book will help you navigate through all possibilities whether they be sublime or ridiculous.

100 Places to See After You Die
100 Places to See After You Die

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed the start of this book as it was a good summation of ancient to modern beliefs in the afterlife. One of my favorite classes in college was comparative religion and I always found it interesting to see what people believe. However, as the book started to delve away from truth to fiction, I found my eyes glazing over and it was struggle to complete the book. Ken Jennings is a proven master of trivia and while I respect his knowledge and the depths of his research, I didn’t care about much of the material covered.

Recommendation

A good book but the first part was much better than the second.

My First Bible

Background

My wife’s parents found a book they gave her when she was 4 years old. It is called, “My First Bible” and there are apparently a million of books with the same title. This version was a very quick read with only about 80 pages or so. Between the old and new testaments is a place for your family genealogy and there is a picture of my then 4 year old wife getting the book.

My First Bible
My First Bible

My Thoughts

First, it is amazing this book survived wherever it had been hiding. It was with her parents and they moved a few years ago. Second, it was fantastic to head the stories and have some connection with the book. I found the stories to be generalized and appropriate for an elementary school child. The author(s) did a great job with the stories and taking the appropriate lessons from them.

Recommendation

A great piece of my personal family’s history.

The Four Loves

Background

Published in 1960, “The Four Loves” is a non-fiction book written by C.S. Lewis on the nature of love. In this insightful work, Lewis explores love from a philosophical and Christian perspective. Expounding on four distinct categories of love:

  1. Storge: This refers to familial or natural affection, the love between family members, or the love that arises naturally, such as the love between parents and children.
  2. Philia: This represents friendship and the love between friends. It encompasses loyalty, camaraderie, and mutual respect.
  3. Eros: Eros refers to romantic or passionate love. It is associated with desire, attraction, and physical intimacy.
  4. Agape: Agape is unconditional love, often seen as divine or selfless love. It is characterized by compassion, generosity, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Lewis delves into the complexities and nuances of each type of love. He examines their strengths, potential pitfalls, and how they relate to one another. Drawing from literature, theology, and personal experiences, Lewis offers profound reflections on the meaning and significance of love in our lives. “The Four Loves” is a timeless exploration of human relationships and emotions that continues to resonate with readers, offering wisdom and understanding on the nature of love.

The Four Loves
The Four Loves

My Thoughts

I can’t heap enough praise on this book. C.S. Lewis does not tell a story here, rather he is explaining, as plain as he can, the nature of love. I went through it a number of times and still think I’m just scratching the surface.

Recommendation

Read this book!