Tuesday, March 22, 2011

A Conversation With God by Alton Gansky

A Conversation With God: If You Could Ask God Any Question What Would It Be? by Alton Gansky, is a a simplified book of theology written in an easy to read question and answer format addressing common questions of new believers and non religious readers about bible beliefs.

This very unique book is written from the first person point of view as if God himself, as well as other notable biblical characters of the old and new testaments: including Jesus,  Luke, Peter, Eve, Jeremiah, Micah, James and even Judas Iscariat- were answering the questions directly. This book is written as if the words and answers to the questions presented- are coming directly from God himself- and from other biblical characters. One issue of concern is that some readers may in fact become confused, perhaps erroneously attributing Alton Gansky's theology to God himself- as well as to the other personalities listed.  While this particular method of communicating biblical knowledge may be questionable or even heretical for some readers, it does make for entertaining and engaging reading for those new to the Christian faith.

This book makes a good resource for any new believer or for those who wish to be introduced to Christian beliefs.  There are some theological issues that need to be addressed, neverthless- in the chapter of salvation, based on Judas' response to the question,  the book implies that salvation can be lost.  Furthermore the question on abortion does not specifically address the issue of abortion, but vaguely discusses the issue of free will and choice.  The question on homosexuality is handled in an appropriate, non offensive theological and politically correct manner.  Some questions, such as "Why are there two sexes?" are answered based on the author's own conjecture of the bible, rather than on bible theology.  Nevertheless, this book, overall, presents a good overview of basic biblical beliefs and makes a good starting point for anyone who wishes to investigate the bible and Christian beliefs.  For deeper theology, and deeper answers to life's questions, I'd refer the reader to the works of Alcorn, C.S. Lews, Augustine or Aquinas.  As a blogger for booksneeze, I recieved a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson publishers for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

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