What Every Christian Ought to Know

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAY 16, 2005

Evangelicals frequently grouse over slight doctrinal differences, often falling upon their denominational loyalty without knowing why they cling so to their Christian tenets. Retired pastor and radio minister Rogers (The Wonder of It All and Unveiling the End Times in Our Time) offers a nonpartisan yet biblically sound remedy for both new and seasoned Christians in this beautifully simple primer on essential truths. Rogers expounds upon such potentially divisive topics as eternal security, believers' baptism and how to discover one's spiritual gifts or be filled with the Spirit. One of his deftest explanations is his take on six myths about discovering God's will. Rogers cites the "map myth," where God lays out a detailed road map; the "misery myth," which equates serving God with catastrophe; the "missionary myth," where God only calls a certain class of people to serve; the "miracle myth," where God speaks literally and dramatically; the "missed-it myth," whereby one's mistakes equal a failed life; and the "mystery myth," where God keeps his will a secret from Christians. Rogers's sincere voice is often punctuated with subtle comic jabs at his fellow believers' ill-shaped methodology, enhancing this message of tender admonishment, which is sure to rouse evangelicals to put more effort into understanding Christian doctrine.