Rate this book

Gray Matters: Navigating The Space Between Legalism And Liberty (2013)

by Brett McCracken(Favorite Author)

3.9 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

0801014743 (ISBN13: 9780801014741)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

Baker Books

review 1: As Christians we are called to examine the things we consume with thought, discussion, and reflectionThat for me was the essence of what I got out of this book.A much needed re-evaluation of 4 critical areas of cultural consumption, Gray Matters takes a very even-handed crack at a very difficult (and much ignored) question of how Christians are to interact with culture.It would be very simple for us as Christians just to deny any part of culture that could possibly be tainted (all of it), but is this what is most pleasing to God?Instead of taking this un-Biblical and simple approach to culture, Mr. McCracken takes the reader deeper. Each of the examined cultural areas (Music, Movies, Eating, Drinking), have much to offer the modern American Christian (enjoyment, community,... more witness, reflection of Divinity) but also contain pitfalls (gluttony, alcoholism, gratuitous sexuality, witness damage). McCracken starts each examination with a history of the Church and the specific item. This is very eye-opening and will allow the reader to have context into what the original church fathers thought about these items. Next McCracken examines the relevant scriptures and ideas that support the enjoyment of the given item. Pitfalls and warnings (criteria for consumption) are also presented. The witness of the Christian is also examined in light of the relevant item.Ultimately we are left with some great analysis and criteria for what and how we should enjoy in these various areas. McCracken stays away from definitive answers when appropriate (is drinking wrong?), but is also not afraid to call out items that are clearly un-Bibilical (illegal drugs).McCracken uses his large repertoire of Bible knowledge throughout the writing, which is very necessary when examining any issue from a Christian worldview.Ultimately I am impressed by Mr. McCracken. His wisdom in this writing is formidable, and his balance of Biblical authority, thoughtful examination, and deference to other believers is commendable.If you are trying to understand how it is we are to engage something as complicated as culture, I highly reccomend this book. It will help you hold God to a higher view, appreciate the culture that you do consume as stemming (originally) from God, and help you balance the fine line between legalism and liberty.
review 2: While I enjoyed this book, I would be careful in my recommendation of it to another person. *spoiler* McCracken, in his conclusion, says to be consumed by Christ before you can hope to engage culture worshipfully and in a God glorifying manner. So, that would be my criteria for recommendation. I would greatly recommend this book to a believer who is capable of discernment in such matters, and won't take "liberty" too far. From a book review online I read this looking to "lighten up, and tighten up" in some areas. The methods of discernment here I found helpful, while written in a way I feel comfortable coming to differing conclusions than the author. I also loved the emphasis on community (and any parts on coffee, my cultural commodity of choice). A good book that encouraged self-examination, and biblical study with prayers for discernment. A great help in navigating the grey in life, when too black or white can hurt our Christian witness. Glory to God who made flavors, colors, lights, and community. Glory to God who promises to renew our minds, that with testing we may discern His will (Rom 12:2). less

Download links for: Gray Matters: Navigating the Space between Legalism and Liberty

Advertising