In 'Stealing Jesus,' Bruce Bawer embarks on a provocative journey through the intersection of religion and modernity. He explores how Christianity has been reshaped by contemporary culture, often leading to a dilution of its core messages. Bawer challenges readers to confront the commodification of faith, urging a return to authenticity. His incisive critique not only dissects the motives behind religious transformations but also poses poignant questions about belief and identity. This compelling narrative invites readers to reconsider the true essence of Christianity in a rapidly changing world.
By Bruce Bawer
Published: 1998
""In a world where faith is commodified, the essence of spirituality lies in the quiet rebellion of the soul against the noise of conformity.""
From the author of the widely acclaimed A Place at the Table, this is a major work, passionately outspoken and cogently reasoned, that exposes the great danger posed to Christianity today by fundamentalism. The time is past, says Bruce Bawer, when denominational names and other traditional labels provided an accurate reflection of Christian America's religious beliefs and practices. The meaningful distinction today is not between Protestant and Catholic, or Baptist and Episcopalian, but rather between "legalistic" and "nonlegalistic" religion, between the Church of Law and the Church of Love. On one side is the fundamentalist right, which draws a sharp distinction between "saved" and "unsaved" and worships a God of wrath and judgment; on the other are more mainstream Christians who view all humankind as children of a loving God who calls them to break down barriers of hate, prejudice, and distrust. Pointing out that the supposedly "traditional" beliefs of American fundamentalism--about which most mainstream Christians, clergy included, know shockingly little--are in fact of relatively recent origin, are distinctively American in many ways, and are dramatically at odds with the values that Jesus actually spread, Bawer fascinatingly demonstrates the way in which these beliefs have increasingly come to supplant genuinely fundamental Christian tenets in the American church and to become synonymous with Christianity in the minds of many people. Stealing Jesus is the ringing testament of a man who is equally disturbed by the notion of an America without Christianity and the notion of an American Christianity without love and compassion.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Scott Young is an entrepreneur, author, and learning expert, best known for his work in accelerated learning and self-education. Young gained recognition for completing MIT’s computer science curriculum in one year through self-study, an experiment he documented in his book Ultralearning. He advocates for a systematic, focused approach to learning new skills, and his work has inspired people to take on ambitious projects in fields like coding, languages, and creative arts. Young writes extensively on productivity, cognitive science, and learning techniques, sharing strategies for mastering complex subjects quickly. His approach to education has made him a prominent figure in the world of self-improvement and personal development.
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Bridget Phetasy is a multi-talented writer, comedian, and podcaster known for her sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary culture and politics. She gained prominence through her work with Playboy, where her essays and columns attracted a wide readership. Bridget is the host of the popular podcast "Walk-Ins Welcome," where she engages in deep, humorous conversations with a variety of guests. Her candid and often provocative takes on societal issues have garnered her a loyal following on social media. Additionally, she created the satirical YouTube series "Dumpster Fire," where she humorously dissects current events.
Reid Hoffman is an influential American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, best known as the co-founder of LinkedIn, the professional networking platform that transformed online professional interactions. Hoffman has significantly impacted the business world through his investments in notable tech companies like Airbnb, Facebook, and Zynga. As an author, he has co-written several acclaimed books, including "The Start-Up of You" and "Blitzscaling," which provide strategic insights into career development and business growth. His works are celebrated for their practical advice and have become essential reading for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Hoffman's contributions extend beyond his literary efforts, as he remains a prominent figure in Silicon Valley, shaping the future of technology and innovation.
Daniel Petre is a distinguished Australian entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist known for his impactful contributions to the business and literary worlds. He co-founded the venture capital firm AirTree Ventures, which has significantly influenced the technology startup ecosystem in Australia. Petre has authored several influential books on technology and leadership, including "The Clever Country?" and "Father Time," which explore themes of innovation and work-life balance. His writing often reflects his deep commitment to shaping a forward-thinking, inclusive society. Beyond his literary and business endeavors, Petre is also recognized for his substantial philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Dan Savage is an American author, media pundit, and LGBT activist, best known for his sex advice column Savage Love and his podcast Savage Lovecast. Savage has been a prominent voice in discussions around sexuality, relationships, and LGBTQ+ rights, often using humor and frankness to tackle difficult subjects. He co-founded the "It Gets Better" project, an anti-bullying initiative aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Savage is known for challenging conventional wisdom around monogamy, marriage, and sex, making him a controversial but respected figure in the world of advice and advocacy. His work has had a significant impact on public discourse around sex and relationships.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“"In a world where faith is commodified, the essence of spirituality lies in the quiet rebellion of the soul against the noise of conformity."”
Stealing Jesus
By Bruce Bawer
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Bruce Bawer is an acclaimed American author, essayist, and critic, known for his insightful commentary on culture, society, and politics. He has written several notable works, including "While Europe Slept: How radical Islam is destroying the West from within" and "Surrender: Appeasing Islam, Sacrificing Freedom." Bawer's writing is characterized by its blend of personal narrative and thorough analysis, often addressing the complexities of modern life and the challenges posed by extremism. With a distinctive voice, he engages readers in discussions about freedom, identity, and the impact of religious fundamentalism on Western society.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In '21 Lessons for the 21st Century', Yuval Noah Harari navigates the complex landscape of today's world, tackling urgent questions about our future. From the impact of technology on society to the challenges of political stability, each lesson provokes thought and introspection. Harari explores key themes such as the rise of artificial intelligence, the significance of data, and the importance of meaning in an increasingly uncertain world. With a blend of history, philosophy, and science, the book invites readers to reflect on their roles in shaping a shared future. Will we adapt, or become obsolete? Dive in to uncover the lessons that could redefine humanity's path.
In 'The Shack', William P. Young invites readers into a profound journey of faith, healing, and transformation. After suffering a devastating loss, Mackenzie Allen Phillips encounters a mysterious invitation to a remote shack, where he meets personifications of God that challenge his understanding of love and mercy. The narrative beautifully intertwines deep theological questions with a gripping story of grief and redemption. As Mack uncovers the truth of his pain, readers are compelled to reflect on their own beliefs and relationships with the divine. Will Mack find the answers he seeks, or will he emerge with even more questions about faith, hope, and the nature of God?
In 'Inner Revolution', Robert Thurman invites readers to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and mental liberation. He combines ancient Buddhist wisdom with modern psychological insights, offering a compelling blueprint for inner peace and compassionate living. The book challenges traditional notions of revolution, proposing that true change begins within us. Thurman's engaging narrative reveals how shifting our perspectives can remodel our world. Are you ready to ignite your own inner revolution and unlock the power of your mind?
In 'The God Delusion', Richard Dawkins challenges the very foundation of religious belief, presenting a compelling case for atheism and scientific rationalism. With sharp wit and profound insight, he dismantles arguments for the existence of God and highlights the dangers of dogma. Dawkins explores the origins of religion and its impact on society, urging readers to embrace a more empirical worldview. This provocative work invites readers to reconsider their own beliefs and the influence of religion in modern life. Are you ready to question everything you've been taught about faith and reason?
In 'The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross,' John Marco Allegro proposes a groundbreaking theory that Christian symbols and beliefs are rooted in ancient mushroom cults. Allegro, a philologist and one of the original Dead Sea Scrolls scholars, challenges conventional religious narratives, suggesting that the story of Christ may be deeply intertwined with psychedelic experiences. His provocative insights invite readers to reconsider the origins of spirituality and the nature of consciousness. As he delves into linguistics, archaeology, and anthropology, Allegro presents a compelling case that could shake the foundations of traditional faith. This book is a thought-provoking exploration that blurs the lines between religion, mythology, and the quest for enlightenment.
In 'The Immortality Key', Brian C. Muraresku embarks on a thrilling quest to uncover the ancient secrets of psychedelics and their connection to the rituals of early Christianity. He weaves together archaeology, history, and the study of mind-altering substances to explore the transformative experiences that may have shaped religious beliefs. This provocative investigation challenges conventional notions of faith and spirituality, suggesting that the key to immortality lies in understanding these altered states of consciousness. With riveting discoveries and eye-opening revelations, Muraresku's narrative invites readers to question the foundations of their own beliefs. Are we on the brink of rediscovering a lost path to transcendent experience?
In 'A History of God', Karen Armstrong embarks on a fascinating journey through the evolution of the concept of God from ancient times to the modern era. She explores how various religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—have shaped humanity's understanding of the divine, revealing the complexities and contradictions in these beliefs. Highlighting the influence of culture, politics, and philosophy, Armstrong invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of faith and spirituality. This thought-provoking narrative raises profound questions about the nature of belief and the future of religious thought. Are we on the brink of a new understanding of God, or are we simply repeating history?
In 'The Immoral Majority', Ben Howe explores the dissonance between evangelical Christianity and the political landscape of modern America. He argues that the alliance between conservative Christians and the Trump administration has compromised the moral integrity of the faith. Through compelling anecdotes and sharp analysis, Howe questions whether political power is worth sacrificing core ethical values. With insights into the complexities of faith and politics, this book sparks critical reflection on the future of Christianity in the public sphere. Prepare to challenge your beliefs and reconsider the ethical foundations of a divided society.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
