Book Review: Beyond Opinion by Ravi Zacharias

For the past few centuries the largest organized religion on the planet has been Christianity, which made it an easy target for philosophical salvos from skeptics, nihilists and atheists alike.

Unfortunately during that time, a lot of apologetics writing (a branch of theology dedicated to proving and defending Christianity) has been dominated by dusty language and tomes; circular logic and unimpassioned writers.

The luminary exceptions can be counted on two hands including such noted authors as C.S. Lewis, William Lane Craig, Richard Swineburn and Alvin Plantinga.

You can add to that short list of outstanding apologetic writers, Ravi Zacharias.

His book Beyond Opinion: Living the Faith We Defend is a supremely compelling collection of essays by a host of thoughtful writers that expertly cover a wide range of theological areas with fresh perspective and insights regarding the field of apologetics.

Most importantly, this book recognizes and addresses the dynamic shift that continues to occur within the Western culture, away from modernity (characterized by the proof-demanding skepticism originating from the Enlightenment Era) to a post-modern period that seeks to embrace spirituality (although not necessarily Christianity) as part of the human condition.

Regardless, Zacharias’ book helps feed both the faith and the mind of true seekers. Not only did he write more than a third of the book’s content, Zacharias (see photo insert below) deftly demonstrates his expert editorial eye to his colleagues’ work – reinforcing the adage that, "Great writing is the result of great editing."

This is a highly readable, relevant collection of worthwhile thought that is destined to become an apologetics classic, and it should be on the bookshelf of every critically-thinking individual or graduate, whether they are a believer or not – it’s just that good!

Image via Wikipedia