A.J. Swoboda

The author discusses his personal faith trials and would provide a pastoral word to those undergoing doubt and "deconstruction."

The author explores deconstruction and doubt, tells his personal story of exhaustion and burnout, makes reference to those with whom he has worked through deconstruction experiences, and challenges a lot of the sources of doubts.

Yet I found the work highly disappointing and even distressing. I have appreciated previous works by the author and had high hopes for his consideration of doubt and deconstruction. I am in no position to judge the author or the situations he has spoken; all I can say is that those whom I have encountered who have gone through an experience of "deconstruction" would more likely be further repelled from Christianity than brought back in based on what is presented in this book.

The way he approaches and views "deconstruction" is defensive throughout with a strong desire to defend and protect the institution of the church. Therefore, it never seems as if he has really grappled with the profound brokenness and suffering that has led many to deconstruct. I fear this is what The Gospel Coalition, for instance, would love "deconstruction" to be, and the author's advice and posturing is exactly what I would expect TGC to advocate for in such circumstances.

Thus, the last person I would give this book to is someone who has gone through very real church hurt and trauma. It does not truly honor what they have endured. It is not nearly perspicacious enough to deal with the real sinfulness present in church members and institutions. Sadly, it's what one would expect to hear about deconstruction from a rather uncritical white Evangelical who will admit there's some difficulties but doesn't want to explore those difficulties too deeply. There's no call for lament and repentance in churches or institutions. One hears little of how God's judgment begins in His household. This is designed to be a spiritual slap in the face to tell doubters to get over it.

Maybe that will work for some. But not for all, or even most. Not recommended.

**-galley received as part of early review program… (plus d'informations)

I only have 2 books on rest for the Christian. With the wealth of information and
application this takes top spot. Quite convicting on the arguments to
begin (it you haven't) or keep going (if you've started) with regards to the Sabbath.

In reading it your begin to take a long walk with the author (A.J. Swoboda) and his journey
(and those whose thoughts are also in the book) to enjoy and his part to help others enter into the Sabbath and all it holds (the blessings God built into it).
With sections like
- The Sabbath for Us
- The Sabbath for Others
- The Sabbath for Creation
- The Sabbath for Worship

There is plenty to reflect and delve into.

The Sabbath is the gateway to God's dream community.


… (plus d'informations)