This book is one of those love/hate relationships for me. Each chapter is a different topic and review of a popular Chritian book or trend. You either agree wholeheartedly or walk away a bit snapped at. The author(s) try to why that particular topic doesn't jive with the Bible (such as Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Life; Eldridge's Wild at Heart; Revolve Magazine as well as trends like altar calls, praise music and consumerism). Although I agreed with a majority of the concepts that the essays presented, I must admit that many of them were a bit of a buzzkill and a bit harsh (but not rude). I appreciated the opinion and explanation of the topic and really liked the book overall. If you want a simple go-lucky read, skip this one BUT you will be missing some great 'discussions' on some fairly important topics of modern trends and how they reconcile (or don't) with the Bible. ( )

http://lucidtheology.wordpress.com/20... ( )

John MacArthur and his staff have put together a much-needed treatise on the spiritual discernment necessary in today's age.

I thoroughly enjoyed the chapters evaluating the Revolve New Testament (a Bible packaged as a fashion magazine for teenage girls), the modern practice of altar calls, and John MacArthurs own particularly insightful and balanced contribution on sacred music.

Admittedly, I have not read "The Purpose Driven Life" (or anything "Purpose Driven" for that matter), however the critique given in this book rings true with the results I have seen in popular culture.

I am going to have to withhold judgment on Daniel Gillespie's review of "Wild at Heart" until I read the book myself. Two men who I admire greatly have read the book and heartily recommend it, which does not mesh with the panning given it by Mr. Gillespie.

By far my favorite parts of the book were the contributions by Phil Johnson of Pyromaniac fame. I have been a fan ever since hearing his "Dead Right" treatise on modern Fundamentalism at the 2005 Shepherd's Conference. In this book, he ably puts the "new perspective on Paul" into perspective, and sheds light on the "let your light so shine" injunction of Matthew 5:16.

Although this book does not attain the theological level of "The Gospel According to Jesus", it is a good read and I recommend it.

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