Rob Bell is a popular contemporary figure in the Christian arena. I’ve managed to get around to his first book, “Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith” and must admit I found myself disappointed. I’m just not sure he did much painting, and as for repainting, well, I just don’t see it. It’s an enjoyable read, but I felt like I’d already read the book in other places. I think I’d feel differently if I read this book about five years ago, but it wasn’t even published until 2005. In this new era of Christian writers seeking to be relevant/postmodern/generous in orthodoxy, this one just blends in with others who I personally think are either A) better writers or B) people who actually make me think.
I recognize that this review has started off harshly, and I should note that there are moments I appreciate (especially Bell’s approach to the torah Old Testament as it relates to what Jesus did in the New Testament) and I would readily recommend this book to a friend wanting to know more about Christianity and what it might look like to be a follower of Christ.
And can there possibly be a book that has any more paragraph breaks?
They’re all over the book.
One sentence.
And another paragraph.
And the same thing.
Over and over.
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2 comments:
That is harsh, Stephen :).... I read the book this summer, and agree that it's not really anything new at this point (for the most part). When I listened to a couple of Bell's sermons four years ago, though, they were pretty significant for me. And after a conversation I had last night, it sounds like there are a lot of people who think differently about Rob Bell - not that it's old news, but that it's heresy. So, I think his message is still very important for a lot of people to hear - though it may not be new for us at this point.
anyway.
just a few.
of.
my.
thoughts. :)
You are too funny. Thanks for the book reviews.
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