The Answer to Bad Religion Is Not No Religion: A Guide to Good Religion for Seekers, Skeptics, and Believers

by Martin Thielen

Overview

If you think the only logical response to bad Christianity is to leave Christianity completely, this book is for you. In an effort to help those who've been hurt by or turned off by negative religion, Martin Thielen explains that there is an alternative to abandoning religion: good religion. Thielen uses personal stories to illustrate the dangers of religion that is judgmental, anti-intellectual, and legalistic. While addressing the growth of the new atheism movement and the "Nones" (people that have no religious affiliation), this book argues that leaving religion is not practical, not helpful, and not necessary. Thielen provides counterparts to the characteristics of bad religion, explaining that good religion is grace-filled, promotes love and forgiveness, and is inclusive and hope-filled. Perfect for individual, group, or congregational study, a Leader's Guide and a Worship and Outreach Kit are also available to further the discussion and increase community involvement.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781611643749
Publisher:	Westminster John Knox Press
Publication date:	02/14/2014
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	160
File size:	444 KB

About the Author

Martin Thielen is Senior Pastor of Cookeville United Methodist Church in Cookeville, Tennessee. He writes columns for MinistryMatters.com, Circuit Rider, and Net Results. He has written five books, including the best-selling What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?.

Editorial Reviews

01/20/2014
In a book aimed at those who reject institutional religion, Thielen (What’s the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?) argues that abandoning Christianity is not the answer to a bad faith experience. Climb back on that horse, he urges—but this time choose a gentler animal. Thielen, who moved from an unnamed evangelical denomination to become a United Methodist pastor, defines “bad” religion as self-righteously judgmental, negative, arrogant, intolerant, excessively nationalistic, and not fully committed to Christ and Church. Good religion prioritizes love, service, community, hope, open-mindedness, and gratitude. While “good” and “bad” are in the eye of the believer, Thielen unabashedly promotes giving mainline Protestant churches a try. Rather than fan controversy, the book gives a fine summary of Christ-centered liberal theology as it has emerged during the past 20 years. (Feb. 21)

Publishers Weekly

"Let me say that Thielen is a master storyteller and this book is filled with gracious stories. Filled with them."
Scot McKnight, New Testament scholar and author of The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others

From the Publisher