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A review by lcl_reads
The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism by Tim Alberta
informative
slow-paced
3.75
I wasn't really sure how to rate this book. I am an American who does not identify as a Christian, nor was I raised in Christianity so my knowledge of Christianity is somewhat limited (as limited as it can be in a country where Christianity is the de facto religion).
What I liked:
- Alberta does an excellent job of writing in a way that is quite accessible. I never felt like my lack of knowledge of the Bible or Christian teachings as a hindrance while reading. It felt very much like having an informative conversation.
- While it was clear Alberta identifies as a Christian, I felt he was respectful. He seems like the kind of person I could meet have a discussion with share my thoughts and learn his and walk away agreeing to disagree.
- He does not shy away from difficult conversations. It seems like he is not afraid to report things as he sees them and is not concerned with avoiding conflict.
What I'm still not sure about:
- Alberta clearly believes that the behavior of contemporary evangelicals is antithetical to the Bible and Christian teachings and I'm just still not sure I'm convinced. I still wonder how many times can Christianity be used as a justification for disgusting behavior before one can say that the religion itself is the problem. Alberta states in the introduction the purpose of the book, so he cannot be completely faulted, but I still could help but want a more critical lens on the stances/people he positively highlights particularly in the Glory section of the book.
- This was a very long book. I think Alberta wanted to ensure he was thorough and told every story, but I seriously contemplated not finishing about 3/4's of the way in because I was beginning to get bored.
What I liked:
- Alberta does an excellent job of writing in a way that is quite accessible. I never felt like my lack of knowledge of the Bible or Christian teachings as a hindrance while reading. It felt very much like having an informative conversation.
- While it was clear Alberta identifies as a Christian, I felt he was respectful. He seems like the kind of person I could meet have a discussion with share my thoughts and learn his and walk away agreeing to disagree.
- He does not shy away from difficult conversations. It seems like he is not afraid to report things as he sees them and is not concerned with avoiding conflict.
What I'm still not sure about:
- Alberta clearly believes that the behavior of contemporary evangelicals is antithetical to the Bible and Christian teachings and I'm just still not sure I'm convinced. I still wonder how many times can Christianity be used as a justification for disgusting behavior before one can say that the religion itself is the problem. Alberta states in the introduction the purpose of the book, so he cannot be completely faulted, but I still could help but want a more critical lens on the stances/people he positively highlights particularly in the Glory section of the book.
- This was a very long book. I think Alberta wanted to ensure he was thorough and told every story, but I seriously contemplated not finishing about 3/4's of the way in because I was beginning to get bored.