Book Review: It's Not What You Think by Jefferson Bethke

It’s Not What You Think by Jefferson Bethke explores the idea that being a Christian is about more than simply going to heaven when you die. Bethke explores the realities of Scripture that open up life to so much more than we’ve made it. In particular, he digs into the significance of the Sabbath and what it means for the New Testament Christian – an issue about which many live in confusion. He explains why worship is about so much more than singing songs and why the Kingdom of heaven isn’t so much about a future place in the sky as it is a reality to unfold right here, here right. He also dives into the issue of brokenness and the redemptive value of our pain. He summarizes the book beautifully in the closing chapter by stating, “By the time you reached that last page, I had prayed you’d be closer to him, love him more, and see that this thing called Christianity is a dance of mystery, truth, grace, and beauty.”

I found this to be one of the most refreshing books that I have read in quite some time. For too long, the core of Christianity has been defined by making your eternal destiny certain. While that is certainly a huge part of what it means to be a Christian, there is also so much more – so much more about what it means to live today in the here and now. There are more and more books that are starting to explore this reality. With so many books on a topic, I ask myself if this book does anything to add anything significant to the conversation on the issue. It’s Not What You Think not only adds to the conversation, but raises the standard of the conversation. I highly recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this BOOK FREE from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers PROGRAM. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade COMMISSION’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”