Review: A Shot of Faith to the Head

In"A Shot of Faith to the Head," Mitch Stokes attempts to give Christians philosophical support for their faith. Do not expect evidence.

Many of Stokes' points deal with evidentialism, atheism, agnosticism, evolution and more. Most of his book is philosophical. Although Stokes pulls from many writers, scientists and philosophers of history, his book is mainly just ideas - philosophy - logic - reason.

It's enough to get the reader thinking, and it will help many feel stronger about their faith, but Stokes' points don't always line up, and they aren't always easy to follow. Overall, it's a good read, but the further you get into the book, the more you question Stokes' points.

I recommend the book for anyone looking to build their own faith, but don't expect to be able to easily use Stokes' points in conversation or debate. Although Stokes does provide helpful summary "For Your Arsenal" points at the end of each chapter.

*Disclaimer: I received this book for free from BookSneeze in exchange for my honest review.

Review: The Fantasy Fallacy - A Response to 50 Shades of Grey

I had the privilege of hearing Shannon Ethridge speak at Biola University before I graduated. The humble and loving woman poured out her heart to us college students, revealing much of her darkest moments and God's grace in pulling her out of a life stuck in the gutter. While Shannon's new book, "The Fantasy Fallacy," does not go into the same details (which I'm told are in her other books), it deals with the taboo topic of sex and fantasy - and, as a response the "50 Shades of Grey" phenomenon, it works very well.

But don't expect a rant against the immoral plot elements of the popular novel series. "Grey" only gets two or three mentions in "Fantasy Fallacy." Instead, Shannon explores the reasons why we as humans seem to enjoy reading books like these and why we indulge in our fantasies. Anyone who has read, is considering reading, or has friends who have read the "50 Shades" series will be able to have ideas for discussion after reading "Fantasy Fallacy." You don't have to have sexual struggles to get something out of the book. With plenty of examples and just enough Scripture in hand, Shannon pull the reader in and challenges you to look at why you are the way you are. Sure, there's plenty to explore here about society's reasons for sex and fantasy, but Shannon's talent is in giving us plenty to think about and giving us free space to discuss and learn about the taboo topics hardly ever discussed at church.

I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

*Disclaimer: I was given this book in exchange for my honest review of it.