Faith & Doubt

This is my first John Ortberg book, and I plan to buy a copy for myself and pass on to others. Paul in First Corinthians said that maturity and growth in the Christian faith is a steadfast goal. And this is a brutally honest assessment of the role of doubt in the growth of one's faith. This pastor writes with wit, but underlies the humor with numerous sources and readings from the secular, not only Christian but athiest, agnostic, scientific, naturalism, etc. This "research" is what gives his book a "punch"; one must read what he said to his grandmother about Freud (p.146) He knows and understands the unbeliever, the skeptic, and the passive believer. Pass this book on. Ask your public library to buy it.

I've read many of John's books. My first experience was a tape of the message "It all goes back in the box". I listened and was convicted by his words. Finding John, for me, was like finding a great mystery writer. I am not always able to determine how the puzzle will be solved until the end. But the gems of wisdom, the humor and the personal anecdotes keep me spellbound until the last page. In this book he describes degrees of doubt, both the helpful and the destructive kind. He talks about faith and how it always applies only to the unseen. I guess the most telling thing for me is that after 60 years someone has helped me realize that my doubts are not a condemnation to hell, but a starting point to find my faith.

I enjoy John Ortberg's style of writing and thinking. I found that this book addressed the question well and was pleased that he provided a complete reference list so that I can followup with some of the authors he quoted.

John OrtbergFaith and Doubt has once again masterfully shed light on something most Christians are afraid to admit exist in their lives because of the fear of being ridiculed. In this book, he is able to explain, as only he can do, that having doubts is necessary in developing faith. This book will be as tremendous benefit to new believers as well as those who have been walking in the faith. I like the way he is able to educate the reader on remaining faithful during times of uncertainity. This book will end up being a Christian Classic.

I have now read 3 of John Ortberg's books and am also presently in a short bible study he co-wrote. I love him. I love his story's. What a great story teller. I love his jokes. One of my favorite treats is on my 2 work days, I go to lunch alone. The same restaurant....every Tuesday and Wednesday, and I read. With John's work, I find myself laughing out loud, in the restaurant, as I savor one of his stories. Then, in the next paragraph, he's moved my heart and I'm trying to hide my tears. I love how He makes my Lord and Savior feel so close to me. He knows the bible so well and he makes it so very applicable to EVERY situation I find myself in...be it a blessing or a challenge. John is very real. There is no lecturing or 'talking down' to his reader. I guess 'authentic' is a good word for him. This book especially reveals him as an 'every man' kind of guy. He lays out his own doubts in this book and doesn't candy coat or defend his own issues with doubt. I love how he interjects scripture. With out being 'preachy' I do not lend out my Ortberg books. I've offered to...and then I never want to part with them. I am reading 'Everyone's Normal till You Get to Know them' for the second time. I highlight John's books. I make smiley faces where they make me laugh and I circle what breaks my heart. I have overcome my Ortberg-hording by just buying his book for my friends/loved ones and even my Boss! (He's a great guy and lover of Christ.) John is an excellent author for that new believer. All of his books are great for that friend you want to introduce to Christ. Yet someone that is more mature in their walk will be refreshed, renewed and refined in their belief. So there you have it. I've never felt about an author the way I do about John Ortberg. Buy this book with confidence...you'll enjoy it and grow from it. Better yet, save on shipping and just buy a few of his works. You'll be back for more. : )