Stephen Barkley
Beyond Opinion is a collection of essays on defending the faith. While Ravi Zacharias only wrote four of the chapters (including the introduction and conclusion), almost every other author is a member of his ministry (RZIM).
The book is divided into two sections:
- Giving an Answer (traditional apologetics)
- Internalizing the Questions and Answers (how our lives can line up with our words)
The second half of the book is the most valuable. Jeyachandran’s meditations on the Trinity were especially thought-provoking. I found it interesting that the second half of the book is the part that lined up with the entire volume’s subtitle, “Living the Faith We Defend”.
The first half was a mixed bag. When the author respected the challenger (e.g. Alister McGrath on Atheism, or Jeyachandran on Eastern Religions), there was a lot of insight and apologetic information. On the other hand, when the author disdained the challenger (e.g. Amy Orr-Ewing on Postmodernism, or Sam Soloman on Islam), the tone was arrogant and off-putting.
This book is a hearty read. The 360 pages are packed with fine print. That said, if you’re a Believer interested in defending your faith by both your words and your lifestyle, this book is an excellent read.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free as a member of Thomas Nelson’s Booksneeze program.
Zacharias, Ravi. Beyond Opinion: Living the Faith We Defend. Thomas Nelson, 2007.
