Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe: Ten Misbeliefs That Keep Us from Experiencing God's Grace [Paperback]

Gary Kinnaman (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 1999

Gary Kinnaman contends that many Christians are blinded by what he calls "popular and nonbiblical notions" of God.  Applying personal anecdotes, stories from the lives of others and a large dose of humor, the author challenges 10 beliefs that are obstacles to the experience of God's love and providence.  With a lighthearted touch, the author rescues readers from stubborn religious lies, such a: "God grades on a curve; the better you are, the bigger the blessing.  And whoppers like: If God leads you to something, everything will work out just great.  Witty and engaging, Kinnaman may offend Christians of all tradtions as he provokes them to think more deeply about their faith and their behavior.

 

--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Kinnaman (Angels Dark and Light) contends that many Christians are blinded by what he calls "popular and nonbiblical notions" of God. Applying personal anecdotes, stories from the lives of others and a large dose of humor, the author challenges 10 beliefs that are obstacles to the experience of God's love and providence. For example, he asserts that many Christians believe that "God is love, so He'll overlook what I'm doing." Kinnaman notes clearly that the biblical God will not condone disobedience outright, for God's love and forgiveness require a truly contrite heart. Some Christians also believe, he says, that "what [they] believe about God is more important than how [they] treat people." Kinnaman argues that these Christians want to have their physical and social needs met, yet they ignore the needs of the community around them. The author uses the story of Jesus' feeding of the five thousand (Mark 6:30-44) as an example of how individuals can overcome the selfishness that is so prevalent today. Kinnaman also challenges the popular notion, often promoted by Christian preachers, that "God wants me to be happy, so he will protect me from suffering and pain." He maintains that a biblical view of God teaches that suffering leads to an experience of God's grace. In conclusion, Kinnaman suggests that daily reading and reflection on the Bible, frequent prayer, "exposure to the power and presence of the Holy Spirit and quality time with godly people" can help Christians overcome their "misbeliefs." Witty and engaging, Kinnaman may offend Christians of all traditions as he provokes them to think more deeply about their faith and their behavior. (Aug.)

Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

GARY KINNAMAN is the Senior Minister of Word of Grace Church in Mesa, Arizona.  He is a popular public speaker and the author of many books, including Angels Dark and Light, The Beginner's Guide to Praise & Worship and My Companion Through Grief.  He and his wife Marilyn have three adult children.

 

--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 214 pages
• Publisher: Servant Publications (August 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1569551170
• ISBN-13: 978-1569551172
• Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.1 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,063,730 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great reminder of Jesus plus nothing!, September 1, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe: Ten Misbeliefs That Keep Us from Experiencing God's Grace (Paperback)

I couldn't put it down. I quickly raced through this book in 2 sittings. I must confess that I attend Word of Grace so was able to relate to many of the stories and comments Gary shared. But of course the most impressive thing for me was the truth that is there from Jesus, and how we as Christians forget that truth. Gary's book brings that reality back to me over and over again in each chapter of his book. He speaks of his personal downfalls, letting the reader note that even men of God are not always perfect people. Showing that we are all human, but are also by grace forgiven for all our shortcomings...no matter what they are. As Gary always teachs "Jesus plus Nothing"

The book lets the reader understand that God's love is unconditional and gives examples that each and everyone of us can relate too.

Even the Christian that we all know who is a wonderful example can examine himself through this book and see his life through different eyes.

A wonderful book to bring you closer to our God, as you realize you are special to Him, no matter what your short-comings. I would recommend this to all.....and have already passed it on!!!!

Thanks Gary!!

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Grace - an understandable explanation with humor!, June 14, 2006

By 

D. Church "Truth Reaper" (Magic Island, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe: Ten Misbeliefs That Keep Us from Experiencing God's Grace (Paperback)

I've read this book twice. It is thoughtful, entertaining, eye-opening, and fun to read. I've ordered 5 copies to give away to friends and family. I wish this experience of "utterly unconditional grace" in my own life and in the lives of others.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!, May 15, 2001

By 

Samantha Wright "azshishi" (Boise, ID USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe: Ten Misbeliefs That Keep Us from Experiencing God's Grace (Paperback)

I just finished reading this book, nicely done Pastor Gary!!

I count myself very fortunate in that the author of this book is also my Pastor at church, as I am a member of Pastor Gary's church!

I'm ordering this book for some friends and wanted to give my comments to everyone as well!

Be Blessed!