Radical

Jesus often said things calculated to drive people away. American Evangelicals, however, bend over backward to make everyone feel comfortable at church—they build gaudy facilities, water down the Gospel, and value entertainment over sound doctrine. David Platt is the pastor of just such a church....or was, until his convictions got the upper hand and led him to redirect his congregation toward a radical Christian life.

Platt's primary concern is missions. He's been overseas with Christian leaders and pastors in Third World countries, and been staggered by the contrast of American wealth and global poverty. He cites two newspaper articles side-by-side: one describes the new $23,000,000 campus of a local church, the other mentions $5,000 raised for a missions project. Where does the true poverty lie? In the addiction to comfort, wealth and hypocrisy that characterizes so many of our churches, suggests Platt.

He's careful to admit that there are many faithful Christians in churches across America. But he warns of stagnation in even the most devout worshiper that leads away from their true calling—winning souls and making disciples. Platt's newfound vision is overstated at times: it isn't the job of every Christian to do missionary work. But his chief concern, that the Church look like Christ's bride, is a message every Christian needs to be reminded of, and this well-reasoned and passionate plea does just that.

Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews here.