Jesus Among Secular Gods: The Countercultural Claims of Christ

Theologians and authors Vince Vitale and Ravi Zacharias share turns in making arguments for belief in and adherence to the Christian worldview throughout 8 chapters. Zacharias addresses "Altars Against God" which really is an introduction to the book and underscores the importance of worldviews as well as the set up for discussion and contrast of worldview-isms that follow. Zacharias also devotes chapters on "Atheism", "Humanism", and "Relativism". His chapter on Relativism is his weakest in that it lacks a sustained focus and diverts through a couple of tangents.

Vitale takes on "Scientism", "Pluralism", "Hedonism" and offers up the last (and best) thoughts when he addresses "Love the Truth". Zacharias is famous for his ability to connect with listeners by both getting at the heart of the question, reformulating the question in order for him to make bigger points, and his use of engaging anecdotes and a conversational style. Vitale doesn't possess these qualities in the same force that Zacharias does so switching off between some of the chapters is a little jarring and IMO Vitale's arguments lack the force that Zacharias' employ. That being said perhaps the most important voice is Vitale's as he tackles the least talked about topic when he talks about the Truth as being God and the incarnated Jesus and their personal dealings with humankind. Here Vitale draws out vital and life-giving and life-affirming points that connect not just to the mind but also simultaneously to the heart in very important ways. As a believer myself it is difficult for me to imagine how a non-believer reading this chapter might take it but as someone who lives in the western culture and is constantly bombarded and challenged by other beliefs and contravening thoughts (to say nothing of desires and relationships) this last chapter struck me. It both reminded me of God's goodness, faithfulness, and trustworthiness--character traits essential in our relationships. That the God of the universe embodies these traits and defines them underscores, that He wants to have a personal and fortunately for us salvific relationship with us, are not just points in His favor: they are fantastically in spite of all we have done points in ours!

Ravi Z. loves God, loves people, and loves the Gospel. God has gifted him with superior intelligence, and Ravi has put it to good use as a Christian apologist and writer. I hope he can continue to travel and speak to college students throughout the USA. This book, 'Jesus Among Secular Gods' lays a strong foundation for young Christians to build on, and it is appropriate for Christians of all ages.

Great book. Very thought provoking. Sound Biblical and logical approach to those of a different viewpoint. Purchased the DVD and study guide also. Working through the 6 sessions in 12 weeks with our group. But be warned, it is dense, packed, thoughtful....you will work a little to get the maximum benefit....but worth the effort. Highly recommend.

I can't say enough about these authors

Wow! Thankful our Father has put us in one, wonderful family. We get to glean in the field He's given to these men who are willing to share.

The book is somewhat deep. Not for light reading.

I recommend this book for those who are into apologetics and want to learn easily on the different ideologies as well as philosophies that want to stand against Christianity.

Great author

Anyone who knows anything about Ravi would say he is brilliant. Our modern day C.S. Lewis. He does not disappoint.

Excellent.