Book Review: The Hole In Our Gospel by Richard Stearns

It has won the 2010 Christian book of the year award by the Evangelical Christians Publishing Association. After reading it myself I can see why The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns deserves the award.

In The Hole in Our Gospel the author essentially takes us into a discussion that calls for us not simply to be transformed on the inside by the gospel of Jesus Christ but this transformation should lead us to a public display and passion in helping fight poverty and injustice.

Stearns writes in the introduction:

“The idea behind The Hole in Our Gospel is quite simple. It’s basically the belief that being a Christian, or follower of Jesus Christ, requires much more than just having a personal and transforming relationship with God. It also entails a public and transforming relationship with the world.” (p.2)

Truth be told I’m not sure that any book review including this one can provide or fully explain the impact this book can have in ones life. Richard Stearns who begins by detailing his story from corporate CEO to non-profit president of World Vision makes an incredible, compelling case both biblically and practically about our fundamental moral obligation as a Christian (or anyone with a heart) to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

One of the great things about The Hole in Our Gospel is the bountiful statistics that he gives and then is able to put them in perspective. Such as:

“In the United States and Europe, only about 2 out of every 1,000 children die before their fifth birthday. In Africa, on the other hand, 165 (16.5 percent) of each 1,000 are dead by age five. And in Sierra Leone, the worst country in the world for child mortality, 28.2 percent of all children are dead by age five...in much of Africa a teenager is already what we would call “middle-aged.” (p.140)

In full disclosure I get free books from Thomas Nelson who published the book and write book reviews for them. Those that know me though, and read this blog understand that if this book of nearly 300 pages stunk, I would have made it clear! 

With that stated without hesitation I not only recommend this book, but challenge all (including myself) to then go and do something, as Richard Stearns finishes his book:

“You, Me, let’s go. We have work to do, and it’s urgent. Join Me...

Javi

image  was taken from the book's website, I highly suggest you click here and check it out!