Confronting Christianity

Rebecca McLaughlin is the author of Confronting Christianity:  Twelve Hard Questions for the World’s Largest Religion (Crossway, 2019).  She has a Ph.D. in Renaissance Literature from Cambridge University, and a theology degree from Oak Hill College in London.

I just finished reading this book, and it’s terrific—get it, read it.  Read it with your group or family or friends, and discuss it together.  Read it with those grappling with doubts and asking big questions about the Bible and faith and morality and suffering and violence and gender and sex, and more (maybe you’re the one grappling).

McLaughlin’s fine study provides thought-provoking help both for believers wanting to better grasp of the sound basis for Christianity, and for non-believers who are open and serious about seeking truth.

In this book, McLaughlin weaves in stories of several people who’ve wrestled with pain or loss or dismay—both those now trusting Jesus even in the storm, and others who are still walking on pathways of skepticism and disbelief.  These personal angles help readers apply what they’re reading in “real life” situations.

And what’s more, McLaughlin also brings extensive research and a wealth of knowledge to the table.  As you read, you realize you’re hearing from someone who’s done her homework—to say the least.

Chapter titles include:  “Aren’t we better off without religion?”; “How can you say there’s only one true faith?”; “Doesn’t religion cause violence?”; “Hasn’t science disproved Christianity?”; “Doesn’t Christianity denigrate women?”; “Isn’t Christianity homophobic?”; “Doesn’t the Bible condone slavery?” and “How could a loving God allow so much suffering?”  And McLaughlin doesn’t dance around the tough issues in these pressing topic areas; she takes a very honest, forthright, no-nonsense approach.  It’s refreshing.

Mathematician John Lennox puts it this way in his dustjacket endorsement:  “This book is compelling read­ing, not only because of its intellectual rigor and the fact that it is beautifully written but also because of its honest, empathetic humanity.”  And MIT professor Ian Hutchinson says, “A deep and caring response to current criticisms and confrontations of the Christian faith.”

There are a number of articles by and interviews with McLaughlin at The Gospel Coalition (and see also her personal website).  Take some time and hear her out.  And then ask, “Who can I ask to discuss her writings with me?”  She’ll force you to think hard and dig deep—and you’ll be glad of it.