Book Reviews: Social, Cultural and National Issues

When a Nation Forgets God: 7 Lessons We Must Learn from Nazi Germany

Erwin W. Lutzer (©2010); Rating: 5

Most of this book identifies the root causes of cultural collapse in Nazi Germany and today’s parallels in America. The final chapters describe appropriate – that is, biblical – responses and perspectives. This is not a depressing book, though it addresses our major cultural problems, because it affirms that the American church’s best days are ahead. According to the author, the future will provide opportunities to show our faith and courage in a nation becoming officially hostile to Christian values. Among other things, he identifies essential godly character qualities and a biblical perspective of victory. He writes, “As Christians we can welcome an assault on our freedoms as long as we see this conflict as an opportunity to bear an authentic witness for Christ.”

Faithful Presence: The Promise and the Peril of Faith in the Public Square

Bill Haslam (©2021); Rating: 5

In my research about how Christians should respond to an increasingly hostile culture, I realized this book’s theme of Christian responses within the political realm could be a good resource. I wasn’t disappointed! The author identifies relevant biblical principles and applies them in a practical manner to political and cultural experiences. His tone is both gentle and authoritative, which makes it easy for the reader to accept what he wrote. His candor about his successes and regrets is refreshing in our self-centered culture, and he’s an excellent example for us to follow.

Frozen Tears: 15 Stories of Blindness Before & Hope After Abortion

Ellie Shumaker (©2019); Rating: 4

Based on fetus’ heartbeats and reactions to their experiences in the womb, I have no doubt that abortion kills unborn humans. However, I could only imagine how it affects the parents, never having talked with anyone who had an abortion. In “Frozen Tears,” the author gently yet factually describes real-life experiences so we better understand its severe aftereffects. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who sincerely wants insight to this controversial topic.

How Should Christians Vote?

Tony Evans (©2012); Rating: 4

The author addresses the real issues in an election, explaining why we Christians must vote according to our biblical values. It’s easy reading, straight to the point and right on target.

The End of America: Letter of Warning to a Young Patriot

Naomi Wolf (©2007); Rating: 4

Though some of the author’s remarks are very dated, the important trends she identified continue today, regardless of who occupies the White House. Politically, the author and I are very different, so I disagree with some of her observations, interpretations of history and conclusions, yet we share many of the same concerns about our nation. I totally agree with the author’s conclusion, that “we must stand up directly to confront those who have committed crimes against the Constitution — and hold them accountable, as the Founders trusted us to do.” I recommend this as an important read, regardless of one’s ideology, political affiliation, gender or age. It raises legitimate concerns and identifies dangerous trends that demand our attention.

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