Smyth & Helwys asked me to review the book For God’s Sake Shut Up! by Brian Kaylor. Since Brian is a regular on my site and I read his I jumped at the chance. I’m glad I did.
The title is right on! Brian uses humor and satire to point out that sometimes–most of the time the best thing for follower of Jesus to do is to keep quiet. He shares stories from his own life and from the mistakes of famous Christian leaders as to why silence is golden.
The book is less than 120 pages but it is packed with wisdom and humor. I laughed and felt convicted as I read this book. He says that whenever Christians do dumb things it damages the perceptions of Christ and may actually prevent unbelievers from coming to Jesus. Ouch!
He points out that even believers lie! Who would have thought? But the point he is making is what does that do to our testimony for Christ? He also emphasizes why we need to watch our metaphors because the meanings change over time. He doesn’t mean changing the Bible he is talking about the man-made metaphors that we use such as going to “war” in an argument. He suggests we change it to dancing–oops! That may not work-maybe “rhythming” (that’s what they called dancing at Samford).
I guess the reason I liked this book is because it is what I’ve been saying for years. Brian and I are more alike theologically than politically but that’s OK. I’ve grown to respect and admire his ministry.
I would highly recommend For God’s Sake Shut Up and I give it 4.7 hockey sticks out of 5.
BTW: I’m sorry it took me so long to read it I didn’t crack open a book last week while I was on a mission trip.
Filed under: book review
Infidels don’t come to Christ because God, in his infinite wisdom and mercy, has seen fit not to draw everyone to Him. Who am I to argue with that?
Nobody can come to Christ unless the Father wills it so. There you have it. God, and God alone, is responsible. I have no problem with that, and am grateful for it.
It’s not Christians doing “dumb” things which turns us off- it’s when they preach a vengeful God who will incinerate me and my cronies for ever – yet they behave abominably to others, because the sacrifice of Jesus means that all their sins are forgiven. THAT is what we hate!
Kevin: Thanks so much for the kind words! I am glad you found it worthwhile as well as humorous. And don’t worry about not opening it last week—you were doing much more important work down in New Orleans. I’ve always enjoyed reading your thoughts, but I probably like this post the most!
Congrats on the great review, Brian! Has there been a higher ranking than 4.7 hockey sticks?
[...] Some people aren’t happy unless they have a battle to fight for. Brian Kaylor in his book For God’s Sake Shut Up said believers need to find new metaphors. He is so right! Have you read or heard some of [...]
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