The last few years have seen dizzying social change in the United States. Many of these changes—such as the Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage—seem to challenge or overturn long-standing Christian teachings, while disputes over issues such as immigration, racism, and the abuse of police authority create uncertainty and confusion about what a faithful Christian response looks like. Small wonder, then, that the dominant mood among many Christians is anxiety about what it means to be a follower of Jesus in the world today.
In a clear and readable style, leading Christian ethicist David P. Gushee explores the many social and political changes that are causing Christian anxiety, offering ways to understand and act on these issues that are grounded in the reign of God rather than in human fear. What do we see when we look at a given political issue, argument, or candidate? What do we wish to see? And what might Christian faith contribute to seeing, interpreting, and acting rightly in this particular moment? Gushee helps average Christians think through and make sense of their fears and anxieties about rapid social change in American society, showing how our faith is calling us not to fear and worry but to hope.
“David Gushee is one of America’s finest public theologians, and this letter to fearful Christians shows why. He analyzes issues with political intelligence and biblical acumen, offering readers a way to move away from fear toward a deeper faithfulness. But what makes this book shine is his heart—as each page beats with love for the church, his neighbors, and, yes, even America. The message is simple: things may be changing, but a gracious God is with us. And that is good news indeed.”
—DIANA BUTLER BASS, author of Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way, and Presence
