Why So Many Gods?
by Tim Baker & Kate Etue
Overview
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Did you watch The Matrix and think it had to be something more than just an action flick? Do you wonder what Madonna's henna tattoos mean?
This book will cover over 100 world religions, secular worldviews, cults, and occult practices from a Christian viewpoint with tolerance and civility. It will tell the basic beliefs, short history, important aspects, and it will identify the religions in pop culture—all in a teen-magazine style of writing. The goal of this book is to educate teens to be able to identify the religions they come in contact with daily. All content will be reviewed by experts in Christian theology.
My thoughts
Actually I bought this book at the request of my teenage daughter. I picked it up one evening and couldn't put it down!
Before you consider purchasing this book, please read the preface! It clearly states: In this book we're going to take the position that Christianity is the only true religion. If you find that offensive, I guarantee that you will not like this book!!!
I, on the other hand, think it's fantastic! It explains in a capsule summary many of the world's religions, occults, and cults, including an explanation of its similiarities to Christianity and its differences.
The book can be controversial. You may not like the wording of a specific chapter. You may not agree with a classification, particularly if your faith falls in the section on cults. This book is not not not not not not for everyone. I'm enjoying it however, and I think it's a great book to keep on the bookshelf as a reference tool.
Favorite Passage
I'm going to opt out of a passage on this particular book due to the sensitive nature of the text. I don't want to risk offending anyone for their belief. If you'd like to view a sample page, I recommend visiting Amazon.Com.
Each chapter has the following sections:
Short History
Basic Beliefs
Followers are Called
How does a ____ become a ____?
What's the Attraction?
What's the Goal?
How does it look like Christianity?
How is it Different from Christianity?
Important Vocabulary
Examples of Beliefs in Pop Culture
Celebrities (who share the faith)
The Trick
Each chapter also has a chart that lists the following:
God
Figurehead
Afterlife
Worldview
Sacred Text
Worship Services
Rituals/Rites/Sacraments
Did you Know?
Geographic Center
Number of Followers
