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Review: The Beauty of Intolerance

The Beauty of Intolerance book cover on blue background

Though I'm no longer working with youth and young adults in a ministry context (for now), I do interact with them in other settings. I'm thankful that The Beauty of Intolerance: Setting a Generation Free to Know Truth and Love by Josh McDowell and Sean McDowell is such a great resource for anyone who interacts with those of younger generations.

Book Synopsis

Today's message of cultural acceptance is dangerously distorted and deceptive. In a world that shouts: "If you truly care about other people, you must agree that their beliefs, values, lifestyle, and truth claims are equal and as valid as yours!" it’s no wonder our youth are confused.

The Beauty of Intolerance—brand-new from Josh McDowell with son Sean McDowell—cuts through the confusion and points you back to the place where the only truth resides…Jesus Christ. Tied directly to the Heroic Truth initiative launched by the Josh McDowell Ministry, McDowell will share how a biblical view of truth can counter cultural tolerance and encourage a love and acceptance of others apart from their actions with a heart of Christlike compassion.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

What a great father-son offering in this book! I loved this slant on Christian apologetics where it was directed at how to engage with younger generations. The tone of the book felt more conversational while offering practical advice. I appreciated that the McDowells continually pointed back toward God and His standards, making the issue of intolerance less about us as individuals and more about morality being grounded in God's very being and character. The scenarios that are included are quite interesting as they resemble conversations that parents are likely to have with their children, and it is evident that the authors have an immense heart for young adults.

The breakdown of how cultural tolerance intersects with government, education, society, and the church indicates just how much Christians can be affected by holding strongly to their convictions. The information about how we are living in hypermodernity is thought-provoking and the references to Scripture remind readers of why it is so important that we can define truth when all around us, the concept of truth is variable and ever-changing. Published eight years ago, this book still contains timely messages; however, it does feel like society has moved past tolerance to demanding complete allegiance on social issues, making it more urgent that Christians know how to respond to these claims. This is a book that is both gentle yet strong in its convictions, providing a model for believers as they examine what being tolerant means in their day-to-day lives.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 🎧
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍

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