“Jesus never wrote a book, but I recognize his handwriting in Grand Theft Jesus. Like Jesus, McElvaine uses lively illustrations and a...
read full description
reviews
Oct 22, 2011
Ken
rated it: 
This book clearly documents how certain factions within organized religion have perverted the teachings of Jesus, and used the lunatic fringe of the Republican Party to mesmerize, sedate, and captivate The Contemporary American Gestalt.
McElvaine calls this the "Easy Jesus" creed, since all you have to say is that you 'Believe', and no difficult actions or behavior changes are expected of you. What you say, trumps what you do. Or, once you are Saved, you can do any dam More...
Jun 01, 2011
V
rated it: 
I agree with other reviewers: the gimmicky, pun-laden vocabulary really detracted from the book... I kept trying to remember what the author meant by this or that cutesy abbreviation. I could have possibly gotten past that, but the author's fairly incessant use of the formula "Do these faux Christians do x, y, or z? Of course not, because that was something advocated by Jesus!" really worked to undermine his credibility because it didn't attempt a real explanation for people's actions,
More...
Jul 24, 2009
Greg
rated it:
Not a whole lot of new material in this book, although it is nice to have it all in one place. Since it's a pretty new book, it's also tied more into recent current events, such as the 2008 election. My only complaint is that the author tries too hard for "fun" in his word play. It was somewhat distracting at times. Still, overall it's a very good book.
May 20, 2009
Ken
rated it:
I really enjoyed this book. Written as a series of thoughts/commentary The author exposes the flip-flop that has happened with the original message and mission of 1st century Xitians and how it has morphed into this unholy and unrecognizable brand of Xiatianity. He truly exposes almost, the more well known stars of modern day American Christian scene. My only criticism of the book is that there doesn't seem to be a cohesive answer to the criticism.. a how to fix this message if you will.
May 11, 2009
Johnny
rated it: 
The author's ranting style detracts from the overall message of the book. I agree with many of the points he makes concerning the Religious Right and the Republican Party, but he really needs to dial back the vitriol!
Dec 27, 2011
Ren
rated it:
Pretty good book, although I could do without the constant catchphrases. Couldn't get through a paragraph without using one at least -.-;
It's nice to read about people who actually DID read the bible....
It's nice to read about people who actually DID read the bible....
Mar 08, 2010
Carolyn
rated it: 
Now that I've read more of this book, I am really disappointed. This is pretty much one person's insatiable rant against the religious right and conservative Christians. While some of his points are really good, and I agree with much of what he says, his presentation is quite poor. This book really turned me off after a few pages. At first, it was really funny, and I appreciated his tirade. After awhile, though, it became apparent that this author had no desire to provide solutions, edifica
More...
Jul 22, 2011
Laura
rated it:
I was hoping for a thoughtful presentation of opinion, theory, and argument. But this is pure rant. Drivel. Thoroughly boring. Headed for the trash bin as I wouldn't want to be responsible for passing on its misery to those who frequent used-book proprietors.
Aug 20, 2008
Erin
rated it:
5+++ stars for the overall message, but the ranty style detracts a bit (even as it entertains), and I'm not sure I buy the gender-envy theories.
Jul 04, 2008
Lyn
rated it:
I happen to agree with the author on most points, but I thought the wordplay was more tedious than funny. Just stick to the rant please.
Feb 07, 2012
Jan 03, 2012
Dec 27, 2011
Nov 07, 2011
Jul 27, 2011
Jul 23, 2011
Mar 16, 2011
Mar 07, 2011
Jan 15, 2011
Dec 25, 2010
Nov 26, 2010
Nov 20, 2010
Jun 29, 2010
Jun 02, 2010
