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439th out of 1,897 books
—
1,833 voters
Finding God in the Lord of the Rings
by
Kurt Bruner,
Jim Ware
Recently named the number-one piece of twentieth century literature, The Lord of the Rings trilogy is more than a great story. It's a much-needed reminder that, like J. R. R. Tolkien's hobbits, we Christians are all on an epic quest. In examining the Christian themes in the trilogy, authors Kurt Bruner and Jim Ware find that truth and fiction are not as far apart as they s...more
Hardcover, 144 pages
Published
October 24th 2001
by SaltRiver
(first published 2001)
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This is a collection of short devotionals written by a guy from Focus, where every chapter can be, and is, neatly summarized in one sentence. If I had realized that before I picked up the book, I would have adjusted my expectations accordingly. As it was, I expected something more theologically nuanced and was disappointed. So far as the take-home points go, they're not bad, but they're so simplistic. The writing is clumsy, too; I spotted word-choice problems, perhaps malapropisms, in a couple o...more
An excellent series of essays exploring the deeeper truths of Tolkien's famous books.
Very simplistic, but it does establish some very interesting connections.
I would have liked to see more detailed illustrations of the connection between Middle Earth and Tolkien's Christian faith, as I initially expected this to be a somewhat in-depth analysis of major connections. A thesis, if you will.
This, in reality, was a devotion. The chapters were extremely, extremely short with very little analysis/descriptions. Each chapter did reveal a certain truth, which I did enjoy, but it was just...more
I would have liked to see more detailed illustrations of the connection between Middle Earth and Tolkien's Christian faith, as I initially expected this to be a somewhat in-depth analysis of major connections. A thesis, if you will.
This, in reality, was a devotion. The chapters were extremely, extremely short with very little analysis/descriptions. Each chapter did reveal a certain truth, which I did enjoy, but it was just...more
I borrowed this book from the library to make sure I didn't have any wrong views concerning the LOTR books. The virtue and adventures in the stories are commendable, and there are elements of truth that stir my heart and remind me of biblical truth, but I wanted to be sure I wasn't upholding something that isn't worthy of laud.
The author, Kurt Bruner, did a fine job of reviewing the story and highlighting the grains of truth from LORT and applying the scripture/theology to those truths. But he s...more
The author, Kurt Bruner, did a fine job of reviewing the story and highlighting the grains of truth from LORT and applying the scripture/theology to those truths. But he s...more
I considered giving this book one star, but that ultimately seemed too harsh, since I can't really say I DISliked it. But it's just so ... banal. Basic formula: each short chapter begins with a several-paragraph summary of an important point in the novel, then follows it with associations to Christian blief, notably through scripture citation, and ends with a reflection ("An evil heart is mystified by the ways of good," "Our hearts yearn for the good that God is," that sort of thing). The result...more
The authors aptly refer to this work as a collection of "Christian reflections" (p. 109) - they include key events throughout The Lord of the Rings trilogy and connect these events to essential tenets of Christianity. This is not a difficult read and may not be too profound, but it is perfect for any Christian who loves Tolkien's work. I love the idea of seeing Christ anywhere and everywhere. Regardless of whether Tolkien ever actually espoused these connections or not (although his Christian pe...more
I did not realize when I picked it up that it was primarily a devotional. Set it down for some time while I got used to that idea! It's not brilliant writing but, once I read it for what it was, I enjoyed it.
Factually true, but unfortunately errs on the side of the pedantic. Those who are not spiritually-minded and do not love Tolkien's works will get little value out of this book.
It's about what one would expect from the title. It was given to me by well meaning family members attempting to keep me on the straight and narrow.
I originally experienced this book via audio-book. However, this was destroyed and I received this in book form as a Christmas gift.
Good summary of the plot and major themes. The authors do a good job comparing these to Biblical principles and doctrines. In its book form it serves as a decent devotional.
Good summary of the plot and major themes. The authors do a good job comparing these to Biblical principles and doctrines. In its book form it serves as a decent devotional.
I really liked it. Really good read, especially since it's Lent. Good book. I feel like I can find God in lots of things now! Yay!
For the LOTR lovers—an interesting and great accompaniment to the trilogy. It deals on the spiritual aspects of The Lord of the Rings.
Interesting to say the least.
Very much like Smith's book, this is more Christian in nature, with more comparisons to Christ and his teachings. Like Smith's book, this one does not reveal much about Tolkien's thinking behind the books, although the themes brought out reveal much about the author's own Christianity. I enjoyed this book, but it still left me wanting for more--especially from the author himself. So I bought Tolkien's letters.
A lovely little book that explores the spiritual truths that permeate Tolkien's writing. It does not try to turn the Lord of the Rings into a Christian allegory. Each chapter is a meditation on a theme such as our hearts yearn for the good that God is. The authors use illustrations form LOTR as well as scriptures to illuminate the theme.
I really enjoyed the little nuggets of wisdom in this book! If you're a Tolkien fan, you'll enjoy how Kurt Bruner and Jim Ware have weaved in words from the Bible that relate to the characters and experiences found in The Lord of the Rings. It's a quick read and quite insightful, too!
My brother gave this to me and it's pretty awesome. I don't think it's powerful enough to really alter something so strong as religious beliefs but it gives literature an interesting perspective when it concerns religious symbols and all that...wee...
I enjoyed this little book. Kind of a devotional that examines the heroic themes of the Lord of the Rings books and relates them to biblical principals. Nothing terribly profound, but definitely enjoyable. My heart stirs a noble theme…[return]
This was a good book. Many of the allegorical references made caused me to sit and consider what the author was saying. While I agree with what he said and enjoyed the book to an extent, it wasn't extremely engaging.
This book is an excellent look into the biblical meaning behind the epic. I highly recommend it to any youth pastor who is looking for something that teens would enjoy. I would also recommend it as a daily devotional.
Gives a greater meaning to "The Lord of the Rings"
Movie-a-thon was fun - book was helpful - but much more along the lines of recognizing themes in the movies. The book was good overall, but not fantastic. a good and worthwhile read.
Very good arguments for their statements and makes one think when reading the books or watching the movies.
LOTR books are great --but how do they tie into God? hmmm gotta read this short, small book to find out.
A little too preachy for me, and trying too desperately to find parallels. Didn't really enjoy it.
Superbly written! Since I read this book I have a greater appreciation for Tolkien.
I thought it was very good but predictable.
May 18, 2013
John
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Apr 29, 2012 09:02am