The Seven Deadly Sins: And How to Overcome Them

by Graham Tomlin

Pride, greed, envy, anger, lust, gluttony, and sloth—although the so-called seven deadly sins were originally a medieval convention, contemporary culture still finds each sin attractive and evocative. Drawing on the Christian faith, this engaging study examines the origins and meaning behind each of the seven sins. Graham Tomlin also provides suggestions on how individuals might overcome their tendency to commit these sins in a practical and focused manner. Written in a thoughtful and measured style, this is a compelling survey for anyone interested in philosophy and theology, or for those seeking ways to live a more positive life.

Genres: Theology, Christianity, Religion

192 pages, Paperback

First published April 28, 2007

About the author

Graham Tomlin (Ph.D., Exeter University) is dean of St. Mellitus College, London. He taught on Martin Luther and the Reformation in the theology faculty of the University of Oxford for eight years. He is the author, among many other publications, of The Power of the Cross: Theology and the Death of Christ in Paul, Luther and Pascal and Luther and His World.

Reviews

[Derek Winterburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tomlin does an excellent job of both defending the need to isolate specific sinful attitudes and then expounding the toxicity of each one. He is careful to finish each chapter with some practical steps to overcome them. There are numerous references to other writers and illustrations from life. At the back of the book the keys points are helpfully tabulated.

If there is one weakness, it is that the book does not have sense of passion for the positive virtues. 'Good behaviour' seems merely to counteract the sins. (I also don't believe that the cover of the second edition is any improvement on the more abstract first edition's.)

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book covers a lot of information on each of the seven deadly sins. I read an excerpt each day and learned a lot through those days that I read. I only gave four stars because it is a dry read but other than that good information.

[Bo Manson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book. Easy to digest. This book talk about just the same dilemma we have nowadays be it in Muslim's community or Christian's or any religion. It applies to every one of us.

[Steven Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fortunately I’m not prejudiced against religious writings. Thankfully the suggested antidote to each sin includes practical action an agnostic can employ.