What do you think?
Rate this book
Gray Matters: Navigating the Space between Legalism and Liberty
Culture is in right now for Christians. Engaging it, embracing it, consuming it, and creating it. Many (younger) evangelicals today are actively cultivating an appreciation for aspects of culture previously stigmatized within the church. Things like alcohol, Hollywood's edgier content, plays, art openings, and concerts have moved from being forbidden to being celebrated by believers. But are evangelicals opening their arms too wide in uncritical embrace of culture? How do they engage with culture in ways that are mature, discerning, and edifying rather than reckless, excessive, and harmful? Can there be a healthy, balanced approach--or is that simply wishful thinking?
With the same insight and acuity found in his popular Hipster Christianity , Brett McCracken examines some of the hot-button gray areas of Christian cultural consumption, helping to lead Christians to adopt a more thoughtful approach to consuming culture in the complicated middle ground between legalism and license. Readers will learn how to both enrich their own lives and honor God--refining their ability to discern truth, goodness, beauty, and enjoy his creation.
With the same insight and acuity found in his popular Hipster Christianity , Brett McCracken examines some of the hot-button gray areas of Christian cultural consumption, helping to lead Christians to adopt a more thoughtful approach to consuming culture in the complicated middle ground between legalism and license. Readers will learn how to both enrich their own lives and honor God--refining their ability to discern truth, goodness, beauty, and enjoy his creation.
270 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2013
49 people are currently reading
523 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 26, 2013
Brett McCracken has written a book that I wish I wrote. Granted, if I wrote it, it wouldn't have been nearly as good (better to say it would *never* have been written if I were writing it). *Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism & Liberty* is a bit of a follow up his previous book *Hipster Christianity*. Both books, in a sense, address the elephant in the room that everyone is thinking about but no one is talking about. Well, if they're saying something, it's probably not as winsome as this.
McCracken's central thesis of the book is that there has been a pendulum swing in the last 15 or so years, especially amongst millenials, to escape the trappings of legalism for the licentious haven of liberty. McCracken calls for us - speaking as a millennial who resonates with much of what McCracken has to say - basically to grow up and begin to exercise wisdom. Ironically, the phrase typically lobbed toward the bogeyman Fundamentalists by my generation that "we wanna be known by what we're for not what we're against" may be even more true for us than for them.
Anyhow, McCracken looks at four areas of Christian cultural engagement: food, music, movies, and alcohol. His central understanding of culture, peppered (in moderation) with lots of Kuyper and Lewis, is that as Christians we can participate - nay, we ought to participate! - in culture since our understanding of the majesty of God is displayed through things like eating a fine steak, listening to "Loveless" by My Bloody Valentine, watching *To The Wonder*, and drinking a Dark Lord with dark chocolate on a wintery December night. However, to misuse these things is an exercise in entirely missing the point since, as image bearing creatures, we are to be the cultivators and exercise dominion, not have dominion exercised over our appetites by created things.
While this was really a fine book, I have a few disagreements. First of all, discussing theology with a milk stout is a bit of an interesting choice. I, personally, prefer to engage in theological discourse with something a bit less malty - maybe a floral IPA? - and tend to find that heavier beers like oatmeal stouts rob the senses of their sharpness by making the stomach feel heavy. Secondly, I don't know how he drinks his scotch, but an hour for a glass is a bit excessive. I typically drink my scotch or bourbon neat, but occasionally will it on the rocks. A scotch imbibed longer than an hour with ice will only result in watered down whisky and rob from the transcendent glory of the immortal God.
I am grateful for Brett McCracken and his work. We need more thoughtful, young(er) Christians who are thinking responsibly about what it means to be a fully orbed Great Commission people as we consider the implications of culture and mission for generations to come. May we rest in the finished work of Christ, may the pendulum stop its swinging from legalism to license, and may the glory of God shine as far as the east is from the west, from the dive bar to coffee shop.
McCracken's central thesis of the book is that there has been a pendulum swing in the last 15 or so years, especially amongst millenials, to escape the trappings of legalism for the licentious haven of liberty. McCracken calls for us - speaking as a millennial who resonates with much of what McCracken has to say - basically to grow up and begin to exercise wisdom. Ironically, the phrase typically lobbed toward the bogeyman Fundamentalists by my generation that "we wanna be known by what we're for not what we're against" may be even more true for us than for them.
Anyhow, McCracken looks at four areas of Christian cultural engagement: food, music, movies, and alcohol. His central understanding of culture, peppered (in moderation) with lots of Kuyper and Lewis, is that as Christians we can participate - nay, we ought to participate! - in culture since our understanding of the majesty of God is displayed through things like eating a fine steak, listening to "Loveless" by My Bloody Valentine, watching *To The Wonder*, and drinking a Dark Lord with dark chocolate on a wintery December night. However, to misuse these things is an exercise in entirely missing the point since, as image bearing creatures, we are to be the cultivators and exercise dominion, not have dominion exercised over our appetites by created things.
While this was really a fine book, I have a few disagreements. First of all, discussing theology with a milk stout is a bit of an interesting choice. I, personally, prefer to engage in theological discourse with something a bit less malty - maybe a floral IPA? - and tend to find that heavier beers like oatmeal stouts rob the senses of their sharpness by making the stomach feel heavy. Secondly, I don't know how he drinks his scotch, but an hour for a glass is a bit excessive. I typically drink my scotch or bourbon neat, but occasionally will it on the rocks. A scotch imbibed longer than an hour with ice will only result in watered down whisky and rob from the transcendent glory of the immortal God.
I am grateful for Brett McCracken and his work. We need more thoughtful, young(er) Christians who are thinking responsibly about what it means to be a fully orbed Great Commission people as we consider the implications of culture and mission for generations to come. May we rest in the finished work of Christ, may the pendulum stop its swinging from legalism to license, and may the glory of God shine as far as the east is from the west, from the dive bar to coffee shop.
October 16, 2013
“Christians have a hard time with nuance” (8). That’s an understatement. In my lifetime, I’ve watched the pendulum swing from left to right a dozen times. Few have the sense or bravery to speak where Scripture speaks and to stay silent where it stays silent, while providing nuanced biblical wisdom for the gray matters. Brett urges for just this in Gray Matters.
I’ll state upfront (maybe this is a given)--I disagreed with some of Brett’s analysis of the gray matters. I assume many evangelicals will, but despite that and because of that you should read this book all the more closely. Brett pushes and prods us to think more critically about our consumption. He builds on a strong doctrine of creation which is crucial for interpreting the rest of Scripture. For instance, he says,
We should also be passionate about engaging culture well because we want to know God more through his creation. We should live our consumer lives with the overarching goal of wanting to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps. 34:8), understanding that God speaks to us everywhere—in food and drink, in melodies and rhythms, in the multiplex and the church sanctuary, on the beach or atop a mountain. Indeed, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Ps. 24:1). (17)
He tackles four prominent gray areas for Christians today: food, music, movies, and alcohol. I want to highlight some themes found throughout the book. First, Brett values consuming these mediums in community. “As embodied fleshly creatures, we cannot maintain an isolated posture in habits of consumption” (54).
Second, he encourages thoughtful consumption. When discussing food, he says we should consider where our food comes from, the tastes, why we are eating. Same when discussing alcohol. Why do we drink? Do we mindless consume and are, therefore, happy drinking anything? Or do we engage alcohol as a gift from God? Do we seek to understand the different nuances and flavors in it?
Third, he urges us to consume “anticipat[ing] his [Christ’s] future kingdom” (69). Jesus is central in understanding life in a fallen world.
Fourth, he urges us to understand anything good can become bad if used improperly (187). Fifth, he encourages pursuing holiness.
Friends, let’s stop deluding ourselves into thinking that by shirking holiness we’re advancing the cause of Christ by “breaking stereotypes” people might have of Christians. All we’re actually doing is demeaning the name of Christ by cheapening the cost of discipleship. We can do better than that. (241)
Last, he encourages critical thinking as a way of honoring the image of God and worshiping God (247, 256).
I came from a fundamentalism and saw friends who moved out of the movement either calibrate into normal living or go off the deep end. It doesn’t have to be that way. Christians should thoughtfully and biblically engage culture. We shouldn’t be extremists. Brett knows his stuff. You can tell. In Gray Matters, he provides a sane voice in the midst of the cacophony of rabid voices on culture engagement. If heeded, the church would thrive in the midst of the tension between enjoying liberty and pursuing holiness.
I’ll state upfront (maybe this is a given)--I disagreed with some of Brett’s analysis of the gray matters. I assume many evangelicals will, but despite that and because of that you should read this book all the more closely. Brett pushes and prods us to think more critically about our consumption. He builds on a strong doctrine of creation which is crucial for interpreting the rest of Scripture. For instance, he says,
We should also be passionate about engaging culture well because we want to know God more through his creation. We should live our consumer lives with the overarching goal of wanting to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps. 34:8), understanding that God speaks to us everywhere—in food and drink, in melodies and rhythms, in the multiplex and the church sanctuary, on the beach or atop a mountain. Indeed, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Ps. 24:1). (17)
He tackles four prominent gray areas for Christians today: food, music, movies, and alcohol. I want to highlight some themes found throughout the book. First, Brett values consuming these mediums in community. “As embodied fleshly creatures, we cannot maintain an isolated posture in habits of consumption” (54).
Second, he encourages thoughtful consumption. When discussing food, he says we should consider where our food comes from, the tastes, why we are eating. Same when discussing alcohol. Why do we drink? Do we mindless consume and are, therefore, happy drinking anything? Or do we engage alcohol as a gift from God? Do we seek to understand the different nuances and flavors in it?
Third, he urges us to consume “anticipat[ing] his [Christ’s] future kingdom” (69). Jesus is central in understanding life in a fallen world.
Fourth, he urges us to understand anything good can become bad if used improperly (187). Fifth, he encourages pursuing holiness.
Friends, let’s stop deluding ourselves into thinking that by shirking holiness we’re advancing the cause of Christ by “breaking stereotypes” people might have of Christians. All we’re actually doing is demeaning the name of Christ by cheapening the cost of discipleship. We can do better than that. (241)
Last, he encourages critical thinking as a way of honoring the image of God and worshiping God (247, 256).
I came from a fundamentalism and saw friends who moved out of the movement either calibrate into normal living or go off the deep end. It doesn’t have to be that way. Christians should thoughtfully and biblically engage culture. We shouldn’t be extremists. Brett knows his stuff. You can tell. In Gray Matters, he provides a sane voice in the midst of the cacophony of rabid voices on culture engagement. If heeded, the church would thrive in the midst of the tension between enjoying liberty and pursuing holiness.
August 19, 2013
Brett does a fantastic job of sorting through the nuances of several touchy issues for Christians. "Christians aren't very good at nuance" he says in the intro, and he's right. This book helps sort through how to be a discerning consumer, a timely and always pertinent subject. He manages to hit on just about every pitfall Christians fall into on both the legalism and liberty sides respectively which means he keeps the reader in the narrow, tense place between the two extremes. Over all, this is a book well worth reading. For any Christian there will be a portion that causes pause, a need to rethink and reconsider choices and stances.
July 17, 2023
Interessante abordagem sobre temas que geram questões dentro dos círculos nas comunidades de fé. Uma abordagem contemporânea sobre temas antigos, discorrendo sobre a importância do equilíbrio e a motivação do coração. Vale a pena.
April 22, 2019
Superb! Timely! An important book for any Christian who desires to think seriously about how we live as [inevitable-]consumers of/within culture.
June 28, 2019
This would be a great book to start conversation with a small group, especially a mulit-generational one.
Read
January 9, 2015Not quite what I thought it would be
Overall this was a decent book, but I definitely had some disagreements with the author. Maybe I just fall more to the old-school side of the debate, or maybe it's just differences of taste, but I found myself getting turned off a little by the author's snobbery in regards to what constitutes "good" food, movies, etc.
Overall this was a decent book, but I definitely had some disagreements with the author. Maybe I just fall more to the old-school side of the debate, or maybe it's just differences of taste, but I found myself getting turned off a little by the author's snobbery in regards to what constitutes "good" food, movies, etc.
November 21, 2017
Brett McCracken bravely attempts an unenviable task, “navigating the space between legalism and liberty.” Some will say he is too lenient, and some will say he is too legalistic. I will say that he tries his best to be balanced and biblical.
So which side does he come down on? I would say that he gives both “sides” technically proper expression. That is, he points out where “legalists” make demands that go beyond scripture, but then points out the dangers inherent in practices which, if not specifically forbidden, may need to be avoided by some Christians. In my opinion, however, the calls for greater liberty are given with more passion than the calls for restraint. He does not conceal his personal history of growing out of what might be called a “legalistic” evangelical upbringing. I would also point out that the case for liberty receives many more pages than the calls for caution. But again, both aspects are there, and for that the author deserves credit.
I must find fault with some of what the author asserts, and some of what he leaves out. He asks at one point, “Does it even make sense to talk about the ‘sacred’ as opposed to the ‘secular’?” Well, yes. Yes it does make sense. It is a distinction that is emphasized throughout the Word of God. Second Corinthians 6:14-16, for instance, is a classic text on the importance of recognizing and maintaining a distinction between the godly and the ungodly in our personal connections. So when the author describes film-going as “a worshipful experience” for him, it seems to me that the word “worship” is striped of much of its meaning. I enjoy movies, and at times have been deeply moved by a film, but that is not in the same category as gathering with God’s people on the Lord’s Day to attend on the Word and lift up songs of praise to my God.
An example of something important left out is the existence and activity of Satan. The Word of God warns us that Satan is “the god of this world” and “is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” Yes, it is true that the image of God and common grace give us reason to hope for glimpses of truth and beauty in much that the world produces. It seem to me, however, that the Bible warns us much more urgently to beware of the spiritual poison that infects the works of fallen men. How is that not even mentioned in a book written to guide us in the consumption of such works?
One more thing, and perhaps I am just exposing myself to be low brow, but I thought McCracken could come off, despite his best efforts not to, as an elitist cultural snob. When he goes on about his ecstatic experiences eating exotic foods I have never heard of before, I’m sorry … I just have to roll my eyes. Then there are the films that perhaps most of us should not view, but he is strong enough to consume with profit (and as “worship”). And yes, I suppose it’s fun to laugh at our spiritual forbears in light of some of their overboard attempts to live holy lives – but come on, how about some respect for those who labored and prayed to bring us to Christ and build our churches.
And now I’m going to be picky, but how can a book that goes on so much about high culture have such a crappy-looking cover? But maybe it’s just sophisticated art and I’m too much of a Philistine to appreciate it.
So which side does he come down on? I would say that he gives both “sides” technically proper expression. That is, he points out where “legalists” make demands that go beyond scripture, but then points out the dangers inherent in practices which, if not specifically forbidden, may need to be avoided by some Christians. In my opinion, however, the calls for greater liberty are given with more passion than the calls for restraint. He does not conceal his personal history of growing out of what might be called a “legalistic” evangelical upbringing. I would also point out that the case for liberty receives many more pages than the calls for caution. But again, both aspects are there, and for that the author deserves credit.
I must find fault with some of what the author asserts, and some of what he leaves out. He asks at one point, “Does it even make sense to talk about the ‘sacred’ as opposed to the ‘secular’?” Well, yes. Yes it does make sense. It is a distinction that is emphasized throughout the Word of God. Second Corinthians 6:14-16, for instance, is a classic text on the importance of recognizing and maintaining a distinction between the godly and the ungodly in our personal connections. So when the author describes film-going as “a worshipful experience” for him, it seems to me that the word “worship” is striped of much of its meaning. I enjoy movies, and at times have been deeply moved by a film, but that is not in the same category as gathering with God’s people on the Lord’s Day to attend on the Word and lift up songs of praise to my God.
An example of something important left out is the existence and activity of Satan. The Word of God warns us that Satan is “the god of this world” and “is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” Yes, it is true that the image of God and common grace give us reason to hope for glimpses of truth and beauty in much that the world produces. It seem to me, however, that the Bible warns us much more urgently to beware of the spiritual poison that infects the works of fallen men. How is that not even mentioned in a book written to guide us in the consumption of such works?
One more thing, and perhaps I am just exposing myself to be low brow, but I thought McCracken could come off, despite his best efforts not to, as an elitist cultural snob. When he goes on about his ecstatic experiences eating exotic foods I have never heard of before, I’m sorry … I just have to roll my eyes. Then there are the films that perhaps most of us should not view, but he is strong enough to consume with profit (and as “worship”). And yes, I suppose it’s fun to laugh at our spiritual forbears in light of some of their overboard attempts to live holy lives – but come on, how about some respect for those who labored and prayed to bring us to Christ and build our churches.
And now I’m going to be picky, but how can a book that goes on so much about high culture have such a crappy-looking cover? But maybe it’s just sophisticated art and I’m too much of a Philistine to appreciate it.
February 9, 2021
Wonderful book on the value of being a thoughtful consumer. Consuming is what we do as human beings, we cannot help it. Food, beauty, art, entertainment are all used and appreciated (or not) on the daily.
McCracken writes: "One can consume in a manner that is passionate yet dignified, sensuous yet controlled, thoughtful yet not academic. One can consume in a manner that makes the world a better place, enhances our experience of it, and deepens our awe of its Creator."
This is a much-needed corrective to certain strains of Christianity which deal in legalism and general fear of "the world" instead of thoughtful engagement with it. These spaces seek to create a safe Christian bubble, free of corruptive influence, instead of teaching true maturity and discernment to believers. Too often, these spaces lack joy and any appreciation of true excellence. They entertain a sacred-secular divide instead of seeing the influence of common grace on the world at large. In other words, we should mostly do "spiritual" things (a narrow list), while treating "worldly" things (like enjoying food or art) as necessary evils that we should not fixate upon.
McCracken has a different perspective. Supported by great philosophical and theological minds, he argues that "as Christian consumers who care about honoring God through the arts, we should simply support the best–the most truthful, beautiful, God-glorifying–whether it is made by the hands of a Christian or a pagan."
I truly wish I could've read this as a teenager, as I grew up in a strain of Christianity that was not intellectually robust, not focused on excellence, one that never convinced me of its superiority to the rest of the (much more interesting) world. Many years later, I am convicted of the truth of the gospel, and only wish I had known back then that "Christian" didn't mean a need to wear cheesy tee shirts and listen to awful music. Bible belt culture was a huge turnoff to me, and I unfortunately threw the baby out with the bathwater. It has been a slow climb back to the essentials. Books like this help me grasp the beauty and freedom of the Christian life. To accompany this book, I would highly recommend to friends Hannah Anderson's All That's Good and Joe Rigney's Strangely Bright.
McCracken writes: "One can consume in a manner that is passionate yet dignified, sensuous yet controlled, thoughtful yet not academic. One can consume in a manner that makes the world a better place, enhances our experience of it, and deepens our awe of its Creator."
This is a much-needed corrective to certain strains of Christianity which deal in legalism and general fear of "the world" instead of thoughtful engagement with it. These spaces seek to create a safe Christian bubble, free of corruptive influence, instead of teaching true maturity and discernment to believers. Too often, these spaces lack joy and any appreciation of true excellence. They entertain a sacred-secular divide instead of seeing the influence of common grace on the world at large. In other words, we should mostly do "spiritual" things (a narrow list), while treating "worldly" things (like enjoying food or art) as necessary evils that we should not fixate upon.
McCracken has a different perspective. Supported by great philosophical and theological minds, he argues that "as Christian consumers who care about honoring God through the arts, we should simply support the best–the most truthful, beautiful, God-glorifying–whether it is made by the hands of a Christian or a pagan."
I truly wish I could've read this as a teenager, as I grew up in a strain of Christianity that was not intellectually robust, not focused on excellence, one that never convinced me of its superiority to the rest of the (much more interesting) world. Many years later, I am convicted of the truth of the gospel, and only wish I had known back then that "Christian" didn't mean a need to wear cheesy tee shirts and listen to awful music. Bible belt culture was a huge turnoff to me, and I unfortunately threw the baby out with the bathwater. It has been a slow climb back to the essentials. Books like this help me grasp the beauty and freedom of the Christian life. To accompany this book, I would highly recommend to friends Hannah Anderson's All That's Good and Joe Rigney's Strangely Bright.
August 22, 2018
In the author's own words, "It's a book about consuming culture well: discerningly, maturely, thoughtfully. It's about being so intentional, so careful, so passionate about getting the most out of the cultural goods we consume that those around us can't help but wonder: Why do we care so much?"
I decided to read this book because cultural consumption is a topic that we Christians approach with far too much carelessness. We either blindly adopt the stern and legalistic viewpoints of our forbearers, or else we thoughtlessly consume whatever food, drink, film, or music that might tickle our fancy. McCracken does a pretty good job of providing a framework for how we should approach these cultural gray area with a biblical perspective. He addresses the dangers of teetering too far in either direction on the scale between legalism and licentiousness, and he highlights the many benefits we can experience though more thoughtful consumption of culture.
However, I must say that despite McCracken's best efforts to remain neutral, his personal bias as an L.A.-based film critic (and also a self-proclaimed aficionado of food, alcohol, and music) might possibly push his message too far in the direction of licentiousness. He could easily be perceived as a culture snob, and I certainly found myself rolling my eyes at more than one pretentious exaltation of "high culture".
I'd still highly recommend this book to any fellow Christian, but I'd also recommend to McCracken that he should more closely heed his own words:
"Pride and snobbery have no place in a healthy Christian appreciation of culture. We must develop our taste humbly, being open-minded to what others enjoy and why they do."
I decided to read this book because cultural consumption is a topic that we Christians approach with far too much carelessness. We either blindly adopt the stern and legalistic viewpoints of our forbearers, or else we thoughtlessly consume whatever food, drink, film, or music that might tickle our fancy. McCracken does a pretty good job of providing a framework for how we should approach these cultural gray area with a biblical perspective. He addresses the dangers of teetering too far in either direction on the scale between legalism and licentiousness, and he highlights the many benefits we can experience though more thoughtful consumption of culture.
However, I must say that despite McCracken's best efforts to remain neutral, his personal bias as an L.A.-based film critic (and also a self-proclaimed aficionado of food, alcohol, and music) might possibly push his message too far in the direction of licentiousness. He could easily be perceived as a culture snob, and I certainly found myself rolling my eyes at more than one pretentious exaltation of "high culture".
I'd still highly recommend this book to any fellow Christian, but I'd also recommend to McCracken that he should more closely heed his own words:
"Pride and snobbery have no place in a healthy Christian appreciation of culture. We must develop our taste humbly, being open-minded to what others enjoy and why they do."
December 27, 2022
This was an odd read. The cover and title promised a thoughtful discussion of moral gray areas and moral reasoning. But the real topic of the book was culture? I discovered very quickly that this book was addressing audiences that I am not a part of (foodies, art and music critics, craft beer guys), so a lot of the discussion felt irrelevant to me and the people I minister to.
McCracken made some good points about questions to ask about difficult moral issues. He stresses direction, influence in community, and knowing our own personal weaknesses. These are helpful.
McCracken subscribes to the same fuzzy thinking about “legalism” as much of the Protestant world. If he means that we should not be legalistic by making laws God has not made, I’m on board. If he means that we should pretend God’s rules don’t really matter and he won’t condemn us if we continually break them (contra Paul in 1 Cor 6:8-11, Eph 5:3-6, Gal 5:19-21, etc), then we have created a category that allows us to set scripture aside. Here I find legalism an extremely unhelpful construct. Can we not just say that some things are sinful (eg drunkenness), but that there is a gray area at precisely what point we have committed the sin?
McCracken made some good points about questions to ask about difficult moral issues. He stresses direction, influence in community, and knowing our own personal weaknesses. These are helpful.
McCracken subscribes to the same fuzzy thinking about “legalism” as much of the Protestant world. If he means that we should not be legalistic by making laws God has not made, I’m on board. If he means that we should pretend God’s rules don’t really matter and he won’t condemn us if we continually break them (contra Paul in 1 Cor 6:8-11, Eph 5:3-6, Gal 5:19-21, etc), then we have created a category that allows us to set scripture aside. Here I find legalism an extremely unhelpful construct. Can we not just say that some things are sinful (eg drunkenness), but that there is a gray area at precisely what point we have committed the sin?
November 26, 2018
Brett McCracken offers a sensible, well-researched guide through some of the typical "hot button" cultural issues for those of us immersed in evangelical culture. I can't tell you how many times I heard someone repeat the phrase, "We are supposed to be IN the world but not OF it!" without ever explaining to me what that actually means.
Well, Brett does an admirable job here of trying to offer an explanation. He dives right into the complexities that statement brings up. He tackles food, music, movies and alcohol (not an exhaustive list, but a fairly representative one) and does so in a way that pushes back on all the "easy" answers from both sides. My favorite chapters, though, were the brief histories of each topic that he included.
Overall, it's an enjoyable read that provokes some good thinking and deeper questions. Parts of it felt, to me, a bit dated already (the book's not that old) and a little on the simple side. That being said, I could see this being really challenging and helpful to a very conservative evangelical who is willing to start asking these questions for the first time.
Well, Brett does an admirable job here of trying to offer an explanation. He dives right into the complexities that statement brings up. He tackles food, music, movies and alcohol (not an exhaustive list, but a fairly representative one) and does so in a way that pushes back on all the "easy" answers from both sides. My favorite chapters, though, were the brief histories of each topic that he included.
Overall, it's an enjoyable read that provokes some good thinking and deeper questions. Parts of it felt, to me, a bit dated already (the book's not that old) and a little on the simple side. That being said, I could see this being really challenging and helpful to a very conservative evangelical who is willing to start asking these questions for the first time.
November 18, 2022
McCracken tries to explain how we can engage with culture in a Christ honoring way in this book. I resonated with his main point and the opening chapters were insightful. However, things began to slide as he dealt with some other areas of practice like movies and alcohol. While advocating the need for Christians to appreciate beauty and art, I believe he went too far and opened up a door for just about anything. I know it is hard to navigate the issue of cultural engagement, so I applaud McCracken’s goal. However, based on what he advocates and how he explains his examples, I feel his point could very easily be taken too far.
July 9, 2020
Brett McCracken raises many great questions for Christians to consider as they engage with culture. His answers are based on Scripture and flavoured with his own experience and there is much wisdom to be found in this work. I found that Gray Matters challenged my consumption of culture and gave me good questions to think through as I engage with our world.
March 23, 2025
I mean, this is a good 3.5 star book, that goes through our consumption of culture to find the middle line of how and what we should consume, as well as the why. It just looses a bit of its weight sometimes as it makes things a bit boring, repetitive, and... how to put it... explaining of common sense things. Yea, maybe this is not common sense to some Christians, but for me, it gave too little of new perspectives and fell a bit blunt because of that.
February 12, 2019
I absolutely adored this book! I don’t read a lot of “Christian life” books because they’re usually either too “personal” or not convicting enough or they don’t really reveal anything about anything. I felt like this one was well researched, compassionately written, engaging, and enlightening. I’ve been meditating a lot on this one and it’s really opened my eyes to how I consume.
August 22, 2013
This will be a controversial book, to say the least. I agree with the premise. All of life should be lived to the glory of God. Things should never be divided into sacred and secular. God is Lord over all of life. The difficulty is in how we live this out.
I want to say up front that believe McCraken is an honest Christian who truly loves God and is seeking to transform culture with the Gospel. His desire is for those who live for Christ, to enjoy life and the things God has given us but do it with balance. I hardily agree.
He divides culture into four sections: Eating, Listening, Watching and Drinking. The writing is interesting and he pulls no punches. I think the book should be read and digested. As Christians we should think. For too long in the church, emotions have trumped facts. We react before we get all the facts. Paul dealt with it in the question of eating meats that had been sacrificed to idols. He took a balanced approach and McCracken seems to do the same.
With that said, I had disagreements with some of the little things, but isn't that what the whole book is about?
McCracken starts his book with the subject of Food. Eating - we should enjoy those things God has given us to eat. God could have made food for utilitarian purposes only. He could have made food with no taste and given us some kind of mechanism to force us to eat for physical needs only. But food is more that a a necessary evil. God has given it taste and enjoyment. It is God's common grace that makes the eating of it enjoyable.
Brett shows us how to enjoy food, but not to over indulge. His theory sounds great so far. Where I think he goes astray is the "buy fair trade" and "Whole foods" part. Much of this sounds like "Liberal speak". Make sure the chickens we eat are treated with love and respect. Don't buy from large companies (i.e. Walmart). Buy local and eat slow.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this. It just gives a feeling that normal people who buy from Walmart and McDonald's are a little lower on the food chain (pun intended). Because we can not afford a seven hour, ten course meal, we are not quite experiencing the best God has to offer.
With that said, there is much benefit from this section. He does tell the food connoisseur not to be arrogant and look down on others that can not afford expensive "Whole Foods". It still feels a little like saying to your wife - "That dress looks beautiful on you, BUT....."
The second subject concerns Listening (music). Another controversial subject.
As a musician, this subject touches home. When I became a christian, I felt all secular music was wrong. To my defense, I came out of a lot of drugs and very dark music. After a few years, I became a little more balanced. That is the stand Brett takes. Music in itself is a gift from God and should be used for Him but that does not mean every song has to be a hymn or worship chorus.
I do not agree with everything he listens to but it is a "Gray Matter".
Another subject is watching(movies).
I enjoy action movies. Personally I try to catch them on channels that remove much of the foul language and other objectionable stuff. McCracken believes if it does not tempt you or cause you to stumble, it is fine to watch. Again, I personally believe, if at all possible watch the edited version.
The last subject is Drinking(alcohol).
This subject really gets some people mad. This was my favorite section. He takes us through a short history of fermented beverages. He then gives his take on alcohol. He ends the section with a caution to those who would take drinking too far.
In each chapter McCracken starts out bold, but then brings in the balance. I believe this is a must read for all Christians. There will be a lot of disagreement, but that is one reason why you should read it. It WILL make you think.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
I received this book, free of charge, from Baker Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I want to say up front that believe McCraken is an honest Christian who truly loves God and is seeking to transform culture with the Gospel. His desire is for those who live for Christ, to enjoy life and the things God has given us but do it with balance. I hardily agree.
He divides culture into four sections: Eating, Listening, Watching and Drinking. The writing is interesting and he pulls no punches. I think the book should be read and digested. As Christians we should think. For too long in the church, emotions have trumped facts. We react before we get all the facts. Paul dealt with it in the question of eating meats that had been sacrificed to idols. He took a balanced approach and McCracken seems to do the same.
With that said, I had disagreements with some of the little things, but isn't that what the whole book is about?
McCracken starts his book with the subject of Food. Eating - we should enjoy those things God has given us to eat. God could have made food for utilitarian purposes only. He could have made food with no taste and given us some kind of mechanism to force us to eat for physical needs only. But food is more that a a necessary evil. God has given it taste and enjoyment. It is God's common grace that makes the eating of it enjoyable.
Brett shows us how to enjoy food, but not to over indulge. His theory sounds great so far. Where I think he goes astray is the "buy fair trade" and "Whole foods" part. Much of this sounds like "Liberal speak". Make sure the chickens we eat are treated with love and respect. Don't buy from large companies (i.e. Walmart). Buy local and eat slow.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this. It just gives a feeling that normal people who buy from Walmart and McDonald's are a little lower on the food chain (pun intended). Because we can not afford a seven hour, ten course meal, we are not quite experiencing the best God has to offer.
With that said, there is much benefit from this section. He does tell the food connoisseur not to be arrogant and look down on others that can not afford expensive "Whole Foods". It still feels a little like saying to your wife - "That dress looks beautiful on you, BUT....."
The second subject concerns Listening (music). Another controversial subject.
As a musician, this subject touches home. When I became a christian, I felt all secular music was wrong. To my defense, I came out of a lot of drugs and very dark music. After a few years, I became a little more balanced. That is the stand Brett takes. Music in itself is a gift from God and should be used for Him but that does not mean every song has to be a hymn or worship chorus.
I do not agree with everything he listens to but it is a "Gray Matter".
Another subject is watching(movies).
I enjoy action movies. Personally I try to catch them on channels that remove much of the foul language and other objectionable stuff. McCracken believes if it does not tempt you or cause you to stumble, it is fine to watch. Again, I personally believe, if at all possible watch the edited version.
The last subject is Drinking(alcohol).
This subject really gets some people mad. This was my favorite section. He takes us through a short history of fermented beverages. He then gives his take on alcohol. He ends the section with a caution to those who would take drinking too far.
In each chapter McCracken starts out bold, but then brings in the balance. I believe this is a must read for all Christians. There will be a lot of disagreement, but that is one reason why you should read it. It WILL make you think.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
I received this book, free of charge, from Baker Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2021
This book addresses the gray areas of our life and faith. It tackles the usual culprits, alcohol and entertainment, etc. Some of it may prove disagreeable for some readers, but it does seek to be pretty fair-minded in its balancing of those areas that are tertiary. Theological triaging doesn't look the same for everyone. I will say that I was particularly blessed with his chapter on food as a communal experience.
August 12, 2021
Disclaimer: This book is written largely to theologically conservative (and most likely Reformed) Christians, who believe in (1) the authority, inerrancy, and infallibility of Scripture, and (2) that pursuing Christ and imitating Him in all we do is our chief purpose in life. Therefore, my review is intended for readers who share that position and should not be taken to apply to all readers of different perspectives/faiths.
Let me first say that I am generally a fan of McCracken. I regularly follow his articles on The Gospel Coalition, and, by and large, I agree with his views on liberty and legalism. However, despite all the helpful things I read in this book, I can't move past certain views he approves of, specifically under the "Watching" section.
Regarding what Christians should or shouldn't watch, he takes the approach of asking several questions along the lines of, does it benefit believers spiritually? Is it artistic? Does it point to redemptive qualities of the Gospel? I agree with those questions and I affirm his conviction to say that we all must be prayerful in what we watch. He rightly points out that if something we watch causes us to sin, we must stay away from it. But where I diverge with McCracken is with his approval of watching sexual nudity (at one point, even speaks approvingly of a film rated NC-17).
Now I don't want to sound like a prude, but on screen nudity is not make believe. It isn't like filming a violent war scene (which is pretend). People are actually getting in front of the camera and doing things which only a married couple should do in the privacy of their home. How then, could a Christian ever possibly approve of (or enjoy watching) something which God hates? How does that possibly build us up spiritually? Despite whether a film has redemptive or artistic qualities, Jesus was crucified because of our sins (including sexual sin) and I don't think for a second God would approve in any one of his children watching it as a form of entertainment.
When I read the Scriptures I never get a sense that Christians are called to be as culturally relevant as possible. Although relevance is important, Scripture is clear that Christians are called to be holy and set apart from the corruptions of the world. In a world dominated by visual entertainment, McCracken's view on film, I fear, unintentionally blurs that important aspect of the Christian life.
With that said, as helpful as some of the book was, I cannot recommend it to others. If you would like a better opinion on what Christians should or shouldn't watch, look up Keven DeYoung's (also on The Gospel Coalition) or John Piper's (Desiring God) articles on Game of Thrones. I find those much more helpful and edifying.
Let me first say that I am generally a fan of McCracken. I regularly follow his articles on The Gospel Coalition, and, by and large, I agree with his views on liberty and legalism. However, despite all the helpful things I read in this book, I can't move past certain views he approves of, specifically under the "Watching" section.
Regarding what Christians should or shouldn't watch, he takes the approach of asking several questions along the lines of, does it benefit believers spiritually? Is it artistic? Does it point to redemptive qualities of the Gospel? I agree with those questions and I affirm his conviction to say that we all must be prayerful in what we watch. He rightly points out that if something we watch causes us to sin, we must stay away from it. But where I diverge with McCracken is with his approval of watching sexual nudity (at one point, even speaks approvingly of a film rated NC-17).
Now I don't want to sound like a prude, but on screen nudity is not make believe. It isn't like filming a violent war scene (which is pretend). People are actually getting in front of the camera and doing things which only a married couple should do in the privacy of their home. How then, could a Christian ever possibly approve of (or enjoy watching) something which God hates? How does that possibly build us up spiritually? Despite whether a film has redemptive or artistic qualities, Jesus was crucified because of our sins (including sexual sin) and I don't think for a second God would approve in any one of his children watching it as a form of entertainment.
When I read the Scriptures I never get a sense that Christians are called to be as culturally relevant as possible. Although relevance is important, Scripture is clear that Christians are called to be holy and set apart from the corruptions of the world. In a world dominated by visual entertainment, McCracken's view on film, I fear, unintentionally blurs that important aspect of the Christian life.
With that said, as helpful as some of the book was, I cannot recommend it to others. If you would like a better opinion on what Christians should or shouldn't watch, look up Keven DeYoung's (also on The Gospel Coalition) or John Piper's (Desiring God) articles on Game of Thrones. I find those much more helpful and edifying.
June 23, 2013
I am a fan of Brett McCracken. As a young evangelical I can relate to a lot of the thoughts and sentiments that Brett writes/blogs about. When I read his book Hipster Christianity last summer, I was encouraged and informed about many of the movements taking place within modern Western Christianity. So when I recieved the manuscript of his newest book from Baker Publishing, I was thrilled.
In his new book, Gray Matters, Brett tackles a very important issue that most young evangelicals are facing today- how are we to view things like smoking, drinking, cussing, and secular media. Because for most of us who grew up in the Evangelical subculture, we were taught never to drink, never to smoke, never to watch anything over a PG rating, and to stay away from "secular" music. However, most of us who grew up in that mindset now smoke, drink, watch everything, and listen to everything (or at least don't have a problem with any of those things). In this book, Brett attempt to shed some light on these "gray matters" and helps young evangelicals to think through these issues from a fresh and biblical perspective.
The book is broken into four main sections addressing four major gray issues for evangelicals- Eating, Listening, Watching, and Drinking.
Now, If you did not grow up in conservative evangelicalism, you may find the need for such a book laughable. Mainline-Progressive-Emergent-Liberal Christians generally all have no problems with these issues and have never dealt with these ideas as "gray matters". This book is really not for those people. It is rather for young evangelicals who really do have serious questions about these issues. For those of us who were raised in fundamentalist churches that told us anything short of Passion of The Christ was demonic and that wine in the Bible is actually grape juice, this book has a lot to offer.
This isn't so much a book of answers as it is a tool to help us process through these questions scripturally and sanely. Brett writes from a mildly-progressive Evangelical perspective that truly strives to be fair and balanced. I don't agree with everything he says, but I do appreciate his opinion and perspective none the less. If you are a young Evangelical who has real questions about these "gray matters" you should most definitely get your hands on this valuable resource and think through them with an author who really does get our generation (because he's part of it!)
With all of that said...
I Give "Gray Matters" A 3.5 Out of 5 Stars
In his new book, Gray Matters, Brett tackles a very important issue that most young evangelicals are facing today- how are we to view things like smoking, drinking, cussing, and secular media. Because for most of us who grew up in the Evangelical subculture, we were taught never to drink, never to smoke, never to watch anything over a PG rating, and to stay away from "secular" music. However, most of us who grew up in that mindset now smoke, drink, watch everything, and listen to everything (or at least don't have a problem with any of those things). In this book, Brett attempt to shed some light on these "gray matters" and helps young evangelicals to think through these issues from a fresh and biblical perspective.
The book is broken into four main sections addressing four major gray issues for evangelicals- Eating, Listening, Watching, and Drinking.
Now, If you did not grow up in conservative evangelicalism, you may find the need for such a book laughable. Mainline-Progressive-Emergent-Liberal Christians generally all have no problems with these issues and have never dealt with these ideas as "gray matters". This book is really not for those people. It is rather for young evangelicals who really do have serious questions about these issues. For those of us who were raised in fundamentalist churches that told us anything short of Passion of The Christ was demonic and that wine in the Bible is actually grape juice, this book has a lot to offer.
This isn't so much a book of answers as it is a tool to help us process through these questions scripturally and sanely. Brett writes from a mildly-progressive Evangelical perspective that truly strives to be fair and balanced. I don't agree with everything he says, but I do appreciate his opinion and perspective none the less. If you are a young Evangelical who has real questions about these "gray matters" you should most definitely get your hands on this valuable resource and think through them with an author who really does get our generation (because he's part of it!)
With all of that said...
I Give "Gray Matters" A 3.5 Out of 5 Stars
June 23, 2014
As Christians we are called to examine the things we consume with thought, discussion, and reflection
That for me was the essence of what I got out of this book.
A much needed re-evaluation of 4 critical areas of cultural consumption, Gray Matters takes a very even-handed crack at a very difficult (and much ignored) question of how Christians are to interact with culture.
It would be very simple for us as Christians just to deny any part of culture that could possibly be tainted (all of it), but is this what is most pleasing to God?
Instead of taking this un-Biblical and simple approach to culture, Mr. McCracken takes the reader deeper. Each of the examined cultural areas (Music, Movies, Eating, Drinking), have much to offer the modern American Christian (enjoyment, community, witness, reflection of Divinity) but also contain pitfalls (gluttony, alcoholism, gratuitous sexuality, witness damage).
McCracken starts each examination with a history of the Church and the specific item. This is very eye-opening and will allow the reader to have context into what the original church fathers thought about these items. Next McCracken examines the relevant scriptures and ideas that support the enjoyment of the given item. Pitfalls and warnings (criteria for consumption) are also presented. The witness of the Christian is also examined in light of the relevant item.
Ultimately we are left with some great analysis and criteria for what and how we should enjoy in these various areas. McCracken stays away from definitive answers when appropriate (is drinking wrong?), but is also not afraid to call out items that are clearly un-Bibilical (illegal drugs).
McCracken uses his large repertoire of Bible knowledge throughout the writing, which is very necessary when examining any issue from a Christian worldview.
Ultimately I am impressed by Mr. McCracken. His wisdom in this writing is formidable, and his balance of Biblical authority, thoughtful examination, and deference to other believers is commendable.
If you are trying to understand how it is we are to engage something as complicated as culture, I highly reccomend this book. It will help you hold God to a higher view, appreciate the culture that you do consume as stemming (originally) from God, and help you balance the fine line between legalism and liberty.
That for me was the essence of what I got out of this book.
A much needed re-evaluation of 4 critical areas of cultural consumption, Gray Matters takes a very even-handed crack at a very difficult (and much ignored) question of how Christians are to interact with culture.
It would be very simple for us as Christians just to deny any part of culture that could possibly be tainted (all of it), but is this what is most pleasing to God?
Instead of taking this un-Biblical and simple approach to culture, Mr. McCracken takes the reader deeper. Each of the examined cultural areas (Music, Movies, Eating, Drinking), have much to offer the modern American Christian (enjoyment, community, witness, reflection of Divinity) but also contain pitfalls (gluttony, alcoholism, gratuitous sexuality, witness damage).
McCracken starts each examination with a history of the Church and the specific item. This is very eye-opening and will allow the reader to have context into what the original church fathers thought about these items. Next McCracken examines the relevant scriptures and ideas that support the enjoyment of the given item. Pitfalls and warnings (criteria for consumption) are also presented. The witness of the Christian is also examined in light of the relevant item.
Ultimately we are left with some great analysis and criteria for what and how we should enjoy in these various areas. McCracken stays away from definitive answers when appropriate (is drinking wrong?), but is also not afraid to call out items that are clearly un-Bibilical (illegal drugs).
McCracken uses his large repertoire of Bible knowledge throughout the writing, which is very necessary when examining any issue from a Christian worldview.
Ultimately I am impressed by Mr. McCracken. His wisdom in this writing is formidable, and his balance of Biblical authority, thoughtful examination, and deference to other believers is commendable.
If you are trying to understand how it is we are to engage something as complicated as culture, I highly reccomend this book. It will help you hold God to a higher view, appreciate the culture that you do consume as stemming (originally) from God, and help you balance the fine line between legalism and liberty.
August 29, 2017
I'm having a hard time writing about Gray Matters without simply copying the whole book into this post.
In the same way, I had a hard time reading Gray Matters without underlining every sentence in the book.
It's that good, and it's that relevant to a sort-of millennial, Wicker Park hipster such as myself, who is trying to find that balance between legalism and liberty.
Author Brett McCracken effortlessly strikes the balance between the two in this book, in form as in fact, the right mix of progressive with conservative, dense theology and history with personal experience. McCracken also manages to write about pop culture without sounding condescending; so often, it feels like Christian authors make a purposeful mention of a song or movie only to prove how hip with the kids they are.
More than that, he writes, "It's about being so intentional, so careful, so passionate about getting the most out of the cultural goods we consume that those around us can't help but wonder: Why do we care so much?"
It's because St. Paul writes:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God -- even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved" (1 Corinthians 10:31-33).
It's because, as Christians, we are to glorify God in whatever we do, in eating and drinking, in what we listen to and what we watch.
Because we are called to live in community, which means we are called to live with people who may struggle with overindulgence in food or alcohol or who may be offended by some music and movies.
Because we reflect our identity and values in what culture we consume and how we consume it.
Because God created the world and called it good, and He means for us to enjoy those good things. And because we also participate in that in some small way when we create something that reflects the truth and beauty of the world around us or when we thoughtfully consume what others have created.
It's why I really loved Gray Matters and can't recommend it to you enough.
Full disclosure: I received this book free from Baker Books.
In the same way, I had a hard time reading Gray Matters without underlining every sentence in the book.
It's that good, and it's that relevant to a sort-of millennial, Wicker Park hipster such as myself, who is trying to find that balance between legalism and liberty.
Author Brett McCracken effortlessly strikes the balance between the two in this book, in form as in fact, the right mix of progressive with conservative, dense theology and history with personal experience. McCracken also manages to write about pop culture without sounding condescending; so often, it feels like Christian authors make a purposeful mention of a song or movie only to prove how hip with the kids they are.
More than that, he writes, "It's about being so intentional, so careful, so passionate about getting the most out of the cultural goods we consume that those around us can't help but wonder: Why do we care so much?"
It's because St. Paul writes:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God -- even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved" (1 Corinthians 10:31-33).
It's because, as Christians, we are to glorify God in whatever we do, in eating and drinking, in what we listen to and what we watch.
Because we are called to live in community, which means we are called to live with people who may struggle with overindulgence in food or alcohol or who may be offended by some music and movies.
Because we reflect our identity and values in what culture we consume and how we consume it.
Because God created the world and called it good, and He means for us to enjoy those good things. And because we also participate in that in some small way when we create something that reflects the truth and beauty of the world around us or when we thoughtfully consume what others have created.
It's why I really loved Gray Matters and can't recommend it to you enough.
Full disclosure: I received this book free from Baker Books.
March 10, 2014
I grew up partly in a small town called Purcell Oklahoma. It's one of those idyllic Midwestern towns built on a railroad. It even has a Main Street. My childhood explorations would often take me to Main Street where I would find an abandoned movie theater. Few things are as depressing. My young imagination would be swimming with images of Indiana Jones, Star Wars, or even Annie. But here lies this movie theater either abandoned or co-opted into an antique store.
When I got a little older, I asked around to see why there weren't actual movies in the movie theater.
I learned that the religious community rallied against the entrepreneur and had it shut down.
At the time I wasn't "churched", but even if I had been I can't imagine being anything but profoundly annoyed.
So I check out this Brett McCracken book about the gray areas of Christian liberty. I have to admit, I was a late comer to evangelicalism. I'm sure I err way too far on the “liberty” end of the scale. Even so, my eyes were already rolling when I picked up this book (makes it hard to read). McCracken won me over. This is a good book, full of helpful insights and guidelines. My favorite parts were the history of how the church reckoned with music, film, and alcohol.
One of the heartbreaks was how hard the church campaigned for prohibition. And won. It’s a great illustration of the law of unintended consequences. The church was probably right . Alcoholism is not a good thing, but look what happened. Black markets, Tommy guns, speakeasies, and bad movies starring Christian Slater. We have good intentions when we try to get these things legislated, but we don't consider the outcome. I'm sure there are those who have their pet projects even now and are trying to get them rammed through Congress. Could they be sowing the seeds for similar destruction?
How do we fix this? McCracken is more concerned with the appropriate approach within the church. I'm curious about how the church should look from the inside out. Probably the answer is liberty. These historical anecdotes push me closer to political libertarianism. I'd like to be able to exercise my faith and philosophies. I want to be careful to allow others to do so, too
When I got a little older, I asked around to see why there weren't actual movies in the movie theater.
I learned that the religious community rallied against the entrepreneur and had it shut down.
At the time I wasn't "churched", but even if I had been I can't imagine being anything but profoundly annoyed.
So I check out this Brett McCracken book about the gray areas of Christian liberty. I have to admit, I was a late comer to evangelicalism. I'm sure I err way too far on the “liberty” end of the scale. Even so, my eyes were already rolling when I picked up this book (makes it hard to read). McCracken won me over. This is a good book, full of helpful insights and guidelines. My favorite parts were the history of how the church reckoned with music, film, and alcohol.
One of the heartbreaks was how hard the church campaigned for prohibition. And won. It’s a great illustration of the law of unintended consequences. The church was probably right . Alcoholism is not a good thing, but look what happened. Black markets, Tommy guns, speakeasies, and bad movies starring Christian Slater. We have good intentions when we try to get these things legislated, but we don't consider the outcome. I'm sure there are those who have their pet projects even now and are trying to get them rammed through Congress. Could they be sowing the seeds for similar destruction?
How do we fix this? McCracken is more concerned with the appropriate approach within the church. I'm curious about how the church should look from the inside out. Probably the answer is liberty. These historical anecdotes push me closer to political libertarianism. I'd like to be able to exercise my faith and philosophies. I want to be careful to allow others to do so, too
September 23, 2013
McCracken is addressing a very important issue that, while central to our way of life, seems to be neglected. What does it mean to be a consumer as a Christian?
We hear a lot about the producers of culture. Artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, etc. And Christians are starting to do a good job of figuring out what it means to produce culture Christianly. But how are we supposed to consume culture Christianly? You can't get by in America without being a consumer. So this is a question that we have to face.
McCracken's approach is very systematic. He tackles four contentious categories in turn: Food, Music, Movies, and Alcohol. He surveys the traditional cultural battles in each of these areas. He highlights the good elements of each side. And he tries to chart out a way of approaching each with moderation.
The best things about the book is Brett's honesty and authenticity. He does a thorough job, but he doesn't claim to be exhaustive or authoritative. It's more like he's posing some questions, his thoughts on the matters, and then inviting the reader to think along with him. Between chapters he inserts some very personal vignettes that make the book sparkle.
All in all, worth the read. I didn't learn much that I hadn't already thought about, but it's a great conversation starter, and I hope he or someone else does a follow-up.
We hear a lot about the producers of culture. Artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, etc. And Christians are starting to do a good job of figuring out what it means to produce culture Christianly. But how are we supposed to consume culture Christianly? You can't get by in America without being a consumer. So this is a question that we have to face.
McCracken's approach is very systematic. He tackles four contentious categories in turn: Food, Music, Movies, and Alcohol. He surveys the traditional cultural battles in each of these areas. He highlights the good elements of each side. And he tries to chart out a way of approaching each with moderation.
The best things about the book is Brett's honesty and authenticity. He does a thorough job, but he doesn't claim to be exhaustive or authoritative. It's more like he's posing some questions, his thoughts on the matters, and then inviting the reader to think along with him. Between chapters he inserts some very personal vignettes that make the book sparkle.
All in all, worth the read. I didn't learn much that I hadn't already thought about, but it's a great conversation starter, and I hope he or someone else does a follow-up.
September 13, 2014
While I enjoyed this book, I would be careful in my recommendation of it to another person. *spoiler* McCracken, in his conclusion, says to be consumed by Christ before you can hope to engage culture worshipfully and in a God glorifying manner. So, that would be my criteria for recommendation. I would greatly recommend this book to a believer who is capable of discernment in such matters, and won't take "liberty" too far. From a book review online I read this looking to "lighten up, and tighten up" in some areas. The methods of discernment here I found helpful, while written in a way I feel comfortable coming to differing conclusions than the author. I also loved the emphasis on community (and any parts on coffee, my cultural commodity of choice). A good book that encouraged self-examination, and biblical study with prayers for discernment. A great help in navigating the grey in life, when too black or white can hurt our Christian witness. Glory to God who made flavors, colors, lights, and community. Glory to God who promises to renew our minds, that with testing we may discern His will (Rom 12:2).
September 18, 2013
Gray Matters is a much needed book for the Christian community. While it has plenty to make you think about it never tells you how to think. Brett addresses four area: Food, Music, Movies and Alcohol. The main reason I bought the book was the section on movies and it was well worth the price of the book. The section on food was good but not of much interest to me. I enjoyed and was challenged by the section on music, but just browsed the section on alcohol.
It is worth having in your library and is worth recommending to your friends. Gray Matters is helpful and biblical without being pushy or obnoxious. Thoroughly enjoyed what parts I read and for the cinephile, the section on movies is solid! Definitely check it out!
It is worth having in your library and is worth recommending to your friends. Gray Matters is helpful and biblical without being pushy or obnoxious. Thoroughly enjoyed what parts I read and for the cinephile, the section on movies is solid! Definitely check it out!
March 2, 2014
Really great read for anyone who grew up in Fundamentalist culture that told them to abstain from "the world." McCracken makes valid points regarding a Christian enjoyment and love for good food, good music, good film and good alcohol and how they can draw us deeper into community and prompt us to worship. He also stresses discernment and urges against extreme liberty -- there are times to abstain and times to partake, and the book argues for good, informed Christian thought instead of a "thou shalt/thou shalt not" approach. Allows Christians to find that balance between legalism and liberty.
November 7, 2013
A needed break from fiction on a topic that has interested me for decades. I like how this Christian author does not moralize, but gives us a way to come to terms with what and how we consume culture - as followers of Christ. He recommends 7 key themes of 'Christian Cultural Consumption' (see intro) and concludes: " . . it's a wonder any of us has a capacity to slow down and worhip an invisible God. It's miraculous that in spite of the glut of amusememts and the breakneck pace of our lives, God is still present and active." NO KIDDING.
June 27, 2014
Interesting exploration about how to critically approach culture and avoid legalism & liberty... Though at times his "helpful hints" felt very legalistic. My favorite part was an interlude about trying to stop the pendulum of reactionary theology (now we are full of liberty reacting to the legalism of our parents' generation). I think an approach that encourages questioning over blind acceptance is always a good idea!
April 13, 2014
A great book that explores the areas of culture that many in the fundamentalist camp deem as 'unclean'. The author advocates the middle position of considerate consumption and tackles issues with the core sin of living in excess (and even living in denial). More emphasis and I think a lot more expertise is shown in discussing movies (as as the author is a film critic) but overall a very helpful book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews