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7 Reasons to (Re)Consider Christianity
Many people assume that Christianity is simply a nice story for kids, a comforting crutch to lean on, or completely out of touch with modern life.
In this warm, honest book, Ben Shaw invites skeptical readers to think again. He outlines seven reasons why Christianity is worth considering--or reconsidering--not least because it offers some thought-provoking and rational answers to our deepest questions.
Ben Shaw was brought up in a non-Christian home and held many of the common objections to faith himself. He writes with warmth and empathy to encourage readers to investigate the person of Jesus and decide for themselves whether Christianity has credible answers to the meaning of life.
In this warm, honest book, Ben Shaw invites skeptical readers to think again. He outlines seven reasons why Christianity is worth considering--or reconsidering--not least because it offers some thought-provoking and rational answers to our deepest questions.
Ben Shaw was brought up in a non-Christian home and held many of the common objections to faith himself. He writes with warmth and empathy to encourage readers to investigate the person of Jesus and decide for themselves whether Christianity has credible answers to the meaning of life.
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Published May 1, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 4, 2023
a great book to read as a christian thinking through the things you believe but also a fantastic book for someone considering christianity.
Shaw never tries to be pushy or gives the feeling of pushing someone to become a christian but instead leaves the doors open to just considering whether christianity is reliable.
Shaw’s approach of answering questions and statements about life in general is really helpful and he goes on to show how christianity can answer many of those questions.
a great read!
Shaw never tries to be pushy or gives the feeling of pushing someone to become a christian but instead leaves the doors open to just considering whether christianity is reliable.
Shaw’s approach of answering questions and statements about life in general is really helpful and he goes on to show how christianity can answer many of those questions.
a great read!
June 16, 2022
**Reason 7: If Jesus really did rise from the dead, then it would confirm everything:**
- It would confirm who he is
- It would confirm what he said
- It would confirm what he did
- It would confirm what will happen
- All agree the tomb was empty
- The resurrection was part of the preaching of the first disciples
**PS: Why I’ve (re)considered Christianity**
“Everything in it is written from a deep, road-tested conviction that this stuff matters more than anything else in the world—for me and for you.”
Let me be able to write this, and believe it, too, Lord!
- It would confirm who he is
- It would confirm what he said
- It would confirm what he did
- It would confirm what will happen
- All agree the tomb was empty
- The resurrection was part of the preaching of the first disciples
**PS: Why I’ve (re)considered Christianity**
“Everything in it is written from a deep, road-tested conviction that this stuff matters more than anything else in the world—for me and for you.”
Let me be able to write this, and believe it, too, Lord!
May 13, 2021
After finishing 'Scientism and Secularism,' I was eager to start this book because of the more recently media-tized (but certainly not new) trend of deconstructing of faiths and the leaving of particular theological camps. In ‘7 reasons to (Re)consider Christianity,’ Shaw gives the reader bedrock points to the foundation of Christianity. These are great to think through for someone who thinks they generally know what Christianity is about. I think each of his points are worth thinking through deeply, especially someone approaching Christianity; however, the execution of this book ((really)) frustrated me. Shaw leans into intellectual and philosophical thought, but does not give substantial academic evidences to support his claims. It's minimal at best.
Shaw says that he hopes this book “helps you see the intellectual credibility of the Christian’s position” (9). And while I am a Christian and see the intellectual credibility he refers to, the audience for this book will be left wanting the evidence of those claims. The author has more of a ‘take my word for it’ tone in this book, which unfortunately will never cut it for someone who is perhaps “reconsidering Christianity.”
This book would be enhanced if it was 50 more pages and had included some sort of “For Further Reading” section or just a list of the credentials/evidences/sources/historians/secular voices he mentions….but never cites. We need the author’s research shown, and I was very disappointed that he mostly gives a nod to the fact that the research exists.
Overall, it is a book that may stir you to do more academic research of your own and is beneficial for thinking through common beliefs and “if…then” statements. I think it would be a good gift for someone who is open to religious discussion, has their own assumptions of what it means to be a Christian, or has maybe deconstructed from faith altogether. The best thing about this book is that it helps the reader reconsider what they think they know and ponder the questions: “What if it’s all true? What if Jesus really was who he claimed to be, and he did have the answers to our biggest questions?” (21) The are massive implications to the answers of those questions, and this book helps begin that journey of reconsidering Christianity.
#readRENEEread
Shaw says that he hopes this book “helps you see the intellectual credibility of the Christian’s position” (9). And while I am a Christian and see the intellectual credibility he refers to, the audience for this book will be left wanting the evidence of those claims. The author has more of a ‘take my word for it’ tone in this book, which unfortunately will never cut it for someone who is perhaps “reconsidering Christianity.”
This book would be enhanced if it was 50 more pages and had included some sort of “For Further Reading” section or just a list of the credentials/evidences/sources/historians/secular voices he mentions….but never cites. We need the author’s research shown, and I was very disappointed that he mostly gives a nod to the fact that the research exists.
Overall, it is a book that may stir you to do more academic research of your own and is beneficial for thinking through common beliefs and “if…then” statements. I think it would be a good gift for someone who is open to religious discussion, has their own assumptions of what it means to be a Christian, or has maybe deconstructed from faith altogether. The best thing about this book is that it helps the reader reconsider what they think they know and ponder the questions: “What if it’s all true? What if Jesus really was who he claimed to be, and he did have the answers to our biggest questions?” (21) The are massive implications to the answers of those questions, and this book helps begin that journey of reconsidering Christianity.
#readRENEEread
May 25, 2024
thought-provoking in the moment, but then every time i put it down i felt like there wasn't much to ruminate on. and it's not that it didn't resonate w me, bc i did admire the approach of the book and how it started w a lot of generalized truths that anybody would be on board with and then gradually honed in on specifics......but idk, maybe when i read theology then i overestimate how open-minded I actually am. so it's an insightful book but i think i am the problem.
also in my opinion, "mere christianity" was more compelling. which is perhaps ironic bc this book did quote c.s. lewis several times but then didn't elaborate on those points as well so i actually went back to my copy of "mere christianity" periodically to refresh myself on the original, more articulate version of the argument lol. i think i'd rather just reread that one.
also in my opinion, "mere christianity" was more compelling. which is perhaps ironic bc this book did quote c.s. lewis several times but then didn't elaborate on those points as well so i actually went back to my copy of "mere christianity" periodically to refresh myself on the original, more articulate version of the argument lol. i think i'd rather just reread that one.
October 4, 2023
A clear explanation of why Christianity answers the negative criticisms put before it. It won't answer all the questions, but it's a compelling step into a new understanding of faith and truth.
December 30, 2024
A really interesting book and one that has raised more questions for me!
May 5, 2021
Seven Reasons to (re)Consider Christianity isn’t the kind of book I thought it would be—and that’s a good thing. Books like this tend to rehash the same things over and over, giving readers a fairly standard apologetic. Ben Shaw takes that stock format and changes it, not giving the readers The Answer™, but instead focusing on why Christianity is worth testing. And that’s the real difference. The key word is “consider.” Shaw is simply asking readers to consider Christianity as a possible answer to some of the questions they might be asking. In an increasingly secular age—particularly here in the UK—it comes across as a genuine request to individuals who may honestly not see the point of Christianity at all.
The seven reasons that Shaw gives are all phrased as statements. Reconsider Christianity because..
1. It’s worth thinking through what life is really all about
2. Christianity is a lot more intellectually credible than you might have assumed
3. Christianity is about living life to the full
4. Christianity gives a compelling answer to the question ‘What’s wrong with the world?’
5. Jesus is arguably the most influential person in history
6. The death of Jesus is surprisingly very good news for you
7. If Jesus really did rise from the dead, it would confirm everything
Notice the path that Shaw’s argumentations take. He begins with generalities: the meaning of life is worth consideration. Life is important enough that we take it seriously and explore our reason for being. We’re not into specifics of Christianity yet, or even religion, really. Shaw’s simply laying the foundation, saying “What if…” and “if so, isn’t it worth checking out?” That’s a powerful philosophical argument that begins where people are and doesn’t ask them to go to far.
From there, Shaw tears down some stereotypes about Christianity: it’s not credible, it’s not fun. Granted, there are Christians who very much portray this kind of Christianity. Shaw says it isn’t necessary. You don’t have to check your brains at the door and you are allowed to have fun. Shaw pokes at the intellectual and sociological barriers to the faith, suggesting that the aren’t great excuses after all.
The next two begin to offer specifics. We can all see that there’s something wrong with the world. The Christian worldview offers a coherent explanation with hope that things will get better. Other worldviews don’t necessarily offer that. And then there’s Jesus—think about how all religions seem to want a piece of him in some form. Isn’t he at least worth considering?
Then we finish with specifics: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Shaw’s Gospel explorations are clear, straightforward, and simple. He presents it as the logical next step for the journey we’ve been on. It’s a powerful build-up that demands a response.
Seven Reasons to (re)Consider Christianity is a book I would gladly hand out to anyone skeptical but seeking. Shaw’s writing is conversational, cogent, and clear. He doesn’t write from a position of authority but from one of sharing knowledge. This is what he has learned and this is what he wants to tell you about it. And if you’re already a believer, this book has great value for showing us how to better evangelize. Oftentimes, the Christian is the greatest barrier to belief that Christianity has. Shaw models a method that is relational and conversational, not telling the individual how to think but simply that faith is something worth thinking about. A beautiful book!
The seven reasons that Shaw gives are all phrased as statements. Reconsider Christianity because..
1. It’s worth thinking through what life is really all about
2. Christianity is a lot more intellectually credible than you might have assumed
3. Christianity is about living life to the full
4. Christianity gives a compelling answer to the question ‘What’s wrong with the world?’
5. Jesus is arguably the most influential person in history
6. The death of Jesus is surprisingly very good news for you
7. If Jesus really did rise from the dead, it would confirm everything
Notice the path that Shaw’s argumentations take. He begins with generalities: the meaning of life is worth consideration. Life is important enough that we take it seriously and explore our reason for being. We’re not into specifics of Christianity yet, or even religion, really. Shaw’s simply laying the foundation, saying “What if…” and “if so, isn’t it worth checking out?” That’s a powerful philosophical argument that begins where people are and doesn’t ask them to go to far.
From there, Shaw tears down some stereotypes about Christianity: it’s not credible, it’s not fun. Granted, there are Christians who very much portray this kind of Christianity. Shaw says it isn’t necessary. You don’t have to check your brains at the door and you are allowed to have fun. Shaw pokes at the intellectual and sociological barriers to the faith, suggesting that the aren’t great excuses after all.
The next two begin to offer specifics. We can all see that there’s something wrong with the world. The Christian worldview offers a coherent explanation with hope that things will get better. Other worldviews don’t necessarily offer that. And then there’s Jesus—think about how all religions seem to want a piece of him in some form. Isn’t he at least worth considering?
Then we finish with specifics: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Shaw’s Gospel explorations are clear, straightforward, and simple. He presents it as the logical next step for the journey we’ve been on. It’s a powerful build-up that demands a response.
Seven Reasons to (re)Consider Christianity is a book I would gladly hand out to anyone skeptical but seeking. Shaw’s writing is conversational, cogent, and clear. He doesn’t write from a position of authority but from one of sharing knowledge. This is what he has learned and this is what he wants to tell you about it. And if you’re already a believer, this book has great value for showing us how to better evangelize. Oftentimes, the Christian is the greatest barrier to belief that Christianity has. Shaw models a method that is relational and conversational, not telling the individual how to think but simply that faith is something worth thinking about. A beautiful book!
May 15, 2021
In this book, Ben Shaw shares reasons why people should reconsider Christianity, or else consider it for the first time. He says that in his conversations, he has found that people often dismiss Christianity because "there isn't enough evidence," but can't support this when he presses them. He encourages readers to consider the ways that Christianity is surprisingly credible, and does so with both intellectual and emotional elements in mind. At the beginning, he encourages people to think deeply about what life is really about, and he argues for Christianity's worldview by showing how it provides abundant life and gives us an accurate, comprehensive framework for understand what is wrong with the world.
However, before he explores God's plan to redeem the world through Christ, he lays the groundwork for why someone should find Jesus credible. For example, he addresses the complete consensus among serious academics that Jesus was a real person, the plurality of ancient manuscript sources, and the ways that the gospel narratives are specific and were verifiable for their original audiences through eyewitness testimony and location details. He also writes about the evidence for the resurrection, providing history-based, intellectual reasons to consider this miraculous claim. Shaw also addresses common hang-ups and misunderstandings that people have about faith, and encourages his readers to continue asking questions and read more in-depth books to address their questions and concerns.
This is a great starting point for teenagers and adults with questions about Christianity, whether they are inside or outside of the church. I can't personally speak for how a skeptic would respond to this book, but it's the kind of resource that I found very helpful as a teenager, when I was trying to understand my faith in a deeper way and grasp the historical underpinnings behind it. I especially appreciate how Shaw writes about deep questions from a humble and relaxed posture, bringing up ideas worth considering without claiming to have all the answers or getting into specific theological debates. This is something that I would feel comfortable recommending to someone outside of the church, and it is a fantastic starting point for anyone who is willing to entertain new or doubted ideas and give them a fair hearing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
However, before he explores God's plan to redeem the world through Christ, he lays the groundwork for why someone should find Jesus credible. For example, he addresses the complete consensus among serious academics that Jesus was a real person, the plurality of ancient manuscript sources, and the ways that the gospel narratives are specific and were verifiable for their original audiences through eyewitness testimony and location details. He also writes about the evidence for the resurrection, providing history-based, intellectual reasons to consider this miraculous claim. Shaw also addresses common hang-ups and misunderstandings that people have about faith, and encourages his readers to continue asking questions and read more in-depth books to address their questions and concerns.
This is a great starting point for teenagers and adults with questions about Christianity, whether they are inside or outside of the church. I can't personally speak for how a skeptic would respond to this book, but it's the kind of resource that I found very helpful as a teenager, when I was trying to understand my faith in a deeper way and grasp the historical underpinnings behind it. I especially appreciate how Shaw writes about deep questions from a humble and relaxed posture, bringing up ideas worth considering without claiming to have all the answers or getting into specific theological debates. This is something that I would feel comfortable recommending to someone outside of the church, and it is a fantastic starting point for anyone who is willing to entertain new or doubted ideas and give them a fair hearing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2021
There have been many reports of people deconstructing and casting aside their faith. In 7 Reasons to (Re)Consider Christianity, Ben Shaw asks you to examine the evidence for Christianity and why it is worth considering.
Go Straight to Jesus
At less than 150 pages, Shaw writes a quick and compelling book. After a short introduction, he jumps right in with his first reason: Because it’s worth thinking through what life is really about. He takes us straight to Jesus, examining his impactful answers and incredible actions.
Next, Shaw says that the Christian faith is more intellectually credible than you think. He explains the historicity and evidences of the Bible, giving it intellectual integrity. This book is not an academic work filled with footnotes – but I found it to be well-argued and credible.
Listen Carefully
In Chapter 3, Shaw explains how Christianity is actually about living life to the full. He explains “God,” “Jesus,” and “Heaven” as the lyrics of Christianity – and asks us to listen to them carefully to see what they really mean.
The book then shows how Christianity gives a compelling answer to the question “What’s wrong with the world?” It’s an honest assessment of the human condition, and assures us that the cure is only found in Jesus.
Consider the Evidence
Shaw explains that Jesus is the most influential person in history by looking at his words of conviction, words of controversy, his conduct, and miracles. Shaw ultimately invites his readers to pick up one of the Gospels and see for themselves.
The death of Jesus is really good news – and Chapter 6 showcases the great swap: his life for yours. Chapter 7 states that the resurrection would confirm everything, and Shaw asks us to consider the evidence from scholars, history, and the Biblical accounts.
See for Yourself
The urgency in Shaw’s writing style seems to be explained at the end of the book, as he shares he is facing a cancer diagnosis and had to reconsider Christianity himself. Again, he calls us to pick up a Gospel and see for ourselves what Christianity is all about.
When the world asks the big questions, the only answer is found in Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life.
I received a media copy of 7 Reasons to (Re)Consider Christianity and this is my honest review.
Go Straight to Jesus
At less than 150 pages, Shaw writes a quick and compelling book. After a short introduction, he jumps right in with his first reason: Because it’s worth thinking through what life is really about. He takes us straight to Jesus, examining his impactful answers and incredible actions.
Next, Shaw says that the Christian faith is more intellectually credible than you think. He explains the historicity and evidences of the Bible, giving it intellectual integrity. This book is not an academic work filled with footnotes – but I found it to be well-argued and credible.
Listen Carefully
In Chapter 3, Shaw explains how Christianity is actually about living life to the full. He explains “God,” “Jesus,” and “Heaven” as the lyrics of Christianity – and asks us to listen to them carefully to see what they really mean.
The book then shows how Christianity gives a compelling answer to the question “What’s wrong with the world?” It’s an honest assessment of the human condition, and assures us that the cure is only found in Jesus.
Consider the Evidence
Shaw explains that Jesus is the most influential person in history by looking at his words of conviction, words of controversy, his conduct, and miracles. Shaw ultimately invites his readers to pick up one of the Gospels and see for themselves.
The death of Jesus is really good news – and Chapter 6 showcases the great swap: his life for yours. Chapter 7 states that the resurrection would confirm everything, and Shaw asks us to consider the evidence from scholars, history, and the Biblical accounts.
See for Yourself
The urgency in Shaw’s writing style seems to be explained at the end of the book, as he shares he is facing a cancer diagnosis and had to reconsider Christianity himself. Again, he calls us to pick up a Gospel and see for ourselves what Christianity is all about.
When the world asks the big questions, the only answer is found in Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life.
I received a media copy of 7 Reasons to (Re)Consider Christianity and this is my honest review.
November 8, 2021
Very good little book encouraging seekers to consider - or reconsider - the evidence for Christianity. A lovely blend of hard evidence and existential appeal, all written with a great time. Very good to have to give out after church or CU evangelistic events. My only criticism is that I wish there were suggestions for taking things further for those who want to go beyond an introduction.
July 25, 2022
Bought this to give to a friend … but, on reading it, decided that it wouldn’t suit them, but may be helpful for someone else. This is a logical discussion of 7 reasons to reconsider Christianity, explaining the essentials of having faith. The second last chapter was the highlight to me - with Ben Shaw’s personal story unpacked a bit more.
June 28, 2021
The best answer to Why Should I Be A Christian? I've ever read. Much more than a treatise in apologetics - this is a practical, easy to grasp and RETAIN explanation of, What's the big deal? and What's in for me? A perfect pass-along book to others struggling with questions about Christianity.
November 15, 2021
Really excellent little book that packs a lot of content into not many pages. I immediately thought of several people I would love to buy this book for - it is a wonderful evangelistic resource. Highly recommend.
May 9, 2021
I loved this book. It was enjoyable, historical, and informative. I’d recommend it to those familiar with Christian teachings as readily as I would to those less familiar.
March 30, 2022
I enjoyed this book. I found it easy to read and it has lots of well laid out reasons to consider or reconsider Christianity.
January 14, 2023
I read this just to prove a point to someone. It was as bad as I expected it to be and it did not change my mind in the least.
April 6, 2023
Quick & easy read with all of the arguments I’ve already heard as to why Christianity is legit. If I weren’t already a Christian, I’m not sure this book would convince me.
December 31, 2023
Well written! Chapter 4 is outstanding! If anyone objects to giving this a read, I would strongly urge them to start with chapter 4 and chew on the explanation given for the state of our world.
November 10, 2024
Highly recommend. I'd love to give a copy to each person who wants to live the best most fulfilling life possible.
July 25, 2021
I was expecting the usual answers and content, but found this wonderfully fresh and insightful. Excellent.
January 3, 2022
This book is like an open invitation to ask some really good questions about life, Jesus, and the Bible. I didn't find it pushy, and at the end, it doesn't offer a sinner's prayer, instead it has some helpful suggestions for those who want to take it further and ask more questions. Ultimately, I would say it is set up to help people make an informed choice on whether the Bible is trustworthy and worth investigating.
The section that has stuck with me the most is a section on 'misheard lyrics'. In a similar way to how we can mishear certain lyrics, this book makes the case that the message of the bible can be also be misheard for various reasons. It then goes on to look at the misheard lyrics we often have about God, Jesus, and Heaven, and then presents us with the real lyrics according to the Bible. I love that it also makes a case for the intellectual credibility of the message of the Bible, and challenges those who write off the reliability of the Bible when really they are just assuming it is unreliable.
The copy I had was borrowed, upon finishing I promptly went out and purchase a copy for myself, and a few spares, as I have several friends this book would be perfect for.
The section that has stuck with me the most is a section on 'misheard lyrics'. In a similar way to how we can mishear certain lyrics, this book makes the case that the message of the bible can be also be misheard for various reasons. It then goes on to look at the misheard lyrics we often have about God, Jesus, and Heaven, and then presents us with the real lyrics according to the Bible. I love that it also makes a case for the intellectual credibility of the message of the Bible, and challenges those who write off the reliability of the Bible when really they are just assuming it is unreliable.
The copy I had was borrowed, upon finishing I promptly went out and purchase a copy for myself, and a few spares, as I have several friends this book would be perfect for.
May 16, 2022
A wonderful read filled with stories and insights.
The interview between George Sylvester Viereck & Albert Einstein in chapter 2 (“2. Because Christianity is a lot more intellectually credible than you might have assumed”) resonated with me a lot:
Interviewer: “You accept the historical acceptance of Jesus?”
Albert Einstein: “Unquestionably! No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus. His personality pulsates in every word. No myth is filled with such life”.
“Jesus is the pioneer of life. He has forced open a door that has been locked since the death of the first person.” ~ C.S. Lewis
Personally speaking, I first began to think about God and the Bible over five years ago for several reasons: a question of the meaning of life, a curiosity about the stories of Jesus and why Wikipedia’s PageRank highlights Him as the most influential person in history, the desire to know what happens when we die.
From the 40 minute mark onward (https://bit.ly/38jKV5Q)
May you be inspired; & then may you reflect upon the bravery & courage of this fellow Australia.
R.I.P. Ben
The interview between George Sylvester Viereck & Albert Einstein in chapter 2 (“2. Because Christianity is a lot more intellectually credible than you might have assumed”) resonated with me a lot:
Interviewer: “You accept the historical acceptance of Jesus?”
Albert Einstein: “Unquestionably! No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus. His personality pulsates in every word. No myth is filled with such life”.
“Jesus is the pioneer of life. He has forced open a door that has been locked since the death of the first person.” ~ C.S. Lewis
Personally speaking, I first began to think about God and the Bible over five years ago for several reasons: a question of the meaning of life, a curiosity about the stories of Jesus and why Wikipedia’s PageRank highlights Him as the most influential person in history, the desire to know what happens when we die.
From the 40 minute mark onward (https://bit.ly/38jKV5Q)
May you be inspired; & then may you reflect upon the bravery & courage of this fellow Australia.
R.I.P. Ben
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews