'The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism' by Timothy J. Keller is a thought-provoking exploration of doubts and objections to Christianity, presented in a warm and engaging manner. The book addresses common objections to faith and offers reasons to believe, all while showing respect for skeptics and seekers. Keller tackles topics like the existence of God, the challenges of skepticism, and the basics of Christian teaching, aiming to provide a clear and concise outline of the Christian faith.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and compassionate, employing logical reasoning while drawing from various cultural references.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative focuses on presenting logical answers to common objections against Christianity and supports the case for belief in God.

Setting:

The setting is contemporary and urban, influenced by the secular atmosphere of New York City.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, with some parts requiring more contemplation, reflecting on deep philosophical questions.

“How could there be just one true faith?” asked Blair, a twenty-four-year-old woman living in Manhattan. “It’s arrogant to say your religion is superior and try to convert everyone else to it. Surely ...

Genres:

christian apologetics

philosophy

nonfiction

Topics:

existence of god

suffering and evil

religious pluralism

nature of christianity

the importance of faith

the resurrection

the problem of sin

existential doubt

Notes:

The book is an apologetic for the existence of God.

Tim Keller has pastored in New York City and engages with skeptics from various backgrounds.

The book is divided into two main sections: objections to Christianity and reasons for faith.

Keller addresses seven common objections to Christianity in the first part.

Objections include: 1) There can’t be just one true religion, 2) How could a good God allow suffering, 3) Christianity is a straightjacket, and more.

In the second part, Keller presents reasons for belief, like the Clues of God and the Reality of the Resurrection.

Keller's approach is respectful and kind, making it easier for skeptics to engage with his arguments.

The book is written in a way that is accessible to both skeptics and believers.

Keller is compared to C.S. Lewis, as both tackle tough questions about faith in a clear manner.

The author believes in a nuanced view of hell, suggesting it relates to one's chosen identity apart from God.

He accepts that some Christians integrate evolutionary theory with their faith.

Keller’s arguments often stem from real conversations he's had with skeptics in Manhattan.

The book encourages readers to question their own beliefs and assumptions about faith.

It has been described as a blend of philosophical argument and pastoral care.

Many readers find the book thought-provoking but not all agree with Keller's conclusions.

From The Publisher:

A New York Times bestseller people can believe in-by "a pioneer of the new urban Christians" (Christianity Today) and the "C.S. Lewis for the 21st century" (Newsweek).

Timothy Keller, the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, addresses the frequent doubts that skeptics, and even ardent believers, have about religion. Using literature, philosophy, real-life conversations, and potent reasoning, Keller explains how the belief in a Christian God is, in fact, a sound and rational one. To true believers he offers a solid platform on which to stand their ground against the backlash to religion created by the Age of Skepticism. And to skeptics, atheists, and agnostics, he provides a challenging argument for pursuing the reason for God.

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About the Author:

Timothy Keller was born and raised in Pennsylvania, and educated at Bucknell University, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and Westminster Theological Seminary. He was first a pastor in Hopewell, Virginia. In 1989 he started Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, with his…

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The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

Timothy J. Keller