A Mind for God

Is easy to follow and very helpful in understanding the role of learning. This book also speaks to our responsibilities in learning as Christians.

This work packs a lot of punch for its size. It is a serious challenge to the contemporary Christian to be reading, learning, thinking, and reflecting so that we may be "transformed by the renewing of [our] mind." White contends that the only way for the Christian to successfully contend for the faith against the philosophies of the crowd around him is to out-think them; and the only way to out-think them is to out-read them. Helpful suggested reading lists are included in the Appendix. Much of this material is repeated in "Serious Times" by the same author.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!

"Thinking Christianly" is the purpose of James Emery White's, A Mind For God. He writes early on, "While short in length, it sketches out a very large challenge and investment: to develop our minds in light of a biblical worldview that is then used to think Christianly in the world." The author reaches his intended goal. First, he explains the Christian mind and stresses the importance of recognizing and submitting to propositional revelation. "The Christian mind is a mind that operates under the belief that there is something outside of ourselves that we must take into account." Second, the author develops the cultural mind. In so doing, he explains the cultural battle that faces every Christian, namely, moral relativism, autonomous individualism, narcissistic hedonism, and reductive naturalism. James Emery White argues essentially that Christ-followers must recognize these cultural competitors and respond in a biblical and winsome way. Third, the author spends time developing the importance of developing good reading skills in order to nurture the Christian mind and provide a solid foundation for intellectual development. Scripture, of course, is the centerpiece of the strategy here. Fourth, there is a certain body of truth one ought to know if he or she is to nurture a properly informed Christian mind. Included among the most important items are biblical, historical, and theological literacy. "Before a mind can contend with culture," White argues, "it must first ground itself in a sound and vibrant Christian theology." The author stresses the need for spiritual discipline: "We need to recapture a sense that the development of our minds is a spiritual discipline." He props up specific rules for reading, learning, and reflection. Finally, James Emery White brings everything together by making an appeal to the lordship of Christ, the issue that stands at the crux of Christian mind development and discipleship. He writes, "This is the vanguard of Christian thinking - knowing how to live and then working to make the kingdom of God a reality for others to be able to live as well." I really enjoyed this book. James Emery White has the perfect blend of Bible, cultural awareness, passion for the truth, and creativity. A Mind for God is a welcome addition to my own book, Developing a Christian Mind in a Post-Christian World which creates a workable framework for "thinking Christianly."

A Mind for God has been a tremendous blessing to read, White's treatment of the subject of thinking Christianly was remarkable. The book is very informative, encouraging, and challenging. White states, "A single book can deepen your understanding, expand your vision, sensitize your spirit, deepen your soul, ignite your imagination, stir your passions and widen your wisdom." Well, that is precisely what A Mind for God does for those who read it.

Having read myriads of Christian worldview titles, I did not find a great deal new or "original." However, White provides a good summary of biblical, Christianly worldview thinking and what the regenerate person is like in his/her thinking. Given the relativistic pluralism of the day, White reminds and challenges thinking that is timely timely and sobering. I can commend it without reservation.

Great book! A clarion call for Christians to begin to do the hard work of thinking critically if we're to effectively live in, and engage, the world around us.

arrived on time and a great book to read

You don't have to be a scholar to be interested in the life of the mind. In fact, if you're a Christian, it's important that you are. According to the apostle Paul, the believer, whatever his calling is to 'take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.' 2 Cor. 10:5. If you are interested in reading more on the subject, at just over 100 pages, James Emery White's little book is a great place to start. With only seven chapters and two useful appendices (recommended reading and resources) it can be read and absorbed in a few hours but stand you in good stead for many years when returning the 'volleys against faith (that) come from every quarter and at every age.'

well written! Lots of meat and useful application