Putting Away Childish Things: The Virgin Birth, the Empty Tomb, and Other Fairy Tales You Dont't Need to Believe to Have a Living Faith

Rating:
Summary: An exciting, challenging read.
Review: If you are looking for an analysis of basic Christian beliefs that will most likely make you take a second look at all you were taught in church, than this is the book for you. The author is relentless in her deconstruction of so much of the Christian myth that has been misconstrued as history. She urges the reader to get beyond the literalization that has dominated Christian thought since the enlightenment and to see the Bible for what it is...a theology book. This is a highly readable and, dare I say, "fun" text to delve into and would make for great discussion in a study group. If you like the writings of liberal Episcopal theologian John Shelby Spong, you will enjoy this text immensely.

Rating:
Summary: Wise and witty
Review: In a well-researched and thoughtful way the author explores those aspects of Christian belief that are difficult to accept on face value (like the virgin birth, the tendency to blame the Jews and excuse the Romans for the crucifixion, very different Christmas stories, and miracle stories) and peels away layers of theological presentations and pious fantasies to give us a glimpse of original worship and spirituality. Her writing is provocative and at the same time it is funny. I laughed out loud as I read sections of the book. If you are open to questions about Christianity and the development of religious beliefs you might enjoy this book very much.