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Review: Boundless: What Global Expressions of Faith Teach Us about Following Jesus by Bryan Bishop



Review: Boundless: What Global Expressions of Faith Teach Us about Following Jesus
Bryan Bishop
Baker Books
2015


Boundless: What Global Expressions of Faith Teach Us about Following JesusA very interesting book.  And one that challenges you to think about what following Jesus is really about.  Bishop describes his experiences in this book, as well as being open about some of the issues that challenge him. Yes, the present tense since he admits to still working through some things. He traveled to places where the predominant religious practices did not include Western style Christianity.  He found followers of Jesus in communities from Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Native American cultures.  Their practices generally tended to include their native culture and practices much more than what most Western Christians would find comfortable, and that’s when this book gets interesting.  

The word Boundless implies a broader range of acceptable practice while staying true to the teachings of Jesus.  Contextualization happens and when it does the doors open much wider than without it.  Awareness of the holy books, music and worship practices from different cultures are not jettisoned or ignored, but explored.  Mined, if you will, for those nuggets that can provide common ground.  Where are the limits?  What makes a person a true believer in Jesus and follower of Jesus?  Can a person go to the temples or mosques to participate in worship any longer?  Is truth God’s truth?

After you work your way through this book you may have some new insights and answers to those questions and others.  Also, there will probably be several new questions about your own practices and maybe a few new ideas that could be helpful where you are now.  For that reason I do recommend this book to you.  The book comes with a glossary, a study guide for groups, and endnotes.  There are some videos available online that helped me see what had been described in the book.  I find that helpful.

This book was provided by the publisher in return for a review.

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