I always enjoy books by David Platt; he has a conversational writing style and, more often than not, really packs a theological punch--especially given that the books are on the shorter side (~200-ish pages)!

This one is as convicting as I expected. I do wish that Platt had fleshed out some ideas/statements more; they felt a bit one-sided and unequitable. Fair statements? Absolutely. But neither of the big 2 American political parties is perfect, and I was frustrated by a number of statements against one without also looking at the flaws of the other. He wasn't lacking for space or a word count (from this reader's perspective, anyway) and definitely could have kept the thought process going for a stronger argument or to hopefully pave the way for more dialogue (which was, after all, at least one of the end goals).

I also had expected more resources to be provided based on a couple statements he made within the book; not sure if the list of possible activities at the end of the book was supposed to be "it" or if that part wasn't included with the NetGalley eARC. The included list was helpful, for sure, but different than expected.

Still, a worthwhile read that certainly prompted me to take a hard look at my own life and how I might be (okay, am, heh) holding back.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

"Our church family is sick," Platt writes. (173/2503) Particularly that in America. While he is grateful for all God's grace has meant for America, he finds the American gospel wanting and would like to see it loosed from ties to a nation. "There is much more to Jesus and the church than the American gospel could ever offer..." (127/2503)

Platt helps us understand what the gospel is really about. We can have loving unity, he says. We start with understanding Who unites us and then understand what's worth dividing over and what's not. He reminds us of the necessity of humility. He explores racism and justice. He reminds us immigration is an opportunity to share the gospel. He includes many stories to illustrate his teaching and includes six practical steps for moving toward being better followers of Jesus in our country.

In the end, Platt writes, there is a choice before us. "The American gospel or the biblical gospel." (2222/2503)

This is a great book for those who have become uncomfortable with the direction some of Christianity has taken in America. This book is a good one, reminding us what the Gospel of Jesus really is and encouraging us to embrace it.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

Great book that needs to be digested by the church. Simply don't hold back!