Official Review: Christianity Without Insanity

Renu G · Post by **Renu G** » 14 Aug 2019, 13:35

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Christianity Without Insanity" by Boyd C. Purcell.]

3 out of 4 stars

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Christianity Without Insanity is written by Boyd C. Purcell, Ph.D. In this book, he promotes holistic health for people who are spiritually victimized because of irrational beliefs prevalent among their religious leaders. Boyd is also the author of Spiritual Terrorism and frequently refers to its contents in this publication. He focuses on the debate between eternal damnation and Christian Universalism (CU). I appreciate how every chapter ends with questions for reflection and discussion in study groups.

"The Top Ten Oxymorons of Fear-Based Christianity” are my favorite themes in the book. They are worth reflecting about, e.g., one of them makes you wonder whether God’s amazing grace can be reconciled with eternal punishment in hell. I was deeply disturbed about the story of a mother who killed all her children because she believed that they would go to heaven if they died before being corrupted by the world. The author’s psychological and theological analysis of her mindset is thorough, and it is a must-read for preachers. He also writes about Christians who are convinced that people of other religions will go to hell. I think he rightly calls it “spiritual insanity.” Boyd further explains how these individuals experience healing when they learn that God loves them unconditionally. He states that the fire of hell implies purification and describes the symbolism of “fire” in various religions.

Perfectionists can misinterpret the Christian call to be “perfect” (Matt 5:48) that means “mature” and “all-inclusive.” This verse has often been used by preachers to terrorize worshipers. The image of God in people’s minds is often a reflection of their relationship with their parents; hence, if the latter is healed, then their theological problems will be resolved. They must realize that God is a loving parent who desires all his children to return home. I appreciate the author for inspiring readers to spread the message of peace and explaining the nuances of baptism in various churches. He offers examples of sound and unsound teachings about salvation. Boyd clarifies what it means to be “salted with fire” and the real meaning of “church.” Questions of medical ethics are also discussed.

I was surprised by Boyd’s interpretation of the words “aion of kolazo” as a time of pruning, and hence the statement that hellfire is for correction and not meant to be eternal punishment. I liked his criticism of the misuse of a biblical verse (Rev 3:20) to invite unbelievers to accept Christ. Since it is addressed to a Christian church and not to unbelievers, the author rightly questions whether Jesus requires permission to enter his own community. I find his exegesis of some biblical verses unique and thought-provoking.

As a physician, counselor, and theologian, it is easy for me to understand the author’s reasoning. I agree that religious beliefs can shape emotions, which in turn impact physical health and family relationships. Boyd does a marvelous job by giving examples based on his practical experience as a counselor, chaplain, and ordained minister. His views are balanced and ecumenical. Nevertheless, I do have one criticism. As a Catholic, I have not heard the kind of preaching he is worried about, except in a few charismatic prayer groups. It does not seem to be a big problem in my context.

After reflecting on the contents as described above, I am pleased to give Christianity Without Insanity a rating of 3 out of 4 stars. I did not give it a higher rating because there are several grammatical errors. It will benefit from another round of editing. I did not give a lower rating because the contents will be helpful to readers who feel terrorized by preachers. This book may appeal to counselors, health care providers, chaplains, preachers, and religious leaders.

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Christianity Without Insanity
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OuKoyoo · Post by **OuKoyoo** » 15 Aug 2019, 15:48

I love the title of the book and that drew me to this review. Nowadays there is a lot of issues that surround Christianity that are often confusing. I hope this book will help me understand some things.

Chrystal Oaks · Post by **Chrystal Oaks** » 16 Aug 2019, 11:17

This book reminds me of When Religion Becomes Evil: Five Warning Signs by Charles Kimball. It is interesting how Christianity teaches its followers to show love through Jesus Christ because of His sacrifice; however, the history of Christianity demonstrates its share of violence and terrorism with the Crusades being the worse. Thanks for the informative review!

Corina Elena · Post by **Corina Elena** » 17 Aug 2019, 03:32

Oh, this book hits home! I used to have a teacher of religion that would constantly make us get afraid of different things. She might need this book as well....

Nizar Ali Shah · Post by **Nizar Ali Shah** » 18 Aug 2019, 02:10

Christianity Without insanity is by Boyd C.Purcell.In this book,the author describes a few Christian belief which he considers does not conform with reason and intellect.He cites the examples of a Christian woman, who had killed her children based on this irrational belief, or considering this belief that all people of other different beliefs would go to hell, except the Christians.
Boyd in this way wants to pave the way for peace and harmony so that people of different faith could live together in an congenial atmosphere and peace and in this way Boyd's interpretation of religion becomes universal and acceptable to all and beliefs based on irrational interpretation can create disharmony and conflict in the society.
The book is the best asset for all preachers, counselors, teachers and people of all faith who believe in a sense of toleration, harmony and peace can avail this book regardless of their Christian faith.The book has a universal appeal.

LinaMueller · Post by **LinaMueller** » 19 Aug 2019, 05:20

The title seems offensive to me. Unfortunately, I do not feel like this is the book for me. Anyway, thanks for your review, Renu G. Good job.

Kaitlyn Canedy · Post by **Kaitlyn Canedy** » 31 Aug 2019, 01:34

This is the best review that I have read on this website this far. I am a part of the Christian religion, and I feel scared because I am constantly told that I am wrong about everything. What am I doing right? The title was eye-catching for me and I will be reading this book in the future. Thanks for the review!