Review of CHRISTIAN ORTHODOXY: A Closer Look

[Onyinyechi Obi]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "CHRISTIAN ORTHODOXY: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan.]

---

4 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

It is not uncommon for modern Christians to hold tight to doctrinal values and traditional teachings of their religion without question, but the book "Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan intellectually challenges the modern Christian by boldly asking: What if our understanding of Christianity has been shaped more by history, culture, and interpretation than by the teachings of Jesus himself? Like an archaeologist uncovering the layers of an ancient city, Joseph unearths the sedimented traditions and dogma that have obscured the radical simplicity of Jesus' message most brilliantly and objectively.

From the beginning of the book, the author presents a critical examination of the New Testament accounts, questioning their authenticity and consistency. This is achieved by highlighting the discrepancies and contradictions within the gospels, as well as the lack of contemporaneous corroboration. Joseph notes that the gospels according to Matthew and Luke are copies of Mark, with Luke making significant alterations. Additionally, it could be observed from the book that books like the Epistles of Barnabas, Acts of Thomas, and the Gospel of Judas were excluded from the New Testament due to questionable authenticity and doctrinal inconsistencies. The author also points out that there are conflicting stories within the gospel, such as the time and day of Jesus' crucifixion. Furthermore, the author acknowledges that no contemporaneous writing corroborates the activities and details of Jesus' life and that the gospels were not inerrant. This scrutiny of the New Testament accounts encourages readers to think critically about the sources and authors of the texts and to consider the potential for exaggeration or alteration of events.

Diving deeper into the book, we can see how the author examines the evolution of Christian doctrine, showing how various teachings and beliefs have developed over time. The author demonstrates the aforementioned by tracing the historical development of key doctrines such as the Trinity, salvation, and atonement, highlighting how they might have been influenced by external factors like Greek philosophy. The author notes that the Trinity, a central doctrine of Christianity, was not explicitly articulated in the Bible and developed over time through the influence of Greek philosophical concepts. Similarly, the author argues that the doctrine of salvation has evolved from a simple teaching of Jesus to a complex system of beliefs and practices.

The author explores the diversity of Christian views and interpretations, displaying the complexity and ambiguity of Christian teachings by showcasing the varying perspectives on salvation, atonement, and judgement and demonstrating how different Christian denominations and theologians have understood these concepts in distinct ways. Additionally, the author highlights the similarities and differences between various religious traditions by providing an overview of several major world religions, including Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Zoroastrianism, and examining their beliefs, practices, and historical development. The author also points out the fact that Christianity has its roots in Judaism and shares many similarities with this tradition but also highlights the significant differences that have developed between the two religions over time.

Despite the premise that the gospel wasn't inerrant, the author concludes the book by encouraging readers to use Jesus' teachings as a moral compass for their lives, regardless of their religious affiliations or beliefs. This approach emphasises the importance of living according to Jesus' teachings, such as loving one's neighbours, forgiving others, and striving for humility and compassion.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book's thought-provoking and objective approach to the exploration and understanding of Christian theology. It is intellectually stimulating, regardless of one's belief or lack thereof. I also appreciated the book's willingness to challenge traditional teachings and encourage readers to think critically about their beliefs. If I have any criticisms, it's that the book sometimes tries to tackle a wide range of topics, from the historical development of doctrine to the nature of salvation, and occasionally feels like they're trying to cover too much ground. Additionally, some readers may find the book's challenges to traditional teachings unsettling or even heretical. While I appreciated the author's willingness to question established beliefs, I could see how some Christians might find it discomforting. It was well edited.

I would recommend this book to open-minded Christians seeking a deeper understanding of their faith and to readers who enjoy theological discussions. I would rate this book 4 out of 5 because of what I came across.

******
CHRISTIAN ORTHODOXY: A Closer Look
View: on Bookshelves

[Martin Shae]

"Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan challenges modern Christians to reconsider their beliefs by questioning if their understanding of Christianity has been shaped more by history and tradition than by Jesus' original teachings. Like an archaeologist revealing hidden layers, Grogan uncovers the traditions and dogma that have obscured the simplicity of Jesus' message with remarkable clarity and objectivity.

[Naushin Moledina]

The review of "Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan is insightful, praising its critical examination of Christian doctrines and historical developments. The book’s objective scrutiny of New Testament inconsistencies, the evolution of key doctrines, and comparisons with other religions encourage readers to think critically. Despite its breadth, it’s a thought-provoking read for open-minded Christians and theology enthusiasts.

[Anthony Caleb]

I love this kind of books especially with the niche of Christianity, sometimes our realities are meant to be questioned in this way.

[Idris Alooma]

This review provides a comprehensive and critical analysis of the book "Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan. The reviewer praises the book's thought-provoking approach to Christianity, challenging traditional teachings and encouraging critical thinking. The book's examination of the New Testament accounts, the evolution of Christian doctrine, and the diversity of interpretations are highlighted. The reviewer also appreciates the book's objective stance and its emphasis on using Jesus' teachings as a moral compass. However, the book's broad range of topics and potential discomfort for some readers are mentioned as minor drawbacks. Overall, this review suggests that the book is an intellectually stimulating read for open-minded Christians and those interested in theological discussions. I would rate this book 4 out of 5. Enigmatic characters, kept me intrigued throughout.

[Olalekan Rahmon]

Comment:

Hey there! I gotta say, this review got me intrigued about the book "Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan. The way the author critically examines the New Testament accounts and challenges traditional teachings seems like it would make for an intellectually stimulating read. It's refreshing to see a book that encourages readers to think critically about their beliefs, even if it might be unsettling for some. Overall, I'd give this review a solid 4 out of 5. It's got me curious to explore the book myself. Evocative descriptions, brought scenes to life.

[Boring Pigeon]

This review provides an insightful and thought-provoking overview of the book "Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan. The author critically examines the New Testament accounts, tracing the development of Christian doctrines and exploring the diversity of Christian interpretations. The book challenges traditional teachings and encourages readers to think critically about their beliefs. Overall, this review suggests that "Christian Orthodoxy" is a worthwhile read for open-minded Christians and those interested in theological discussions. I would rate this book 4 out of 5. Heartfelt moments, brought tears to my eyes.

[Emmanuel Chima 3]

"Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan critically examines Christian doctrines and the historical development of key beliefs. It challenges readers to reconsider traditional teachings and explore how interpretations have evolved over time. The book's objective and thought-provoking analysis offers valuable insights, though its broad scope may feel overwhelming at times. A recommended read for those interested in a deeper theological understanding.

[Nuella Joseph]

*Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look* by Joseph Grogan provides a comprehensive overview of the book's critical examination of Christian doctrine and its historical development. It's intriguing how the author challenges traditional teachings by highlighting discrepancies in the New Testament and exploring the influence of external factors on Christian beliefs. It seems like a thought-provoking read that encourages readers to question and reflect on their faith. Your point about the book covering a wide range of topics is interesting, as it suggests a broad scope that might be both a strength and a challenge for some readers.

[Leen282]

It is interesting to go back to the roots, the basis of the teachings, and see how time and culture and interpretations shaped it to our current beliefs. This must be a super interesting read from historical and theological perspective. Critical examinations bring lots of value to the table in my opinion.

[Nushi T]

This review offers a thoughtful and well-rounded analysis of Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look. I appreciate the reviewer’s balanced perspective, highlighting the book’s intellectual challenges and insights. It seems like an engaging read for those open to exploring deeper theological discussions.

[Lene Lena]

I appreciate your insightful review of “Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look” by Joseph Grogan. Your observations highlight the book’s critical examination of how historical and cultural contexts shape contemporary Christian beliefs. The author’s approach of encouraging readers to question established doctrines, prompting a deeper exploration of Jesus’ original teachings is very impressive. The examination of major world religions such as Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Zoroastrianism enriches the discussion. This intellectual challenge is essential for modern Christians seeking authenticity in their faith.

[Brienna Cooper]

Well-done review!

I thoroughly enjoyed the book's thought-provoking and objective approach to the exploration and understanding of Christian theology. It is intellectually stimulating, regardless of one's belief or lack thereof. I also appreciated the book's willingness to challenge traditional teachings and encourage readers to think critically about their beliefs.

I couldn’t be more glad to hear this! It should always be encouraged to ask questions and do your own research (with acceptable resources). No one should be in the dark on who/what they’re putting their faith into. When something can so greatly affect your entire life, you should always be ready to learn (in whatever manner works best for you).

[Seetha E]

It's absolutely okay to seek clarity for better understanding. I understand that this might be a bit challenging for those who prefer traditional ways. But regardless of your beliefs, it's a fascinating read. I really appreciate your thoughtful analysis of the book and how you highlighted its different aspects. Your review is wonderful.

[Jane Gaskins]

"Christian Orthodoxy: A Closer Look" by Joseph Grogan is a very good resource to begin your exploration of Christian teaching. It is just that, a beginning and should encourage you to do your own research. Never accept someone else's believe, prove it to yourself. Good review.