In this positive and practical book, Gavin Ortlund looks to the Scriptures to discover a way in which to disagree with others that leads to greater understanding, peace and love—and that shows a watching world something of Jesus.
This is a much-needed message in a society that is losing the ability to disagree well. Whether over politics, religion, culture, or the more everyday issues of normal life, points of view tend to be held with a polarising intensity. Too often we view disagreements as must-win contests or we simply do our best to avoid them altogether.
Looking to Jesus’ example of courage and kindness, readers will be given a framework for engaging ...in intense disagreements with a love that furthers relationships instead of hindering them.
So, whether you tend to fight or flee, learn how to keep calm and stay friends—even when you disagree.
(Review written for 'The Art of Disagreeing')
“Can you imagine how the church might be changed and the world might be impacted if we conducted our disagreements with the love of Christ?”
Short, helpful, and wise, I can’t think of a reason not to read this book. Even if you think you know what it’s going to say, it’s worth reminding ourselves of these things. To bring them to the forefront.
There are increasingly more ways that we disagree with those around us; Ortlund helps us prepare our hearts for whenever those arrive so we are ready to exercise both kindness and courage, to listen well, and persuade lovingly.
Ortlund is careful in communicating his points and makes sure to emphasize sincerity and purity of heart. It's not enough to 'appear' kind, courageous, loving, or trustworthy, but to actually be those things.
Our purpose as we handle disagreements is not to prove our intellect, impose our superiority, or win an argument. We need to have a commitment to eternal souls made in the image of God.
Great resource and can easily be read in one sitting!
(Review written for 'The Art of Disagreeing')
I’d be hard pressed to find a more timely book. With division running rampant across the globe, I highly recommend for everyone to read this book. Division is also found within the Church so Christians must be able to have healthy disagreements where relationships aren’t severed and the unity of the Church isn’t shattered.
Gavin writes with the wisdom of a seasoned pastor, the grace given to sinners, and the love of Christ. This a short, but impactful book. I ...found myself repeatedly encouraged and making an abundance of notations for how to apply this to my own life circumstances. This book is full of practical tips, lots of Scripture, and even has discussion questions at the end of each chapter if you’d want to read this book in a group setting. Hard conversations and disagreements are inevitable this side of Heaven, and Gavin encourages and equips the reader to deal with them in a way that glorifies God. This book is absolutely one of the best I’ve read in quite a while and will stay with me for a long time.
(Review written for 'The Art of Disagreeing')
An easy read with some very useful recommendations. Just need to put it into practice now!
