Impossible Christianity: Why Following Jesus Does Not Mean You Have to Change the World

Description

Bestselling Author Kevin DeYoung Offers Hope for Those Who Feel Like Christianity Has Become Hopelessly Crushing and Complex 

The apostle Paul described the Christian life as a race, but to many believers it feels more like a punishing obstacle course. Fearing they’ll never be able to do enough or give enough or be enough, they see themselves as spiritual failures. But Scripture offers good news: even in ordinary life, Christians can be faithful, fruitful, and pleasing to God.

Impossible Christianity reassures readers that they don’t need to feel a collective sense of guilt for sins in the past and solve every societal problem in the present. Through biblical wisdom and engaging personal stories, Kevin DeYoung challenges the misconception that we need 40 hours in the day just to be good Christians. By reflecting on what Jesus actually taught about Christian discipleship, readers will be newly encouraged to pursue single-minded devotion to God and find lasting joy in a life of sincere and simple obedience.

Contents

Introduction: Is Christianity Supposed to Feel Impossible?
 
Chapter 1: How (Not) to Make Christianity Possible
Chapter 2: Who Is It That Overcomes the World?
Chapter 3: Never Enough
Chapter 4: The Camel in the Room
Chapter 5: The Infinite Extensibility of Guilt
Chapter 6: Sermon (of Misery?) on the Mount
Chapter 7: Please and Thank You
Chapter 8: A Quiet Life

General Index
Scripture Index

Endorsements

“I’ve been reading Kevin DeYoung since we were both young and restless. Over countless articles and books, he’s helped me mature in my view of the world and understanding of God’s word. Impossible Christianity challenged some of my assumptions and corrected some of my misconceptions. I know it can help you enjoy the pleasure of God in a quiet and dignified life.”
Collin Hansen, Executive Director, The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics

“Read it to the end—where we find a benediction. But from the beginning, this book aims to bless God’s people by sending us out to live in daily obedience to the Lord who has saved us. Kevin DeYoung is not simplistic, but he makes the call of Christ on our lives much simpler (and much more biblical) than the cacophony of voices around us might suggest.”
Kathleen Nielson, author; speaker

“Impossible Christianity addresses most of the difficult questions about what the Christian life looks like. It tackles objections and difficulties head-on. DeYoung challenges issues most of us would be reluctant to confront. You may not agree with all his conclusions, but you will be forced to come up with biblical arguments to refute them, and that will prove difficult. This is one of those books that will be talked about for some time. Exceptionally clear, forthright, and engaging.”
Derek W. H. Thomas, Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina; Chancellor’s Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary; Teaching Fellow, Ligonier Ministries

“This book is for the Christian who believes low-level guilt and a slightly disturbed conscience are normal (even right!), and who may rely on that bad feeling as a bit of proof that they are, in fact, virtuous. DeYoung is here to remind you that Jesus set you free so that you really can please your good heavenly Father with a clean conscience. God smiles at the ordinary efforts of his children.”
Abigail Dodds, author, Bread of Life; (A)Typical Woman; and A Student’s Guide to Womanhood

About the Author

Kevin DeYoung (PhD, University of Leicester) is the senior pastor at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina, and associate professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte. He has written books for children, adults, and academics, including Just Do Something; Crazy Busy; and The Biggest Story. Kevin’s work can be found on clearlyreformed.org. Kevin and his wife, Trisha, have nine children.