When it comes to what we believe, differences of opinions can become so divisive. This seems to be especially true in the church when it comes to our biblical and doctrinal beliefs. Many of us struggle to prioritize our relationships over standing by our convictions on matters that are not important to our faith. Many of these controversies not only damage individual relationships, but have caused most of the denominational divisions we know today. In truth, the origins of most of these controversies comes down to not knowing which doctrines are essential and which one are essential to our faith. It makes us ask the question: how do we learn how to tell which of our beliefs are essential to our faith?

​In his book Christian Convictions, Chad Ragsdale walks his readers through the difference between beliefs that are essential, important, and preferential, to help them better understand the nature of our own beliefs. Through carefully examination, you discover that there are not as many doctrines that are essential as most of us think and that many of us have a tendency to prioritize our belief into the wrong category, which can negatively impact our relationships with people we disagree with. With this short but impactful book, you will be given the tools needed to discern the importance of your doctrines and beliefs and the ability to bridge the gap between other Christians’ personal preferences. This book is one that I highly recommend. Get your copy today.

When it comes to peer pressure, teens in today’s culture deal with more than any generation before them. The culture around them tries to force them to accept the most mainstream views of hot-button topics with the goal of convincing them to believe their version of the story. They are taught that truth is subjective to each person and that they can believe or do whatever they want with absolutely no consequences for themselves or those around them. Christian teens have a more difficult time than ever before trying to figure out how to live in a way that honors the Lord in a culture that tries to convince them that they should honor themselves. It makes us ask the question: is there a way to learn how to stand strong for Christ in today’s culture?

​In her book Stand Up, Stand Strong, author Sara Barratt walks Christian teens through how to rethink popular issues in our culture today through a Christian worldview in hopes that they will learn how to stand strong in their convictions. After explaining the concept of a worldview and the consequences of living in a “post-truth” world, Barratt breaks down many areas where the post-truth mentality has taken hold, and explains how the mainstream perspectives hold up against a biblical worldview. With a voice of strength and courage, teens that read this book will be inspired to not only understand why they believe what they believe, but also how to defend it with grace-filled truth. Barratt speaks with both conviction and compassion on many important issues in our culture today, from sexual identity and orientation to injustice and abortion. With discussion questions and recommended readings for each topic addressed, this book is a great resource for high school students who want to build a biblical worldview or adults who want to help youth do the same. Get your copy today!

* I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review