To Change the World

James Davison Hunter has written a book entitled, To Change the World, which may be one of the most important books written in the last twenty years. You will have a hard time finding it, but it is worth the search.

Hunter presents his views on culture and Christianity in his book via three essays: Christianity and World-Changing, Rethinking Power and Toward a New City Commons: Reflections on a Theology of Faithful Presence.

In this book his traces the history of Christianity and culture and makes some strong statements about why western Christianity has not impacted culture in a greater way. He then goes into culture and actually redefines it. He refutes this whole idea of culture being about hearts and minds and moves into the concept of culture actually being about ideas. Hunter then makes seven propositions on culture.

His last essay is where he makes his case for his proposal of and calling for"faithful presence." The book is well written and powerful. It will produce additional ideas and movements in the areas of Christianity and culture. I will not even attempt to summarize the ideas presented inside this book as they are many and deep.

If there is one book that you do buy this year make sure it is this book. You will need to set some time aside to read it slowly as it contains important concepts that will demand all of your attention. Blessings!