The Secret Message of Jesus by Brian McLaren

The premise for this book began when McLaren was having lunch with a scholar/author/friend. “ ‘You know, most evangelicals haven’t the foggiest notion of what the gospel really is,’” his friend said. McLaren responded with his interpretation of the gospel message - quoting the apostle Paul, justification through grace, Christ’s sacrifice, salvation, etc. “ ‘That’s what most evangelicals say,’” his friend responded. So McLaren asked him what he thought the message of the gospel was. “ ‘The kingdom of God is at hand. That was Jesus’ message. Don’t you think we should let Jesus tell us what the gospel is?’” The entire book is based on that premise: the kingdom of God is at hand. McLaren doesn’t shy away from the tough topics, either – war, politics, historical and literary context are all addressed in a semi-controversial, thought-provoking way. This is definitely a worthwhile read and an interesting discussion piece. Favorite Quote: “Jesus was master of making the music of life – not just with wood and string, tuners and frets, but with skin and bone, smile and laughter, shout and whisper, time and space, food and drink. He invited the disciples to learn to make beautiful life-music in his secret, revolutionary, kingdom-of-God way.”