Very Good Book - Finding God in the Questions by Dr. Timothy Johnson

This book was great for me. The questions raised by the author were very interesting and thought provoking .

Dr. Johnson is a correspondent on ABC News. He is a Medical Doctor as well as an ordained minister and the book is about how one struggles and relates religious beliefs with scientific facts.

I was really taken by surprise at how much this book hit home with me. It covers many of the issues that I struggle with.

I found this interview which summarizes the book somewhat.
Dr. Johnson Interview

Not only does he touch, from the Big Bang and the fundamental forces of Nature to Religion and God, in a very easy to read, easy to understand format.

Some key points that hit home: He asks the question and follows up with comments

Labeling oneself as a Christian - Dr. Johnson states he prefers the term "follower of Jesus rather than the label of Christian" The latter word too often simply indicates blind support of the various aspects of the formal religion called Christianity" His reasoning for this terminology, which I agree with as it helps me understand things much better as I grow in Faith but still question some of the Church's teachings.

More importantly, it does not force me (us) to explain what type of Christian I am. Dr. Johnson uses as examples, "Jerry Falwell" Christian or "Bishop Spong" Christian - Two very different individuals as well as differing on what they believe and teach. Being a follower of Jesus allows me (us) to focus on the teachings of Jesus rather than the Dogma of the church.

This one really helps me at this stage.
"Do you have to believe in the resurection to be an "Orthodox Christian"? The anwer would be yes however the next question. This is followed by the question - Do you need to believe in the resurcection to be a follower of Jesus?
The answer would seem to be no because the first followers of Jesus described in the New Testament" knew nothing about the resurection yet became his followers. The earliest members / followers did not have Creeds or orthodox beliefs that have become so prevalaint in today's church. Now do I feel, I will eventually come to believe.... Yes but for now being a follower and trying to live my live in a manner consistent with the teachings is my goal.

Finally, he raises very interesting points based on the Parable of Final Judgement - Matthew 25:31-45 He separates what is in the New Testament vs. what is not. Specifically, there is no mention on political or social positions. I.E Abortion and Homosexuality. Accumilation of Wealth etc... Example:
"Jesus's teaching about other social issues are also surprising, at least given the emphasis" by Church discussions... "Jesus says absolutely NOTHING about abortion or homosexuality but quite a bit - and negatively about divorce." I could not agree more with his comment about how startling this is when you consider how many people (Christians) have accepted divorce but condemn abortion and homosexuality. Very interesting....