But Is It Real?: Answering 10 Common Objections To The Christian Faith

**Explore Faith's Realities: Addressing Doubts and Objections with Amy Orr-Ewing's "But Is It Real?"** Are you grappling with doubts about the Christian faith? Do you find yourself wrestling with common objections raised against belief in God? In "But Is It Real?: Answering 10 Common Objections To The Christian Faith," renowned apologist Amy Orr-Ewing tackles the tough questions with clarity, insight, and compassion. This thought-provoking book, published by IVP in 2008, provides a valuable resource for both seasoned believers and those exploring Christianity for the first time. Amy Orr-Ewing, a respected voice in contemporary apologetics, brings her extensive experience engaging with skeptics and seekers to this accessible guide. Drawing on real-life situations and conversations, she addresses ten of the most frequently encountered objections to the Christian faith, including: * **"Your relationship with God is just a psychological crutch."** Orr-Ewing explores the psychological dimensions of faith without dismissing the genuine experience of encountering the divine. She examines the profound impact faith can have on well-being and meaning-making, while also addressing the potential for misuse or misunderstanding. * **"Belief in God is dangerous."** Examining the historical and contemporary realities of religious violence and extremism, the book acknowledges the potential for faith to be distorted and used for harmful purposes. However, Orr-Ewing argues that the inherent teachings of Christianity promote peace, love, and justice. She highlights the transformative power of faith when rooted in authentic discipleship. * **"I used to believe, but I've given it all up."** Many individuals struggle with disillusionment and spiritual burnout. Orr-Ewing offers a pathway for understanding and processing these experiences, providing guidance for rediscovering faith or finding renewed meaning in the midst of doubt. * **"Is God real? Is it possible to know anything, let alone know him?"** In an age of skepticism and relativism, the book explores the philosophical foundations of belief and the possibility of knowing God through reason, experience, and revelation. It addresses the challenges of epistemology and the search for objective truth. * **"Why do bad things happen to people who worship this God?"** The problem of suffering and evil is one of the most enduring challenges to faith. Orr-Ewing offers a nuanced and compassionate exploration of this difficult topic, addressing both intellectual and emotional responses to tragedy and loss. * **"What about the spiritual experiences of other faiths?"** In an increasingly interconnected world, many encounter diverse spiritual traditions. The book explores the relationship between Christianity and other religions, acknowledging the validity of spiritual experiences while upholding the unique claims of the Christian faith. With its accessible style and insightful analysis, "But Is It Real?" is an indispensable guide for navigating the complexities of faith in the modern world. It's an ideal resource for: * Individuals wrestling with doubts or questions about Christianity * Small groups or Bible studies seeking to engage with common objections to faith * Those seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian apologetics * Anyone looking for thoughtful and compassionate answers to life's big questions. This 144-page paperback (ISBN: 9781844743018) provides a framework for building a robust and resilient faith. It's more than just answers; it's an invitation to explore the reality of God in the midst of a complex world, written in clear English. Let Amy Orr-Ewing be your guide on a journey of intellectual and spiritual discovery. Weighing in at only 190 grams, its an easy carry.