The Countercultural Claims of Christ - Jesus Among Secular Gods

Vince Vitale brings together a clarity of vision and a honest voice that raises these often argumentative issues into the personal realm of everyday decisions. With pointed anecdotes, vulnerable sincerity, and a willingness to have fun with his subject without devaluing it, Vince shares a powerful message.

This book is a great option for questing seekers looking for voices of integrity, thoughtful skeptics interested in an approachable argument, or convicted Jesus followers looking to refresh or refocus their own discipleship.

This book reaches fascinatingly into the deepest questions of our culture today and profoundly answers each one. I would highly recommend this book as a gift for the skeptic and believer alike. Mixing personal experiences, stories, argument and scholarly erudition, Ravi Zacharias, one of, if not today's most illuminating Christian voice and mind, and Vince Vitale, a world-class philosopher as well as up-and-coming mind, tour you through each 'ism' that has at its base a central objection to faith in Jesus Christ. The tone and style are for the beginner and expert alike from any point of view and the book is a universal resource in comparing our different perspectives. The book excavates and treats each objection to Christian faith brilliantly but fairly, with a fresh contribution each time, not just rehashing classic arguments but contributing new insights into each question. This is the book to read on the question of God in 2017, and will benefit any reader wonderfully.

I have been doing apologetics for a little over fifteen years. When I first started, one of the shaping books for me was Lee Strobel's The Case for Christ followed by The Case For Faith. It was in the latter that one mind I read particularly gripped me with his story, personality, and reasoning style and that was Ravi Zacharias. One book of his quite popular at the time was Jesus Among Other Gods. I remember devouring that book and thoroughly enjoying it. Now here we are years later and we have Jesus Among Secular Gods.

This might surprise some people. Secularists don't have gods! In the sense of real entities that are deities that have their own being, sure, but there are a number of isms out there like scientism and hedonism. Can the claims of Jesus stand up to secular thought? Does secular thought really answer the deep questions of life?

Ravi has a story early on about dialoguing with someone in the Middle East who drew two circles. For most Middle Easterners, their faith is the outer rim of the circle and their life is a little dot in the center. We have it reversed. It's easy for us to compartmentalize our faith. This is what the Middle Easterner believed would lead to the fall of Western civilization. One's religious walk is a secondary part of their life instead of becoming what influences their whole life.

Ravi goes on from there to interact with Stephen Hawking who suggested that we need to find extraterrestrial life if it's out there before it destroys us. I appreciated Ravi's cynicism at first in wanting to say that since we're having a hard time finding intelligent life here, let's find it elsewhere, but his next thought was even better. Isn't it fascinating that intelligent life is something we are to be looking for outside of our Earth, unless that intelligent life happens to be theistic.

Richard Dawkins isn't safe either. Many of us remember him saying that

The God of the Old Testament is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction: jealous and proud of it; a petty, unjust, unforgiving control-freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic, capriciously malevolent bully.

Yet if God is a fiction, then we have a problem. The actions attributed to him are really to be attributed to some really gullible people who in turn did some evil things. If so, then where does the evil lie? If Dawkins has it that God is a fiction and in turn there is no fall away from him but man living by his own nature, then aren't we the source of the evil? Isn't it the problem man playing God? Should we not strive to avoid that?

I like a story he tells about Billy Graham visiting Disneyworld and telling Walt Disney that he had created an amazing world of fantasy. Disney replied that Graham had it backward. He had shown the real world. Everything else was fantasy. What did he mean by that?

In Disney's world, one of the greatest gifts is children are children. They laugh and play and have utter delight. Go out there and what do you find? You find children attacking other children. You find children cutting themselves and harming themselves. You don't find white knights coming along to save them and you find dragons roaming in the real world that no one will fight.

Of course, Ravi and Vince contrast this with answers from other faiths. A story is told about talking to a man from a Muslim country asking the difference between the Christian God and the Muslim God. He was told that if you want to know what the Christian God is like, read the life of Jesus. If you want to know what the Muslim God is like, read the life of Muhammad. That was enough to settle the question for him.

Vince also shows himself to be taking on the thinking of Ravi. I liked how he described that we talk about the intellect of God and how He knows everything immensely and we can't compare, but when we talk about His love, we downplay it. We make God's love very human and act like it's just as prone to being broken as ours is.

I also appreciated the story about Matthew Parris writing on how Africa needs God. God gives the people hope. Following God helps them to be provided for and keeps them away from other gods such as the infusion of Nike, or the witch doctor, or the machete. We need to have evangelism going on in Africa and not let it be stopped.

By the way, Matthew Parris is an atheist.

Vince when taking on hedonism starts with the idea of the experience machine. Imagine a machine you could plug into and feel the sensation of any experience you wanted. You could be making love to a supermodel or going into battle in whatever time period you want or you could be making a scientific breakthrough. You can have whatever you want. Should you plug into the machine?

No. We don't want just the feeling of doing these things. We want to be able to do these kinds of things. We don't want to just feel loved. We want to be loved. We don't want to just have dreams. We want to accomplish them.

Vince also tells about the Christian view of sex here. I like the story he tells about seeing a testimony in the past with someone saying "I used to drink. I used to party. I used to have sex. But now I'm a Christian and I don't do these things any more." If this is your testimony, please stop. Everyone who isn't a Christian is saying "It sounds like your life was better before."

Vince reminds us that sex is something sacred and meant for a covenant of two people. The action means something and it is special when saved for that covenant relationship. Our world treats sex as something common and the results have been horrid for us.

That being said, God is not anti-pleasure, but he calls us to more than just living for ourselves in this moment. In fact, he tells us our greatest joy is in denying ourselves and following Him. Lewis would say this is really having us be more ourselves than we ever were before. Christianity is not opposed to pleasure, including sexual pleasure, but that pleasure is not to be a god.

The writers also point out the importance of disagreement. We have reached an age where to disagree with someone is to devalue them as a person supposedly. To be sure, there are wrong ways to disagree with people, but that doesn't mean all disagreement is the problem. Disagreement can mean we value the person's opinion and we think the subject itself is really important.

The book overall is a good look at the thinking we have in the West and how we need to contrast that with Christ. Ravi I have found consistently is a writer who touches the heart as well as the head. Vince follows along very well in that pattern and hopefully we'll see more of him in the future. I recommend you go out and go through this book.

In Christ,
Nick Peters
Deeper Waters Apologetics

This book addresses many of the belief systems that subtly or sometimes not so subtly shape the way we inhabit the world. Akin to James K.A. Smith in his cultural liturgies series (Desiring the Kingdom, Imagining the Kingdom, and You Are What You Love), Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale look at some of the cultural 'liturgies' that lure us and shape the things we love and the way we think, and ultimately the way we see and inhabit the world. The particular secular gods that they consider are: atheism, scientism, pluralism, humanism, relativism, and hedonism.

This is an important book engaging a topic we do well to think deeply on--"we" being any one of us, whatever creed or conviction, because we all share a similar petri dish of ideas and even the most ardent followers of a particular worldview are inarguably shaped by the cultural liturgies among us. Add this book to Charles Taylor's How to Be Secular (or Jamie Smith's helpful summary of Taylor's work How (Not) to Be Secular) and you will have a very powerful reading list for the New Year.

Vitale and Zacharias are culturally aware and clear thinking, while leading with a pastoral and empathetic tone, which readers of all backgrounds and beliefs will appreciate. Give one to a friend and start a conversation today!

This is a solid discussion of the major 'isms' which propose their various objections to Christian faith written for the intelligent questioner. Zacharias and Vitale take it in turns to answers each 'ism' in a different chapter, which means the book can be picked up and put down with ease, or perhaps used for reference to an overview of a particular debate / discussion.

I found the responses to the issues raised by each 'ism' helpful (particularly the summary of Plantinga's "Evolutionary Argument against Naturalism" in Chapter 3 which is the most comprehensive and succinct that I've read.)

Much more than this though, Vitale (in particular) writes especially well on the existential and psychological drivers behind the most keenly felt human needs as they relate to the grand questions of meaning (insights are peppered throughout his various chapters.) These insights into and engagement with the affections are far richer than that which I normally find in contemporary Christian writing.

Well worth reading, keeping and passing on to others.

An excellent book that will be a great resource for both the honest sceptic seeking answers to life’s “Big Questions”, and to Christians seeking to reach out to their secular friends. This book compares the claims of Christianity with those of Atheism, Scientism, Pluralism, Humanism, Relativism and Hedonism, and helps the reader think through the implications of each worldview.

“This is the Christian ethic at work. I am given the freedom to choose, and I am loved even when I make the wrong choices. But I am graphically reminded in the mission and work of Jesus Christ that, though I can choose my behavior, I cannot transpose the consequences that are inextricably bound to a particular choice. The greatest reality is that even in my wrong choice, I am still loved by God who woos me back to Himself by making the most sacrificial gift of all—a Savior for my rebellious heart.”

As Vince points out in his chapter on "Hedonism," there seem to be no limits to what the secular gods of the world promise that are ultimately empty and unfulfilling. If you are a skeptic or if you have the universal experience of something in the world leaving you broken or unfulfilled, I would encourage you to give Vince and Ravi a chance to spar with your worldview through this book. They'll push you, but with the clear goal in every chapter not of adding to confusion, but of giving you hope. Vince and Ravi are writing here not only from the incredible gift of intellect, but also from the greater gift of their intellects being shaped by their personal walks with God. This has made this book not only engaging, hard-hitting, and sharp, but is in itself a consistent application of what's inside; showing the satisfaction, character, love, and hope of real, whole truth. That genuine care that they have for their readers shows itself in their exhaustive research, depth of study, their commitment to intellectual engagement, and in the real life experiences of suffering that they too have walked through and write about. If you are a Christian, I would encourage you to let Vince and Ravi challenge you and equip you to face and reach out to a world that offers so many other secular gods that it can be crippling. This book is an excellent resource and encouragement. Very highly recommend!

The authors use a mixture of personal stories and clearly explained philosophical argument, to provide an engaging and accessible look at why secular beliefs (such as Pluralism, Relativism, and Humanism) fail to give a good account of our lives and the world we live in. The chapter on Scientism, for example, challenges the oft repeated claim that “Science has disproved God”, and demonstrates that far from disproving God, science points to God’s existence. In and through this the authors build a case for why Jesus provides intellectually and personally satisfying answers to the questions raised by secular beliefs.

This book is an enjoyable and thought provoking read. Well worth a read!

What a team Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale make! Zacharias brings his wealth of experience to life with his engaging stories, practical anecdotes and clever one-liners. Meanwhile, Vitale's compassion, philosophical rigor and hard-hitting questions leave the reader with plenty to ponder. However, it is their shared love of the Gospel of Christ and the freedom that comes when we give our lives away to Him that really shines through. In an age where plenty find themselves caught in the vagaries of relativism and post-modernism this is an apposite, compassionate and timely book. Buy it, you won't be disappointed.

Ravi and Vince have brought a timely clarity in contrasting Christianity and other world views. For the critical thinker looking for solutions to a world reeling in confusion about truth, a post truth culture essentially, this book will most certainly impact your life. It is a bold response to a secular culture, to aggressive atheism, with many facts and insights that should help anyone gain a grasp of truth versus just ideas. Their position that no scientific claims to date disclaim God is very well supported. Relativism, humanism, and emotions over truth are also all directly addressed with priceless wisdom and experience from their world travels. This book will open eyes and hearts to truth! Thanks so much for the hard work and honest love behind this future top seller!

Jesus Among Secular Gods contrasts the Christian worldview and it’s centering on Jesus Christ with that of Secular worldviews popular in Western culture today. The book approaches Atheism, Scientism, Pluralism, Humanism, Relativism and Hedonism contrasting them with Christianity. Overall, the book points out that while some worldviews may attempt to answer how things come about, they often leave unanswered the most important question of why.

The authors, Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale, complement each other well. I found myself stretched at times to understand, something I value while learning through a book, when reading Ravi Zacharias’ chapters. I feel that Ravi focuses often on the highly academic audience. His chapters include Altars Against God (which serves as an introduction to the book), Atheism, Humanism and Relativism. I found Vince Vitale’s chapters, while well thought out and insightful, more practical and useful in my own personal situations. Vince seems to focus more on the common audience. His chapters are Scientism, Pluralism, Hedonism and Love The Truth (which serves as a conclusion to the book).

I have been studying Christian Apologetics for several years now. I often find the teachings helpful in my own understanding, but not always useful when applied to my discussions with non-believers. One of the issues that arises is the informational approach to apologetics can often be impersonal. This book is helpful in that in approaches the issue in a more nuanced way. Secular culture is not one worldview and this book does an excellent job of noting the differences and pitfalls of each of the “secular gods.”

I recommend this book to any one who finds themselves with a need for apologetics with any of the worldviews mentioned. I have already found the chapter on pluralism useful before I was even fully finished the book. I know that this book will be rather indispensable for years to come.

Any book that suggests how you should live gains credibility when the author discloses his or her own struggles with the subject matter. That's what comes through in this book. You not only get a sense of the clinical views of the various "-isms" discussed in the book, but you also get more than a glance at how the authors have worked through these issues personally and walked with others while doing the same. These experiences are incredibly helpful and bring to life the problems highlighted in the text. But the book is not simply a stream of anecdotes: it is a heartfelt, critical, and very persuasive argument for the singular notion that while Christ may have superficial rivalries, none of them are new, and none can come close to delivering on their on promises, much less offering the story of sacrifice and redemption seen in Scripture. People curious about Christian faith will benefit from this book; but the longtime Christian will gain comfort from this while also sharpening his or her understanding of what truly makes Jesus unique.

Jesus Among Secular Gods: The Countercultural Claims of Christ by Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale is an insightful and enlightening book that examines the popular "isms" of our day and how they stack up to Christianity and the truth that Jesus Christ proclaims. This is a book that is sure to capture the attention of readers who are interested in learning how some of the most common secular worldviews differ from Christianity.

The first thing that I must note is that this book is written from a place of love. Both authors have a genuine desire to educate readers and not berate or mock them based on their beliefs. At the same time, they firmly believe the truth that Jesus Christ taught and want to share it with anyone who is open-minded and willing to listen to the claims that they are sharing and defending.

This is the second book that I've read by Ravi Zacharias. The first one I read was not co-authored, so I did have some apprehensions about how much I'd enjoy this book in comparison. I was surprised to discovered that I enjoyed this book even more than the first one. Not because of the content, but because of the balance provided with the co-author. I'm not ashamed to admit that Ravi's writing style and delivery sometimes goes over my head and requires me to slowly read and re-read what he's saying to truly understand it. His style is slow and methodically for me, but Vince's writing style on the other hand flows smoothly and enabled me to read at a faster pace when going through his chapters. I really appreciate how well their writing styles complement one another and made for an enjoyable reading experience.

There is no denying that I learned a lot from this book. As a follower of Jesus Christ, I am grateful for this book and the work that Ravi and Vince are doing. It's one thing to believe the truth that Jesus Christ proclaimed, but something else entirely to know why you believe it and be able to explain why you believe it over other worldviews. This book can definitely help believers in Jesus Christ to better understand their choice and be properly equipped to explain it to others, particularly non believers.

This is a phenomenal book that delivers on the promises of the authors. It clearly and thoroughly examines the differences between the Christian faith and secular worldviews and allows readers to decide for themselves what they will ultimately choose to believe in. I enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!

I received this book free from the publisher through their book review bloggers program and I was not required to write a positive review.

I’ve always thought that one of the biggest problems of our generation is that we seem to have lost the fine art of asking good questions. I remember when I first came to the US I was quite surprised to see the sentence “Jesus is the answer” on various bumper stickers, badges, etc. This is a powerful statement, but I think its power is real only if we know the questions to which Christ’s life and teaching can provide answers. I appreciate that Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale open the first chapter of their new book with articulating the questions behind each of the worldviews they explore in this book: at the heart, as always, is man’s search for meaning, purpose and truth. The latter was in every headline about a month ago when the Oxford Dictionary announced that ‘post-truth’ became the word of the year in 2016. ‘Jesus Among Secular Gods’ provides a powerful insight into why and how our culture got here and does it in such a winsome and respectful manner that this book undoubtedly will be a real treat to any lover of truth: both a believer and a skeptic.

For those who are inclined to dig around and inspect their own worldviews a little, I think they’ll find this an excellent and helpful read.

Ravi and Vince (who each authored 4 of the 8 chapters individually for the book) do a solid job of presenting and comparing many of the most prominent worldviews that compete with Christianity. While they are certainly advocating for the validity of Christianity over these other worldviews, they offer reasonably fair representation of each opposing argument.

My favorite aspect of the book is the way that Vitale and Zacharias manage to mix in easy-to-understand illustrations with equally accessible academic thought. It’s an art when dealing with such deep topics, but one they both manage well. In fact, given such heady conversation, I think the switching of voices every couple of chapters is a nice change of pace and keeps it fresh.

At the very least, I hope that people of all worldviews would use a book like this as a tool for more civil discourse when they have opposing viewpoints.

As Vitale mentions in the book (p 206):
“Partial truths can be as uninformative and misleading as lies, and because we like thinking we are in the know and we hate feeling ignorant, presenting partial truths as the whole truth is very much in our human nature.”

Coming out of an election cycle in the U.S. where partial truths seem to take over every news headline…I’m a big fan of a book like this which tries to fairly compare the claims and strengths of competing worldviews in a civil manner.

- Jeff B.

P.S. For what it’s worth…I also think this is one of those books you can pop on your bookshelf as a resource for when someone brings up a worldview you want a quick refresher on. (That is…for those of us who don’t already have advanced degrees in all of this!).

I bought this book in both hard cover and audible format and I highly recommend both! The audible format is read by Peter Berkrot and I think it is high quality and very well done.

Whether the reader is a deep thinker or not, I believe this book will speak encouragement and hope to whoever picks it up regardless of the view and belief that one has. The authors have the boldness to address questions that are challenging and with honesty they give answers that are appealing to both the mind and the heart in a way anyone can understand. This book is for anyone who has honest questions about the meaning, reason, and purpose of life and/or does not think that there is enough evidence for belief in God. I also recommend it for people who struggle to understand the battle of opposing ideas in today's culture (tolerance, science gives all the answers, whatever makes you happy, truth is not relevant, etc) which causes confusion and division. I also recommend it to anyone who has a belief in God because it offers an encouraging outlook: true belief is built on true substance that can be carefully examined while corresponding to true reality.

The chapters in this book written by Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale are brilliant. What I found really helpful in the book is that besides addressing the main currents of our time such as atheism, pluralism, and relativism, they do a fantastic job addressing Humanism and Hedonism which are not easy at all to address. I haven't read something so thorough and relevant to today's culture on these two "ism"s. Ravi Zacharias's chapter on Humanism puts it in a historical context and shows how the term evolved and the meaning of the term today is different than what it meant when it was introduced a few centuries ago. Vince Vitale's chapter on Hedonism brings relevance and insight to the way our culture distorts the truth by having it be overruled by "whatever makes you happy."

It is refreshing to see a young person like Vince Vitale co-authoring a book with a seasoned author like Ravi Zacharias while writing with such elegance and making difficult arguments become so simple under the eyes of my mind. Ravi starts with laying the foundation of the general "ism" that is underlying all other secular "isms" and Vince finishes strongly in his chapter "Love the Truth." Vince does a wonderful job in his Scientism chapter on explaining that the "how" question (which what science explains) does not answer the "who" question (referring to the mind behind it) or the "why" question (which implies purpose). The chapter on Pluralism addressed the question on so many different angles including "how we love" which is determined by who we listen or follow, and the example with Ariel (a terminally ill person) gave me goose bumps. Overall, both authors give so many helpful and thoughtful examples that it makes it a pleasure to read and understand the ideas presented. The partnership of Ravi and Vince co-authoring this book is a masterpiece and I am very grateful for having the opportunity to read it!

After the success of Jesus among other Gods Ravi Zacharias decided to write this book. Rather than other religions and deities the book includes secular topics: Atheism, Scientism, Pluralism, Humanism, Relativism, and Hedonism. The writers consider questions raised by the previous attitudes and respond to them. I haven’t read much material from RZIM. But after reading this book and watching a few episodes on YouTube I am persuaded of Ravi’s genuine concern for people. Much of the material produced from RZIM can be rather scholarly. However, I recognized a clear attitude of kindness and compassion when Ravi speaks to others, his communication reflects a pastoral heart. When he discusses the personalities and leaders from the representative schools of thought he is never arrogant, insulting, hostile, or aggressive. He is very respectful.

A few interesting things I want to point out about the book. In this review I am going to share some content, but I am going to raise a question based on the material. I have never done this before in a book review, but these are a few things that made me think. They are not posed as a question in the book, but the material is discussed. Can “atheist writers make an impact and shape terrible realities?” (P. 53) Is there a multiverse? (P. 83) “Gautama Buddha left to pursue his life of detachment from anything or anyone that could cause him suffering. Contrast this with Jesus Christ, who did everything He possibly could to attach Himself to our suffering in His pursuit of relationship with us.” (P. 102) Is the last quote important for us to think about? Are humans responsible for defining our own law of morality. (P. 158) Is Christianity a belief grounded in freedom? (P. 162) “Jesus didn’t go looking for His own pleasure but went looking for other people’s hurt. He went looking for trouble because it was in the place of trouble that God had work to do; it was in the place of trouble that healing needed to take place.” (P. 189) Is the last quote important for us to think about? Is truth power? (P. 211)

I realize that this review is written a little differently than my other reviews, but I am trying to do something different. I really liked this book, and after reading it I have picked up a few others written by Ravi Zacharias. I shared a few important points that caused me to think, perhaps they will make you think and ultimately create a desire for you to pick up a copy of your own book.

In exchange for an honest review Hachette Book Group has provided me a copy of Jesus Among Secular Gods. I have written an honest review.

Dr Ravi Zacharias and Dr Vince Vitale are both great thinkers and clear communicators so not surprisingly there is much in this book that is thought provoking and helpful. But for me it was the last chapter that particularly stood out and in my opinion is in itself worth the price of the book.

In it Dr Vitale persuasively argues for the importance of truth, eloquently describes its beauty and finally shows how truth is bound together with love in the person of Jesus. Most of us sense that truth is good, something to be valued and appreciated, but at the same time our freedom to tell the truth is being curtailed; our society seems to be afraid of the truth. How can this be? Why is it that many thinking people are even unwilling to admit that there is any objective truth? Dr Vitale explores these kinds of questions with great clarity, illustrating his argument with plenty of helpful stories and examples drawn from his own experience.

One interesting section dealt with partial truths and here Dr Vitale tied back in to the main content of the book showing how in each of the 'isms' considered, there is a degree of truth. For example the partial truth of scientism is that science explains a lot, but it doesn't explain everything. The partial truth of pluralism is that no worldview has a monopoly of truth but this doesn't mean that they are all equally true. The partial truth of hedonism is that pleasure is good, but pleasure is not the only thing that is good. Ultimately none of these 'isms', the secular gods of the title, can satisfy, partly because none are completely true but more importantly because they are at best impersonal ideals or philosophies. In contrast Dr Vitale explains how satisfaction can be found in Jesus because not only is he the embodiment of truth but he is also personal and can be known.

Ravi and Vince once again have showed their understanding of where the current winds of culture are blowing. With our Western Culture changing before our eyes, it is difficult to get a handle on what is shaping our culture. I enjoyed their insights and analysis of each relevant issue and their candour in challenging our presuppositions on each of them. They are thoughtful and winsome in their arguments. They break down each issue so they are understandable and relevant. They leave the reader with a clear understanding how different worldviews answer each issue so they can make clear decisions regarding each view. Their answers are substantial, balanced and though provoking. I found their writing touched both my mind and my heart. A recommended read for those who are interested in the issues that shape and influence our culture.

An engaging and moving read, in which Zacharias and Vitale grapple with various “secular gods” – atheism; scientism; pluralism; humanism; relativism; hedonism - that are often held up as alternatives to the major world religions, especially Christianity. Through pertinent anecdotes; analyses of quotes from eminent historians, philosophers, theologians, and scientists; striking analogies, and their own personal testimonies, the two authors move seamlessly from one secular god to another, skilfully laying out the counter-arguments against each one in a convincing manner. Though this is a book to challenge all those who read it, regardless of whether they have a faith or not (and challenge us all, it certainly does!): far from being heavy-handed or judgemental, Zacharias and Vitale’s book is well-balanced and sensitive.

Particularly poignant is Vitale’s chapter on ‘Pluralism’, which both systematically and sensitively goes through the seemingly logical steps of pluralism, showing how the answers and vision provided by this worldview are lacking and, ultimately, unsatisfactory. Vitale’s claim that the needs that pluralism seeks to serve can only truly be addressed and fulfilled via the Christian God, is compelling and gives much food for thought, both to the sceptic and the believer alike.

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking answers to life’s big questions, of any belief or none. Even if you do not come away professing love for and worship of the Christian God, you will have learnt a great deal about all the various arguments and counter-arguments, from these two very astute apologists. Their lines of thought on the issue of ‘agreements’ and ‘tolerance’, delivered in the last chapter of the book, are especially thought-provoking.

Definitely a must read especially if you have a heart for His kingdom and you work / study / engage with people in the secular world. I particularly find that this book helps me to understand the root cause of their anger and resentment of God that I usually witness when I am having a respectful "philosophical debates" (I am actually evangelizing but let's stick to the secular term) with my friends and colleagues who would describe themselves as agnostic, atheist, naturalist, communist, humanists, humanism, scientism, hedonism, etc. and some who aren't sure what they should describe themselves as. City of London, especially the Financial Sector has plethora of beliefs and hence is teeming with intelligent "isms" that this book helps us understand.

There will always be opportunities for people like us who have an intent to reach out to engage (if not evangelise) the non-theists. Drawing from the experience of Ravi Zacharias (with more than 4 decades in apologetic speaking and debating these very topics with the secular communities and numerous books on similar topics such as Can man live without God, Why suffering, Why Jesus, etc.) and Vince Vitale (co-author with Ravi of Why suffering).

If nothing then the scripture commands us to ......Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 1 Peter 3:15a and then Acts 13:47, Mark 16:15, Psalm 105:1 and so on and so forth. If the scripture commands are not reason enough for us to engage with the secular world, nothing else will ever be.

Jesus Among Secular Gods: The Countercultural Claims of Christ

Outstanding. As usual, Ravi and his team (in this case Vince Vitale - director of the new Zakarias Institute) lay out important contrasts between the 'gods' that our culture worships and the real god. They do so elegantly and without a hint of vitriol. The book is really interesting because it combines two very different styles-Ravi- eloquence personified, and Vince-who speaks in more common terms. Both hit their intended marks with powerful effect. I strongly recommend this important book.

This a very good book combining deep insights, real life stories and good arguments. It provides a chance for a truth seeker to compare between different ideologies and worldviews as contrast is the mother of clarity. It also gives a Christian a good tool to understand his faith more in the light of the other answers provided. Being written by two competent authors, it has the advantage of different voices and experiences. I found the chapter on Pluralism and Hedonism particularly helpful. I would highly recommend considering one's stance reagrding each idol in real life.

Are you looking for coherent answers to questions about life? Do you sincerely desire answers to questions about origin, meaning, morality, & destiny? Are you tired of the hopelessness of secular "religions" that provide answers that require more faith than Christianity? Then, read this book! Space and time (and ability) do not permit a detailed review but suffice it to say that if you want to understand how Christianity compares to the secular thinking of this world, this is the book for you.
Ravi and Vince have crafted a book to help people, Believers, unbelievers, and seekers, understand the significant (& obvious) differences between Biblical Christianity and the prevalent secular worldviews of atheism, scientism, pluralism, etc. From the very first chapter the differences are explored and the case is made for the Truth of the message of Jesus. If you are searching for meaning in your life and struggling to find out what really "fits" with reality, you will get answers here.
There is something for everyone. Unbelievers and sincere seekers will get clear, intelligent, and reasoned explanations of how Christian beliefs stand up to the claims of non-theistic belief systems. Proponents of atheism, pluralism, scientism, etc. (non-theistic religions) can read about what they believe as it compares to Christianity. Believers in Jesus will glean apologetic insights useful for sharing and explaining the coherent message of Christ found in the pages of Scripture.
It’s all here if you are ready for the challenge.

Are you looking for coherent answers to questions about life? Do you sincerely desire answers to questions about origin, meaning, morality, & destiny? Are you tired of the hopelessness of secular "religions" that provide answers that require more faith than Christianity? Then, read this book! Space and time (and ability) do not permit a detailed review but suffice it to say that if you want to understand how Christianity compares to the secular thinking of this world, this is the book for you.
Ravi and Vince have crafted a book to help people, Believers, unbelievers, and seekers, understand the significant (& obvious) differences between Biblical Christianity and the prevalent secular worldviews of atheism, scientism, pluralism, etc. From the very first chapter the differences are explored and the case is made for the Truth of the message of Jesus. If you are searching for meaning in your life and struggling to find out what really "fits" with reality, you will get answers here.
There is something for everyone. Unbelievers and sincere seekers will get clear, intelligent, and reasoned explanations of how Christian beliefs stand up to the claims of non-theistic belief systems. Proponents of atheism, pluralism, scientism, etc. (non-theistic religions) can read about what they believe as it compares to Christianity. Believers in Jesus will glean apologetic insights useful for sharing and explaining the coherent message of Christ found in the pages of Scripture.
It’s all here if you are ready for the challenge.

Engaging rhetoric, sharp logic, and gripping illustrations are wrapped up to tell the story of the early 21st century’s predominant ideologies. In Jesus Among Secular Gods, one will find unique insight into today’s modern/postmodern/post-truth worldview while it is contrasted with the only one that predates it: Christianity. Those familiar with Ravi’s style will be surprised by the strength of the language used, but ample argument is provided to defend the urgency.

I especially recommend this book to anyone who thinks a coherent distinction can be made between a “religious” and “non-religious” organization. Furthermore, the skeptic who wishes to deal with the best, as opposed to the popular, portrayals of Christianity will have to make an effort to find a better account.

It is difficult to find works that mix artful narrative and precise reasoning. I am thankful to Dr. Zacharias and Dr. Vitale for adding one more.

Jesus Among Secular Gods is timely, insightful, and accessible. Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale have proved yet again to be excellent communicators (and compelling story tellers!), articulate not only in their commendation of Christian faith but also in their reasoning; they "show their work" as it were- something which I personally appreciate as I try to weigh up ideas and arguments for myself. As Ravi notes in the first chapter, "Views and opinions are aplenty in our world of tweeting ...but civil discourse is rare." Happily, this volume aims at such discourse, resulting in respectful and honest engagement with the subject matter. Definitely a worthwhile read for the thoughtful soul seeking to press a finger to the pulse of trending '-isms' of our culture, and to understand why the figure of Jesus Christ stands unique among such 'gods'.

This is an excellent read! Written with a high intellectual rigor that does not sacrifice the existential questions or depth of the heart, this book creates a space for questions and objections towards Christianity to be heard and valued. It is a book that will encourage, challenge, equip and stretch you. Vince Vitale and Ravi Zacharias are committed to truth and write with an integrity that reveals their willingness to follow the evidence, engage disagreement, and always value the questioner over the question. This book provides insight into topics we cannot ignore as they surround our personal development and engagement with those around us - locally, nationally, and globally. You will not be left wanting for depth whether it be understanding your questions, the options to the questions, or the claims of Jesus Christ and the message of Christianity.

For the past few years, I have encountered an increasing interest in apologetics when it comes to reading books. There have been countless books that are good-quality and biblically based books that I can recommend as well, but it can go in another article. I have previously reviewed Ravi Zacharias’ previously published book - Why Jesus? and found it to be a great read, and when the time came for this new work of theirs - I said why not?

One of the things I enjoy about Ravi Zacharias is his writing style - he is a great storyteller wherein the text just flows very smoothly and in spite of some of then heavier content at times - He does have a gift of constructing persuasive points and presenting it in a very intellectual way. A difference that is undertaken in this book is the presence of major ideologies that are present in the world today, whether people admit that it is a god or not. Vitale and Zacharias engage the readers in a powerful mix of storytelling and dialogue. I appreciated both authors’ take on the different topics and how the whole book was still fluid even if they alternated chapters when writing.

What I found different is that the two authors present arguments or statements from individuals who do not claim Christianity and they present this in light of what Jesus preached in the Bible. They do this in a very gentle, respectful yet truthful way. In light of the current landscape of discussions and how we view differing POVs, they include a very important note on disagreement and how to lovingly respond.

Overall, the book presents a good look on modern worldly perspectives around the world and how we can contrast and deconstruct those when aligning it with Christ and the teachings in the bible. While the book is greatly helpful and something I value as a Christian reader, a good reminder is that conversations are helpful and as Christians, we do need to lovingly find ways to respond to culture in a counter-cultural way - knowing ultimately that the conversion aspect is something that only the Holy Spirit can achieve.

I received a complimentary copy from Hachette Book Group, in exchange for a review. I was not asked to write a positive review in exchange for a copy, but choose to write a review that is constructive, honest and helpful to other consumers.

Regardless of what belief system we hold we all struggle with the same questions. Ravi and Vince walk us through these questions examining the answers given by the secular worldview to the answers given by Jesus. In so doing, they help us see "why the answers of Jesus have stood the test of time, truth and coherence."

I found my heart stirred as I reflected back to my own years of questioning and my faith affirmed...how great is our God!

These are challenging times. How important for the believer to be armed with truth and to be able to engage with those in the world around us. I was brought to tears in the chapter on Scientism. In this chapter, Vince reminds us that creation is God's poem reflecting His invisible attributes to a watching world. In the same way, God's people are His handiwork...His masterpiece! For the Scriptures say, that we are letters read by others...a poem written by God!! May those who look at our lives say, "whoever is the author of that poem, I want Him to be the author of my life, too."

I bought one for myself and one to share with a friend with a lot of questions. My prayer is that they will see the beauty of the poem and come to know the Author, as I have.

I found this book fascinating, have loved reading it! I really recommend it to anyone who is interested in considering the intellectual landscape today as it pertains to the deeper questions of life: meaning, purpose, freedom etc. I particularly value the deep respect that Vince and Ravi have for those whose beliefs are different from their own, and the space that this book will create for vibrant, respectful, open dialogue and debate!

"Both the realities of pleasure and of pain demand answers and explanation, whether life has meaning and whether there is a solution to the problem of pain."

Nowadays people does not think so much about what is the ultimate origin of everything and on what is true, but rather many focus on what worldview of thinking system matches better my current desires. But ideas have consequences and Vince Vitale and Ravi Zacharias provide an excellent survey and exposition of the different worldviews that we regularly find in our secular culture, often trimmed and mixed, and how the person of Jesus and the worldview of christianity that follows provide answers that are, not only truthful, but they are truthful in a coherent manner and also in the most attractive one. I utterly recommend this book.

This is a great new resource from Ravi Zacharias, collaborating with Vince Vitale. Both are excellent writers whose styles complement each other. I enjoy Ravi Zacharias' books and have read several, but this book turned out to be the one I've enjoyed the most so far. Without getting overly deep or technical, Zacharias and Vitale present Christian critiques of the different aspects of secularism in modern society: atheism, scientism, pluralism, humanism, relativism and hedonism. I found their logic compelling and their arguments relevant. I will definitely be referring back to this book again!

I received a digital copy of this book for free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are entirely my own.

Years ago, as a new follower of Jesus, the discovery and subsequent inhaling of the information in the book "Jesus Among Other Gods" by Ravi Zacharias was as transformative as it was foundational. It was a game changer! As a city kid trying to navigate the many questions of faith -- not the least of which, "why Jesus and not (add any religion or religious leader/founder)??" this book was a godsend. Ravi Zacharias' second book coauthored by the brilliant Oxford professor of philosophy, Vince Vitale -- "Jesus Among Secular Gods" is just as timely, relevant and foundational if not more so in this "post-truth" world!! With thoughtful brilliance, pinpoint insight, applicable illustrations and just an bit of humor, each author addresses each of the "secular gods", ie pluralism, scientism, humanism, etc and compare/contrast their answers to life's questions/problems versus how Jesus addressed them. God follower or non; believer or skeptic this book is truly a profound work that will challenge and affirm. Check it out!

This is a fantastic book for the Christian, the skeptic and the apologist.
The Christian will be encouraged to see a plethora of reasons for the hope they profess in Jesus Christ.
The skeptic will be engaged with many compelling arguments for why Christian is true and atheism is a worldview that fails to explain the world around us and satisfy our human cravings for meaning, justice, hope, etc.
The apologist will be given many helpful illustrations and stories which will help him or her in their work.
I recommend this book for the reader's enjoyment and enrichment.

Having read "Why Suffering?" (amazing read, btw) I was naturally attracted to their new work. I have to say, this dynamic duo have set the bar pretty high. Just like their previous book this one feeds not only the brain but also the heart. A nice balance between heady arguments and those lines that touch the soul. Whether you are a newcomer to philosophy and apologetics or a hardcore veteran, this book is sure to satisfy.

Just as heads up, be prepared to have your worldview shaken, christian or not, as Vitale and Zacharias posit serious questions meant only for those who are seriously seeking.

Reading this book is an investment in loving thy neighbor in a pluralistic society where I often find myself having conversations with neighbors and friends who do not hold a Christian worldview. Time and time again I've walked away from these conversations wrestling with the feeling that something in my own explanation or theirs didn't sound quite right. I was left wanting clarity so that I could better understand why and where we agree or disagree. In this light, reading this book is an investment in those friendships and conversations that, as I look back, have become some of the most cherished in my life. The last chapter sets a tone that I will need to meditate on for years to come.

Is LIFE more than material existence?
Is LOVE more than personal preference?
Is TRUTH more than situational ethic?
Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale, co-authors of 'Jesus Among Secular Gods', bring their communicative skills together to 'defang' today's boldest '--ISMS' (atheism, scientism, pluralism, humanism, relativism, and hedonism); while
Providing God's answer for a meaningful LIFE as His child; and
God's LOVE and TRUTH made manifest in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.
As a 'life-skills' coach for business team building, parenting and addiction, there is NO OTHER topic that demands more of a person's existence than knowing the meaning for LIFE and LOVE TRUTH.
Zacharias and Vitale have masterfully explained both humanist and godly world views, as well as provide God's TRUTH to bridge their mind and heart, to experience their new found freedom of being and doing LIFE and LOVE, in the image they were created. Genesis 1:26-27.

I cannot think of an apologetics topic more relevant to 2017. Maybe I've spent too much time in California, but this readable & enjoyable treatise on faith in the age of secularism helps frame my daily experience.

We all know and love Ravi's writing -- the only challenge there is in reading his text without incessantly drifting into attempts at his mesmerizing accent. And I'd submit that we'll increasingly all know and love Vince's writing -- he's a great complement to Ravi and I especially loved the chapter on Scientism.

Vince Vitale writes, “Perhaps the most common objection to this argument [of science and faith] is this: God is not a good explanation for the universe because we don’t have a good explanation for God.” Vitale, along with Ravi Zacharias, then delve into who they believe that God to be.

Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale have teamed up to revisit, refine, and modernize some of Zacharias’s decades-long inquiry into the dialogue between Christianity and other, secular faiths (mainly, atheism, scientism, humanism, etc.). While the book’s target audience is most likely geared towards Christians who wish to have a deeper understanding for the foundation of their faith, the book also provides many answers for atheists looking to engage with the Christian faith on an intellectual platform. At the heart of this book is premise that there are good, rational, and satisfying reasons to take Judeo-Christian God under serious consideration.