A call to engage with the identity politics of our world, and reframe the way we spread the Christian gospel.
In our modern world the gospel of Jesus is seen by many less as good news for all humanity,
and more as the bigoted edicts of a bygone era. Benjamin Chang explores the stories of the revolution, tracing the trajectories of four of the biggest social justice movements – feminism, racial justice, gay pride and the trans movement – before looking at the ways Christians usually engage with these arenas of cultural conflict (mirror, argue, ignore) and identifying a better way forward.
Rather than hunkering down in our own identity tribes, arguing against other groups, or ignoring what is going on in the culture around us, Chang encourages Christians to find ways to speak for Jesus. He urges us to look at the way we tell stories,
and consider whether we can re–capture hearts in our culture by telling a more powerful counter–narrative. He gives us language to use to speak about the cross in our world of identity politics. We will see that the gospel resonates with a culture when it speaks the language of the culture.
Endorsements
Ben carefully upacks the origins and evolution of the social justice movements and how they are shaping the cultural landscape in the global west. He looks at how Christians are responding. But, more importantly, he points to how we might tell a better story of redemption and liberation.
Ken Wright Former Chair, British Youth for Christ
It is so important in our generation to see those around us not as the enemy, but as our mission. Every pastor and thoughtful Christian will be helped by this book.
Grant Retief Rector, Christ Church Stellenbosch, South Africa
Informed and informative, readable and engaging, this book is a handbook for those who not only want to understand the world around us, but are striving for a more effective missional engagement with it.
Chris Wright Langham Partnership and author of ‘The Mission of God’s People’
… challenging, succinct,
insightful and practical – a vital resource in equipping Christians to think differently about engaging in contemporary cultures.
Abigail Maguire Head of Undergraduate Studies, Moorlands College, Sopley, UK
… will greatly help us fulfil the Great Commission to our generation.
Rico Tice Evangelist; Co–founder of Christianity Explored Ministries
… tackles some of the most contentious issues of our time with wisdom, sensitivity and humility. … It is vital for a church caught in the crosswinds of cultural change to develop language and hone wisdom to understand the times.
Ben has produced a bold, insightful and supremely practical primer that will be read by young people’s and youth group leaders, students,
pastors and evangelists – indeed, anybody – with a heart to bring the light of Christ to a darkening age.
Glynn Harrison Retired Psychiatrist, Former Professor of Psychiatry and author, ‘A Better Story: God, Sex and Human Flourishing’
A must–read for any Christian who not only wants to better understand the issues but also wants to know how to respond in a constructive and Christ–like manner.
Martin Salter Lead Pastor, Grace Community Church, Bedford, UK and Author, ‘So Loved: 26 Words That Can Change Your Life’
Ben Chang has done us all a service in this clear and simple introduction to one of the most powerful trends in West at the moment. … Only in the gospel of Jesus Christ – shared in word and deed – can the true identity,
justice and hopes of the West be found.
Stephen Nichols Vicar, All Saints Church, Lindfield
Ben Chang is a speaker and writer, as well as working full–time in the health sector. He speaks regularly at conferences, universities and churches on a range of issues including medical ethics, mental health, identity politics and cultural engagement. He blogs at www.benchangblog.com.
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