Book Review: Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt (Multnomah Books, ISBN 9781601422217, June 2010, $14.99) challenged me to examine my relationship with God and I’m sorry to report that it may not be as good as I thought.

Radical by David Platt | Book Review by Dana Pittman

Radical examines Christianity and how, as Christians, we view our work for Christ. However, this examination, in my opinion, takes it a bit further because David Platt considers how our beliefs and faith are shaped by our American culture.

Meaning, how are we living Christ’s purpose while staying closed off from the world—nestled comfy in our picture-perfect existence. David expressed it clearly, “God creates, blesses, and saves us each for a radically global purpose.”

I loved the book.

I felt my heart exposed and vulnerable to the message conveyed through the bright orange covers of this convicting book. I must admit that while reading I questioned, how could David write such a book, a book calling for people to give more, be more, do more, and sacrifice more from his seat as pastor of a large church…and presumably an existence that exemplifies the “American dream”.

David shares his personal struggles…

I took courage in realizing that David doesn’t just show us how God’s word commands us to live such a life, he also shares his personal struggles with ensuring that he too lives a life that is based on God’s will to save all people. I experienced an array of emotions while reading this book; however, I benefited most from David taking Radical a step further. He provides steps to assist readers in digesting his radical message and not merely hoarding the information but sharing the message with everyone. He provides the steps to make sure more people can learn about Jesus.

I find that reading most non-fiction Christian books are very preachy. I cannot speak for all people, but I believe we seek these materials to see how we size up against God’s expectations and to learn how we can make things better. How can we align ourselves with God’s will.

In Radical, you will encounter God as He is instead of how we’ve made Him. To readers I suggest reading this book. Don’t miss the opportunity to be all that God has called you to be.

My Rating

My Video Review

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”