Reviewed by: Katherine Hiegel, writing student

Introduction

Title: Faith Is Like Skydiving: And other memorable images for dialogue with seekers and skeptics

Author: Rick Mattson

Publisher: IVP Books

Publication Date: April 2014

Format: Paperback Book

Length: 231 Pages

OVERVIEW

This easy-to-use guide helps readers understand and defend the Christian faith better through the use of real-world analogies and personal examples. Faith Is Like Skydiving prepares readers for scientific, emotional, and philosophical challenges to their beliefs by offering arguments for Christianity that stem from many subject areas, including the origin of the universe, the life of Jesus, the presence of suffering and evil, the authenticity of Scripture, and miracles. It also includes tips on how to engage effectively with skeptics from all walks of life. Although Mattson is a self-described supporter of science and a friend to people from all religious backgrounds, he unapologetically adheres to biblical theology throughout his book. His book shows that a defense of Christianity doesn’t have to be “prepackaged,” though neither should it be insensitive, sloppy, or inaccurate. This is both a book for thinkers and a catalyst for deeper thought about faith and evangelism.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5 Stars

Suggested Audience

Adults of all ages

Christian Impact

I would rate this book a 4 out of 5; it’s practical and informative, with summaries and lists of additional recommended resources included at the end of most chapters. Mattson’s analogies, while not infallible, provide solid support for tenets of Christianity, and his book’s claims are cited and supported extensively. Overall, Skydiving is an honest, accessible, and persuasive—but not overpowering—conversational guide from the perspective of a seasoned Christian apologist. Mattson himself recommends this book to all ordinary Christians who want to sharpen their conversational skills, to ministry professionals who want to build upon their outreach training, and to seekers and skeptics interested in reading about the case for Christianity. Adults of all ages are likely to find it interesting and informative. This book challenges the notion that Christians must either “wing it” or have everything planned out during theological discussions with nonbelievers. Instead, this text proposes a blend of personal preparation and trust in the Holy Spirit.

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