Reviewed by: Virginia Peterson, librarian

Church: Spencerport Bible Church, near Rochester, N.Y.

Introduction

Title: Runaway Radical: A Young Man’s Reckless Journey to Save the World

Author: Amy Hollingsworth & Jonathan Hollingsworth (mother & son)

Publisher: Harper Collins Christian Publishing

Publication Date: February 24, 2015

Format: Print

Length: 240 Pages

OVERVIEW

Jonathan was a college-age Christian who wanted to change the world in the name of Jesus by helping the poor and underprivileged. The book recounts briefly his experiences on mission trips and in ministry before his big decision to spend a year in Africa. Influenced by writers who promised God would come through for those who gave their all to Him, Jonathan found out that the reality may be different. With his faith shaken, he came home early.

The book alternates between Jonathan’s and his mother’s recollections and writings, and explores the question of how radical discipleship can become a new form of legalism (one’s efforts determine the results and bring God’s favor). The book ends with the authors’ reflections on what grace really means in the Christian life.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

5 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Teen to adult.

Christian Impact

The story is an illustration of how we need to evaluate all that we’re taught by Scripture, and of how easy it is to go too far in our zeal to do good. It’s very tempting to think that doing good works “earns” us God’s blessing. That can result in blaming ourselves or God for any failures or bad outcomes.

Virginia is a former homeschooling mother. Current activities include quilter, genealogist, and volunteer apologist for Reasons To Believe ministry. 

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