Reviewed by: Hope Bolinger, a professional writing major at Taylor University.

Introduction

Title: Dancing in No Man’s Land: Moving with Peace and Truth in a Hostile World

Author: Brian Jennings

Publisher: NavPress

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Print book

Length: 216 pages

OVERVIEW

Even though a century divides us between World War I, we often operate in a bunker warfare mentality. We segregate ourselves into separate camps, ranging from opposing political groups to those with divergent worship music preferences. Each side tosses poisonous gasses of sorts at those with opposing opinions, ranging from direct attacks upon the “enemy” to suffering from collateral damage. Desiring unity for the church within a world fragmented by trenches, Jennings encourages readers to thrive in the in-between, the no man’s land. From tackling topics of generational gaps to the same-sex marriage debate, Jennings offers solutions for neutrality and healing.  Infused with relatively up-to-date examples and injected with plenty of scripture, the book presents a clarified picture of the rhetoric warfare of our confusing culture. The author shares times when readers can and should exercise impartiality (for instance, he gives an example of when his father refused to engage in gossip).

The book has weaknesses, however. First, sporadic subjects in one section collide with another section without smooth transitions or logical organization. Second, Jennings does not appear to consider instances when noninvolvement can hurt more than help. For instance, in chapter six he tells readers to choose not to takes sides. Although he has good intentions, in some modern arenas of debate, this will not be a possibility, nor will it be interpreted as a good tactic. Silence is not always golden, for sometimes it is perceived as acquiescing or condoning a conduct or behavior.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Christians wanting to increase unity within the church  

Christian Impact

Divisions fracture the church and even the house of God is not the way it’s supposed to be. By refusing to jump into a bunker, we allow for healing and productive conversations to occur.  

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