We Make the Road by Walking, by Brian D. McLaren

For its potential usefulness in the congregation, this book is as good as sun on soil. Academics may find no theological breakthrough here, but the ones who care about church life may still do a double take. A leading voice of the so-called emerging church interprets the Bible story in a manner that is uncommonly accessible and arresting, and also conversant with contemporary scholarship.

McLaren is aiming to draw both pastors and laypersons into conversation and conspiracy. Christian faith, he says, involves shaking off mere convention and taking part in subversive upheaval. Such faith is story-shaped, so in service to God’s reign it takes for its compass the whole drama that culminates in Christ. Faith aims for social transformation, seeking peace and justice without descending into violence. Engaging the whole life, it not only requires much, but also grants much. Discipleship is countercultural and hard; at the same time it’s a path to fellowship and “true aliveness.” If faith is participation in an “uprising,” it is also the healing of the self.

The heart of the book is 52 short chapters, set forth with a view to both the liturgical year and the needs of discussion groups. Each chapter takes key Bible passages as a reference point. Interpretation centers first on Genesis and proceeds, along lines suggested by scripture itself, all the way to the book of Revelation. Chapters end with six discussion questions, always including one especially for children. One of the appendices contains “guidelines for learning circles.”