
The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have
Paula Stone Williams
(Foreword by)This title will be released on
March 4, 2025
Description
With courage and compassion, Regina V. Cates asks thought-provoking questions about why present-day Christianity is often characterized by fear, judgment, and egotism. Imagining Jesus would be appalled by much that is said in his name, Regina points readers toward Christ's lovingkindness, inclusivity, and humility. In so doing, she challenges readers to align their hearts more closely with Jesus's teachings and honestly address the harm caused by so much institutional religion.
"God's loving grace within our heart is the power of light that gives us strength to honestly examine the oppressive attitudes and behaviors alive within much of Christianity--attitudes and behaviors that, to Jesus's heart, would not be either logical or kind."
As part of this challenge, Regina initiates thoughtful conversations about topics including sexual abuse, racism, religious and political corruption, abortion, and sexual orientation. Part memoir, part social commentary, and part call to action, this book invites all people of good faith to more fully embody Jesus's message by taking up his call to love our neighbors as ourselves.
"Let's demonstrate our love for Jesus by asking and answering the questions I imagine he would ask. . . . I believe to truly follow him, it is imperative we help create the caring, peaceful, and respectful world he envisioned."
Product Details
Publisher | William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company |
Publish Date | March 04, 2025 |
Pages | 228 |
Language | English |
Type | |
EAN/UPC | 9780802884107 |
Dimensions | N/A |
About the Author
Reviews
--Adam Ericksen, pastor of Clackamas United Church of Christ
"Regina Cates invites God's people to see the heartbreak of those on the margins, those too often treated as 'less than' by the very people who claim allegiance to the God of love. Though deeply wounded by the church, Cates refuses to give up on Jesus, the One who wouldn't give up on her. Throughout her book, Jesus is the unparalleled touchstone for life, faith, relationships, justice. Though you may not agree with all her conclusions, Cates's questions hold the potential to draw the church into deeper compassion, faithfulness, and love."
--Mark DeVries, retired associate pastor for youth and family at First Presbyterian Church, Nashville
"Here is a reassuring book for those who have experienced the absence of love and inclusion in the institutional church. For all who are weak and heavy laden, Regina Cates proclaims the good news that Christ loves every last one of us unconditionally. This beautiful and inspiring work is a must read, not only for those of us who have been wounded by organized religion, but for those of us who have been complicit in the wounding of others as well."
--Britt Skarda, retired senior pastor of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church
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