Understanding the Battle
As Christians, we are engaged in a spiritual battle, whether we acknowledge it or not. It is crucial that we familiarize ourselves with the thoughts and ideas of those who oppose our faith. By reading secular books, we gain insights into the minds of our adversaries, equipping ourselves to combat false ideologies effectively. These books, often authored by outspoken critics of Christ, possess the potential to cause great harm. Therefore, it is essential that we engage with them and understand their arguments fully.
To exemplify the importance of knowing one’s enemy, consider the remarkable story of Dick Winters. Winters, a legendary figure in American military history, led the 101st Airborne’s Easy Company during World War II. His success on D-Day and subsequent triumphs were not solely due to his strategic prowess but also his understanding of the enemy’s intentions. Winters’ knowledge saved countless lives. Similarly, Christian professor Carl Trueman delves into secular literature to expose harmful ideas that currently plague humanity. His books, such as “The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self” and “Strange New World,” shed light on the cultural shift toward individualism and relativism. Trueman’s exploration of ideas from the likes of Rousseau, Nietzsche, Marx, and Simone de Beauvoir is crucial in understanding and combating harmful ideologies.
Building Bridges and Sharing Truth
Reading secular books also enables Christians to engage with unbelievers on common ground. To effectively communicate with those around us, we must grasp their perspectives and thoughts. By immersing ourselves in the literature that shapes our culture, we equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge to engage in meaningful conversations about science, economics, politics, and philosophy. These conversations provide opportunities to share the truth, peace, and love of Christ with those who may have never encountered it.
For instance, consider “The Book of Eels” by Patrik Svensson, an enthralling read that delves into the mysterious lives of eels. Despite Svensson not sharing our faith, his book presents captivating conversation starters, allowing us to marvel at the wonders of creation and spark meaningful discussions about God’s handiwork. However, it is important to strike a balance, as our enthusiasm may occasionally tire those closest to us!
Discovering Hidden Wisdom
Finally, secular books offer us a wealth of wisdom. Although God’s ultimate truth may not be acknowledged by their authors, He still grants them insights and the ability to tell engaging stories. Throughout history, countless works of literature have contained wisdom and beauty that transcend religious boundaries. From the ancient wisdom of Plato, Aristotle, Euclid, and Homer to contemporary authors like Michael Lewis, who writes expertly about finance, these secular works possess valuable insights.
Take, for example, Lewis’s book “The Big Short,” which dissects the 2007 financial crisis. Through gripping storytelling, Lewis illuminates the truth behind the crisis, enabling readers to comprehend its ramifications and gain important insights. By appreciating the literary contributions of non-believers, we can broaden our understanding of the world and find common ground on which to connect with those around us.
Embracing a Balanced Approach
Naturally, some may ask, “Why not solely read the Bible? Isn’t it sufficient for our needs?” While the Bible should undoubtedly form the foundation of our reading material, there is no biblical injunction against engaging with secular literature. In fact, the Scriptures encourage us to read widely, wisely, and fervently. The Apostle Paul, for instance, quoted the Greek poet Aratus, indicating his familiarity with Greek literature. Moreover, Deuteronomy 29:29 assures us that all that God has revealed is for our understanding. Therefore, while the Bible remains our primary source of spiritual nourishment, we are encouraged to explore other works as well.
Let us acknowledge the value of secular books and their potential contribution to our faith. By immersing ourselves in diverse literature, we gain a deeper understanding of our adversaries, find common ground with unbelievers, and unearth hidden wisdom. As Christians, let us embrace a balanced and discerning approach to reading, one that enriches our faith and equips us for engaging with the world around us.