BOOK REVIEW

  The New Testament is filled with references that depict Jesus’ followers as a family with God as their Father. Hopefully the significance of this metaphor has impacted you as you’ve read Hellerman’s When the Church Was a Family. This assignment is an opportunity to review the major themes and arguments presented by the author, examine areas that could be critiqued, and (most importantly) reflect on the ways that these ideas influence the way you live. Our identity as children of God does not only affect the way we live within our local churches; it affects every aspect of our lives. INSTRUCTIONS You will submit a 900 – 1,500-word review of Hellerman’s When the Church Was a Family. The review must be written in current Turabian format and include a summary, critique, and application in addition to a title page and bibliography. The review must address the following: • Summary: 300 – 500 words – What is the author’s primary argument and how does he explain/support that argument throughout the book? • Critique: 300 – 500 words – Provide a thoughtful analysis of the strengths of the authors argument. Also provide a thoughtful analysis of weaknesses or areas that could be further clarified by the author. If you do not have any personal disagreement with the author, provide an analysis of areas where “others” might object to the author’s argument, and respond to those potential objections. • Application: 300 – 500 words – Reflect on how this book has impacted you on a personal level. The items below are suggestions to aid your reflection; you are not required to respond to them specifically. o Discuss any quotes from the book that you found meaningful. o How does this book affect the way you view your role as a church member? o If applicable, how has this book affected your view of your role as a leader within the church? o Do the principles from this book influence any areas of your life outside of the church? Explain.