As Christians, we’re called to love our neighbors—all our neighbors. But is that even possible? And can we truly love them well?
People often think of their neighbors as those already belonging to their “tribe” or community. It’s safe, it’s easy, and it doesn't often cause conflict—politically or religiously. But in today’s world, everyone and everything is interconnected globally in an ever-changing cultural landscape, while religious strife runs rampant. Is it feasible for Christians to live their faith boldly and lovingly while entering into a true relationship with “neighbors” of other faiths, both locally and globally?
In Bold as Love, Pastor Bob Roberts shows you what it looks like to live out your faith daily in the global public square among people of other faiths—Jews, Muslims, atheists, Hindus, Buddhists. While he admits that it can be challenging to engage people of other faiths whose beliefs are as strong as yours, he demonstrates how to enter into this critical dialogue in a radical yet loving way. “We have to learn to speak with one conversation and give the same message everywhere to everyone,” he says. “We are commanded to love God and love others. And sometimes that requires risky boldness.”
Roberts invites you to respond to this call to live a life of fearless and loving engagement with the world. So take the risk! Your faith wasn't made to live in isolation. It’s something you do face-to-face, heart-to-heart, hand-to-hand. Whether you are in a suburb of Houston or a village in India, put away the fear and suspicion and, instead, answer the call to radically love others the way God loves. And get ready to see your life and the lives of those you touch—your family, your community, even your enemies—transformed!
Review:
I was very excited about reading Bold As Love because it promoted a very important message - to always love and accept your neighbor no matter their religious or social creed. I have always been a fan of Matthew 7:12 - "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you..." and this book shows us how to ditch the fear, suspicion and intolerance and start loving our neighbors the way God loves! The book is easy-to-read, down-to-earth, and is supplemented with examples from Pastor Bob Roberts Jr's own personal experiences, as well as scriptural support. His multi-faith approach to loving and accepting people of all religious backgrounds, without ulterior motives, is a tool that every person, (no matter what faith), should apply in their daily lives. Without opening up a shared, non-judgmental dialogue between those of different faiths, there would be no transfer of ideas - limiting acceptance. That is why I find the multi-faith approach so intriguing - although somewhat repetitive - because it is one of the foundations of religious peace and acceptance. Highly recommended for all Christians, as well as those seeking acceptance over tolerance.
Rating: On the Run (4/5)
*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Bob Roberts Jr. is the founding pastor of NorthWood Church in Keller, Texas. He received his masters of divinity at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1983 and his doctorate in ministry from Fuller in 1996.
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