Book Review: Doubting Faithfully

Confessions of a skeptical pastor by Keith Long

Of all the books I have read this year, Doubting Faithfully: Confessions of a skeptical pastor by Keith Long has been, by far, the most meaningful to me. Doubt can be a lonely place. It can feel like there is no one like you out there. That is where he begins to tell his story... sort of.

Actually, he begins by giving some of the background to his willingness to step out of his comfort zone and ask questions that some may not be willing to or may even be scared to ask. Questions about some of the very core doctrines of the Christian faith. Ideas and dogmas that so many of us have been forced into believing are unquestionable. Simply asking a question that might call these ideas into question is deemed heresy in some parts.

As Keith takes the reader along his journey through skepticism and bringing others along for the ride, I found a kindred spirit. Questioning my faith made me feel like an outsider, and, much like Keith, I found myself more at home with everyone else except my own Christian siblings.

The book is short and to the point. He does mention a few lofty theological concepts, but when important he defines them in a way that makes them easy to understand. He seems to be aiming here not only to share his story and help others through those periods of doubt, but also to teach us about the Christian faith along the way. not to convert, but to inform.

Doubting Faithfully is one of the books that I will be keeping on my desk to return to again and again.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR,Part 255.