Amanda Hudson

This is one of the few books I’ve read that I didn’t want to end.

The book brought me along on the author’s journey of meeting believers all across the globe through Hudson’s experiences in each country, opening my eyes to Christianity as it is known beyond our own nation.

The book touches on topics that affect believers in the various countries yet also affect believers everywhere. As the author visits Brazil, Wales, Tanzania, China and Honduras, Hudson reflections on topics ranging from spiritism, the prosperity gospel, the problem of pain, idolatry, the underground church and more.

Some of my favorite quotes and insights from the book:

“While people might like to attribute their doubts to more intellectual motives, most people’s objections to God aren’t actually coming from answers to the Alpha questions—they’re coming from a reaction to the church, which many see as a lifeless institution.”

“…the prosperity gospel promises “Come to church and your life will get better.” And it does . . . for a while. But when something bad inevitably happens, seekers find themselves disillusioned.”

“I believe we owe it to the poorest regions of our world to be informed about the problems, not just write checks. Look for projects that provide education or stimulate the local economy. Give money directly to individual missionaries who are responsible and ethical with their resources . . . so that monies don’t get diverted by government bureaucracy.”

“While the culture is atheistic, the Chinese way of living—with its emphasis on sharing, avoiding gluttony, responsibility for family, and being content with what one has (in general, putting others’ needs above oneself)—seems inherently more “Christian,” than the American lifestyle of me, me, me.”

She doesn’t gloss over the truth of how she sees things or how she feels, but presents it with honesty and authenticity. Some will like this, others will not, but I personally appreciated this because you could tell she was able to see her own perspectives on things clearly. A person that has a clear view of themselves is able to do the all important thing: grow. This coupled with honesty is so key.

All in all, I enjoyed this book immensely and I’m so grateful to a friend recommended I read it.… (mere)