Book Review: “God, Caesar, and Idols” by Rick Boyer

�God, Caesar, and Idols� is both timely and eye opening.   It is also revolutionary in calls for action on the part of the clergy and congregations.  I am in no way able to critically evaluate the theological issues the book raises.  But it is apparent Mr. Boyer is a fine biblical scholar and the points he makes are thoroughly and persuasively backed up with copious biblical references. 

The message of this book is that many of our pastors have adopted a kind of �Christianity Lite,� preaching acceptance of Jesus as our savior but not advocating any actions outside of church that may criticize the culture or offend others.  

The book persuasively argues that modern Christians have taken a �live and let live� attitude to the rest of the world ignoring Jesus’ teaching that we must be active in the world, espousing and defending our religious beliefs.  Indeed, we Christians should actively work to shape the culture to support biblical teaching.  We must not concern ourselves with giving offense when we support biblical teaching.  While judgment is ultimately left to God, we must not hesitate to criticize actions that run counter to God�s will.

Mr. Boyer argues that many pastors have taken a non-confrontational position on many issues to avoid offending anyone.  That is not historically correct Christianity, nor does it follow the Bible.  He urges pastors to be more active in teaching what God�s word actually said not the watered down version currently in vogue.

For me, his arguments do much to explain why most �mainstream� Christian churches have become banal places to spend an hour on Sunday, without in any way inspiring us to alter our behavior.  This may also explain why their attendance has steadily declined.

We must refuse to follow laws that don�t conform to biblical teaching, and we must speak out in the face of cultural atrocities. We must work to spread the Gospel.  If our Christianity offends other religions, we must not hide it.  Indeed, we must seek to persuade others of the error of their ways.

I never could understand why we were cautioned not to criticize people whose actions or beliefs offended us, nor should we judge other cultures that horrify us.  Common sense tells us we should be critical of actions and cultures that offend our beliefs.  Mr. Boyer explains the biblical background that supports, even compels, us to take actions to defend our beliefs.

There is much in this book.  I found that after I read a chapter, I would need to stop and think about the points made.  This book is very readable even for those of us with limited biblical backgrounds, but it also challenges us to change our ways.

(Mr. Boyer’s excellent and thought-provoking book can be purchased on his website at�christandculturemedia.com�or on Amazon or any of the standard channels.)