The Air We Breathe offers a point of view that I had not really encountered or considered before, but probably should have been aware of. The premise of the book is that, whether we are aware of it or not, the very essence of Christianity is core to the way we (in the “western world”) think and form our opinions, ethics, judgements, theories and ideas. Glen offers a clear explanation as to why Christianity is so relevant, in fact is central, to our world view. That it is like “the air we breathe”.
As a Christian, it is somewhat reassuring and encouraging. It strengthens my faith. It is a relevant read for people like me who do have a faith, but also holds relevance for those who may have lost a once held faith, and for those who have never had any Christian faith at all. If you hold a belief that you know about Christianity already and have decided you don’t believe, then perhaps read this one, just to make sure you are right?
It is an important read, to get a fuller understanding of how the world was, and is, influenced by Christianity, how Jesus kicked off a revolution that is still impacting the world around us.
Christian values are clearly now at the heart of the western world’s moral compass. In his writing, Glen has a great way of stepping back and taking a logical look at the world, bringing context, oversight and clear thinking. He comes across as being very well read in all manner of writing, especially philosophy, to be able to place Christianity in a world context. And then explains his observations on complex philosophies in a logical, clear and easily understandable way.
Through the book we can gain an insight into the immense influence of Christianity on the way the world now thinks. Its morals, values and attitudes are a world away from the values held at the time of Christ, and point towards the fact that Christ’s teachings have changed the world.
So often we judge ideas, including Christianity, using a more modern world view and so reach conclusions that may be only partially correct. But Christ was teaching in a very different environment. When the revolutionary message of Christ is seen in the context of common “wisdoms” held at the time, we start to see how the message is truly extraordinary and totally counter-cultural. We can then realise the extent to which our modern world is actually aligned to Christian influences, whether we follow Jesus or not.
This book is enlightening, an important read, written with wisdom and compassion.
The Air We Breathe, by Glen Scrivener, is available here.
I received an advance complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but was under no pressure to provide a favourable review.
