"The Secret Message of Jesus" by Brian McLaren

Some of you may know Brian McLaren from some of his other books including A New Kind of Christian Trilogy or A Generous Orthodoxy. I just finished an advanced copy of Brian's newest book, The Secret Message of Jesus - Uncovering The Truth That Could Change Everything, and I believe it will be considered his best so far. Not because he's sharing something so incredibly new, but because he has done so in such a way that invites such wonderful dialoge and engagement for all who read it. He brilliantly shows how Jesus Christ "came to start a political, social, religious, artistic, economic, intellectual, and spiritual revolution that would give birth to a new world" (p.4). He not only shows/explains/discusses this "secret message of Jesus," he generously invites all to participate in the implications it brings to our world, our relationships, the church, our jobs, and beyond.


The book is laid out like so...

Part 1: Excavation: Digging Beneath The Surface To Uncover Jesus's Message

In this section McLaren introduces the readers to the political and socio-economic message embedded within Jesus' teachings.

Part 2: Engagement: Grappling With The Meaning Of Jesus's Message

In this section, the reality of the "the Kingdom being here and now" or "the present kingdom" and it's powerful and never-before-experienced implications are explained and developed.

Part 3: Imagination: Exploring How Jesus's Secret Message Could Change Everything

In this section, Brian spends most of his time challenging different views about heaven and hell, and discusses a kingdom manifesto and kingdom ethics. He also explains how in so many ways we have "missed" the message and shares a wonderful list of people who have influenced his way of thinking. He even has a discussion about Kingdom prayer.


There is no question that some will find this book controversial, but more so I believe will be invited, encouraged, and motivated. And for those who have not enjoyed McLaren's books in the past I think this book may change some of your feelings. I definitely recommend you getting The Secret Message of Jesus and reading it. You will not be disappointed.