Books To Help Non-Christians

Right with God by John Blanchard, 1971. Paperback 126 pages.

This popular evangelist is author of many books which explain Christianity simply and expertly answer many of the questions being asked today. This is one of his earlier books designed to help, in a straightforward way, those searching for a personal faith in God.

Ultimate Questions by John Blanchard, 1987. Paperback 30 pages.

This popular evangelist answers many important questions about God, the purpose of life, our problems etc. It is good to read this so we in turn can answer questions from our friends, relatives, colleagues and neighbours. Chapter headings include: What is God like?, Who am I?, What went wrong? Where do I go from here? Why the Cross?, How can I be saved?

Is God past his sell-by date? by John Blanchard, 2002. Paperback 234 pages.

This popular evangelist is author of many books which explain Christianity simply, and expertly answer many of the questions being asked today. This book makes an excellently argued case for the existence of God and helps to put science in its right place. In particular, it well presents the case against the theory of evolution. Perhaps the most useful chapter at this time is 'Where was God on September 11th?' Here is an extract:

When an atheist claims that an all-powerful God could overcome evil and that an all-loving God would do so, the person who believes in God agrees, but adds that as it is not happening at present we can be certain that it will happen in the future. The day is coming when God will make a cosmic moral adjustment. Perfect justice will not only be done, but it will be seen to be done. The wicked will no longer prosper, the righteous will no longer suffer, and the problem of evil will be fully, finally and obviously settled beyond all doubt and dispute.

Good News for Bad People by Roy Hession, 1989. Paperback 173 pages.

We are bombarded with good advice, whether it be about our diet, exercise, weight or many other things. But we are weak and find it difficult to heed. What we want is good news – and there's very little of that in the papers or on the TV. The Gospel of Jesus is therefore particularly wonderful news because it promises much – eternal life – but doesn't require us to do anything or improve ourselves before receiving it. It is for all of us, however bad we are. It is truly good news for bad people. This book explains simply the theology behind the effective message of Jackie Pullinger in Chasing the Dragon and David Wilkerson in The Cross and the Switchblade (both in the Bailgate Christian Library) among drug addicts and gang members. It shows that if we admit our sins, however bad they are, have sorrow for them, intend to not repeat them, and trust that Jesus died to pay the penalty that they deserve, then we are welcomed into new life with God. That we have to renounce our rebellion against God (i.e. our sins) is well illustrated by a lesson from British history:

The French admiral defeated at the Battle of the Nile came on board Lord Nelson's flagship to make his surrender. Dressed in his finery and with a smile on his face, he extended his hand to Nelson, but Nelson did not extend his. "Your sword first", said Nelson. The French admiral withdrew his sword from its scabbard and handed it hilt first to Nelson, who took it and snapped it across his knee; only then did he shake hands.