Skepticism is alive and well in America. The university system is one of the hottest beds of skepticism, especially towards historic Christianity. It is common for Christian students to enter the university with a faith that they professed. Somewhere along the way, however, some of these students admit that they never truly possessed saving faith.
Dr. Michael Kruger’s book, Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keep the Faith in College, specifically addresses his daughter, Emma – a freshman at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Kruger addresses a host of topics, including meaning, morality, the problem of evil, the resurrection, unbelief, science, evolution, philosophy, the authenticity of the New Testament manuscripts, among other things.
The great strength of this book is the blend of scholarship and fatherly wisdom. Neither are sacrificed. Rather, this author writes with stunning theological depth that a young person can understand. The touch of a father is seen throughout the book and gains momentum as the book draws to a close.
The postscript is a powerful polemic that will capture both the heart and the mind of the reader. Skipping it would be a grave mistake. Youth pastors, grandparents, and parents should purchase Surviving Religion 101 and help equip the next generation of Christian leaders. Together, we can stand against the skepticism that is gaining momentum and see the next generation of Christian leaders rise above it all.
Dr. David Steele has been in pastoral ministry since 1991. He holds BS and MA degrees from Multnomah University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary and a D. Min from Bakke Graduate University. Following graduation from Multnomah University, he served eight years as Pastor to Students at Lacey Chapel. In 2000, he became the Pastor of Theology at First Baptist Church in La Grande, Oregon where he served for over eleven years. In 2012, he became the Senior Pastor at Christ Fellowship in Everson, Washington.
He is the author of Bold Reformer: Celebrating the Gospel-Centered Convictions of Martin Luther, A Godward Gaze: The Holy Pursuit of John Calvin, and The White Flag: When Compromise Cripples the Church.
At Christ Fellowship he leads the staff, serves as the Pastor for preaching and vision casting, and oversees Veritas (adult theological education) and Iron Men (men’s leadership development).
His personal mission is to positively influence people, impact the world one person at a time and to glorify God by enjoying him forever. His passion in ministry is preaching, teaching, and leadership development. Specifically, his aim is to educate the mind, engage the affections, equip the whole person, and encourage God-centered living that treasures Christ above all things.
He and his wife, Gerrene were married in 1991 and they have two children.
