Creating Conversations on Heaven, Hell & More: A quick review of Rob Bell's Love Wins!

Rob Bell knows how to get your attention! This book and the campaign with it have certainly done just that. The theology nerds out there (like me) are going ape over this series of questions, which leads to more questions, and ultimately leaves you questioning.

In a paradoxical and enigmatic way Bell weaves through issues surround the touchy subjects of heaven, hell, and where we end up at from a historical linguistic conservative reading. The challenge is, many of his answers appear to be liberal. This creates an uproar because ultimately, he bobs and weaves enough to leave the door open for many possibilities.

Here's what I loved about the book: the focus on Jesus. As you read (listen) to Bell you can't help but be curious about the Jesus he's curious about. You find yourself wanting to know more of this Jesus.

Here's what I found lacking in the book: the Holy Spirit. Bell talks a great deal about Jesus and God the Father, but rarely mentions the Spirit. He either takes the Spirit for granted or doesn't want to raise questions about this controversial person.

Overall, I think people should read (listen) to this book because it gets you thinking. It also creates some great conversations. If people can start talking about the dynamics of the Kingdom of God being just as real today as they are in the future, then maybe we'll start acting like the Kingdom is now and not yet. Without a doubt, we could all agree then, truly Love Wins!

I listened to the audio version of this book, narrated by Rob Bell. I'm sure hearing him read it actually takes some of the sting out of the book because he is a polished presenter and it's easier to hear "tongue-in-cheek" comments than to read them.