Is anybody out there?

“ Some ask the question out of scientific or philosophical interest, or merely out of curiosity. Others ask it only when the news media report a major catastrophe, or when they themselves are gripped by pain, insecurity, depression or despair. Whatever the trigger, it is no exaggeration to say that every question about human life or death, or about the universe in which we are living and dying, ultimately revolves around it.

“Is anybody out there? We need to know”

This is one of the many questions that we all get round to asking. John Blanchard provides the answer in this short booklet. It’s 37 pages long, published by Evangelical Press and costs around £1.50.

Starting with the inescapable question, “Why believe in God”, Mr Blanchard looks at the approach of what he calls soft-core and hard-core agnostics and highlights the deficiency in their thoughts. He looks at the system of belief promoted by atheists and challenges this throughout the booklet – often using the words of leading atheists to do so.

The author looks at the theories instigated by Darwin and promoted by others. Using their own words, he shows the gaps in their thinking. He says “true science and belief in God have always been in perfect harmony with each other. Trying to drive a wedge between them is ignorance masquerading as intelligence.”

Mr Blanchard then works towards the conclusion of his booklet – by reminding us that we are in rebellion against God and we are without excuse for this. “The scourge of sin has blighted all 60 billion people who have ever lived on our planet, with just one exception – Jesus of Nazareth”. We are told about his humanity, integrity, and His divine nature. He came into the world to save sinners and He did so – the Judge was judged in the place of others. Three days later, he was “declared with power to be the Son of God, by his resurrection from the dead”. The existence and dynamic growth of the Christian church is testimony to this truth.

Some people look for the truth, others for a sense of identity, and yet others seek love and security. Whatever the need, God is the answer – but not knowledge about him, but having a personal relationship with him. “Are (we) willing to live a God-centred life instead of one that is self-centred?”

Such is the thrust of this booklet – read it for yourself to get a better feel for the issues it discusses.

Back in the swing:

It's almost four months later, and nothing has been added to the blog. Life at "Work" has been responsible for the lack of reviews to peruse. I even admit to not having done too much reading during this period: but the next one is currently in progress.

Look out for reviews of: Is anybody out there?
and Where is God when things go wrong?

Both are by John Blanchard - engaged in full-time Christian Ministry, he is an internationally known author, speaker and teacher. For more information about the author and his books click on the links.