Messy Grace Review!

Who should read this book: Anyone that is interested in sharing their faith with friends of the LGBTQ+ community.

What the Book says: Homosexuality is a subject that a majority of Christians have egregiously mishandled in the past. A Christian's apologetic answer to critiques from the LGBTQ+ community, relies on a tension between Grace and Truth. Identify that one's identity should be rooted in Christ first, then all other identities next.

Where are good quotes?
"Far from avoiding people from the gay community, as many Christians are tempted to do, you should make a point of getting close to people who are different from you." (Pg. 72)

"From there, I went on to mention the danger in relying on what logicians call an argument from silence. I said, "Jesus never said anything about drugs and gangs. So does that make those things okay?" (Pg. 90)

"Homophobia is not just a faux pas that can get people mad at you in today's social climate. Homophobia is a sin. It's fearful of some of those for whom Jesus died and to whom he sent us to share the gospel." (Pg. 169)

When is this book applicable in life: Engaging friends in the LGBTQ+ community in matters of faith and belief in God.

Why would someone bring this book up in discussion:
 The discussion about Caleb's outing to his parents was a great example of how irrational parents can be. The author excellently relates his experience to an LGBTQ+ youth coming out to his parents.

The story of Louis's family ignoring him on his death bed is a heart wrenching story. The author metaphorically throws up his hands as a challenge to Christians saying "this is not what Jesus was about."

The realization that the church community is what brings people to faith in Christ. The conversion of his mom in light of Vera's attitude motivates and inspires. Also demonstrating that no one can argue someone into the kingdom of heaven.