(You can buy Broken here or here)

First, I’d like to mention that I’ve read through this book twice since I bought it a few years ago. Because of how relevant the message is, and because of how well is lays out the pitfalls of postmodern American Christianity, I found it worthy of a re-reading. It is a great overview and summary of the dangers of 7 “Christian” rules that every Christian ought to break as often as possible.

When I first read through this book, it really struck me just how common and ingrained false doctrine is in much of modern Christianity. It didn’t take me long to realize that some of the mistakes pointed out in this book were mistakes that I had made in the past. The scary part is that I didn’t even realize I was making these mistakes. The false mentalities and principles mentioned in this book are the some of the same ideals that saturate American culture, such as prosperity and “pursuing happiness,” even at the expense of the gospel. These false doctrines are, sadly, woven into much of Christianity. This book helps to discern between true spirituality and false doctrine. Most of the trendy mega-churches in America focus their marketing and advertising on the younger generation. Behind the warm and inviting facade of praise bands and slick graphic design lurk doctrinal errors and the careless handling of Law and Gospel. Because of these dangers, Broken is a must-read for young Christians who are susceptible to the influences of the present age.

Not only does Broken lay out the dangers of false man-centered religion, it also offers a critique on American Christianity, pointing out how these man-centered doctrines are hiding within much of Christianity. It’s not really a secret that Christianity is on the decline in America. It’s just something we don’t like to admit. Broken seeks to equip Christians with the tools and principles needed to take back Christianity from the false teachers.

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”

Matthew 7:15 (ESV)