The Light in the City: Why Christians Must Advance and Not Retreat

by Janet Parshall and Craig Parshall

Book Overview

The numerous legal, moral, and social threats on the horizon in America have caused many Christians to wonder whether they can truly make a difference. Contrary to some current voices that have called for retreat, Janet and Craig Parshall explain why Christians must engage the culture as never before in order to fulfill the whole mission of the church. In The Light in the City, the Parshalls help readers understand the biblical basis for...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0785268901
• ISBN13: 9780785268901
• Release Date: September 2000
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.9" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Christian Call to Action

In the tradition of Francis Schaeffer the Parshalls are calling for Christians to use their lives to turn on the light as a means of dispelling darkness by getting involved in all aspects of the culture. Actually Schaeffer wasn't the first one to come up with the idea, it was Jesus who told us to let our lights shine. They begin by pointing out that one's worldview impacts the actions and assumptions one has. A person with a Christian worldview will act based on the assumptions of that view, as a secularist will based on the worldview he holds.The founding of America is described as a miracle. As citizens of a country blessed immensely by Him, we have a responsibility.Documentation on references to God and Jesus are given. Various states' charters are cited in this section of the book. Various founders of the country are quoted also with solid and clear references to God and Jesus. The case made in this section is strong!Accepting one's responsibility is not optional. We are accountable for the resources we've been given in our generation. Do the good works God has assigned in the various arenas of His choosing. This book helps you to see that every life makes a difference.

Education for All Christians

Janet and Craig's book The Light in the City is a must read educational tool for ALL Christians. Before you read this you might have some insecurity about being involved politically, after you read this, you won't have an excuse.As a former Focus on the Family employee, myself, I can testify that what is in this book, regarding Christian persecution and media bias is true. What is most impressive about the Parshall's book, however is that they base EVERYTHING on the Scripture and the law. This is a strict apologetic defense for our faith, as well as why Christians MUST be involved in the culture. It IS our duty and responsiblity to shine our lights and reading this book is a great place to start.One thing that I might note however, is that for the person who is not a real critical thinker, they might have some difficulty understanding what the Parshall's have written. I believe this book is written above a 5th grade level, so be forewarned that for some readers you might have to reread and take time to digest the material.This is worth the time and definately the money. I think this so much, that I've bought more than one copy already. You go and do the same.One final thought - after reading this book, you will fall on your knees, and that alone tells me that the authors have a passion and heart for our culture, as ALL professing a faith in Jesus Christ should have.

Rev. Thomas Pedigo

While some of the content of this book is time-sensitive with respect to the November 2000 election, it's still filled with meaty content for the conservative, Christian activist. The authors, Janet and Craig Parshall, provide substantial information in the following realms: historical, political, legal, theological, social, moral, and practical. Since Janet is the chief spokesperson for the Family Research Council, she offers unique insight for Christians who want to be involved in the cultural war waging in our nation. While some may label her work as "propaganda" for the "Religious Right," she is loving, respectful, and well-balanced in her presentation of the theological/philosophical spectrum and diversity within our society. At the same time, she (along with her husband) gives substantial examples and incidences of anti-christian bias and discrimination going on in our country - especially towards conservative evangelicals and fundamentalists. If you want to be a Christian activist but aren't sure what to do or how to do it, this book is well worth the price. And it needs to be read and applied...sooner rather than later!