Recently, I talked with our coordinator of youth ministries about the necessity of encouraging our youth workers in the church to provide classes, discussions, or films on the major world religions. I also noted that I have not been able to find that many useful books on the topic. There is the Eerdman’s Handbook to The World’s Religions or Stephan Charles Neill’s Christian Faith and Other Faiths. Helpful as they are, I still felt that we need a different format. I recently picked up a book that had come to my office. As I read through the content, I began to think, maybe this book was what I was looking for, namely a study guide for youth and adults to visit the major world religions.

When I read the advertising material that came with it, particularly referring to this book as “bringing together some of the best apologetics material available,” I immediately began to scan the book. In the eight chapters, beautifully illustrated with color photographs and helpful charts, I knew this book could be used. There are chapters on Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Secularism, etc. As the writers develop the main points of each religion, they also develop charts comparing and contrasting to Christianity, which is a good teaching aid.

Having spent some quality time recently studying Islam, I found that chapter to be helpful on how to teach about that religion to a group of Christian adults or youth. I found the statistics quoted and the points made to be a fair representation of what I had been learning on that particular religion. The suggested resources for further study make the book extremely helpful.

The book is a hardback in full color throughout. Not only would it be a usable textbook or guide for a study group, it would also be valid for individual study and reference. Ravi Zacharias, who I greatly appreciate, said the book was “The most insightful and practical guide I have seen on this subject.” The book also will be helpful in leading the students in how to share the Gospel with those in these respective religions.

With the growing pluralism in America regarding the number of religions, our people need to be able to know, have some understanding, and working response to those committed to other religions of the world.

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