It’s been a very long time since I’ve read a religious book outside the scriptures. I don’t really understand the idea of using time I could use to read the BOM or other scripture to read a regular book about religious themes. But, I was pleasantly surprised by the Welcoming Door. I really enjoyed this book. It’s definitely a book for a Christian audience. I don’t think I would have enjoyed it if I didn’t have an interest in Christian theology, but I think Kemp does an excellent job and creating some relatable elements around the parables of Christ. He puts a twist on them to make them more than just teaching aids but actually events in Christ’s life. The stories helped me to see the parables from a different point of view and they felt more real and in turn more impactful. I loved the tone of the book; it was reverent but not too heavy.
The life of Christ from the time he was twelve or so until his ministry is a mystery. I can't imagine the overwhelming task it must have to try and fictionalize this part of his life, but Kemp did it very well! It reminded me that Christ lead a REAL life: He had responsibilities, work, and things to get done like all of us do. Even with this normal life, Kemp depicted him still touching the lives of people around him and teaching those that come in contact with him, all the while he himself is learning from mortal life experiences to become the great teacher he eventually would.
I think there’s definitely a chance that Kemp was inspired and guided as the wrote this book. I had great experiences reading it and I feel like it brought me a little closer to Christ.
I like what you said about the tone being "reverent but not too heavy." I felt the same way--every time I was worried that the author would get pedantic or the tone would get cheesy, it didn't. Kemp did a nice job backing off and letting the story speak for itself. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI also think it would have been overwhelming. But what a brilliant idea to start with the parables and make them real events. I think Kemp did a fantastic job as well, and he handled the tone perfectly: reverent but real, mortal but divine.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I agree that the tone was executed well. It was reverent and respectful enough in talking about Christ but also light-hearted at times. I love that you believe Kemp could have been inspired to write this because I definitely felt the Spirit and deeper love for Christ when reading this book.
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