Lost in Church Translation offers the reader opportunities to reflect on the difference between religion and one's relationship with God. It challenges us to think more deeply about what we believe and why we believe it while encouraging us to live into a more mature faith. Buckner takes basic tenets of Christianity (faith, service, sin, love, to name a few) and invites us into a conversation in ways that broaden our sense of God and God's activity in the world. It encourages us to distinguish between cultural norms and mature discipleship as we partner with God. Using tangible everyday examples and his own life experiences, Buckner takes complicated concepts and helps us make meaning. The tone is conversational without being demeaning; inviting without being judgmental. Throughout you will find gems that stimulate further thought about one's own relationship with God. Seemingly innocuous statements sprinkled throughout such as our gifts are not our purpose or Sight gives you access to the circumstance; vision gives you access to the purpose behind the circumstance provoke deeper thought. His use of scripture is not to proof text but rather to open up possibilities. While an easy book to read, Buckner does not propose an easy faith. Rather he invites us into a supportive environment for growth and critical thought in hopes that our maturing discipleship will change the Church and the world.
