Here is a creative approach to Bible study that will spark discussion. McGriff tackles such issues as divorce, homosexuality, the divinity of Jesus, and miracles. This book will be of interest to church groups as well as to individuals wrestling with their personal faith.
Though he sometimes takes controversial positions, McGriff always delivers fascinating and challenging reflections. He reconsiders traditional interpretations of Jesus' words, intending to stretch the minds of traditionalists while winning over doubters, especially those new to the church but still sitting on the fringes of its theology.
"This is a book preachers will want to read. As you peruse these sermons from the pen of Dr. Carver McGriff, you will understand why, under his leadership, St. Luke's Methodist Church of Indianapolis became the largest Methodist Church north of the Mason-Dixon line. Carver is a preacher with a winsome style; his sermons are full of superb stories, wonderful quotes and wise insights. Carver also has the ability to tackle some of the tough and controversial things we Christians face today. He handles these questions with candor and a liberal spirit that is always gentle and respectful of the opinions of others."
Willian G. Enright
Senior Pastor, Second Presbyterian Church
Indianapolis, Indiana
One of America's premier preachers, Dr. E. Carver McGriff has had a distinguished life and career. As a teenager, he was wounded and captured by a German SS battalion during World War II. He received a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts, and returned home to earn a degree in business administration from Butler University. Following a career as a salesman and a business owner, McGriff entered Garrett Theological Seminary, where he was voted Best Preacher by the faculty and graduated with distinction. He was then appointed by the Bishop of Indiana to start a new congregation on the northeast side of Indianapolis. He built the membership of his congregation from 900 to over 4,400, with Sunday attendance increasing from 300 to over 1,850.
During his Indianapolis ministry, McGriff received an honorary degree from the University of Indianapolis and the Outstanding Alumnus award from Butler University, and was voted the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year by Christian Theological Seminary. McGriff was also honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash by then Governor Evan Bayh. His sermons have been distributed nationwide by the Methodist Publishing Company.