Book Review: Religion and Relationship by Minister Dante Fortson

"Religion and Relationship" is about man's relationship to his God. At first glance, it appears to be an easy to read, breezy book. But don't count on just zipping through it. This is a simple book with some deep messages, and you will find yourself pausing often to reflect on the points this young author has made.

Before you finish reading the introduction to this little page book, you will already be feeling that you are sitting across the table from the author as he shares his thoughts and insights on God's relationships with his people. Fortson doesn't preach at you, or to you. Instead, he exposes old ideas in new ways, using plain language backed up by insightful interpretations of Biblical passages.

In his very first chapter, he makes thought-provoking observations about Adam and Lucifer and their continuing relationship with God after the Fall. And his analysis of the relationship between God and Cain will prove to be a real eye-opener for many Christians.

Fortson's sense of humor underlies serious discussions of God's relationships with some of the towering figures of the Bible as he puts their stories into a modern perspective. Men such as Enoch, Abraham, Noah, and even Satan himself come under scrutiny as the author points out their shortcomings, and why God chose them to carry out His missions. His message here is that even thieves, confidence men and murderers have been chosen for service by God.

Some of his insights are shocking, but hard to argue against. One good example concerns his interpretation of the story of Lot and his daughters as he follows the story to its logical conclusion.

In Chapter 6, Fortson tackles the weaknesses he sees in organized religion and people he calls "holier-than-thou" Christians. With well reasoned arguments and backing from powerful Scriptures, he defends his view that "Religion is the main thing keeping us separated from God." While some may condemn him for some of his beliefs in this chapter, others will argue that he is just stating the obvious.

In the last two chapters of his book, he provides down-to-earth guidance for anyone wanting to establish a healthy relationship with God. He engages the reader right from the beginning with a little quiz, and includes a bonus 40-day workbook to guide readers wishing to deepen their relationship with God.

"Religion and Relationship" is lively and downright funny at times, but never irreverent. Readers will find themselves laughing with, not at the author. Christians will almost certainly discover new ways of understanding both God and themselves. In the end, this is a book about hope, especially for Christians who somehow feel they don't measure up.

"Religion and Relationship" will be released in October of 2009 through CreateSpace. At $14.95 per copy, it is easily affordable and well worth the price. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and recommend it without hesitation.