Honest To God? by Bill Hybels

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Review by Miguel Paredes

“Authenticity means consistency – between word and actions, and between claimed values and actual priorities. Inauthenticity means that we claim to be one thing, then prove to be something else.”

Maybe you know a few inauthentic Christians? Perhaps you are a little guilty of not being the genuine article. Even worse, many of those we come in contact with who are not Christians can rightfully accuse us of not being the real thing.

We need more Christians who serious about knowing God and living for him in an authentically Christian relationship. A Christian is someone who follows Christ on the basis of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for sin. Christianity is not just Heaven insurance; it is a call to live a life that reflects the values of the Living God.

Bill Hybels’ book, Honest to God?, is a book that was published in 1990, but it is just as relevant today as it was then. He explores different areas of our lives that need to be seasoned with authenticity.

Bill Hybels is the founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in Barrington, Illinois. It is one of the largest churches in the United States. He is one of the most influential Christian leaders in the country.

Hybels challenges the Christian to honestly assess his/her life. What are the areas that our proclamation is inconsistent with what we say and do?

He addresses areas which include, true masculinity, authentic feminism, marriage values, raising children, work, emotional life, sound physical fitness, and spiritual disciplines.

I picked up this book again because some of my actions at work have been lacking the marks of a genuine Christian. I allowed seeds of bitterness to sow weeds of destruction in the garden that should be blooming with flowers of love and encouragement.

Hybels book has served as a reminder to pursue spiritual disciplines that will revitalize my relationship with God and produce authenticity in more areas of my life.

It is my prayer that you will consider reading this book if you feel that you might not be the authentic Christian God wants to make you into.