The sub-title suggests that this is a book about doubt, but I found it to be more about how faith is formed and articulated. Suk also talks about critical issues in the church and enters into a discussion about faith which is fresh and real. We are always going to live with a certain measure of doubt because there simply are so many things that we do not know. We live by faith but we can also live with doubt, and that’s ok. In fact that tension can be good.
The historical look at the communication of traditions and faith through first an oral tradition of storytelling, then through a literate phase, and now back to a new oral (digital) phase was very interesting. How the confessions and doctrines emerged as part of a literate time should help us see that they will need updating or necessitate another format to be relevant today.
It is with great sadness that I read his observations about how people don’t engage in deep reading much anymore. It is sad, but true. How can even this important book reach those who don’t read anymore? Hopefully the Kindle and iPad may still prove to provide a portable format conducive to readers on the go. ‘Not Sure’ is available on the Kindle!
The writing style seems to swivel back and forth between personal journey and theological dissertation. I found both styles highly interesting, but I wondered if they belong together in the same book. Perhaps the author was being a bit ambitious, trying to appeal to two different audiences. Or perhaps the theological component is necessary in this type of reflection. At any rate, for me there were many “aha” moments and I took copious notes which I know I will return to (my Kindle highlighter was working overtime!).
Suk articulates the issues well and I appreciate his honesty in the journey. And oddly what I was left with at the end, was more hope and assurance. Just as there are books out there which are mostly about death, but oddly when you read them, there is really much more there about the wonder and joy of life. So with doubt. Following the well worn paths of our faith, even though we are not sure, will bring conviction again. We are on a journey, but we do not walk alone.
In case you read John’s book and are interested in reading more, visit his blog:
John Suk’s Blog
Joanne's Reading Blog 