A Critical Analysis of 'Jesus and John Wayne'

The recent release of Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book, 'Jesus and John Wayne', has sparked a heated debate among evangelicals. While some have praised the book for its insightful critique of American evangelicalism, others have raised concerns about its tone and methodology. As someone who has read the book, I want to offer my own thoughts on the matter.

One of the criticisms leveled against Du Mez is that she often writes as if the beliefs of evangelical leaders are self-evidently immoral. While it's true that some of these beliefs can be difficult to defend, I believe that a more nuanced approach would have been beneficial. Rather than simply dismissing opposing views, Du Mez could have engaged with them in a more constructive manner.

Another issue is Du Mez's tone, which at times comes across as sarcastic and dismissive. While it's understandable that she may feel frustrated with the beliefs of evangelical leaders, her writing often lacks charity and empathy. This approach may not win over skeptical readers who are looking for a more balanced critique.

Despite these criticisms, I believe that 'Jesus and John Wayne' is a strong book that says important things about the recent history of American evangelicalism. Du Mez's research is thorough and well-documented, and her insights into the cultural and social factors that have shaped evangelicalism are valuable.

Ultimately, whether or not one agrees with Du Mez's criticisms, I believe that 'Jesus and John Wayne' is a book that deserves to be wrestled with. It challenges us to think critically about our beliefs and values, and encourages us to engage in constructive dialogue with others who may hold different views. As evangelicals, we would do well to take Du Mez's critiques seriously and to respond thoughtfully.

In conclusion, while I have mixed feelings about 'Jesus and John Wayne', I believe that it is a book that can contribute to the ongoing conversation about American evangelicalism. By engaging with its ideas and criticisms, we can deepen our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Jesus and john wayne criticism