A searchable, downloadable PDF of the original article appears below. Jack Charleson. Elder, Bridlewood Presbyterian Church, Agincourt, Ontario, Chairman, Mission Ontario, Bank Manager.
The Gamble of Faith: A Christian Response to the “Question of God”. Lawrence Brice, Burlington, Ontario: Welch Publishing Company Inc., 1990.
In this provocative, easy to read book, Dr. Brice seeks to present a discussion of religion based on his personal experiences. He examines areas of difference which are frequently raised by pre-Christians and the content of his book encourages the reader to think the matter through.
The provocation of this book starts with the title. The reader must wonder whether or not we can truly describe the gift of faith, given by the grace of God, as being a gamble. Dr. Brice goes on to say in the introduction, “I believe there is evidence and reason for belief in God and that it is far from a blind leap in the dark.” Undoubtedly this prompts the reader to reassess their personal their personal faith in our Lord and Saviour.
As the book unfolds, we are led through examination of arguments for God’s existence, and the extraordinary God revealed in ordinary life. Dr. Brice expresses the feeling that encountering God “is a strongly felt experience which makes us wonder how we ever doubted God’s existence before.” Discussions continue on “Being Scientific, about Knowledge of God,” Jesus from God’s Side of Reality, and the suggestion by some that the Bible is simply a Christian classic. All of these provoke deep thought and as the book draws to a conclusion we are led into examination of what we understand as eternal life.
While there may be segments of this book, or statements contained therein, with which one may not agree, there is little doubt Dr. Brice seeks to assist the reader to a deeper understanding of the Christian religion. This, with the assurance of faith, can assist in the strengthening of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a commitment to serving him under the power of the Holy Spirit.