Russell Moore dissects some of the most pressing problems plaguing evangelicalism and laments where American Christianity is today. He provides helpful tangible steps that we can take in our lives to follow the narrow way of Christ.

This book is by the man who was possibly one of the last hopes in leadership in the SBC. For being the voice of reason, he was treated abominably until he finally left.

I sense no attempt at revenge in this book, no “tell all” gossip fest. These are the wise teachings from a man of God who has suffered the same church betrayal that many people have in the last few years. Instead of bitterness, Moore uses this as lessons to impart the Word of God to all of us. I read numerous passages to my spouse because I was so struck by what he said. I cried through part of them and felt a sense of relief and renewal at others.

This is not one of those quick, scan the page reads. It’s a deep thinking, reflective read. Maybe that time involved allows some healing to happen at the same time.

Russell Moore calls America, more-over evangelical Christians in America to repent and get back to the basics - an amazing gospel that should triumph over any political divide. In a culture torn apart over various wars and over former President Donald Trump, Moore's altar call is for a new start, and a renewal in American evangelicalism. He longs for Christians to find their path ahead following so much chaos and division over the last several years.

My expectation was a book that called out politics in the Christian Church without cutting too deep. I received a book that cut to the bone, and I loved it! Russell Moore got it right with this argument.

Did not like the book. A lot of opinion. I have read many books like this one. But this seemed to not use facts just a soap box.

Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America by Russell Moore is an honest and prophetic call to honesty and repentance for the future of American Evangelicalism. In this work, Moore draws especially from personal experience, relating his own journey and testimony with the shocking political and theological developments within American Evangelicalism during the past decade. Between his many years within the Southern Baptist Convention, and especially his time on the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Moore pulls from a wealth of experience in order to both diagnose the problems of American Evangelicalism and prescribe the potential remedies to the current crisis.

There is much to commend in this work, though three strengths deserve special attention. First, rather than attempt to smooth over the issues facing American Evangelicalism or deny their existence, the author is incredibly forthcoming concerning the challenges and both past and present sins of the church. This honest aspect of Moore's work is refreshing. Second, the book is equally hopeful for the future. Not content to simply diagnose the problems, the author also provides a plethora of "next steps" that Christians from across the Evangelical spectrum can adopt with the continual encouragement that these actions can actually make a difference. Finally, Moore's deep knowledge of the Evangelical world as an "insider" comes through in the book. Though potentially a concern for bias, the author utilizes this facet of his past to better relate to the ongoing crises within the American Evangelical church. As such, Moore's solutions remain grounded in the realities of the church as it currently exists.

While the book overall is incredibly helpful, I do have some minor critiques. First, I felt that the organization/structure of the book was a bit inconsistent at times. Certain sections moved from topic to topic at such a pace that it was difficult to track the author's main points. Additionally, each chapter ends with potential solutions that do not always seem to link to the overall concern of the chapter, though this is a less prevalent issue. Second, the subject matter of the book is not always novel. This is not necessarily a serious concern, but it does mean that those already familiar with the issues facing the American Evangelical church might not find any new material in this work beyond Moore's personal testimony. Even with these limitations, I can certainly recommend this work. For those struggling with the questions of "how we got here?" and "what do we do now?" this is the book for you.

I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley, but the thoughts and opinions of this review are my own.

The most profound critique of a system often comes from within. Russell Moore is a product of conservative SBC evangelicalism and a committed dogmatic follower of Jesus. He is also fed up with the hypocrisy and power obsessed politics of evangelicalism. In this alter call of a book Moore unveils the ways in which tribalism and identity politics masquerades as "christianity" when the soul of what's being upheld in no way resembles the Jesus one claims to follow.

"Be careful to note that there is more than one way for you to secularize and in one of those ways your atheism can make you feel even more Christian than you did before, all it takes is substituting adrenaline for the Holy Spirit, political "awakening" for the rebirth, quarrelsomeness for sanctification, and a visible tribal identity for the kingdom of God."

Russel Moore has provided a thoughtful look at the state of the State.
He makes a call for America to return to true biblical roots without getting caught up in America worship.
Early in the book feels a bit like a sob story regarding his personal criticisms etc.
The book would have been fine without those elements.

I have had the opportunity to see Russell Moore speak on many occasions throughout the last decade, and I initially picked this up not knowing his recent story of leaving the South Baptist Convention entirely. I appreciated his experience and reflection, and his writing is both challenging and honest. I do see Moore's writing of this story as brave, given he holds nothing back and definitely does not dance around topics but addresses them head-on. I am looking forward to what Russell Moore has to say in the future.

Losing Our Religion by Russell Moore is a raw and needed revelatory call to the American evangelical church. Delving from his own personal story and experiences within the Southern Baptist vein of evangelicalism, Moore provides an account of the state of the American church, focusing on the recent history and current situation that has in many cases tarnished the church’s credibility.

Even so, Moore speaks with a hopeful voice, recognizing the dichotomy between truth and hope in various evangelical spheres, while charting a path forward with conviction, drawing readers away from the tribalism and culture wars. Moore extends a call of repentance and renewal, resounding the history of the past, the complexities of the present, and the hope of the future. The purpose is not simply to “Make America Great Again” or restore “American Evangelicalism” for that matter, but to remind that the Spirit still moves and while the church stands communities of faith will continue to share and live the “good news.”

Losing Our Religion is written for those in faith communities at a crossroads with the church’s current situation, offering grace and wisdom from one that has experienced the present turbulence. The words of Russell Moore are a balm for those questioning if they are alone, wisdom for leaders in faith communities, and hope for those rediscovering how to live the Christian journey.

I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley, but the thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

It took me way too long to read this one, but it was just so impactful. Russell Moore shows such grace and humility, while focusing on the gospel throughout this book. It doesn’t seem like it would, ht this book gave me so much hope and encouragement. By far, my favorite quote is in the conclusion:

“Evangelical Christianity as we know it might not survive. American evangelicalism might not be there for the future. But someone will be. As long as there’s a church, there will be people within reminding everyone else that the Spirit blows where he wills, and that there’s hope, no matter how far gone a person goes, to be born again.”

I want to thank NetGalley and Penguin Group Sentinel for this ARC, in exchange for my unbiased review of the book.

I write all of this as a Latter-day Saint (LDS) (Mormon), which many in the Evangelical community consider a cult, or at the very least, a non-Christian religion. And this might surprise many here: why would a Mormon want to read a book such as this, given this opinion.

There are many reasons but chief amongst them is that not one leader/influencer of my Church that I’m aware of are discussing the primary topic of this book: that the Christianity of today (and a majority of her membership including the 60 plus % of LDS who identify as Republicans/Trumpism supporters, has abandoned its primary mission of declaring the good news of Jesus Christ, His gospel and saving ordinances. That many Christians today many are beholden as documented and discussed in today’s media to white Christian Nationalism, Southern honor culture, American Exceptionalism, support white racial backlash, etc.

So what is one such as I to do when I observe society and religion around me degenerating into behaviour that Christ would not recognise and support if he were to return? I seek out the sources of wise council such as this author. It did not disappoint me. I took extensive notes. But it is disappointing that no leader of my Church has given a sermon/talk about this very subject. In essence this saddens me, as so many are allowed to depart from the essential iron rod and straight and narrow path to adhere to.

This book hit the nail on the head and summed up perfectly the feelings I have had about Church and religion since COVID. It perfectly analyzes how modern evangelicals have morphed religion into a political identity. A recommended read for anyone who feels that the Church lost them somewhere along the way.

I recieved this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book an seeing how the author has been wrestling with holding onto his faith while coming face to face with the issues that are facing the American evangelical church. As a Canadian, a country where faith and politics don't seem to be as closely connected as in the USA, I have been watching the political situation down there with a great deal of incredulity as the evangelical church seems to blind themselves to the issues surrounding their support of Donald Trump. I therefore enjoyed reading about someone who is considered an evangelical leader, lay out the various reasons, supporting someone like Trump can be an unchristian thing to do, and hurt the witness of the church.

I am however taking a star off because several of the chapters were really long and started to lose me a little bit.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley, all opinions are my own.

(4.75/5 stars) Honestly this book was so needed for me at this point in my life; the past few years (especially 2020-2022 but really starting in 2016) have left me so disillusioned with the church. I have long followed Moore on various forms of social media (primarily Twitter) and have always respected him as a straight-shooter and an honest and brave voice in the SBC.

I can certainly identify with those whom Moore describes as "...young evangelicals walking away from evangelicalism not because they do not believe what the church teaches, but because they believe the church itself does not believe what the church teaches." After years in a church that left me disillusioned, heartbroken, exhausted, and grieving because it felt like the subtext to every Sunday sermon was speaking out "against culture" (aka "Discipleship by Fox News/Gab/Truth Social/whatever new-social-media is accepted by the far right") and where, as Moore puts it, "“truth” is seen as a means to tribal belonging, rather than as a reality that exists outside of us," this book felt like a balm and a reminder that even when people fail us, Jesus never does. Moore calls readers to "conversion over culture wars, to truth over tribalism, to the gospel over politics, to integrity over influence, and to renewal over nostalgia". This book left me feeling hopeful and leaning on the sovereignty of God. Kingdoms (and denominations) will rise and fall, but the Word of the Lord stands forever.

In "Losing Our Religion," Russell Moore delivers a clarion call to American evangelical Christianity, charging it to return to its roots and rekindle the flame of faith in the midst of bewildering times. With the eloquence of a pastor and the courage of a prophet, Moore paints a stark and hopeful picture of a faith community at a crossroads.

American evangelicalism, once a beacon of hope and belonging, has veered off course, leaving millions of believers in disarray. Congregations are torn apart by divisive issues, from the influence of politics and nationalism to racial injustice and sexual predation. As disillusionment spreads, the most devoted evangelicals are asking the pressing question: "Can American Christianity endure?"

Moore charts a path forward with unwavering conviction, away from the culture wars and tribalism that have sown discord within the faith. He calls for a return to the core values of truth, gospel, and integrity, shedding the shackles of influence and political entanglement. Through his words, Moore provides hope for a new generation of believers who have weathered the storms of recent years, showing them the way toward a faith marked by authenticity and renewal.

Moore extends an altar call for repentance and rebirth in the tradition of old evangelical revivals. His message resounds with the urgency of the past while addressing the complexities of the present. He invites those who have felt adrift and disheartened to embark on a journey towards a faith that transcends the status quo and cultural entanglements. Only by relinquishing the faith that has grown stagnant can believers breathe new life into their spiritual journey. Only by shedding the trappings of religion can they discover the boundless grace that lies at the heart of their faith.

"Losing Our Religion" is a rallying cry, a prophetic voice that speaks to the heart of a faith community at a crossroads. The enduring power of faith offers hope and a vision for a future where grace and authenticity lead the way. This book illustrates the resilience and the enduring spirit of American evangelicalism, a guidepost for those who seek a renewed faith that transcends the turbulence of the times. Russell Moore's words are a source of wisdom, soothing for the soul, and an altar call to rediscover the profound and unshakable grace at the heart of the Christian journey.

"Russell Moore's 'Losing Our Religion' -- A prophetic call to rediscover the heart of faith."

"An urgent plea for renewal and authenticity in American evangelicalism."

"A spiritual guidepost for believers navigating a faith at a crossroads."

"Moore's message: Return to the Gospel, seek truth, and rekindle the flame of faith."

"Hope in a time of disillusionment."

"Discover the path to renewed faith and a deeper connection with grace."

"A message of courage and conviction -- A call to faith beyond politics."

"Russell Moore's book is the altar call for a new generation of believers."

"A prophetic voice for troubled times."

"A guiding light in the storm -- 'Losing Our Religion' offers a vision of hope."

This book is important for anyone who considers themselves evangelical Christians. I can really relate to wanting to hold fast to my beliefs but not buying into what has become of evangelical Christianity.

Very interesting book and well written. I resonated with a lot of the statements and feelings by this author. I didn’t always agree with every single argument or the authors prominent dislike of certain individuals, but I was willing to give this book and author a fair chance. Most of what he stated was reasonable, biblical, and insightful. I felt this book was written for the moment and strategically released as we head into the darkest political season of our nation’s history.. I would encourage this author to write another book or two on the aftermath of those elections. Thank you to NetGalley and Sentinel for this advanced review copy.. All opinions are my own.

Wow! This is a must read for Christians today. I was shocked, saddened, and encouraged by Russell Moore’s story. It shines a light onto what America is holding dear…and it isn’t pretty. Not only is it not pretty, it’s dangerous. I’m thankful to have read this book and pray more people’s eyes are opened to what is happening in our churches today. Many are claiming the name of Christ and acting far from His ways. May we all take a hard look at our hearts, minds, and beliefs and ask God to shine a light and change us from anything that does not look like Him.

I have appreciated Russell Moore's writings for many years, and this one, going in to another election cycle, does not disappoint. It gives hope for those not to associate with American evangelicalism.