The Sacred Search: "What if it's not about who you marry, but why?" is disappointing because the author spends so little time expounding the 'why' before spending more than two-thirds of the book explaining the 'who' and which kind of person to marry. What is even more disappointing is that at times, the author dwells on some particularly gross stereotypes (like chapter 9: "What's your style?") that seem completely unnecessary. Unfortunately, while I was expecting more extensive use of bible verses and meanings behind them, the author's entire book basically revolves around Matthew 6:33 "Seek first the kingdom of God and then everything will be added to you," which he seems to repeat at least once every chapter. He argues that if your eyes are set on Jesus and his kingdom, you will naturally want to marry the kind of Christian spouse that will support you in that mission. I agree.I also like the fact that he compared the Biblical view of marriage our popular world view. "While the world generally values brief, intense, romantic attraction that lasts on average 12-18months, Jesus teaches us to base our decision on something eternal: seeking God's kingdom."Additionally, he was spot on when he described the world teaching us that there may be only one person (i.e: "the one") out there that can "complete us." This 'Platonist' view makes us weaker than it really should and is in some ways directly opposed to God's view of love and marriage found in the Bible.All-in-all, even though the book failed the meet my expectation (mainly by being entirely theologically grounded on one Bible verse only), I did not go away completely empty-handed. The author does dispense some particularly useful advice that young couples should heed, but unless you absolutely need to hear some common-sense reasons about what kind of person to marry as Christians, I would suggest skipping this book. The author has a lot of good things to say. He's very practical and straightforward. The book leans toward the pessimistic side. If you get bogged down in the negativity, read chapter 17 for his explanation. I found his writing style blunt, sometimes to the point of rudeness, and there are some comments toward the conservative courtship group that border on scornful. I appreciate the content if not the style.
What do You think about Sacred Search (2013)?
Awesome book on relationships...it was the reality check that I needed!!
—Nakita
