How Church Could (Literally) Save Your Life by Rebecca McLaughlin
The title gives away the main idea of this quick and easy-to-read little book. McLaughlin makes the case that regular church attendance is one of the most protective things we can do for our physical, psychological, and moral health; and backs it up with lots of clear, easy-to-follow data . If church attendance was a pill, people would be lining up at pharmacies to get it. What is striking is that these benefits seem to apply across the board, regardless of age, gender, background, or even current health. She also looks at the data linking the decline in church attendance to many of the challenges we’re seeing in society today—yet it’s something you rarely hear doctors or psychologists talk about.
McLaughlin then zooms out to look at the bigger cultural picture, arguing that Christianity has been key in shaping values we often take for granted: things like equality, the status of women, the value of children, and care for the vulnerable. She also points to data showing that it is Christians, who as a group, are disproportionately generous with their time, money, and even blood donation.
In the final chapter, the focus shifts from the practical benefits to the heart of Christianity itself. McLaughlin makes the point that Christianity isn’t ultimately about living a longer, healthier, or happier life—though those things may come—but about a Saviour who deals with our deepest need: forgiveness of our sins, assurance of eternal life and relationship with God.
One of the things I appreciated most was the way she engages with common objections and misconceptions about Christianity. Rather than dismissing them, she takes them seriously and thoughtfully explains why they don’t ultimately hold up as reasons to reject the Christian faith. She encourages readers to look at the evidence for Jesus and his resurrection for themselves, and to consider what it might mean to trust in him.
Overall, it’s a warm, thoughtful, and persuasive book that’s both informative and inviting. It is well worth reading whether you’re curious, sceptical, or already convinced. I have just purchased one and sent it to a friend.
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Reviewed by Ainsley Poulos
Ainsley serves alongside her husband in Sydney’s east at Maroubra. Ainsley has the joy of leading the EQUIP ministry wives conference.