Chasing Elephants

Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life

$14.99	Item Added to Cart Electronic Item Added to Cart
Item Added to Cart

How to make decisions in the gray areas of life.

Description: Many people know what to believe and why to hold to those beliefs. But the majority of them don’t know how to do when it comes to the countless decisions we must make that the Bible doesn’t specifically address.

Chasing Elephants carefully examines the biblical subject of freedom in Christ. Taking into account values, priorities, accountability, and cultural issues, Author Brent Crowe extracts a set of principles to act as a theology of belief for the seemingly gray areas of life.

With these principles as a guide, you will be prepared to handle the moral or ethical decisions you will face in life.

http://www.fastitcert.com

With the MCITP: Enterprise Desktop Support Technician credential you will prove that you have the skills to successfully support end-users and to troubleshoot desktop environments that are running the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system.
Posted by mcitp on 3/29/2013 1:44:06 AM

.....Chasing absurd thoughts and convoluted explanations

Although i am still reading this book, i am extremely unimpressed and disappointed in the stances that are taken in this book and perturbed that this was actually something that I was given by Lifeway. Some bold points that are made in the book (that do not need the context to be explained because it does not follow the train of thought): "If you do something that offends someone, you are sinning", "Paul tells us not to doubt or make choices in doubt because if we are, we are in sin, because of this everyone does not have to think the same, find your own beliefs through scripture and stick to them boldly and do not doubt and even though you may be wrong, you are in the right." I am really wondering what he is thinking here! Has he ever read about the pharisees? Does he know that they did this and did it to the fullest extent and Christ rebuked them because of it? And yes he knew it would offend them when he explained specific things to them but he did it anyways because if you are speaking the word with truth in love, you will offend some people unless you are only speaking with people that believe exactly what you believe. The first few chapters have been filled with numerous statements like this with no explanation and no reasoning whatsoever. Although it is simple it is hard to read because of the sentence structure, its hard to understand how it was edited and printed in its current condition. I believe that what the book claims to explain may possibly happen, but I am yet to see it.
Posted by Andrew on 6/5/2012 5:07:34 PM

thank you

I cannot thank Brent enough for shedding so much light on the issues that our teenage/adult children face today. The grid through which we need to test our convictions were so easy to understand. All their lives, my kids were told what to think and why to think it, by teachers, pastors, and us, their parents. They never really took ownership of their convictions. This book has changed the way my husband and I respond and counsel our kids on issues they deal with in life beyond the church circle. It has changed the way we view the world around us and the people around us. Freedom in Christ, what a concept!! I love it, I am a changed person. We have always had a Biblical world view, but now it is truly a Christ-centered view. Thank you Brent. I would recommend this book for any parent, teacher, youth leader or lay person wanting to grow in the grace and freedom of the gospel of Jesus Christ!!
Posted by Cathy Carpinello on 8/6/2011 6:03:27 PM

Great guidance on dealing with the elephant in the room

Every felt sure about how you stand on basic Christian topics,but maybe have a discussion on the computer or in real life and find yourself, asking yourself, "Are you sure you really know how you feel about a challenging topic". As shared by the publisher's description, "Many people know what to believe and why to hold to those beliefs. But the majority of them don't know how to do when it comes to the countless decisions we must make that the Bible doesn't specifically address. Chasing Elephants carefully examines the biblical subject of freedom in Christ. Taking into account values, priorities, accountability, and cultural issues, Author Brent Crowe extracts a set of principles to act as a theology of belief for the seemingly gray areas of life. With these principles as a guide, you will be prepared to handle the moral or ethical decisions you will face in life. Broken down into really two parts, "Chasing Elephants" begins with a discussion of often hard to controversial topics that often not only come up for discussion, but are controversial enough to cause heated discussions and with careful skill, the author, Brent Crowe, shares how to carefully navigate tricky topics that for many, its easier to avoid than to address. Brent Crowe's writing style is very effective, because its not written in a way that can be seen as wishy-washy nor can it be seen as worldy or taking sides, but carefully seeks to create a balance of, this is what the world is like and what the average Christian is likely to encounter and what does Scripture has to say about often difficult topics. The strong points for this book is that the author achieves his purpose by not only asking what is freedom in Christ,but it really challenges Christians to explore and understand from a Scriptural point of view what our Father in Heaven is trying to convey. The book is something I would recommend to Christians who seek to walk the fence or find themselves, often unsure of what to think or how to approach difficult topics, while at the same time, how to apply biblical principles to the "elephants standing in the room". Some of the weak points is that the first part of the book, seems to be a constant repetition of points, but I feel that the author is also trying to solidify what he is trying to share from a biblical viewpoint and instead of appearing to just touch and go on a subject, really impress on the reader, what he is trying to convey regarding having freedom in Christ and what isn't freedom in Christ. A thought provoking book for those who like to be challenged or maybe being challenged by topical "elephants in the room", "Chasing Elephants" is well worth looking into.
Posted by Sunflower Faith on 6/1/2011 2:02:02 PM

Worthwhile!

Amidst the church at large there is often much controversy. From doctrinal debates to differing theological stances to the preferences regarding the color of the carpet much divisiveness has caused conflict to be a prevalent theme through time. What blight to the cause of Christ! What a sad reflection upon His death for sinners and His triumphant resurrection! Based upon the premise of conflict already resounding throughout our Christian circles one might come to think that it would be best to avoid any slight of confrontation in beliefs and stance. But one who does not stand for something will fall for anything. It is crucial for the believer to stand firm upon the core truths of Scripture. But what about the areas of life for which the Bible does not specifically state how the believer ought to choose? We must understand that everything we do ought to be for the glory of God and to the glory of our Redeemer, but what if you are faced with a decision that really doesn’t hold to a moral absolute? Pastor Brent Crowe has tackled this thought in his book entitled, Chasing Elephants: Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life. In the first half of the book, the author writes on what it truly means to be free in Christ and how that plays out in a believer’s life. He writes on the dichotomy of those strong or weak in their faith and how their choices affect the other. Then in the second half, he addresses (without telling a believer how they ought to choose!) various “gray areas” such as social drinking, social networking, the Internet, entertainment and even assisting those in need. This is a topic that all must prayerfully address in their own life (and marriage or family!), so that one can wisely ascertain through biblical perspective how the Lord desires for them “to walk.” We then need to obey the Lord’s leading for our own life, while extending grace to others as they live how God is leading (ahem… I’m not talking about sinful living… we’re talking gray areas, though and attitude of grace needs to be extended to all as we share the message of salvation with all we encounter!). A worthwhile read. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Posted by Elizabeth Bailey on 3/21/2011 10:23:41 AM

Good Discovery Resource

Chasing Elephants was an interesting read and took no time for me to get through it. The main focus of the book - while we may know what we believe on the black and white topics of the Bible, there are many gray areas of life that require a little more research. Crowe begins his book with several introductory chapters, discussing such matters as freedom in Christ and grace, and then launches into chapter-length discussions of homosexuality, the cyber world, social drinking, entertainment and humanitarian efforts. I found that I agreed with much of Crowe's arguments, and learned more about myself -- and was even convicted in a few areas - in the process. I liked how he incorporated both Scripture and writings from other Christians as part of the discussion. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by John on 3/10/2011 2:52:12 PM

Enroute to Tackling the Biggest Elephant

I am so glad I read this book. This book may be light, but its contents are weighty. After turning the last page, my first word is "WOW!" Three things impress me about the book. Firstly, it clearly lays out the author s understanding of true freedom, grace in Christ, and the need to move beyond the why of belief to the how to believe. Secondly, it boldly tackles important contemporary issues that many Christians tend to shy away from, using 16 HOW-TO-BELIEVE templates. Thirdly, it pushes believers to be more Christ-focused, to see all things, boundaries, freedom, law, and cultural constraints as pointers to know Christ and to make Christ known. At first, my temptation is to rush through the five contemporary issues of homosexuality, cyber world, social drinking, entertainment and humanitarian efforts. I am glad I restrained myself, and stuck to the author's game plan. The first five foundational chapters are core to understanding how contemporary issues need to be tackled. The book is wonderfully quotable, and is packed with wise quips on Christian living and social responsibility. Toward the end, after the last elephant has been tackled, I cannot help but feel that there is another elephant that the author is subtly trying to hint to Christian readers, and the Church at large. This may very well be the biggest elephant of all: PROCRASTINATION about Christ's mission to the world. "For all of us, freedom in Christ is the door of opportunity to doing something significant for the kingdom." (160) Indeed, many of us like to talk about grace. Yet, the essence of true grace demands more from us. One is only truly free, when one serves all joyfully out of pure gratitude to God s grace in Christ. I am so glad to have read this book, and strongly recommends this to any Christian desiring to grow in Christ. conrade 5 stars of 5. ================================ I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Conrade Yap on 1/25/2011 1:58:02 AM

Chasing Elephants

It took me a very long time to get through this book. Not because of any complexity in language or subject, but because some portions of it made me uncomfortable. And that's a compliment to the book. I felt like I back in Situational Ethics, my freshman year in college. I was forced to confront my reasons for the choices and decisions I make as a Christian. I found myself questioning the boundaries of my Christian lifestyle that have been erected by my church, my community, my family and myself. A conservative, third-generation Seventh-day Adventist, I have a lot of these boundaries--restrictions on lifestyle, diet, entertainment. I even have some that are self-inflicted. So when Crowe compared boundaries in the Christian life with the plastic covers on electrical outlets, I squirmed a little, and began to question my Christian lifestyle. Do the restrictions of my conservative Adventist culture define who I am as Christian? Or are these boundaries merely curbs that enclose me in a community of faith, of like-minded people who support me in my spiritual growth? Do I live the Adventist lifestyle because my church expects me to or because it is my personal decision made with the freedom I have to choose? And if boundaries are indeed comparable to the plastic protectors on electrical outlets, are they not as pertinent after a certain point in my spiritual growth? So, yes, the book was a difficult read for someone like me who has lived by the book and its rules. To question the why behind the things I do, to dilly dally in the greys of Christian lifestyle is not my favorite pastime. Yet, the book was good for me. After all the probing and questioning, I was glad that it solidified my belief system. While Crowe thoughts about and interpretation of some biblical passages differ from mine, I appreciate the basic principles he lays out that help the reader choose for himself a biblical approach to sticky situations and grey areas. Without forcing his theology on you, he helps you find the solution. Did the book make a difference in my life? No, it didn't. It was more like visit to the doctor's office for an annual exam--you think you're doing okay, but you're not sure until the results are in. Reading the book was an exercise in re-examining who I am, and I was satisfied with the result. That however would not have been the case had I read this book 20 years ago. Where were you, Brent Crowe, when I was younger chasing elephants by the herds? (I received this book free from NavPress. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Posted by Fylvia Fowler Kline on 1/22/2011 7:58:40 PM

Chasing Elephants

It took me a very long time to get through this book. Not because of any complexity in language or subject, but because some portions of it made me uncomfortable. And that's a compliment to the book. I felt like I back in Situational Ethics, my freshman year in college. I was forced to confront my reasons for the choices and decisions I make as a Christian. I found myself questioning the boundaries of my Christian lifestyle that have been erected by my church, my community, my family and myself. A conservative, third-generation Seventh-day Adventist, I have a lot of these boundaries--restrictions on lifestyle, diet, entertainment. I even have some that are self-inflicted. So when Crowe compared boundaries in the Christian life with the plastic covers on electrical outlets, I squirmed a little, and began to question my Christian lifestyle. Do the restrictions of my conservative Adventist culture define who I am as Christian? Or are these boundaries merely curbs that enclose me in a community of faith, of like-minded people who support me in my spiritual growth? Do I live the Adventist lifestyle because my church expects me to or because it is my personal decision made with the freedom I have to choose? And if boundaries are indeed comparable to the plastic protectors on electrical outlets, are they not as pertinent after a certain point in my spiritual growth? So, yes, the book was a difficult read for someone like me who has lived by the book and its rules. To question the why behind the things I do, to dilly dally in the greys of Christian lifestyle is not my favorite pastime. Yet, the book was good for me. After all the probing and questioning, I was glad that it solidified my belief system. While Crowe thoughts about and interpretation of some biblical passages differ from mine, I appreciate the basic principles he lays out that help the reader choose for himself a biblical approach to sticky situations and grey areas. Without forcing his theology on you, he helps you find the solution. Did the book make a difference in my life? No, it didn't. It was more like visit to the doctor's office for an annual exam--you think you're doing okay, but you're not sure until the results are in. Reading the book was an exercise in re-examining who I am, and I was satisfied with the result. That however would not have been the case had I read this book 20 years ago. Where were you, Brent Crowe, when I was younger chasing elephants by the herds? (I received this book free from NavPress. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Posted by Fylvia Fowler Kline on 1/22/2011 7:55:50 PM

A Charming way to discuss the "gray" areas

After my last book review I was a little bit hesitant to sit down and read Chasing Elephants. The last book was a little bit too “technical” for me to really get the true meaning of the book. I did not want to disappoint myself or others by having a similar experience. Last week I finally decided to take the plunge and start reading. I thought I had some free time, so why not? I will just break the book up in to sections and do a little bit at a time. There was no need for that. I ended up staying up and reading the entire book that night. I did not do a book review right away. I wanted to think about it for a little while before I wrote my thoughts. Chasing Elephants is a book that talks about those things you many not really *want* to talk about, but you might have questions about. For others these might be topics they have no desire or need to ask questions. These “gray” areas are the things in life where the Bible does not have a specific word on an ethical or behavioral issue. Chasing Elephants “carefully examines the biblical subject of freedom in Christ and then extracts a set of principles that will act as a theology of belief for the seemingly gray areas of life.”(NavPress) As young children we are taught what to believe, and we are told why we are to believe what we believe. As one gets older, you stop to think, “I never learned how to believe.” Crowe mentions different gray areas in life, but talks specifically about five. Those five are homosexuality, the cyber world, social drinking, entertainment, and humanitarian efforts. The book does not jump right in to the first topic, homosexuality, but rather it begins with a bit of humor and continues to go on using his own personal stories to correlate with freedom and gray areas. I found the book to be a delight to read. Too often faith based authors overload a book with so much copy/paste from the Bible, that you are wondering why you purchased that book in the first place. This was not the case. Although Crowe does give biblical examples, the book was not saturated with it. Chasing Elephants will open your eyes and make you think about many things. It opens your eyes and your heart by giving you solid examples and quotes. The book is good for teens on up and would be good for a book group or bible study as there is much that can be discussed.
Posted by Chrystal Mahan on 1/14/2011 9:06:51 AM

Relevant Application

The subtitle of this books sums up what the book is about: wrestling with the gray areas of life. Crowe holds an M.Div in evangelism and an MA in ethics from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He serves as the vice president of Student Leadership University. It is quite evident from the onset of this book that Crowe has thought through the issues he writes about quite extensively. Crowe seeks to biblically address issues that evangelicals regularly face but many evangelical leaders are unwilling to directly confront. He refers to these issues as “elephants.” They are major issues which often contain gray areas that Scripture may not directly address. Crowe biblically pointed out how we as Christians are “free.” Before he sought to address the issues he did, he did a careful exposition of pertinent texts dealing with Christian liberty such as 2 Cor. 5:17-21; Rom. 14:1-15:13; 1 Cor. 10:23-11:1 and Gal. 5. I thought that his exposition was for the most part very solid and he went back to the original languages and made use of the original language tools. Before solid application can be made, a solid and exegetical framework must be first laid out and Crowe accomplished that. He correctly and biblically pointed out how we as Christians are “in Christ” and as such we have been set free by Christ. Crowe then went on to address numerous “elephants” that are what we might call “hot button” issues in evangelicalism. They were homosexuality, the cyber world, social drinking, entertainment, and humanitarian efforts. His application was appropriate and contemporary and he had excellent illustrations and examples and argued for his points very well. I thought the strength of his book was a solid exposition of the pertinent texts dealing with Christian liberty and the appropriate application of modern day issues. I also liked how much Crowe dealt with the topic of grace. Grace-oriented believers are going to especially appreciate his treatment and numerous references to the doctrine and theme of grace as it correlates to the issue of Christian liberty. Crowe seeks to avoid a legalistic approach to Christian living and urges his readers to do the same. I commend the author and book for appropriately and intelligently applying the texts with modern day and relevant scenarios. I enjoyed reading this book. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Liam Moran on 1/10/2011 9:54:27 PM

Good Book

I had the opportunity to read "Chasing Elephants, Wrestling With The Gray Areas Of Life," by Brent Crowe courtesy of Navpress Publishers as part of their blogger review program. The opinions express are my own in accordance with the FTC guidlines. This book pleasantly suprised me overall, however, the first 4 chapters of the book were a bit slow. The first several chapters were to help one better understand how and why the "questions to deal with the gray areas" came about. I personally think that these could have been omitted and the book would have had the same relevance as with them. Chapter 5 included the "list of questions" that would later help form your own opinion about the "gray areas". This is a comprehensive list with questions like:"will this decision addict or enslave," "is this decision made in the attitude of Christ," and "will this decision have a positive spiritual impact on self." The next chapters were the addressed areas-such as 1. Homosexuality 2.The Cyber World 3. Social Drinking 4. Entertainment and 5. Humanitarian Efforts. Brent Crowe addressed each of theses touchy subjects with grace and knowledge that made me "like him." I didn't agree with all of his ideas but I did find that my views were a bit changed on ideas once previously thought, due to asking myself the listed questions and how they relate to these areas. This book is great for someone who wants to formulate their own opinions from a biblical basis rather than believe stricly based on what their church or parents may believe. Great book Mr. Crowe-I look forward to your gracious and humble writing in the future!
Posted by Brooke Buchanan on 1/10/2011 10:40:39 AM

From boring to interesting

Chasing Elephants by Brent Crowe The title of the book was just as intriguing as the subtitle and topic of it —wrestling with the gray areas of life. It addressed, from a biblical point of view, those areas of life that are not directly addressed by scripture, such as social drinking, social media, and others. It even tackled the controversial subject of homosexuality, not just whether it was right or wrong, but also what our response should be to those involved in it. Even though the title and topic were intriguing, I had a little trouble getting into it in the first couple of chapters. My mind kept wandering all over the place and it seemed, well, boring. Then the author started sharing more of himself as he went along and that made it much more interesting. Ultimately it was totally engaging. Near the very end of the book he shared a touching personal story that actually made me cry. Brent Crowe offered a series of several questions in which we could use to test the gray areas of life. I thought the questions looked like they would be helpful but I doubt if I will actually use them. Instead the personal application I came away with was to better follow my own conscience and to not judge others as they follow theirs. I especially liked the way the author told us more than once that is was o.k. to not come to the same conclusions as he did on the issues discussed. Instead he shared his conclusions so that he could illustrate the process he used to get there. If you are wrestling with some “gray” areas of life, this book should prove helpful. For me it helped to solidify some of my views a little bit more than before reading it. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Navpress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CRF, Part 225: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Posted by Cheryl Cope on 1/6/2011 11:41:30 AM

Fuzzy Gray Elephants

“Chasing Elephants”, the new book by Brent Crowe, addresses those sticky topics that most often can and will divide the people of God. The book is titled “Chasing Elephants” because these topics can become like an elephant in the room if we try to ignore them. Topics such as homosexuality, the internet, social drinking and even Facebook are all filtered through a biblical lens. The layout of the book is great for any reader. Crowe takes us first through what Biblical, Christ like freedom is and what it means. Crowe states that all things must be considered through 2 important factors: Our reconciliation to God and the ministry of reconciliation we are to have toward others. One striking point Crowe makes is that it is impossible for a believer to remain neutral on a topic, because everything we do and believe is to be done for the glory and honor of God. He does not say you must think like he does, but rather examine Scripture, draw your own conclusions and stand by them. This is a refreshing approach to the many voices that vie to make their voice the zenith of logic and reason. Rather, Crowe puts the ball is our court and leaves the thought process to us as we explore Scripture and consult God. I believe that all Christians would benefit from this reading this book, no matter what age or academic standing. In closing, I would like to repeat a sentence I highlighted and underlined in the book repeatedly: “The point is to view your freedom through the lens of the rule for Christian living: that our lives would be dedicated in service to God and others”. (pg 128) Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Keith Gorman on 12/29/2010 7:44:17 AM

Easy read with overly complicated answers

While I was excited to read this book when I first got it i was slightly disappointed as i worked my way through it. Part of that was probably my own bias. I have never read anything by Brent Crowe before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. The writing was easy to read, though i don't want to call it simplistic. I just did not find his style intellectually stimulating. My biggest struggle with the book, though, was how complicated he made what seems like such a simple question. The book's thesis examines Christian freedom in light of three main scripture passages and then attempts to apply that freedom to what Crowe refers to as "elephants in the room", or the gray areas in our lives. He sets out to establish a set of questions believers can ask to help them arrive at whether certain actions are permissible or not. He is very clear that individual believers may answer questions differently and arrive at different conclusions, but the process is just too cumbersome. There are a total of 16 different questions he proposed can be asked. While all do not need to be answered, he mentions that the ones chosen by an individual may lead them to one answer while another person could come to a different conclusion just by answering a different subset of these 16 questions. To me this seems to be very confusing and doesn't help me answer the questions in regards to the "grey" areas in my life. Personally, I find myself addressing grey areas by answering two primary questions. The first is "What does the Bible say about it?" This can either be in terms of specifically allowing something or specifically prohibiting it. The second is, "Will doing this make me more or less like Jesus?" Some people may answer that second question differently based on their personal convictions and experiences, and that is okay, but to wade through 15 questions to come to that conclusion seems to be overly cumbersome. There are a few key quotes from the book that have caused me to pause and reflect, and for those tidbits I do have to say it was worth my time. Overall I will five this book 3/5 stars. An easy, quick read, but if you are looking for an in-depth study of any of the gray areas mentioned in the book (Homosexuality, Social Networking, Social Drinking, Entertainment, and Humanitarian Efforts) you will most likely find yourself disappointed. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Thomas Feller on 12/28/2010 6:59:30 PM

Interesting and thought provoking

Perhaps an unusual title, but one that would make you look further into it. ‘Chasing Elephants: Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life’ is challenging and thought provoking. It sets out to provide biblical principles for wise decision-making in a day when real wisdom, common sense and guidance seems scarce. Whilst specifically addressing how people should act when confronting the areas of Homosexuality, Social Drinking, Social Networking, Entertainment and Humanitarian Aid, the principles set out have a wider application in provoking how we should view others, our community, our environment and the way we interact with others. While I cannot say that I agree with everything that the author writes as a view, I would contend that the argument and principles are plainly evidenced by biblical texts and the illustrations are very appropriate, sometimes personal and surprisingly varied and current. For bible study groups, it should opening up questions that many people have and have never had reasonably explained. The writer, Brent Crowe has an academic background in ethics and in evangelism and this transfers strongly into his writing. ‘Chasing Elephants’ is a hugely enjoyable read and I have found valuable lessons in this book that can be taken elsewhere. This is the kind of book that people need today with the kind of honesty, candour and currency that readers can gain answers from or at least have as a discussion starter with others. A book that I would recommend highly, it is also not a book that should be approached lightly. The first half of the book looks at guidance, principles of decision making, responsibility and freedom against real life scenarios, while the second half of the book looks at the gray areas of life mentioned above. It is a fascinating read and I will encourage others to read it keenly. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by donald macdonald on 12/23/2010 8:16:02 AM

Interesting and thought provoking

Perhaps an unusual title, but one that would make you look further into it. ‘Chasing Elephants: Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life’ is challenging and thought provoking. It sets out to provide biblical principles for wise decision-making in a day when real wisdom, common sense and guidance seems scarce. Whilst specifically addressing how people should act when confronting the areas of Homosexuality, Social Drinking, Social Networking, Entertainment and Humanitarian Aid, the principles set out have a wider application in provoking how we should view others, our community, our environment and the way we interact with others. While I cannot say that I agree with everything that the author writes as a view, I would contend that the argument and principles are plainly evidenced by biblical texts and the illustrations are very appropriate, sometimes personal and surprisingly varied and current. For bible study groups, it should opening up questions that many people have and have never had reasonably explained. The writer, Brent Crowe has an academic background in ethics and in evangelism and this transfers strongly into his writing. ‘Chasing Elephants’ is a hugely enjoyable read and I have found valuable lessons in this book that can be taken elsewhere. This is the kind of book that people need today with the kind of honesty, candour and currency that readers can gain answers from or at least have as a discussion starter with others. A book that I would recommend highly, it is also not a book that should be approached lightly. The first half of the book looks at guidance, principles of decision making, responsibility and freedom against real life scenarios, while the second half of the book looks at the gray areas of life mentioned above. It is a fascinating read and I will encourage others to read it keenly. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by donald macdonald on 12/23/2010 8:16:00 AM

Can a Christian be a Christian and ...?

Drink socially? Watch R-rated movies? Have a social conscience? Too often Christians struggle with these 'gray' area issues, primarily due to a lack of understanding of the Bible's stance on some issues, confusion over freedom in Christ and legalism, and a divide between biblical thinking and biblical living. Brent Crowe puts forth an excellent and timely approach to the believer's freedom in Christ and how that freedom is applied to some issues that are not addressed specifically in the Bible. Chasing Elephants examines liberty and freedom in Christ against responsibility and love of God and others. Brent Crowe provides a thorough examination of freedom in Christ and provides a list of questions to view these gray areas through. He then looks at several areas, using those questions, sharing how he reached his decisions in those areas. Believers will benefit greatly from this book, enabling them to approach gray areas with a biblical lens of wisdom and discernment. We would be well served to develop an ability to explain clearly and biblically how we have reached the convictions we have, even when we might reach different convictions. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Ricky Kirk on 12/20/2010 6:08:25 PM

Surprised...

I have to admit that Brent Crowe’s,“Chasing Elephants: Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life,” was not what I expected it to be. I “assumed” (Crowe challenges readers not to make assumptions) that the book would explain what the “gray area” of life are and then go on to tell us what we needed to believe. That is NOT what this book is about. Yes, it addresses controversial areas that today’s society is wrestling with; but rather than telling us what to believe… Crowe shows us how to THINK and BE in the midst of such controversy, which he grounds in Scripture. In a nutshell, he shows us not so much WHAT to believe, but HOW TO BELIEVE. He does this by giving a series of questions to ask when dealing with a “Gray Area,” that he calls the “How To Believe Grid.” The book is divided up into 2 Parts. The first part gives a Biblical framework in order to address the gray areas of life (largely built on the “How To Believe Grid.) I like the way Crowe balances FREEDOM and RESPONSIBILITY as well as TRUTH and GRACE. The second part uses this framework to address 5 particular gray areas: Homosexuality, the Cyber World, Social Drinking, Entertainment, and Humanitarian Efforts. I liked the way Crowe addressed the issue of Homosexuality. He does a masterful job describing how we need to balance TRUTH with GRACE. He writes, “Truth need not always be communicated through a megaphone on the mountain, but sometimes through the tears in the valley.” WOW, that really got to me. It brought home the fact that though we, as Christians, have the Truth… we don’t always wield it in a Christian way. In other words, it’s possible to be RIGHT in a particular issue, but WRONG in how we handle it. Overall, I thought, “Chasing Elephants,” was a good book that give you the theology and the tools to not just BELIEVE the faith, but to also LIVE the faith. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Bill Stegemueller on 12/19/2010 6:11:51 PM

World View

Chasing Elephants deals with the "gray areas" in the Christian walk. Those things that are not directly addressed in scripture. The idea is that by developing a framework to look at things with a Christian worldview, any topic can be analyzed. Mr. Crowe uses several examples of social drinking, online networking, service opportunities, and others. I was leery when I first began reading this book. I was on guard against a liberal world view being presented. Part of this is because of the topics the author chose to use as examples. I was dead wrong. Mr. Crowe is grounded in scripture and speaks truth. Even hard truth. The book begins with establishing a framework. Through scripture, Mr. Crowe identifies 18 different questions to use to evaluate a decision. The decision on an activity, a group, anything. This is a powerful tool. We are called to be in the world, but not of the world. What better way to guard against that than to see the truth in scripture! Once the framework is established, several real examples are studied and applied. Its a great application demonstration and really worked well. I have already been sharing these questions with others. I am sure it will be a great ministry tool. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Posted by Bill Reynolds on 12/16/2010 11:39:37 AM

What would Jesus do?

Once we have made the decision to ask Jesus into our lives, we are always evaluating our actions to be sure we are in line with what God would want us to do. Some decisions are very clear for us and written in scripture where others are those gray areas that are not addressed in scripture. What do we do about those gray areas and how do we make the “right” decisions on these issues. “Chasing Elephants: Wrestling with the Gray Area of Life” by Brent Crowe gives you scripturally based guidelines to help you make these decisions. His book begins with a thorough discussion on freedom that God gives us to make our own choices and how we can use that freedom to glorify God. He gives us some helpful guidelines that we can use to evaluate the decisions in our lives. He does not believe that we should remain neutral on these gray areas to avoid exploring and making a decision. Crowe uses these guidelines and takes us through evaluation of several of those gray areas in life, such as homosexuality, exploring the cyber world and social drinking. I think that you will find this a valuable book in helping you to make good choices and coming to conclusions about many life issues. I was provided this free book for review from NavPress Publishers. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. The opinions in this review are strictly my own.
Posted by Miriam Allen on 12/13/2010 5:09:48 PM

Stop chasing and start living!

Brent Crowe writes an interesting book on basically five points or "elephants" in christianity: homosexuality, the cyber world, social drinking, entertainment and humanitarian efforts. Brent takes the reader from the legal part of christianity to the grace we have in Jesus. Having grace doesn't mean having the freedom to do whatever one wants but it means having the freedom to live in the grace Jesus has given us by giving us life and life more abundantly. Having been reared in a christian home and going to church on a regular basis I found this book to be good...sorry not great because Brent reiterates his points over and over. I think giving a point, expounding on it and leaving it for the reader to analyze and digest is plenty. The title, Chasing Elephants Wrestling with the Gray Areas of Life, is a wonderful description, in itself, of how christians feel about the five topics he addresses. Brent has a fantastic idea of what the Bible says about homosexuality, social drinking, the Internet!, and entertainment. Okay so the part on the Internet got.me.a.little! Not about going to "bad" sites but what about the time I waste?!?! Yikes! The decisions and choices that one makes will and does affect your physical man, as well as, your spiritual man. This four star read is a must for christians who want to stop chasing elephants and start being the man or woman God designed you to be!
Posted by Tammy Griffin on 12/8/2010 8:05:14 AM

Chasing Elephants by Brent Crowe ~ Book Review

Chasing Elephants by Brent Crowe takes the reader from freedom in Christ to focus in the grace God has given us. Through many illustrations laced with humor, both personal and historical, he clearly shows how to confront and devour those elephants “one bite at a time when looking through the grid of Scripture.” Although many elephants are mentioned, he specifically writes about five: homosexuality, the cyber world, social drinking, entertainment, and humanitarian efforts. Brent Crowe presents sixteen “How To Believe” questions which, when answered, direct the reader to arrive at conclusions that agree with the Word of God. Because Chasing Elephants is thought-provoking and void of heavy theological terms, it would be perfect to use in a group Bible study. A corresponding study guide would be beneficial and further enhance this literature. Being raised in a similar theological background, I’ve had to wrestle with elephants discussed in this literature and wish I had read this book twenty-five years ago. Mr. Crowe enlightens the reader that the body of Christ, through legalism and abusing our freedoms in Christ, have actually hindered the presentation of God’s grace to the world. But as the author stated, “Maybe the best place to start is by loving the sinner and hating my own sin.”
Posted by Ruth Kaup on 12/8/2010 4:45:14 AM

NavPress

Search