Popular Christian author Max Lucado tackles the perennial problem of fear in his latest book Fearless. He sets himself the ambitious target of eradicating the emotion of fear in the lives of his readers. He encourages us to 'Imagine your life without fear'. And with frequent reference to a variety of scriptures from a variety of bible versions Lucado offers a series of suggestions for dealing with a wide assortment of fears. The fears he addresses include amongst others 'The Fear of not mattering' , ' 'The Fear of Disappointing God' and 'The Fear of What's Next'.
There are some positive aspects to the book. Firstly, Lucado deals with a subject that is undoubtedly an issue in the lives of many people. Few among us are truly fearless. Secondly, seeking to do this in the context of scriptural teaching is commendable. Thirdly, Lucado has a very simple, warm, and effective writing style. It is no wonder that his books have proved enduringly popular with a section of the Christian public.
That said this book has some very serious defects. Lucado's suggestions for dealing with problem of anxiety and fear lack depth. They are at best shallow,albeit somewhat Christianised, suggestions that could be found in a hundred self help manuals. Further I had the continual impression that bible verses were employed to back up Lucado's philosophy rather than the author drawing his teaching from the scriptures.
All in all a disappointing treatment of an important subject.
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