"Theologian Smith refreshingly interprets Christian faith by refuting two other versions of Christianity he finds inadequate: the 'good works' gospel taught in liberal churches, he says, fails to inspire; the 'shaming gospel' merely scares. In place of these two he offers his view that Christianity is a magnificent story that is beautiful, good, and true. . . . Patient seekers in quest of a powerful and loving God who stands in solidarity with suffering might also find it valuable."
"I appreciated the varied group of Catholic and non-Catholic theologians/writers who have influenced Smith and reminded me that we are all part of a good and beautiful and magnificent story."
"I long to communicate the gospel with my congregation as a family member might retell their own family story—with real emotion and from actual experience. Sadly, we often tell the gospel story with rehearsed platitudes that convey something far removed from the truly good news it is. James Bryan Smith's The Magnificent Story sets aside what he calls the 'Do-Good-Works Gospel' and the 'Shaming and Scary Gospel' and the 'Shaming and Scary Gospel' and suggests our story just might be beautiful, good, and true. Complete with journaling, reflections, 'soul training' exercises, and a study guide, Smith provides a model for helping our congregation explore these truths."
"Any story worth giving the power to shape our lives must pass a simple test: is it beautiful, good, and true? If it is, then it is a Magnificent Story—and that is where transformation takes place."
