CONFESSIONS OF A SECULAR JESUS FOLLOWER

Atheist, humanist, and USA Today columnist Tom Krattenmaker makes the case for why the teachings, example, and inspiration of Jesus--a Jesus freed from doctrine, ideology, and political misappropriations--can fill a vacuum of meaning and inspiration.

Tom is part of a largely unforeseen movement at Yale University and elsewhere among those who identify as nonreligious or spiritually unaffiliated. This move, he finds, arises from a "quiet crisis" in secularism--the realization that in a godless world, many feel a persistent absence of inspiration and meaning. Surprisingly, many are finding what they seek through following Jesus without being Christian. In Confessions of a Secular Jesus Follower, Krattenmaker sets out to name and describe this phenomenon, making the case for what unbelievers like him have to gain from choosing Jesus as not only a good example and teacher, but as the primary guide for one's life. He draws on original analysis and the latest research, along with his personal quest, to show that in Jesus' life and teachings, secularists can find, for example, unique and compelling wisdom on how to honor the humanity in ourselves and others; how to build more peaceful lives; how generosity helps persons and communities create more abundance; how to break free from self-defeating behaviors; and how to tip the scales toward justice.

The name "Jesus" never fails to stir passionate conversation, and readers--both religious and secular--are always on a lookout for books that provide new points of entry into his story. Krattenmaker's voice is expansive and unique, inviting believer and non-believer alike to rediscover the vitality Jesus and his unique teachings give to life in the 21st century. In a time when more people than ever are identifying as non-religious, Confessions of a Secular Jesus Follower is a groundbreaking and compelling work that rediscovers Jesus--and our own deepest selves--for a post-Christian age.

Tom Krattenmaker is a longtime columnist for USA Today and The Huffington Post and is the communications director of Yale Divinity School. He is the author of two award-winning books, Onward Christian Athletes and The Evangelicals You Don't Know. He has appeared on Fox News and National Public Radio, and in the New York Times' "Idea of the Day" feature.