Living in a Gray World - A review

Living in a Gray World

Preston Sprinkle

Zondervan, 2015

This book is now three years old, but is still relevant to the discussion. If I’d been made aware of this book back then, I would have happily added it to my bookshelf. Sprinkle aims to have a conversation with his readers rather than just being the author telling people what to think. A difficult thing to achieve in a book, but I think he does it well. 

In this conversation Sprinkle raises the questions that are in the minds of many people. “What does the Bible say about Homosexuality” is handled carefully and, I believe, correctly. This chapter follows his comments on what the Bible says about Marriage, which is a good way to start. “My best friend is gay . . . now what?” is a question that will be asked by more and more teenagers in our churches. This chapter provides some helpful guidance on how to react, what not to say, and making sure you understand what your friend is talking about. 

This leads me to some of the very positive aspects of this book. Sprinkle helps to better understand what different terms mean. For example, when we are asked “So you’re a Christian. What do you think about homosexuality?” the answer shouldn’t be a quick one. He writes:

“The topic of homosexuality is far too complex; it defies quick answers. It requires a conversation, . . . Blurting out quick answers will usually shut down any opportunity of having that conversation.” (119)

Perhaps understanding what the questioner means will help to answer the question in a way that is right, gracious, and actually answers the question being asked. 

I was also pleased with Sprinkle’s advice to the teenager who gets a negative reaction from friends and family when they ‘come out’.

“You’ve got to give your parents and friends some grace. For most of them, they simply don’t know what to say or how to react. They don’t realize how painful or ignorant their responses can be.” (92)

Preston Sprinkle writes in a way that is engaging and easy to read. This is what makes the book something that can be shared with all people. He also writes with a firm conviction to the Bible and the truth it teaches on issues like marriage and sexuality. So for me, as I read this book, my biblical convictions were affirmed and some of my attitudes were challenged. 

If you’re looking for some wisdom, this will help you. If you’re trying to work out where you stand, this will help you. If you are convinced that your opinion is the right one, this might help you think deeper on where you stand. 

I purchased this from Booktopia on recommendation from someone at a youth ministry conference. I’m glad I did.