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To continue the Seminary Dropout tradition of introducing people who need no 
introduction…
Philip Yancey began his career as Editor of Campus Life Magazine, and has connected with more than 15 million readers since his first book was published in 1977. His books have been translated into 35 languages. Philip explores the most basic questions and deepest mysteries of Christian faith and invites readers to join him on his journeys. His books have earned recognition including two Christian Book of the Year awards and 13 Gold Medallion awards.
Philip joins me on the show to talk about his new book
‘The Question That Never Goes Away’.
Some days, the news seems too much to bear. Yet another tsunami or earthquake or flood or fire or war atrocity. One more gun-toting madman stalking young people in idyllic Norway or moviegoers in Colorado or schoolchildren in Newtown, Connecticut. We turn off the news only to get a phone call about expectant parents with a stillborn baby, or a loved one whose cancer has returned.
Really, God? we ask. This again?
If we have faith in God, it gets shaken to the core. What was God doing in the moment when that tragedy could have been prevented? If we can’t trust God to keep our children safe or our loved ones from dying in agony, what can we trust God for?
In his classic book Where Is God When It Hurts, Philip Yancey gave us permission to doubt, reasons not to abandon faith, and practical ways to reach out to hurting people. Now, with new perspectives and stories gathered across nearly twenty-five years, once again he tackles the hard questions head-on. His visits to three places in 2012 raised the old problems with new urgency.
More veteran pilgrim than curious journalist in his later years, Yancey faces with his trademark honesty the issues that often undermine faith, yet he emerges with comfort and hope. Along the way, he shows that Christians have an important role to play in bringing healing to a deeply wounded world.
There are hopeful reasons to ask, once again, the question that never goes away. . . .
-From the publisher.
Great episode, Shane. So jealous that you’re on a first name basis with Philip Yancey. Thanks for the shout-out! To answer your question, I go by James, but when I write on my blog (or its associated Facebook page), it’s under J.R. Buckley. Sort of how N.T. Wright goes by Tom.
Aaaaand I did not just compare myself to N.T. Wright.