Velvet Elvis - Rob Bell

Recently a good friend lent me a book, encouraging me that it was a worthy read. I had never heard of it, however had heard of the author - Rob Bell - and was keen to read his thoughts. Rob Bell is the founding pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan, plus well known for his work with NOOMA.

Velvet Elvis is his first book (the second – Sex God is due for release in 2007) The subtitle, Repainting the Christian Faith, gives more than a hint of its direction.
Rob wrestles with the Christian faith in a way that navigates historical, orthodox, Jewish, Postmodern and cultural Christianity. He encourages readers to begin a life devoted to following Christ in a rich, meaningful and relevant manner.

Personally I found his historical Jewish perspective to be an eye-opener. Being somewhat ignorant about traditional Jewish practices – a better grasping of this culture has enriched my understanding of several Gospel stories and teachings.
Bell deeply wants the reader to go on wrestling, to go on deeper exploring the faith and its application today. Definitely worth reading – plus its short & easy!