I thought about it, I did. After all, 50 Shades of Grey is a self-publishing phenom – a book that sold more than 3 million copies (electronic and paperback) in the first month it was released by Vintage (and that’s not counting its previous self-published sales). Everybody is talking about it – honestly, I was starting to feel a little left out.
I’ve read a couple of posts from the Christian/Biblical perspective about why some have chosen not to read 50 Shades, but I have to tell you, the reason I decided not to read it isn’t because I’m a Christian or because the Bible tells me I shouldn’t. I don’t know the Bible well enough to support an argument like that (I’m reading the Old Testament through for the first time right now, and I’ve gotten as far as Nahum– I’m on the “Bible in 900 Days” plan).
So…here are the real reasons I’m not reading 50 Shades of Grey:
What about you? Will you read 50 Shades of Grey (I’m not judging, I swear!)? And if no, why not?
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Honestly, I had never heard of the book before I read this. No, I won't be reading it. I still haven't read Harry Potter or seen the movies, so I don't usually follow the crowd anyway. 😉
I do watch American Idol. Did you read Emily's post? Wow.
Everyone and their mother is reading it around here. Fellow dance mom even offered to lend it to me. Put it in my lap. I took it home, read a page, and decided it SO is not the book for me. For all the reasons you mentioned above. I could go on and on about this. I have a strong opinion. It's crazy how something like this is so widely accepted as “okay” and unharmful.
I'm with you big time on this. I've been constructing a post in my head about it. And for the record I'll usually read anything.
I'm a fan of women and I don't like when the line becomes blurry between pain and play.
That's all…for now. 😉
Thanks for posting this.
I have only heard about this book one other time before reading your post and I had NO IDEA it was a sex book. Maybe I live in a cave?
I probably won't read it because it is not my “thing” I like a good murder mystery, suspense novel…that kind of thing.
Nada. To be truthful, I just heard about that book in the last couple of weeks — but the early birds who read it — have proclaimed it to be poorly written. I don't read poorly written. 🙂 I really don't do erotica either — cuz, well, what you said. 🙂 I read a variety of genres — but that's not one I choose to pick up. I've picked up well-written novels with graphic, sex scenes in them — and I've been sort of uncomfortable … so “no” I sure wouldn't choose to read that when I know it from the beginning.
Did that make any sense?
When I taught school, I always tried to read what the “kids” were reading — just so I would know — and also so that I could recommend contemporary books when kids asked me for suggestions — and I didn't want to recommend one of the Russians — cause, you know, those novels are not for everyone.
*tee hee*
Ugh. I read one of those V C Andrews books in the 80s. Awful stuff — the female students were mad for them.
They were super creepy and super sleazy. IMHO
I didn't read Harry Potter till late — and even though I thought she started off a weak writer, she grew as one. I had so many people who read her books just tell me that I would “love them.” I would, if I were in 5th grade, but as an adult — I dunno.
Am I a reading snob?
Don't answer that…
I personally thought the Da Vinci Code was poorly written, but I thought it was a good story — but I didn't approve, you know? It read like a movie script to me — and there were parts of that novel where I was “just no” to. My students were reading it though – and I wanted to know.
I told a friend of mine once — just because it's a best seller, doesn't mean it's good.
Just sayin'.
Yes, a million people can be wrong.
*tee hee*
Not reading this book — not reading Hunger Games, I had to teach Brave New World, and I'm not on the Twilight train either.
And that I'm sure is more than you wanted to know early this morning.
*smooches*
Definitely a reading snob. One of my many flaws….
Um, I'm out.
Sex? Porn? Really?!
My question is this — how does the writer live with himself knowing he wrote a book like that? I mean, how does it make the world better? How does it change the readers lives? Doesn't sound like for the good.
I suppose all that extra money would help you live down your guilt. 🙂
I read the blurb on it and could tell immediately, I wouldn't want to read it.
Same way I read the first Hunger Games book and decided NOT to read the second one. The writing is just horrible!
OMG, we are kindred spirits. I bought new books on my Kindle before leaving for Europe and decided no on that one for all the reasons you gave, mainly the bad writing reason. And everyone who loves to read says the same thing about it, bad writing/soft porn, so why waste my time. And I bought Jeff's book instead and loved it btw. I have to admit it kills me that bad writing sells millions of copies. It's just so wrong on so many levels.
The author is a female, you sexist! (you know I'm kidding ,right?!).
I admit, I do have Hunger Games on my kindle – we are takin a road trip soon, and I thought that might make good car reading. Plus, everyone is talking about it (or was…I sort of missed the boat on that one), so I want to see what all the hype is about.
Honestly, I have nothing against erotica…IF it's well-written and tasteful (I know that makes me a prude…whatever). Is that TMI??!!
Well, I hadn't planned to read it, but after reading your post…
Just Kidding! 😉
Nah! I've better books to waste my time on…
Nope. Many years ago I was given a series of books by a well known Christian author. I felt that the books were too erotic and tossed them.
1) I have no desire to live vicariously through someone else's sexual exploits. I am not a prude, but I desire to keep my mind pure (in all respects) before the Lord. I have enough struggles in my own heart without taking on the disturbingly unhealthy views of others to “entertain” me.
2) I do not want to support the idea that abusive co-dependent relationships are “normal and natural”
3) My time is SO precious — I don't have time for many of the really worthwhile books I'd like to read, so I'm certainly not going to spend it on something that is questionable at best.
4) My money is SO tight — I'd rather spend that money on socks or groceries or doing something that will build my family.
So, I'm with you. Just not worth my time or money or focus.
Lol.
I like you, Michelle.
The closest I got to reading erotica was some text messages from my wife.
I can play TMI too 🙂
All good reasons, Kate – way to stand by your convictions.
You make me laugh, Joe!
Already in the comments, I've seen some books I love trashed, which always hurts me deeply. Frankly, it keeps me from writing the fiction I want to. Christians will hate it. My writing hero is Madeliene L'Engle, which tells you pretty much everything you need to know.
I know, I know…don't get me going on the demise of the English language — bad writing sells millions, egads!!
I'm laughing over the fact that you bought the Jeff Goins' book instead, too — we ARE kindred spirits, indeed!
Ooooh la la!!
Okay, it is official. Everyone I know is talking about this book! And I hate to say that you are the first person who has not recommended it to me. I find that incredibly refreshing. Thank you, Michelle. I now feel less obligated to put it on my summer reading list. In fact, I just decided to skip it all together. The content is a factor, but also – your reason #2 resonates. I avoid reality TV for the same reasons. Great point.
I'm a total book snob, too – bad writing is just too distracting, even if the plot is good.
I just read Jody Hedlund's “The Preacher's Bride,” and I admit, I went into it with the same kind of preconceived notions, except this time about Christian fiction — the “bonnet books” I call them, because a lot of times they picture a chaste-looking lady wearing a head-covering on the cover (I always thought that meant it was about the Amish…turns out the Puritans wore head coverings, too –called a “coif” — see I learned something!).
Anyway, long story short, I went into that book expecting not to like it (although I read Jody's blog…and she's an excellent writer, so I trusted that the writing would be good…and it was). Turned out, I loved it — couldn't put it down! So much for my disdain for “bonnet books” — just goes to show you, you can't judge a book by its cover. I can't wait to read her next book (The Doctor's Wife).
Don't worry, Mary, you don't live in a cave. The 50 Shades trilogy is very popular right now with the mom set. Last night I was at a party, and I was literally the only mom who had not read or was not reading “50 Shades.” I felt like a prude admitting I wasn't going to read it…and I didn't mention this blog post!
Another reason I didn't get into in this post is the feminist perspective. Like my sister said, 'It's about a man controlling a woman…we've been battling that for centuries, so why do I want to read about it in a sex book?” Good point!
I did read Emily's post about American Idol – and you are right…wow!
I do love the Harry Potter books — we read them aloud to our boys. I like the Percy Jackson series too. Books for boys…that's a whole other post topic!
Well, I just hope, for Michelle's sake, that your wife's text messages were well-written and tasteful… 😉
I will NOT be sharing actually text messages with Michelle.
This is a recording.
I will NOT be sharing actually text messages with Michelle.
I love Harry Potter – we are reading the series aloud of Rowan right now. There are a lot of books I read, and that my kids read, that would probably be condemned by Christians. And, for the record, I own erotica – well, one book, but hey. BUT it's well-written…that's the clinchere for me (and I'm not really into the domineering S&M content, which kind of goes against my feminist notions).
Love Madeline L'Engle, too — just read A Wrinkle in Time for the first time a couple of weeks ago!
I was at a party last night and 50 Shades was the HOT topic. I admitted I wasn't going to read it (I was the only one in the group – kind of felt like a lame prude!) — but some of the women who had read it said the writing was so terrible that it was distracting, so I felt somewhat justified!
You're on the 900 day plan? I love that. Will you believe me if I tell you I've never made it all the way through? Not ever, not yet. (That admission is going to get me kicked out of all kinds of clubs. 🙂 I get sidetracked and fall down rabbit holes too easily, and I like it in the rabbit holes. You're in Nahum. Way ahead of me. (Last time I tried to do the whole thing, it ended in Judges, where it consumed the better part of a year.)
Really appreciate your take on #2. A lot.
Honestly, I just learned what it was about while running with friends yesterday. I guess part of me is with Joe (I have better books to waste my time on)…but the other is caution about what I fill myself up with…garbage in garbage out. Isn't that what Proverbs 4:23 really means,”Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life!” Don't get me wrong…I think Christians should be careful not to boycott every book that comes along. We are to live IN the world but not be like the world. There has to be a line…where even if we read it we can be calm and collected and point out why Biblically we choose to live differently. I don't need to read this book to tell people where I stand on sex outside of marriage!
However, I read The Hunger Games (I thought the writing was fine…it's JUVe lit after all people)…in part because the author wrote it as a study of youth response to war and because I wanted to discuss it on a spiritual level with my young neighbor that I watch each morning before the bus comes. I think you have to pray about it…and say, “How can God be glorified? OR…would my time be better spent for Him somewhere else?” For me, witnessing to my neighbor was paramount to my concerns about violence…I wanted to be able to provide a spiritual filter for her…she wouldn't have one otherwise. Sorry this is so long…I should have e-mailed!
Thank you. I hadn't heard about this one yet… I usually go to Amazon and read not just the good reviews, but the folks who gave it 1 star and their reasoning is usually enlightening. It either tells me a lot about them or alot about the yuck in a book. I am an avid reader.
Honestly though I've gotten away from reading too much romantic fiction because there is so much crap out there. I read the Twilight series – crappy writing. I LOVE Harry Potter which is not romantic fiction but was mentioned. What started off as childish and whimsical/magical story turned into a deep series. I love how her writing evolved.
I recently read a romantic novel that was recommended by some friends and I would have burned it if it had been my copy. It was an older series that has sold a lot of copies – porn is the word I would use to describe it.
I have a difficult time reading books or watching movies with too much explicit sexual content. It takes away from my marriage, gets in my head and heart. And frankly I don't need another reason to not be present emotionally and spiritually in our marriage bed – with four kids I'm just glad we get some time alone together. If you know what I mean [wink].
So I have no patience for poor writing and no patience for writers selling what should be considered porn – not great literature.
We are a culture that loves cheap sex and I don't like or do my sex cheap.
BONNET BOOKS!!! AHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHHAH
I have to admit that I knew little to nothing about this book. I hear it referenced often, but never even bothered to look it up. After reading this I went on Amazon to read the reviews which were probably more entertaining than the book. It doesn't sound as if I've missed out by not listening to the hype. There are so many more books to enjoy! (I personally loved the Hunger Games trilogy which I read BEFORE the hype so I wasn't swayed. )
It is so funny that you brought this up today because I was contemplating it myself. Today after my morning reading of the word, I decided no when I read about being a daughter of the light. I did read The Hunger Games and saw the movie and was reprimanded on Facebook by Christians who thought I shouldn't have. I felt like The Hunger Games had another message, one of justice and love being stronger than evil. Each book did seem to get a little darker and I admit I skimmed over the violence and didn't read every word. Sometimes it is disappointing how much the culture influences us, how much it influences me.
As for reality TV, I never miss an episode of The Deadliest Catch or of Ice Road Truckers! What is it about watching someone battle the elements that I love? No matter how hard of a day I've had, those boys fishing in the storms had a rougher one!
Wow! I clicked on this early this morning when there was only one comment. Looks like you've sparked quite the conversation, my friend!
And I agree with so much of it–especially with the lovely Miss Megan. Madeline L'Engle is my hero.
Bonnet books–Ba HAH! You crack me up, girl!
At this point in my life, I do have to be careful about what I allow into my head and my heart. It comes back to me in the middle of the night when sleep is scarce, and not always in a pretty way.
I'm just finishing the last of the Harry Potter books. I'm struck by how often I find whispers and shadows of the gospel in the story, all truth being God's truth after all.
And, I'd never heard of 50 Shades of Grey before reading this post. Except for the shades which are oh, so prominent on top of my head.
This 50 Shades thing worries me. Not just because it's lady porn, but because it's crappy writing and it's super popular. When I check for free books for my kindle on Amazon there's always free erotica with half naked people on the cover. So if you want crappy erotica why not get it for free? Why is everyone loving this? I DON'T GET IT!
I told my husband (who asked me if I was planning on reading it) that the phrase “inner goddess” makes me want to slap people. But why are women into this book? Why? whywhywhywhy?
But…I hate Francine Rivers (shhh) so maybe I shouldn't be weighing in. I mean, I don't hate her as a person, but I want to set all of her books on fire. I am not kidding. I hate them. I read half of Redeeming Love. It was awful.
I guess I'm a book snob. Rats. But shouldn't EVERYONE be a book snob? I think they should. Just like everyone should be an art snob and a food snob and whatever. I mean, if you are making something or consuming something HAVE SOME STANDARDS.
Off to the Philharmonic with my mink stole. ta ta!
Amen KATE love point #1
Never heard of this book. Where have I been?
It's really popular with the “mommy set” right now – moms with young kids. Not sure what that says about us? Bored? Need vicarious rebellion? Sexually frustrated?!! Honestly, I think it gives us a little “I'm a bad girl” lift without having to actually be a “bad girl,” if you know what I mean. I can certainly think of worse things than reading soft-porn…
Isn't it funny how the husbands are innocuously asking, “Hey honey…so are you gonna read this 50 Shades of Grey or what?!” At the party I was at last night, one mom admitted to reading it, and another friend turned to her husband and asked, rather pointedly, “So, have you reaped any benefits?” Poor guy was a like a deer in the headlights – I practically rolled off my chair laughing – he was stunned to absolute silence.
Ok, so who the heck is Francine Rivers????? Now I need to go google her…Never heard of “Redeeming Love.”
But yes, I agree…let's have some standards. I think that's what bugs me the most about the phenomena. As a word lover, I feel like we are witnessing the demise of the English language. I'm also quite bitter that she's made like $1 million on crappily written smut. But who am I to judge, as my book sits languishing on the shelf?!
Have fun at the Philharmonic! 🙂 Personally I don't like classical music…but that's a whole other post!
I think there is a TON about faith and good vs. evil that can be read into the Harry Potter series – you've got to look a little behond the whole witch/magic to the layers beneath.
And yeah, I've got like 68 shades of grey on my head!! You crack me up!
I love your reason for not watching reality shows – it's the same for me. I don't like reading gossip magazines either. Both either make me feel bad that the world would care so much about “famous” people's misery and then that part of me that finds it amusing and judgemental – two things that I don't want.
As far as 50 Shades of Grey – I haven;t read it because I am a single woman. What's the point in getting myself worked up?
I laughed out loud at your last comment!
And yeah, I get your point about gossip magazines, too. I do read them, I admit. People is my favorite. But I often end up feeling worse about myself when I finish — not pretty enough, not skinny enough, not fashionable enough. So yeah, I get that.
I haven't read Hunger Games yet, but I do have it on my Kindle ready to go. I totally disagree with the reprimands – especially if you haven't read the book yourself and are judging others based on hearsay. I say make your own decision and leave others to make theirs. The end.
As for The Deadliest Catch…that's one of my favorites…so I guess I do watch reality TV from time to time! But I don't turn off the TV after Deadliest Catch feeling badly about myself…more just relieved that I'm not a deep-sea fisherman for a living!
Look at you, ahead of the Hunger Games masses! I'm never ahead of the curve on anything cultural!
This is an awesome blog post in and of itself, Jessica! You need to copy and paste it into a post at your own place and call it good.
Seriously, thank you for your honesty and clearly thought-out argument here.
I love your points here, Bobbi – thank you for your honest reflection. I particularly like your quote from Proverbs, and especially your emphasis on not boycotting books. I am not in any way, shape or form a book boycotter – I try to make decisions for myself (and my kids) only, and *try* not to judge others for the decisions they make (not always successful in non-judgement…but who is?).
Lyla, if I read the Bible like you do, incredibly thoughtfully, prayerfully and deeply, I would be on the Bible in 9,000 Days Plan. I tend to skim or get distracted when I get to what seem like the boring parts. And I'm sure my retention is terrible. But I figure I can always go back and begin again – I'm only 42 right…I should have at least 30 more years of Bible reading ahead of me!
Yuck. Just no. I don't need it in my head.
I am always so out of touch. I've never heard of the book Michelle! However, I won't read it because my little mind really doesn't do well on that sort of diet. I have read things I really wish I could permanently delete from my thoughts, and they simply won't go away. So…better not to even take a little bite.
I can echo what you've said about the reality shows. I think there's a really mean girl buried somewhere deep inside that enjoys other people's mess-ups!
Michelle, I just heard of 50 Shades of Grey two nights ago when there was a piece on the Nightly News with Brian Williams. As I listened to why some women were reading it, I immediately began to think it wasn't for me. I haven't gone so far to even look at it, but I've recently been considering what I read and watch and whether or not it enhances my role as wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, mentor, etc. And I, like you, will be reading Jeff Goins' book instead most likely. If a publication leaves me with a feeling that I can't freely share it and build someone else up in the Lord, then I have failed Him, the person I'm telling, and myself. Thanks for your honest appraisal.
i was kidding. I never go to the Philharmonic. I also don't own anything with mink. I am currently wearing a purple sweatshirt with a big glob of mustard on it from my lunch that consisted of a costco hot dog. See what I mean? I HAVE STANDARDS!!!!
let me know what you think of F.R.
And thanks for sharing your opinion on the topic here, too, Sherrey. For the record, I really enjoyed Jeff Goins' book on writing — good stuff, lots of inspiration and practical tips.
Succinctly stated, Erin! 🙂
Oh totally — you stated that so well, Linda. I have a mean girl buried inside me…and I do NOT like to encourage her to come out!
This is a timely post. We were just talking about this at my women's bible study group. No, we were not talking about the book like a book club. lol! We were discussing on the reasons why we were not going to read the book. Since I haven't even read a paragraph, I can't judge the book on the merits of the writing. But frankly, I'm just not that into that sort of thing. I LOL at the comment where you said your friend looked at the husband and asked if he was reaping the benefits. At our ages, my husband and I would probably kill ourselves. lol!
We love to watch “Deadliest Catch” and “Gold Rush”. I come away from watching those shows glad that I do not do that for a living, too. Can't wait to check out Jeff Goins' book and yours as well. 🙂
{blush} sorry that comments was so long. It's kinda one of my soap box themes – trash disguised as literature. Ugh. I did write a post about moms that enjoy this junk: It's called The Battle for a Woman's Mind http://jezamama.com/2012/04/11/the-battle-for-a-womans-mind/
…me neither. I want value for my investment of time and money. The reviews of the book are bad, the concept is 'shady', and frankly it will add nothing to my life. I LOVE to read. I love to be overwhelmed by well crafted phrases and content that reflects wisdom or compassion or just a dang good story. There is so much more out there to choose from.
I so very pleased that you prompted this conversation.
I have never heard of it until now. But then, I live a rather sheltered life, and I like it. I don't watch porn on the screen. Why would I read it? Then again — I NEVER read stuff just b/c everybody else is.
I am so with you – I love how you say that you love to be “overwhelmed by well crafted phrases and content that reflects wisdom or compassion or just a dang good story.” Amen I say!
My sister and BFF (Andrea) are actually reading 50 Shades for their book club. I actually think it could be an interesting discussion, especially regarding what qualifies as good writing, what makes a good book, why a book like this would sell 3 million copies in a month, what that says about our culture and society, what it says about women, feminism — I could go on and on!
By the way, you made me LAUGH with your comment about your husband and you “at your ages!!” Love your humor, girl!
My grandmother had a mink, complete with the head still attached. My sister and I used to wear it around her house during our “fashion shows” along with her gold lame heeled slippers. She was quite a lady.
I'm currently wearing my pajamas – 8:55 p.m. Saturday night!
No no, I love the long comment — I am grateful for the discussion here today, your thoughts included! I will check out your post…
There is plenty of drama in the Old Testament, eh? Are you enjoying it?
Fondly,
Glenda
I LOVE the Old Testament – it's beautiful…and a little scary, too.
Yeah, I have to admit…I kinda read stuff just because everyone else is…sometimes I'm actually glad (like Rumors of Water, by LL Barkat…for a while all The High Calling writers/readers were reading that one, and I jumped on the bandwagon – GREAT book about writing, by the way).
Well, here goes. I'm not reading it because, in my limited understanding of God's design for sex, I believe it is truly meant to draw us closer to God. The most intense form of intimacy was designed for a husband and wife through the physical and emotional act of sexual love. We do not have any other physical representation or understanding of a greater intimacy and so through that oneness, I believe God intended it to be a way for us to actually draw closer to Him. So my question is, will those books draw me into a closer intimacy and relationship with God?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all about a spicy and exciting sex-life within my marriage! Woot! Woot!
Yet, I think the real issue is that women are dealing with a lack of drive and it's likely threatening their self-worth and even marriages, sadly. But I really think we are turning to the wrong source to revolutionize our sex-lives when we use visual porn or mental porn and it actually cheapens the beauty intended, in my opinion.
I don't have T.V. (by choice) and reading is my passion so I hyperventilate without a book.
I'll read a book if the writing isn't so great, but the story is wonderful (some kid's books).
I'll read if the writing is magnificent prose even if the story drags (Ann Radcliffe).
But if the writing stinks and so does the story, out it goes (not going to name lots that others have recommended 🙂
That being said, I refuse to pick up anything that I know ahead of time is filled with smut or bad language.
Just read a post by Donn Taylor (holds a PhD in English lit) in which he stresses that “lazy writers” substitute strong language (or in this case explicit sex) for genuine creativity.
Oh, and I downloaded Jeff's book because I like the title 🙂
Glad to know that you too are on the read the Bible thru in 900 days (instead of 90!) plan. I can relate!! (Glad to know not everyone is on the super-acclerated plan.)
Didn't really know about this book — I have heard about it but not in close circles that I was wondering what the buzz was all about.
I like that your reasoning is as simple as does this benefit me? And also bad writing makes me crazy, too! Can relate to your reasons…not all of them are a high and spiritual plane…but on a more practical level. I like that. Interesting that it seems like a fresh perspective in our times.
I'm not reading it because I have better things to do with my time! I read the review in Time magazine and it wasn't something I'd be interested in! Growing up we did not have many books but oh, how we wanted to read. Then my aunt, who was getting married and was leaving for the States, left us with huge boxes of books. There was Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, and Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind. But everything else were romance novels! My sisters and I read all those books! I read War and Peace and Gone with the Wind soooo many times! And frankly I would get embarrassed with some of the other books I read! One day God told me to throw all the romance novels and I did!
I read the whole Hunger games series because I want to know what my son is reading, so I can discuss it with him, especially if there's something that I find objectionable. Read Harry Potter too! recently my son was downloading some TV show and I asked him why, and he said his friend said it was good. “Watch with your critical mind, OK?” And he said, “Mom, I am such a good boy compared to my friends!” Later I asked him about the show and he said he decided not to download it anymore.
I'm not reading it because when I flipped through it in the bookstore, I landed on a part where the best friend refuses to let him because she (main character) now cries all the time. I remember being in an abusive relationship and have no desire in reading something that glorifies unhealthy relationships. It holds far too many triggers for me.
I'm not a Christian, I study Buddhism. My sister says the book is wonderful and she can't get enough of it. I don't want to read it.
I've found value in taking care of what goes in my ear holes, my eye holes and my mouth hole, etc. There are so many other valuable and beautiful things to read. How to eat well, recently I'm interested in raw foods. I love poetry and all things inspirational. I'm going through a divorce and the biggest thing missing from my brief marriage were a connection, intimacy and real passion. I don't think any of these things can be found in 50 shades of grey. I think perhaps it's just a distraction. Thanks for allowing a space to voice my thoughts. It wasn't easy finding it.
Namaste
I'm reading it right now because I wanted to know what all the fuss is about and it's actually not bad, the writing isn't amazing, but it has a certain quirky sense of humour between the characters and that alone makes me smile. Personally I've found that there's a lot more going on metaphorically in this book then I first assumed. My perception of the book has been challenged. I also read books on topics from well being to social politics to fashion and art, biographies and psychology – a massive range – so when a new book comes out, i like to keep my mindset broad and read and judge for myself.
Oh we “holier-than-thou” people. The most obvious fallacy of this entire string is your missing the definition of “lust” as used by Jesus in Matthew 5. Jesus redefined the point of adultery from the act to the decision to take. He let the OT understanding stand. Look at King David, “a man after God's Own heart.” he had 7 wives when he “took” Bathsheba. Wives 2-7 were never considered to be adultery, by Jesus. Only the decision to take Bathsheba was. Therefore, looking at a woman (or man, Ladies) and thinking to yourself, “Mmmmmm,” only becomes lust at the point of your DECISION TO DO IT. Read all lust/adultery with that definition and it will make so much more sense.
http://www.BiblicalSex.info
author@BiblicalSex.info
Well as for me I'm reading the 1st book and have to say myself that it is a good read. Did I dissect the book for poor grammar, etc…didn't really care to however I know this…. It contributed greatly to my sex life with my husband in which we are both Christians. Am I careful about what goes in sure. Did I ask for discernment on whether I should read it prior to…sure! Are there some things that I have reservations about..sure! Bottom line is read what you can handle. you know your background everyone else doesn't. It tells us in the word that if we feel something is wrong or our actions will cause someone else to fall (Rom. 14:13)(Luke 17:1…)then it's sin. Ask yourself how you feel and if you're convicted then stay away. I don't recommend this book for the unmarried because it can/will encourage a high level of intimacy which is a stumble. Do you have to be careful when indulging in a book such as this…YES because you must be aware of where you are spiritually. Is it consuming you to the point where you move from your intimate time with God because you are overindulging in this book? If you can safely say that you are not making a good thing a God thing then you should be okay…in everything consult GOD! then make your decision. What good for one may not always be good for all. Know yourself and your relationship with God and move on because if you're not careful you can place yourself in a judging state against your brothers and sisters that do decide to indulge and are sure of who they are…
Have an awesome day sisters and brothers in Christ!
I actually LOVE Redeeming Love. Sometimes books are great just for the purpose and the story they are trying to tell. Rivers made Hosea come out of the Bible for me and put it into context of what it could have been like for a prostitute who has known little else except for abuse, neglect, and humiliation to be “rescued” by someone who loves unconditionally. This is SO how we are with God. I like to judge books on their own merits usually and not compare them to others. 50SoG is not winning any literary awards for its stellar writing. It's awakening something in women all over the world. I think it's worthy to be discussed, and it's enjoyed by women for what it is: fantasy fiction.
Initially I found nothing wrong with it, I was
excited at the fact that it was a huge turn on and FINALLY, my husband and I
could get back to where we once were intimately. I found that initially my desires were towards my husband or at
least he was who I looked to for the “release”. However I noticed that there was this
openness about me where there were images from the book instilled in my mind
and I almost felt as if I was getting to the point of feeling my husband was
inadequate because he in fact wasn't Christian Grey. I started to question what was taking place internally and God
revealed to me a very familiar place in which I had similar feelings and then I
remembered the feelings from a past struggle.
God reminded me, that the same feelings my husband struggled with during
his addiction to porn were yet present.
Unfortunately, this book is a trap for some…I can't speak for
all. I also received the revelation
regarding the titles…50 shades of grey (the initial draw to darkness 1/2 way
there), 50 shades darker (completely hooked–completely downloaded) and 50
shades freed (the release of that which is internal) So in other words what is
within (unclean images, lust for that outside of your marriage, etc…) are now
available to be put into action. The
images are there however there's nothing God cannot remove. I didn't finish the trilogy. I stopped at
the 24th chapter of the first and I am thankful for God's revelation. I can not speak for anyone else however I
know that I couldn't continue any further for knowledge of myself, my past and
where God is taking me. I also know
that the adversary HATES marriage because a united front is a threat to his agenda. As Christian wives we must be watchful and
prayerful. We must love our husbands
unconditionally and I'm all for experiencing all the erotica I need and want
with the man that God has ordained me to be with for the rest of my life.
If you haven't checked out Francine Rivers yet, please do so! She writes in different styles and her content varies. She is a Christian writer. She writes Christian romance as well as other fiction that is Biblically based/inspired.
Jesus told me not to read it…..really?
I chose not to read this book simply because it reads like a 13-year-old boy wrote it after coming across a porno for the first time. I had no idea what it was about and EVERYONE was reading it and talking about it, so I picked it up and flipped through it and researched some articles about it. Final verdict? TRASH.
I'm a Christian and I had read a three! In think they are brill. It's not an abusive relationship at all. I'm fact by the end if the trilogy they are married with two children. It's a wonderful story of love and how it can heal the past. Just got a few kinky bits in, most of which I skipped!
Laura
I'm not reading because the writing is awful. Having grown up reading Bradbury and Asimov, McCaffrey and Sewell, and now graduating to authors like Harlan Ellison, Diana Gabaldon and Jodi Picoult, I see no need to read poor quality writing.
i got your joke JoAnn…hehehe….twas to go with you talking about being a book snob, yes?….hehehe and now im reading this comment of yours above!! i am acutally LOL (ack, i hate using that phrase). You're too funny. :D:D:D x
Lineage of Grace did the same thing for me Jamie….was amazing! ….Showed me what it means to be a godly woman, and all the forgotten diamonds of femininity. THAT'S a darn site better read than 50 SOG.
Why would you spoil the end for people? There is many ways in which you could express your opinion without spoiling it. I think there is going to be more people who will choose not to read the trilogy because of this comment rather than the original post. How ever, yes it was poorly written but I am a glutton for reality tv and all things “trashy” so this book was my guilty pleasure.
I like what you wrote