Great lay-level introduction to a two kingdoms position. Engages well with other positions and is very practical. ( )

This is an important book in that there are few popular treatments of two kingdom theology. A transformationalist/Kuyperian/neo-Calvinist understanding of Christians' interaction with culture seems to be the predominant view of today's younger evangelicals, particularly the "young, restless, and Reformed" crowd, and VanDrunen sets out to provide a clear alternative to transformationalism.

While VanDrunen points out some valid flaws in the Kuyperian paradigm, his argument has some serious weaknesses, which is a shame since I sympathize with two kingdom theology. (If you're interested in reading a thorough beatdown of VanDrunen's argument, check out Keith Mathison's review.)

Overall, Living in God's Two Kingdoms is a helpful intro into the discussion, but it is far from a definitive answer to neo-Calvinism. ( )

I love this book. It is the clearest, most consistent explanation of the biblical foundations for Christian living I've come across. For all the confusion that exists in the church over how Christians ought to relate to the world, this book helps give us biblical categories to navigate the often confusing prospect of being in but not of the world.

Christ has completed all the work of redemption this world requires. As his people, we are simply meant to live in light of what he has already done. There is no redemption of culture that we can do. People make culture; it is people who need redemption. Christ died for us, not for a Christian America (or Europe or any other earthly culture). VanDrunen's book helps us understand this essential truth for the Christian life. I hope it serves to refocus the church's attention upon what Christ has called it to and avoid the many distractions of "Christianity + ________" that keep us from faithfulness. ( )