No Fear, No Trembling.
Saying No to God:
A Bold Challenge to Fundamentalism
Matthew Korpman moves beyond Kierkegaard’s famous “leap of faith” by asking a daring question: *Can one say no to God?* His answer—*Yes, sometimes it must be yes*—sets the stage for a thought-provoking critique of fundamentalism, biblical literalism, and the idolatry of scripture.
Not since Desmond Ford has a scholar from a Seventh-day Adventist background so directly challenged their own faith community. But Korpman’s arguments extend beyond Adventism, with significant implications for broader Christianity and even other forms of theism.
A New Lens for Reading Scripture
The book introduces a striking interpretive approach: *good first, God second*. While this method involves selective reading of scripture, Korpman applies it in a way that feels intentional rather than arbitrary. He outright rejects problematic biblical passages, firmly opposing:
- Commands to slaughter neighboring tribes
- Homophobia
- Misogyny
- Patriarchal structures
Readers are provided with practical tools for dissecting difficult texts. The book highlights numerous troubling passages—ones that atheists and non-Christians may find particularly interesting for debate—but Korpman offers a clear guiding principle: *If it’s not good, don’t follow it*.
The Power of Saying No
At its core, *Saying No to God* champions the right to reject harmful traditions and resist blind submission to ancient doctrines. The ability to say *no*—thoughtfully and with conviction—is perhaps the book’s single most powerful idea.
Whether this leads to more open-minded Christians—or even contributes to some leaving faith altogether—remains to be seen.
While written for a Christian audience and refraining from questioning God’s existence, atheists might see an inevitable next step: *Not just saying no to God’s commands, but saying “No God” altogether*.
Beyond Bell and Rollins
Influenced by thinkers like Rob Bell and Peter Rollins, Korpman pushes beyond them, offering *less fluff, more substance*.
Disclosure:
I am an ex-Seventh-day Adventist.
Thanks to the author for courageously providing this outspoken atheist with an advance copy for review.
**Peter Veitch, *The Postatheist Nurse* and admin of *SDA Fight Club* Facebook group**
Available from Quoir under the title *Saying No to God*, or via Amazon and other booksellers.
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This version ensures clarity, readability, and proper formatting for a blog. Let me know if you’d like any tweaks!
Disclosure, I am an ex seventh day Adventist.
Thanks to the author for bravely providing this loud atheist an advance copy to review.
Peter Veitch the Postatheist Nurse and admin of Sdafightclub facebook group
available from quoir at Saying no to god or amazon and other booksellers
