The Thrill of Orthodoxy

What's The Thrill of Orthodoxy about?

• Exploration of Doctrine: The book by Trevin K. Wax explores the significance of orthodox Christian beliefs and their impact on the faith journey of believers. It presents orthodoxy as a vibrant and essential aspect of Christian life.
• Adventure of Faith: Wax portrays the Christian faith as an exciting adventure, encouraging readers to rediscover the relevance and excitement of core doctrines. He argues that orthodoxy is a thrilling journey, not just a set of rules.
• Cultural Context: The book addresses the challenges faced by the church in a world filled with competing ideologies and moral relativism. Wax urges Christians to stand firm in their beliefs while engaging with contemporary culture.

Why should I read The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Rekindle Passion for Doctrine: The book is ideal for those feeling disillusioned with traditional teachings, aiming to reignite a sense of wonder about foundational Christian truths.
• Navigate Cultural Challenges: Readers will find guidance on maintaining their faith amidst societal pressures to conform or dilute beliefs, with a framework for understanding orthodoxy's relevance today.
• Encouragement for Believers: It serves as a motivational call for Christians to embrace their faith fully and share it, emphasizing the importance of being grounded in truth.

What are the key takeaways of The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Importance of Orthodoxy: Wax stresses that orthodoxy is crucial for a robust Christian faith, providing a foundation for understanding God and His purposes.
• Adventure Metaphor: The Christian life is likened to an adventure, suggesting that engaging with doctrine can lead to a more fulfilling faith journey.
• Cultural Engagement: The author emphasizes the need for Christians to engage with the world while holding firmly to their beliefs, advocating for a balance between orthodoxy and dialogue.

What are the best quotes from The Thrill of Orthodoxy and what do they mean?

• "Familiarity is the enemy of wonder.": This quote highlights how over-familiarity with Christian truths can lead to spiritual dullness, encouraging readers to approach faith with awe.
• "The thrill of orthodoxy is the invitation to do just that, to be a Knight of Faith not wish-fulfillment.": It emphasizes that embracing orthodox beliefs is about engaging in a dynamic faith journey, not just conforming to rules.
• "Assuming orthodoxy is the path to abandoning orthodoxy.": Wax warns that taking core beliefs for granted can lead to drifting away from them, stressing active engagement with faith.

How does Trevin K. Wax define orthodoxy in The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Foundational Truths: Orthodoxy is defined as foundational truths consistent with Scripture, vital for understanding the Christian faith.
• Historic Consensus: Wax describes it as the historic Christian consensus on essential elements of faith, believed "everywhere, always, and by all."
• Contrast with Heresy: Orthodoxy is contrasted with heresy, which is the denial or twisting of essential doctrines, leading to a departure from biblical truth.

What are the dangers of drifting from orthodoxy according to The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Spiritual Malaise: Drifting from orthodoxy can lead to spiritual dullness and a lack of commitment to the faith, making believers susceptible to errors.
• Cultural Confusion: Cultural chaos and moral relativism can pull Christians away from foundational beliefs, necessitating vigilance and anchoring in faith.
• Loss of Direction: Drifting results in a loss of direction in the Christian life, with core doctrines likened to a map providing guidance.

How does Wax suggest Christians can rediscover the adventure of orthodoxy?

• Engagement with Doctrine: Wax encourages active engagement with doctrines, believing that understanding these truths leads to a vibrant faith experience.
• Community and Tradition: Emphasizes the importance of community and historical tradition in rediscovering orthodoxy, connecting with fellow believers.
• Personal Reflection: Advocates for personal reflection and exploring Christian truth with curiosity, leading to a renewed sense of adventure.

How does The Thrill of Orthodoxy address cultural challenges?

• Cultural Engagement: Wax discusses navigating contemporary issues without compromising beliefs, encouraging understanding of the cultural landscape.
• Critique of Modern Ideologies: Critiques ideologies like relativism and individualism that conflict with Christian teachings, warning of spiritual stagnation.
• Call for Boldness: Urges Christians to be bold in their witness, advancing with confidence in the truth of the gospel despite opposition.

What specific methods does Trevin Wax suggest for living out orthodoxy?

• Embrace Community: Highlights the importance of being part of a community that upholds orthodox beliefs, providing strength and accountability.
• Engage with Scripture: Encourages immersion in the Bible as the foundation of faith, essential for discerning truth in a complex world.
• Practice Discernment: Advocates for discernment in evaluating contemporary teachings, emphasizing alignment with orthodox Christianity.

How does Trevin Wax connect orthodoxy to mission in The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Mission as Central: Argues that orthodoxy is intrinsically linked to the church's mission, empowering believers to share their faith effectively.
• Global Perspective: Highlights the global nature of the church, encouraging readers to see themselves as part of a larger mission.
• Living Out the Gospel: Emphasizes that living out orthodox beliefs in everyday life is a form of mission, calling Christians to embody Christ's teachings.

What is the significance of creeds and confessions in The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Historical Foundation: Creeds are highlighted as historical statements summarizing essential Christian beliefs, providing a foundation for understanding orthodoxy.
• Guardrails for Doctrine: Serve as guardrails preventing deviations from core truths, guiding the church today.
• Connection to Scripture: Creeds are rooted in Scripture, reflecting the biblical narrative and deepening understanding of faith.

What role does suffering play in The Thrill of Orthodoxy?

• Suffering as a Witness: Suffering serves as a powerful witness to the gospel's truth, with Christians called to endure hardship for Christ.
• Cruciform Living: Emphasizes a cruciform life involving sacrifice and self-giving love, helping believers understand their trials' purpose.
• Hope in Suffering: Reassures that suffering is part of the Christian journey leading to hope and redemption, viewing struggles through God's plan.