The God-Shaped Brain by Timothy R. Jennings, M.D. is an interesting concoction of biology, psychiatry, and theology. It is both a warning and an encouragement about way our beliefs, misguided or not, can literally re-shape our physiology. The thesis is that spiritual warfare is a battle for the mind, in both a literal and figurative sense. The world, Jennings argues, was designed by God to operate according to what he calls the “Law of Love.” The further we depart from the design, the sicker our brains become.
Jennings is a psychiatrist, and much of the book is made up of stories about his patients and their struggles. His treatment tactics include a healthy dose of biblical truth, and quite a bit of un-learning some bad theology.
I agree with Jennings that many people are haunted by a faulty view of God, given to them by another. Our theology, what we believe about God, can affect us so deeply. The God-Shaped Brain was a humbling read for me, as I often “speak for God” in my role as a pastor. What if I misrepresent Him? What kind of damage could be done?
Not since Love Wins by Rob Bell have I read a book that was so challenging to me theologically. In Love Wins, Rob Bell questions the existence of hell. In The God-Shaped Brain, Jennings takes on the doctrine of penal substitutionary atonement, and argues for an annihilationist view of hell. I’ll admit, while Bell prefers to argue with style over substantive, biblical exegesis, Jennings offers some compelling support for his views. Yes, he conveniently fails to mention some of the more troubling scriptures on the wrath and justice of God. Nevertheless, his ideas about the justice of God and the “consuming fire” of God’s love are glorious to read. Although I’m still not sure I agree with him on everything (actually, I’m pretty certain I don’t), this book still got me searching my heart AND the scriptures.
Given Jennings’ insistence that asking questions is good for the brain, I’m sure he would be pleased to know his book sent me looking for answers. I recommend this book for both for its unique science/faith viewpoint, and its emotional resonance. As a bonus, you get excellent narration of the audiobook version by Sean Runnette, and a hearty dose of theological disequilibrium to boot. Well worth the price of admission!
Please Note: This audiobook was gifted as a part of the Christianaudio Reviewers Program in exchange for my unbiased review of this work. This has in no way influenced my opinion or review of this work. More information can be found about this and other Christian audiobooks at christianaudio.com.