The Faith of George W. Bush
by Stephen Mansfield
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Book Reviews of The Faith of George W. Bush
Book Review: Speciously Apologetic
Summary: 2 Stars
I read this book almost a year ago. At the time, I thought it was a moderately good read. However, given what I know about Bush II now (especially his dangerous support of the FTAA), I can't agree with the author that Bush II bears the fruits of being a Christian.
This book does read quickly. It does showcase how GW Bush grew up in the church with his siblings. It does point out his shortcomings (most notably, SKULL AND BONES!!!), and his supposed achievements before and after taking the office of President of the United States. It even showcases his conversations with Billy Graham (which, if you know Mr. Graham's suspicious history, is quite scary). The part I have a problem with is once the book is done, Mansfield tries to convince the reader that George W. Bush is a bonafide Christian -- despite the fact that he unwittingly "painted a portrait" of Bush being a typical unprincipled politician (i.e. "Islam is a religion of peace" -- no genuine Christian would ever say that! Bush tried to play to both sides, but it is impossible to placate one people group without offending the other. But then again, most undiscerning evangelicals looked the other way as time passed by.) It soon becomes painfully noticeable that Mr. Bush has not always been -- nor ever will be -- a straight shooter.
To the well-informed (regardless if you are politically apologetic or principled), a better title for this book should be The Duplicitous Faith of George W. Bush. Enough said!
Book Review: Very well written
Summary: 5 Stars
The general tone and subject of the book was of no surprise, but I found myself impressed with the quality of the writing and the way in which the subject was discussed. This is not just a listing of significant events, nor is it limited to discussing a single facet of George Bush. Rather, it is a picture of the whole man.The other thing that impressed me was the break from the usual sort of "analysis" book in which the author feels compelled to tidy up his whole work by defining the subject in some single, simple sentence. It's as if your subject is some sort of puzzle with a one phrase solution. Mansfield explicitly avoids that, instead choosing to present a number of influences that let you get a taste of the whole environment. And when time comes to "reach a dramatic conclusion", he deliberately sets up several scenarios before knocking each one down. He then cites several incidents which do not seem to fit in at all with any sort of view. At the end of it, you're given a greater understanding of the subject that depends less on some key psycho-analysis than it does on a general impression gained by "experience", as seen through the eyes of the author.
It's an intriguing approach, and it makes me wonder if he gave Winston Churchill, George Whitefield, and Booker T Washington similar treatments.
Book Review: Not hard-hitting, but definitely uplifting
Summary: 5 Stars
I am tempted to say that this book is really two books rolled into one, but that's not really true. To look at the faith of President George W. Bush, author and historian Stephen Mansfield had to look at his life. He follows George W. from his initial christening in the Episcopal Church, through his dissolute and aimless youth, and on to his spiritual awakening in his middle years, finally ending up in his application of his faith to his role as President of the United States.Now, in many ways it is fair to say that this is a sympathetic book to Bush. The author does not delve deeply into Bush's drinking problems or his relationship with his family. But, that said, he does weave a fascinating story that shows the spiritual evolution of George Bush.
Like many Christians, George Bush was born into a Christian home. And, his relationship with God was not one of a sudden and profound conversion, but was one of losing and refinding it, of stepping away from simple family-religion, and into a personal walk with God. So, if you are looking for a hard-hitting, no-holds-barred investigation of George W. Bush's faith, then this book is not for you. But, if you are interested in a straightforward and uplifting look at a man's faith, then you will enjoy this book - as I did. I highly recommend this book.
Book Review: A Book Sure to Ignite Controversy!!
Summary: 4 Stars
I just finished reading this book and found it fascinating. No matter which end of the political spectrum a reader might be on, this book will be very informative. The author has attempted to cast a light on WHAT George Bush believes and HOW that influences his thought process and actions. The author's task was difficult, but my impression is that he has succeeded in providing a neutral insight to the President. I say neutral as opposed to balanced, because he is neither excessively critical or complimentary. George Bush's failures and successes are detailed for the reader - his critics will find sufficient ammunition for their purposes and his supporters will find the book enlightening of his motives.What is most fascinating in the book is to see how George Bush's beliefs have affected his leadership development and style. The information about the Bush family history provides insight into the Bush family structure and belief systems and what motivates them in general, and George W. Bush in particular.
I came away from reading the book with some lessons in leadership, spirituality and courage. I think that one can learn from every person who has achieved something, no matter whether I agree with their politics or religion. I highly recommend the book to all with an open mind.
Book Review: LOVE OF MONEY IS NOT PART OF THE GOSPEL
Summary: 1 Stars
bUT SO MANY WHO WRONGLY THINK THEY ARE CHRISTIANS DO EMBRACE SELFISHNESS ABOVE ALL ELSE. Bush's presidency has nothing to do with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus' gospel tells us to care for the poor, disdain wealth, and prefer the poor and miserable to the wealthy and selfish. All these are the opposite of Bush's programs, which are aimed at increasing the wealth of the wealthiest two percent, who got 53 per cent of the tax cuts, big pharma (no bulk purchasing for seniors on Medicaid), and big oil (billions in tax breaks for the most profitable industry in the United States). And of course Bush would like to repeal the estate tax which impacts only the wealthiest two percent. Bush's tools on BOT radio somehow also manage to tie this in with the gospel of Jesus---but love of wealth is something Jesus emphatically preached against.
Many who imagine they are Christians find Jesus' views unpleasant, so they disregard them, preferring the gospel of selfishness, which advocates puttng one's economic well being above helping others. Sadly, they apparently have never read the gospels or willfully deny their content.