A Teachable Spirit
A.J. Swoboda is one of my favorite modern theologians. Every time I pick up one of his books, I’m both challenged and inspired. He hasn’t missed yet, and A Teachable Spirit was no exception. The sheer volume of passages I marked as favorites or ideas to return to, is proof of my appreciation for its content. This book is about learning from others—those we don’t know, those who’ve died long ago, those with whom we vehemently disagree. It’s about coming with humility to another—parents and children, experts and strangers, and yes, even enemies. I nodded my head over and over. I also scratched my head from time to time. And the gut-punch of conviction didn’t fail to hit a bit, too. I can’t say enough good things about this book. It’s articulate and funny, humble and self-effacing. And it’s clear to me that the author has done the work of being teachable and listening with true interest and curiosity to groups of people that might feel “other.” This book will make the modern Christian uncomfortable in the best and most necessary way—a resource I’ll definitely return to!
