This type of Socratic-style dialogue has been used most effectively by Catholic philosopher Peter Kreeft and more recently, though less soundly, by emergent church leader Brian McLaren. The difficulty in using this narrative structure is that it becomes difficult to present ideas and questions in a way that is conducive to natural character development. Lucke and Young are less than successful in pulling off this formidable task. Although they make a valiant attempt to create believable characters, the reader is always aware that they are only mouthpieces for the authors’ views.

But what is lacking in narrative is more than made up for in theological depth. Common Grounds doesn’t shy away from the difficult question, tackling such issues as the problem of evil, the plausibility of special revelation, and the sovereignty of God. Refreshingly, the apologetic approach is aimed not only to the skeptic in the group but also to what could be termed the under-churched believers.

This refusal to draw clear lines of demarcation between evangelism and discipleship makes the book particularly valuable. Too often church leaders have a tendency to forget that young believers questions and doubts that need to be addressed. Common Grounds stands in that gap, providing theologically sound answers to these issues in a direct, conversational style.

In fact, new believers are likely to be the most receptive audience for this book. Because it doesn’t provide a clear presentation of the Gospel message, the book’s value for skeptics and non-Christians is severely limited. Fortunately, this is the beginning of a planned series and the authors have promised that the next book will explore what the Christian story has to say about the nature and worth of humans, sin and the Fall, and how Jesus, as Fully God and Fully Man, is our mediator to redeem and renew us into the New Humanity. The intriguing series will prove to be a valuable apologetic tool, useful on both sides of the church doors.