“If Jesus’ goal was to explain the mysteries of the universe or explain away the problem of suffering, he didn’t do a very good job of it.”
Part memoir, part historical-theological analysis, Idiot, Sojourning Soul tells the story of one former skeptic’s exploration of Christian spirituality.
Hearsay, heresy, & history.
In a world where Trump, Obama, Putin, and Lady Gaga all claim Christianity as their spiritual home, how do we understand Jesus, himself?
With wit and scholarly precision, Idiot examines Christianity’s historical development, from its ancient beginnings to its current and confounding condition. The result is a must read for anyone who’s ever wondered what Jesus was really up to, and why contemporary Christianity bears so little semblance to its namesake.
Written from a first-person perspective, Idiot plumbs the depths of American Christianity in its popular forms, examining the socio-historical forces that contributed to its development, including the Reformation, the scientific revolution, the rise of fundamentalism and democratization of religion. As evidenced by ongoing public debates, there is little consensus over the enduring question of Jesus: What, exactly, did he come to accomplish? What does he require of his followers (if anything)? And which Jesus are we speaking of when we invoke his name? With wit, wisdom and historical insight, Idiot tackles these theological questions head-on, ultimately landing on an orthodox, thoroughly engaging and reinvigorating explication of Jesus’ message.
What People Are Saying
“Tolkien figured that “not all who wander [or wonder, either] are lost.” Justin Rosolino’s Idiot, Sojourning Soul confirms this statement in spades. In his genre-bending book—a pilgrim’s progress in twenty-first century guise as it were—Rosolino’s poignant, pithy prose cuts creatively and incisively to the heart of matter. This intellectually robust, existentially vulnerable work asks, “What in the world was Jesus up to, and does it (still) matter in our world?” Rosolino’s riveting response to these perennial questions is invaluable, not least to those who are wont to think that such quaint questions no longer pertain. I heartily commend this new book from a fresh voice to you and am already looking forward to his next project.”
— Todd D. Still, Dean and Professor, Baylor University, Truett Seminary
“This is the book all of us needed in high school, or college, or yesterday. Justin Rosolino is everyone’s favorite teacher, shooting straight, but also listening. Is it possible for a book to listen? Because this book felt like it was listening to me as I read it. Of course, that could be the Robitussin talking. Can Robitussin talk? I have too many questions, which is why I should keep reading this glorious book, which says everything embarrassing, true, weird, ugly, and necessary about theology and religious community. I know a few good preachers and witch doctors who should read it.”
— Harrison Scott Key, author (The World’s Largest Man and Congratulations, Who Are You Again?)
“I love how Rosolino draws upon the great tradition and ancient sources for the contemporary church. This book is smart and also hilarious, engaging yet challenging. I found myself laughing out loud at moments and pausing in wonder and worship at others. Highly recommended!”
—Tish Harrison Warren, author of Liturgy of the Ordinary and priest in the Anglican Church of North America
“I first knew Justin Rosolino as a guitar player, and then one day he quit music to be a history teacher. Then on another day he asked me for mt address and mailed me a copy of Brothers Karamazov, which makes us friends. I haven’t read Brothers K yet, but his book—an irreverent memoir, history lesson, and testament to the great love of Jesus—more than makes up for it…I wish this book had been around when I was in high school. Thank you, Justin.”
—Andrew Peterson, recording artist
“Thank God for Justin Rosolino, who confronts the oft-crippling theological myopia of American Christianity with this brilliant bit of reverent irreverence. Equal parts soulful memoir, astute biblical exegesis, and how-did-we-get-here history lesson (but way more fun than any of that sounds).”
—Scott Teems, writer-director-producer, Narcos, Rectify, and That Evening Sun
About Justin
Born in Long Island, N.Y., Justin was as a classic over-achiever, graduating second in his high school class while being voted “Best All Around Student,” “Class Clown” and “Most Likely to Wind up on a Psychiatrist's Couch.” He later graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Virginia, only to forego a conventional white-collar career path in favor of a music career and its natural corollary, poverty. An accomplished guitarist, singer and songwriter, Justin spent a decade headlining venues along the east coast and throughout the southeast. He has composed television and radio commercial jingles for ABC primetime television and the J. Walter Thompson advertising agency. Justin played guitar and led worship at Buckhead Church in Atlanta, GA, where he also worked at a group home for teens transitioning out of juvenile detention centers. As a freelance guitarist, he has played for Dave Barnes, Matt Wertz and Jars of Clay and shared the stage and/or studio with Matt Nathanson, Take 6, India.Arie, Mat Kearney, Ed Cash, Christa Black, Kristian Stanfill and David Wilcox. Perhaps most importantly, he played Bonnaroo in 2007, where he got to sit next to Led Zeppelin at lunch.
Upon completing a Master of Divinity at Vanderbilt in 2010, Justin received the faculty award for excellence in theological studies. He has since lectured nationwide at conferences for the American Academy of Religion. Justin was accepted to PhD programs in theology at the University of Cambridge, Vanderbilt and Baylor University, all of which he graciously declined. Though he performed for President George W. Bush at the 2005 Inauguration, he has voted for write-in candidates in every election since becoming eligible, thereby annoying everyone. Justin lives with his wife and two boys in Waco, Texas, where he serves as dean of a classical school.
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Upcoming Events
Book Launch Waco
FEB 27, 2020
Fabled Bookstore
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Waco, Texas at 7PM
Book Launch Nashville
MAR 10, 2020
We Work East Nashville
Join us for an evening of good company, enriching conversation, and celebration.
Nashville , Tennessee at 6:30 PM