Reactivity: How the Gospel Transforms Our Actions & Reactions
Crossway
Digital media and technology are altering the way people act―and react―toward each other. Criticism, outrage, and controversy dominate social engagement and unfortunately many Christians have joined in the chaos. It’s a troubling contrast to Jesus’s words in John 13:35: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Award-winning author Paul David Tripp instructs believers to view digital media and technology through the lens of the gospel and points them toward a biblical framework for communication. Explaining how God wants the church to engage with culture and each other, Tripp encourages Christians to think wisely about their interactions and be a beacon of light in an age of toxicity.
- A Biblical Look at Social Engagement: Discusses wholesome talk, the effects of “cancel culture,” and 5 false identity temptations including attention, power, and acceptance
- Applies Scripture Practically: Gives a gospel-centered framework for navigating digital life without confusion or destructive reactivity
- Great for Pastors, Parents, and Youth Ministries: Helps readers understand who they are in Christ so they won’t be swayed by a chaotic digital culture
Review
“The gospel of Jesus Christ is meant not only to deliver our souls to heaven but also to transform our behavior on earth. And, deeper still, it is meant to transform our desires, our attitudes, and our instincts. It is even meant to transform our reactions and responses to those who oppose us, disagree with us, or sin against us. In this timely book, Paul Tripp calls us to react to the chaos around us in a distinctly Christian way that counters the toxicity that exists deep within our hearts and deep within our culture. If we would heed his call, the world would be blessed, the church would be strengthened, and the Savior would be glorified.”
―Tim Challies, author, Seasons of Sorrow: The Pain of Loss and the Comfort of God
“Reactivity offers a rich gospel perspective for navigating relationships with Christlikeness. The practical applications paint a hopeful picture of what could be if we let God’s word transform us. A must-read for anyone engaging with others online!”
―Ruth Chou Simons, Wall Street Journal bestselling author; artist; Founder, GraceLaced Co.
“In this helpful and timely volume, Paul provides us with a much-needed blueprint for the use of technology that not only avoids sin but also advances truth, beauty, goodness, and love in an otherwise hostile space. I can’t recommend Reactivity highly enough.”
―Scott Sauls, Senior Pastor, Christ Presbyterian Church; author, Jesus Outside the Lines and Beautiful People Don't Just Happen
“Every day we find ourselves walking through a minefield of online rage. But now our friend Paul Tripp helps us turn from that ‘culture of toxic reactivity’ toward a community of life-giving response to Jesus. What could be more attractive―or urgently needed?”
―Ray Ortlund, President, Renewal Ministries
Author
Paul David Tripp (DMin, Westminster Theological Seminary) is a pastor, award-winning author, and international conference speaker. He has written numerous books, including the bestselling daily devotional New Morning Mercies and Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teens. His nonprofit ministry exists to connect the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. Tripp lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Luella, and they have four grown children.