The Myth of Good Christian Parenting - by Marissa Franks Burt & Kelsey Kramer McGinnis (Paperback)

About the Book

Combining cultural analysis, storytelling, and theological meditation, this book traces the historical and cultural development of evangelical parenting media, empowers readers to consider how these messages relate to the teachings of Jesus, and helps them heal and avoid repeating the same mistakes with their children.

Book Synopsis

Christian parents want to raise their kids in a godly way. But what if we've been sold a promise that "biblical parenting" can never deliver?

In The Myth of Good Christian Parenting, Marissa Franks Burt and Kelsey Kramer McGinnis explore how the Christian parenting book industry has shaped, and often strained, families over the past five decades, continuing into the present day. Drawing on history, sociology, theology, and survey responses from adult children and parents, they trace the rise of Christian parenting empires that idealize obedient kids and perfect households--but often leave parents and children feeling like they'll never measure up.

The authors also analyze popular Christian parenting teachings. They argue that these teachings on authority, compliance, corporal punishment, and control have had lasting effects on family dynamics and spiritual identity--including loss of faith, estrangement, religious trauma, and deep regret for many older parents. This book equips Christian parents, adults thinking critically about their upbringing, and church leaders to pursue a new path of freedom and mutual respect within their families.

About the Author

Marissa Franks Burt (MTh, Columbia International University) is a novelist, editor, teacher, and cohost of the At Home with the Lectionary podcast. She lives in a small town in Washington's Snoqualmie Valley with her husband, six children, and heaps of books.

Kelsey Kramer McGinnis (PhD, University of Iowa) is a musicologist, educator, and correspondent for Christianity Today, writing on worship practices and Christian subculture. She is an adjunct professor at Grand View University in Des Moines and previously worked at the University of Iowa Center for Human Rights.