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The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation
MILES MCPHERSON, FOUNDER OF THE ROCK CHURCH IN SAN DIEGO, SPEAKS OUT ABOUT THE PERVASIVE RACIAL DIVISIONS IN TODAY'S CULTURE AND ARGUES THAT WE MUST LEARN TO SEE PEOPLE NOT BY THE COLOR OF THEIR SKIN, BUT AS GOD SEES THEM - HUMANS CREATED IN THE IMAGE OF GOD.
Miles McPherson has had enough of shying away from a major problem in America today: racial tension. It's a topic that's widely recognized, yet rarely acknowledged. Sunday morning is the most segregated time in America today, and our preference for clinging to those who are like us leads to big problems in our country as a whole. Even Christians - who, if they claim to follow God, should be the people most outspoken against racism - fall short, and many of us feel obliged to choose sides. Us vs. them. Cops vs. protestors, Blacks vs. whites.
'THE THIRD OPTION' is a plea on behalf of brokenhearted God who, scripture teaches, is frustrated with those of us who claim to believe in him but are really "faking the faith". McPherson argues that we must rise above the issues that divide us and be part os something bigger. 'THE THIRD OPTION' challenges both believers and seekers to fully embrace God's goodness and power.
As senior pastor of Rock Church in San Diego, he doesn't shy away from core issues that have caused a great divide both within the church and across the country. he believes that instead of choosing one of two sides, there is a third option - one that's proven to bring people together, mend relationships, and promote genuine peace in communities. Miles exposes common misconceptions that keep people at a distance and encourages us to engage with those who look different from us and expand our world.
Full of practical takeaways and exercises to help us understand the points of view of others, this book inspires, encourages, and equips us to make positive changes in our country - starting with ourselves.
RUNNING TIME ⇒ 7hrs. and 59mins.
©2018 Miles McPherson (P)2018 Simon & Schuster Audio
Miles McPherson has had enough of shying away from a major problem in America today: racial tension. It's a topic that's widely recognized, yet rarely acknowledged. Sunday morning is the most segregated time in America today, and our preference for clinging to those who are like us leads to big problems in our country as a whole. Even Christians - who, if they claim to follow God, should be the people most outspoken against racism - fall short, and many of us feel obliged to choose sides. Us vs. them. Cops vs. protestors, Blacks vs. whites.
'THE THIRD OPTION' is a plea on behalf of brokenhearted God who, scripture teaches, is frustrated with those of us who claim to believe in him but are really "faking the faith". McPherson argues that we must rise above the issues that divide us and be part os something bigger. 'THE THIRD OPTION' challenges both believers and seekers to fully embrace God's goodness and power.
As senior pastor of Rock Church in San Diego, he doesn't shy away from core issues that have caused a great divide both within the church and across the country. he believes that instead of choosing one of two sides, there is a third option - one that's proven to bring people together, mend relationships, and promote genuine peace in communities. Miles exposes common misconceptions that keep people at a distance and encourages us to engage with those who look different from us and expand our world.
Full of practical takeaways and exercises to help us understand the points of view of others, this book inspires, encourages, and equips us to make positive changes in our country - starting with ourselves.
RUNNING TIME ⇒ 7hrs. and 59mins.
©2018 Miles McPherson (P)2018 Simon & Schuster Audio
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2018
395 people are currently reading
1641 people want to read
About the author
Miles McPherson
20 books28 followersMiles McPherson, author and is a man radically transformed by God. Miles is the Senior Pastor of the Rock Church in San Diego, one of the fastest growing churches in the United States.
A former defensive back with the San Diego Chargers, Miles also is President and founder of Miles Ahead, an outreach ministry focused on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with teens and adults all over the world.
Two years into his pro football career, Miles was battling a drug problem and living an immoral lifestyle. That’s when he gave his life to Jesus Christ, and never looked back. Miles began to work as a Bible teacher, youth pastor and speaker with a track record of appealing to diverse audiences, large and small.
Known for his frank and funny delivery, Miles loves to call people to think about how God has prepared them to do something significant with their lives. He’s a prolific speaker, one who can talk to anyone — from prison inmates to senior citizens. He challenges everyone to go out and do something for God!
A former defensive back with the San Diego Chargers, Miles also is President and founder of Miles Ahead, an outreach ministry focused on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with teens and adults all over the world.
Two years into his pro football career, Miles was battling a drug problem and living an immoral lifestyle. That’s when he gave his life to Jesus Christ, and never looked back. Miles began to work as a Bible teacher, youth pastor and speaker with a track record of appealing to diverse audiences, large and small.
Known for his frank and funny delivery, Miles loves to call people to think about how God has prepared them to do something significant with their lives. He’s a prolific speaker, one who can talk to anyone — from prison inmates to senior citizens. He challenges everyone to go out and do something for God!
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July 8, 2020
This book was exceptional! I have read half a dozen books on race and a good number of them left me with more questions than when I started. This book was informative on a broad spectrum of racial topics ranging from buzzwords to topics I have never heard of before. McPherson approaches everything with grace and understanding. This book provided straightforward self-evaluations, instructions, exercises, prayers, and scriptures to help you diagnose your own condition and move towards a greater love for your neighbors. The main idea behind the book is to reject the us-vs-them narrative and give everyone love, dignity, and honor regardless of their color, culture, or political opinion. I hope to reread this book a few times.
September 13, 2019
It took me a while to finish this but was totally worth the read. This book is a must read for everyone of every color/ethnicity of the human race. This book...along with ‘The tears we cannot see’ by Michael Eric Dyson are must reads for every reader out there. Both books discuss racism in America but this particular book discusses a “third option” and how to go about choosing it. Miles McPherson is very detailed on how and why choosing a different option to hate is very important for the healing of all communities. This is probably a book I would purchase for future reference and also something I will have my daughter read when she is a little older as we discuss race in America and in the world.
February 5, 2021
Excellent, humbling, and in my opinion, essential to read. Very proud and humbled to be a part of his church.
January 20, 2022
Probably the best book on Christian race relations that I have read. He offers so much grace and understanding to all sides of the debate while giving action points toward change and turning everything back to a closer relationship with God and one another.
September 2, 2020
This book was ok, but nothing mind-blowing. Miles McPherson addresses the racial divide in America and his book is all about giving honor to those who don't look like you. I thought the concept was great, and Biblical as we are all made in the image of God.
I did feel the book fell short in some areas. A lot of the language seems to be very similar to CRT (Critical race theory) language, although he takes time to define terms differently. I am not a fan of using words and definitions that come from culture, but are defined differently, as it just leads to confusion. Why can't we just use Scripture and its definitions to talk about the sin issues we see in culture?
Another thing: at the end of the book he presents the gospel I thought in a clear way. He uses the ABC's (ask, believe, confess), but then his invitation was to pray a prayer and then says "welcome to the family". This is something I see often, and it could lead someone to believe that saying a prayer is what saves you. Its belief and faith in Christ's finished work that saves, not something we do.
One thing I did appreciate about the book was his concept and really rebuttal of the phrase "white priveledge". He talked about how everything we have is given to us by God, including our skin color. Saying someone has "white priveledge" makes it sound as if they have this priveledge based on who they are. He acknowledges that any priveledge we have in life is a gift of God, and we should not covet or shame another individual because we perceive them to have some kind of priveledge. He calls it the priveledge of God,, recognizing every good gift comes from Him, not our own merit.
Overall, I gleaned some good things from thos book. Just not my favorite...
I did feel the book fell short in some areas. A lot of the language seems to be very similar to CRT (Critical race theory) language, although he takes time to define terms differently. I am not a fan of using words and definitions that come from culture, but are defined differently, as it just leads to confusion. Why can't we just use Scripture and its definitions to talk about the sin issues we see in culture?
Another thing: at the end of the book he presents the gospel I thought in a clear way. He uses the ABC's (ask, believe, confess), but then his invitation was to pray a prayer and then says "welcome to the family". This is something I see often, and it could lead someone to believe that saying a prayer is what saves you. Its belief and faith in Christ's finished work that saves, not something we do.
One thing I did appreciate about the book was his concept and really rebuttal of the phrase "white priveledge". He talked about how everything we have is given to us by God, including our skin color. Saying someone has "white priveledge" makes it sound as if they have this priveledge based on who they are. He acknowledges that any priveledge we have in life is a gift of God, and we should not covet or shame another individual because we perceive them to have some kind of priveledge. He calls it the priveledge of God,, recognizing every good gift comes from Him, not our own merit.
Overall, I gleaned some good things from thos book. Just not my favorite...
August 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. McPherson nails his treatise to the gospel. He tells the truth ... people are plagued, the country is plagued by the sin of racism. It's real, inside and outside the Church. Bias informs us, "in groups" and "out groups" are used to categorize and often dehumanize or marginalize. All of these problems are laid bare through his own personal story and yet, he draws the reader to "the third option" which really is, the gospel lived out.
His wording for that third option is "honoring one another." McPherson makes a compelling argument that rather than look merely at the pigmentation of one another's skin, we aim to look at them as men and women created in the image of God, imbued with honor and dignity. Such a view begins the process of slaying the sins of racism, stereotyping, and discrimination and ultimately makes us more like Christ who gave himself for others, people like me who are wholly NOT like Him. For followers of Jesus, this gospel is a far better option than the "best ideas" of intersectionality and critical race theory
The book is not a hard read, it's peppered with many stories and anecdotes and autobiographical material and moves quickly. Not so quickly however that one skips over the point: Americans need a third option to the divisive politics on race today.
His wording for that third option is "honoring one another." McPherson makes a compelling argument that rather than look merely at the pigmentation of one another's skin, we aim to look at them as men and women created in the image of God, imbued with honor and dignity. Such a view begins the process of slaying the sins of racism, stereotyping, and discrimination and ultimately makes us more like Christ who gave himself for others, people like me who are wholly NOT like Him. For followers of Jesus, this gospel is a far better option than the "best ideas" of intersectionality and critical race theory
The book is not a hard read, it's peppered with many stories and anecdotes and autobiographical material and moves quickly. Not so quickly however that one skips over the point: Americans need a third option to the divisive politics on race today.
November 5, 2020
All year I’ve been looking for books that propose a solution to our racism problem here in the US. This is the one. Miles McPherson has written a masterpiece here. I absolutely loved this book, and it’s the perfect blend of sociological and Biblical perspective.
If you only read one book for the rest of the year, make it this one. It’s that important.
If you only read one book for the rest of the year, make it this one. It’s that important.
March 25, 2019
I had the pleasure of hearing Miles McPherson speak at my church recently, and the convicting power of his message inspired me to read this book. It continued to inspire and convict me throughout, but with the gentlest, most loving touch. He does not speak down to anyone as one who has achieved perfection in this area, or as judge, which made it feel safe to consider my own position on these issues without the blinding light of defensiveness distorting what I saw. I considered some things in a new light, with a new perspective, found that I was doing alot of things right and that yes, there were areas where I could come up higher. This was especially true when I broadened my consideration of "in-group" and "out-group" and "other" beyond race, into other ways of classifying people. On balance, I felt encouraged and inspired and reminded that we are all created by the same God, who does not play favorites, who loves us all equally and whose perspective is the one that really matters.
August 9, 2020
Miles McPherson is uniquely qualified to provide a solid evangelical perspective on racial reconciliation. He background and ministry experience enable him to communicate to people of diverse cultures. He takes an honest look at ploice brutality and systemic racism, but avoids any response of anger or white shaming. Throughout the book, he calls for loving and honest communication, and encourages all to recognize that only Jesus Christ can truly bring healing and unity. This book is a must read for all.
November 10, 2021
This one took me more than a year to finish. It’s not an easy topic but it’s very important. This author approaches it thoroughly, addressing many of the particular nuances in our current cultural environment. The stories are helpful for anyone trying to understand why someone might feel or believe the things they do. I highly recommend this as a starting point for more conversations, more honor and love toward one another in a world that wants us to be divided. It all comes back to Jesus and his kingdom.
June 26, 2020
What a great message! The Third Option is a book for today for people of all races, cultures, and opinions in the Christian faith. This book challenges readers to seek to understand others, have the hard conversations, and examine our ideals and beliefs in order to honor each person. This is a timely read for all Americans who want to see unity in our country.
September 27, 2022
McPherson is the pastor of a mega-church in Los Angeles with a congregation of whites, blacks, Latinos and Asians and writes about how racism affects those discriminated against and those who discriminate. He has some excellent ideas that have been used. I live in such a homogeneous country (Canada), that learning to get to know someone of another race might take me a few hours drive away from home - if not more. However, it made me think of the people I discriminate against and how I could look at them a different way.
June 16, 2020
Very helpful. Encouraging. Packed with scripture. Miles tells many personal stories about his experience both as a black man and as pastor of a multicultural church. Challenging in a way that feels doable and long-term sustainable toward racial reconciliation and growth in my own life.
January 8, 2021
I don't write too many reviews on books I read, rather just rate them. But I feel I need to explain a three-star rating, because maybe it's a little unfair.
Evaluating this book on its merits related to race relations alone, I would rate it higher. It's hopeful and honest. Many books on the topic today seek to division and blame, while Miles McPherson seeks to education and unite. I love it!
As a Christian, I kept being annoyed at using so much scripture out of context. Sometimes it would support what he was saying, but often the text's meaning didn't correlate with his point. That doesn't mean his point was wrong or unbiblical, but consistent text out of context is grating. Additionally, he tells the story of David being anointed as king, but says it was Saul who anointed him when it was Samuel. That's a big difference and that mistake (which lasted into a paperback version) shouldn't be made by a pastor.
Anyway, it really was a refreshing view of race and I definitely learned from Miles McPherson. It's a good book and I'd recommend it to others.
Evaluating this book on its merits related to race relations alone, I would rate it higher. It's hopeful and honest. Many books on the topic today seek to division and blame, while Miles McPherson seeks to education and unite. I love it!
As a Christian, I kept being annoyed at using so much scripture out of context. Sometimes it would support what he was saying, but often the text's meaning didn't correlate with his point. That doesn't mean his point was wrong or unbiblical, but consistent text out of context is grating. Additionally, he tells the story of David being anointed as king, but says it was Saul who anointed him when it was Samuel. That's a big difference and that mistake (which lasted into a paperback version) shouldn't be made by a pastor.
Anyway, it really was a refreshing view of race and I definitely learned from Miles McPherson. It's a good book and I'd recommend it to others.
September 20, 2018
This is absolutely one of my favorite books. I read this as a daily devotional (Usually a chapter a day) and it really opened my eyes. It is one of the few Christian books I've read where I haven't gone "What the heck are you talking about? That's ridiculous!" I found everything Miles wrote to be pretty much spot on. There were times the book hurt me because of how true what he said was. The Third Option may be one of the most important books I've ever read and I think everyone should read it.
September 30, 2018
Racial division
This book is a good read, it's educational and informative. As children of the Kingdom of God we are one in Jesus, we are carefully decorated with beautiful shades and wonderful souls. We are at peace with our shades the closer we get to knowing the uniqueness of our Maker. My longing is for the day when we will dance around His throne in the shade that we were created giving worship in oneness, what a beautiful picture that will be.
This book is a good read, it's educational and informative. As children of the Kingdom of God we are one in Jesus, we are carefully decorated with beautiful shades and wonderful souls. We are at peace with our shades the closer we get to knowing the uniqueness of our Maker. My longing is for the day when we will dance around His throne in the shade that we were created giving worship in oneness, what a beautiful picture that will be.
September 17, 2020
I am using this book for a discussion group on race relations. Here are some discussion points so feel free to use them if you are doing the same.
Points of Discussion for The Third Option
Each book on race relations seems to approach racial issues a bit differently. How would you describe the approach of this author, Miles McPherson?
How did this book affect your thinking about biracial children/adults?
"Racial unity is God's idea, and He promises that if we ask Him for help, He will be faithful to answer us. Let's approach God with Confidence and vulnerability while we trust him to guide us in tackling this issue together." Introduction p. xi How did/does your church support you in this idea?
McPherson's church is built on two foundational truths: 1) we are all made in the image of God 2) the church should reflect the reality that all nations will be gathered in heaven (p.xiii). How does this compare with your church or your individual beliefs?
What does McPherson's Third Option mean to you? (xv)
How does our culture work against choosing the third option ? (xvi, xvii, p. 58, chpt. 17)
Chpt. 1
How does the story of Jesus and the Samarian woman at the well relate to our study on racism?
Chpt. 2
What does McPherson mean when he says "racism can be as much of a sin of omission - not doing what we are called to do - as a sin of commision."
We have discussed institutional racism and personal racism. But McPherson also talks about internalized racism. What is that?
Chpt. 2 and Chpt. 13
How do in and out-group bias affect/promote racism? How might McPherson's Third Option of honor help reduce biases?
Chpt. 5
If you have time, take this test referred to on p 63. It is quite odd! I was pleased with my results!!!!
https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit...
Chpt. 5, 6
What blind spots, biases, unconscious preferences do you think you still have?
Chpt. 10
Would you be comfortable doing a "Walk in My Shoes" field trip?
How does McPherson redefine F E A R?
Chpt. 11
What do you think about this statement? And transformative cultural change can only happen when we replace our hearts with God's heart, by choosing the Third Option, p 144
Chpt. 14
If silence is not golden and communication is encouraged, why is this so difficult. It seems having interracial conversations might be easier than having conversations with people who deny racism exists. Why is this so?
Overall
How might God's idea of racial unity, Privilege of God, God's heart be helpful with bringing the two sides of the racism issue together?
What ideas, takeaways, or actions do you have after reading this book?
Points of Discussion for The Third Option
Each book on race relations seems to approach racial issues a bit differently. How would you describe the approach of this author, Miles McPherson?
How did this book affect your thinking about biracial children/adults?
"Racial unity is God's idea, and He promises that if we ask Him for help, He will be faithful to answer us. Let's approach God with Confidence and vulnerability while we trust him to guide us in tackling this issue together." Introduction p. xi How did/does your church support you in this idea?
McPherson's church is built on two foundational truths: 1) we are all made in the image of God 2) the church should reflect the reality that all nations will be gathered in heaven (p.xiii). How does this compare with your church or your individual beliefs?
What does McPherson's Third Option mean to you? (xv)
How does our culture work against choosing the third option ? (xvi, xvii, p. 58, chpt. 17)
Chpt. 1
How does the story of Jesus and the Samarian woman at the well relate to our study on racism?
Chpt. 2
What does McPherson mean when he says "racism can be as much of a sin of omission - not doing what we are called to do - as a sin of commision."
We have discussed institutional racism and personal racism. But McPherson also talks about internalized racism. What is that?
Chpt. 2 and Chpt. 13
How do in and out-group bias affect/promote racism? How might McPherson's Third Option of honor help reduce biases?
Chpt. 5
If you have time, take this test referred to on p 63. It is quite odd! I was pleased with my results!!!!
https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit...
Chpt. 5, 6
What blind spots, biases, unconscious preferences do you think you still have?
Chpt. 10
Would you be comfortable doing a "Walk in My Shoes" field trip?
How does McPherson redefine F E A R?
Chpt. 11
What do you think about this statement? And transformative cultural change can only happen when we replace our hearts with God's heart, by choosing the Third Option, p 144
Chpt. 14
If silence is not golden and communication is encouraged, why is this so difficult. It seems having interracial conversations might be easier than having conversations with people who deny racism exists. Why is this so?
Overall
How might God's idea of racial unity, Privilege of God, God's heart be helpful with bringing the two sides of the racism issue together?
What ideas, takeaways, or actions do you have after reading this book?
July 3, 2020
“We can choose sides, or we can choose honor. But we can’t choose both. What will you choose?” ~ Miles McPherson
In a world that’s becoming ever more polarized, it can be tempting to buy into the lie that we must align ourselves with the “right” side. But when we pick a side, we choose to show honor to one group while withholding it from the other. Thus, the damaging cycle of polarization continues.
What if there were a third option? One that promoted unity, not division?
According to Miles McPherson—former NFL player and pastor of The Rock Church, San Diego—there is.
The third option is open to everyone. It applies to any situation. And it is available now.
The third option liberates us from the toxic effects of an “us vs. them” mentality and brings us into alignment with the heart of the only One who can truly unify us—our Father God.
“God’s Third Option invites us to honor that which we have in common, the presence of His image in every person we meet,” Miles explains in his groundbreaking book, THE THIRD OPTION: HOPE FOR A RACIALLY DIVIDED NATION. “Racial unity is not our idea; it’s God’s idea, and it’s a much bigger issue than we can tackle on our own.”
Fortunately, we don’t need to tackle it alone; we have a powerful ally in this endeavor—the Holy Spirit. As Miles states, “Unity is God’s idea and can only be achieved by the Holy Spirit’s transformation of our hearts.”
It starts with us. The best way we can learn to love each other is to view everyone through God’s eyes. Miles offers some practical and honest ways to do this. Each chapter concludes with next steps to help you process the material and act on it. The questions are designed to help you reframe your perspectives. The challenges will help you demonstrate love to others.
I generally don’t make blanket statements, but…
You need to read this book.
You will unearth hidden biases you didn’t know you had; you’ll gain a better understanding of what it means to be the “other;” and you’ll be convicted to take tangible steps toward positive change.
In a world that’s becoming ever more polarized, it can be tempting to buy into the lie that we must align ourselves with the “right” side. But when we pick a side, we choose to show honor to one group while withholding it from the other. Thus, the damaging cycle of polarization continues.
What if there were a third option? One that promoted unity, not division?
According to Miles McPherson—former NFL player and pastor of The Rock Church, San Diego—there is.
The third option is open to everyone. It applies to any situation. And it is available now.
The third option liberates us from the toxic effects of an “us vs. them” mentality and brings us into alignment with the heart of the only One who can truly unify us—our Father God.
“God’s Third Option invites us to honor that which we have in common, the presence of His image in every person we meet,” Miles explains in his groundbreaking book, THE THIRD OPTION: HOPE FOR A RACIALLY DIVIDED NATION. “Racial unity is not our idea; it’s God’s idea, and it’s a much bigger issue than we can tackle on our own.”
Fortunately, we don’t need to tackle it alone; we have a powerful ally in this endeavor—the Holy Spirit. As Miles states, “Unity is God’s idea and can only be achieved by the Holy Spirit’s transformation of our hearts.”
It starts with us. The best way we can learn to love each other is to view everyone through God’s eyes. Miles offers some practical and honest ways to do this. Each chapter concludes with next steps to help you process the material and act on it. The questions are designed to help you reframe your perspectives. The challenges will help you demonstrate love to others.
I generally don’t make blanket statements, but…
You need to read this book.
You will unearth hidden biases you didn’t know you had; you’ll gain a better understanding of what it means to be the “other;” and you’ll be convicted to take tangible steps toward positive change.
August 13, 2022
The Third Option is an eloquent book that brings clarity to fixing the biases people of all races have.
Miles McPherson, the pastor of the Rock Church, promotes the idea of creating a third option; often, societal expectations enforces that a person must pick one side, for instance, the police or the protesters. This gives you only two options. However, McPherson wrote that we shouldn't be limited by such a dichotomy, and that we should instead create a third option, which is to understand both sides and aid them in tolerating and uniting with each other. McPherson incorporates Christian principles and sociology into this book. He pointed out real-life examples of in-group racial bias, and how the Bible shows that human beings should learn about one another and overcome biases and racial assumptions, instead of segregating themselves based on physical appearance and demographics.
Miles McPherson has a lot of fascinating (and often entertaining) things to say in his sermons, and this book was no exception!
I think the most notable thing is that McPherson makes his advice universal, instead of applicable to only one race. Often, a book about racism may address how people of color are disproportionately prejudiced and excluded, and while it is true that people of color really do face prejudice and exclusion, this book acknowledges biases people of color can have against White people and biases one group of people of color can have against another group of people of color. Miles was able to conclude that all races have biases to fix, not just Caucasians, and that all people, including Caucasians, are just a different shade of brown.
The sociology, stories, and statistics made this book more tangible, enriching, and persuasive. Although the book sometimes felt repetitive, those three factors were worth analyzing and pondering. McPherson truly redefined the term "racist" and asked thought-provoking questions that can expose the biases any person, not just a self-proclaimed racial supremacist, can have on a daily basis. I think a lot of those words should resonate with people of all colors.
This book contains ideas that are most certainly pertinent to race-based discussions.
Miles McPherson, the pastor of the Rock Church, promotes the idea of creating a third option; often, societal expectations enforces that a person must pick one side, for instance, the police or the protesters. This gives you only two options. However, McPherson wrote that we shouldn't be limited by such a dichotomy, and that we should instead create a third option, which is to understand both sides and aid them in tolerating and uniting with each other. McPherson incorporates Christian principles and sociology into this book. He pointed out real-life examples of in-group racial bias, and how the Bible shows that human beings should learn about one another and overcome biases and racial assumptions, instead of segregating themselves based on physical appearance and demographics.
Miles McPherson has a lot of fascinating (and often entertaining) things to say in his sermons, and this book was no exception!
I think the most notable thing is that McPherson makes his advice universal, instead of applicable to only one race. Often, a book about racism may address how people of color are disproportionately prejudiced and excluded, and while it is true that people of color really do face prejudice and exclusion, this book acknowledges biases people of color can have against White people and biases one group of people of color can have against another group of people of color. Miles was able to conclude that all races have biases to fix, not just Caucasians, and that all people, including Caucasians, are just a different shade of brown.
The sociology, stories, and statistics made this book more tangible, enriching, and persuasive. Although the book sometimes felt repetitive, those three factors were worth analyzing and pondering. McPherson truly redefined the term "racist" and asked thought-provoking questions that can expose the biases any person, not just a self-proclaimed racial supremacist, can have on a daily basis. I think a lot of those words should resonate with people of all colors.
This book contains ideas that are most certainly pertinent to race-based discussions.
July 15, 2020
This book is a much-needed book right now when our nation is so divided and there is so much hate. I appreciate how McPherson ends each chapter with practical next steps to take, reflection, and prayer. I believe everyone can learn and grow and The Third Option offers hope for all of us that peace and honor are possible.
The book is divided into a forward, introduction, and 4 sections:
1) Framing the problem
2) Me
3) You
4) We
In the introduction, we learn of the author’s background, personal experience with racism, and motivation for writing this book. In the first part, the author defines racism, in- and out- groups, bias, and the third option: honor.
The second, and longest section, is designed as inward reflection, to look at “me”, my feelings, biases, blind spots, and how I can shift to the honor option. One of the most notable next steps is to visit a place where I am the minority, the only person of my race, and to write about the experience.
Part 3 challenges us to think about others honorably, to have honorable assumptions, see color-coded pain, and engage in full-color conversations. The last section of the book brings it all back together. The goal of the third option is that honor would lead to joyful, Godly unity.
If you honestly desire to improve race relations and mend the divide in our schools, churches, cities, and country, I recommend this book as a great template that addresses our own heart issues and challenges us with actually taking steps toward honoring one another.
The book is divided into a forward, introduction, and 4 sections:
1) Framing the problem
2) Me
3) You
4) We
In the introduction, we learn of the author’s background, personal experience with racism, and motivation for writing this book. In the first part, the author defines racism, in- and out- groups, bias, and the third option: honor.
The second, and longest section, is designed as inward reflection, to look at “me”, my feelings, biases, blind spots, and how I can shift to the honor option. One of the most notable next steps is to visit a place where I am the minority, the only person of my race, and to write about the experience.
Part 3 challenges us to think about others honorably, to have honorable assumptions, see color-coded pain, and engage in full-color conversations. The last section of the book brings it all back together. The goal of the third option is that honor would lead to joyful, Godly unity.
If you honestly desire to improve race relations and mend the divide in our schools, churches, cities, and country, I recommend this book as a great template that addresses our own heart issues and challenges us with actually taking steps toward honoring one another.
July 15, 2020
I wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone! Here is one of my favorite quotes from the beginning...
“Culture plays a big role in perpetuating racism by wrongly insisting that there are only two options you can choose from: us or them. Culture pits one group of people against another by promoting a zero-sum-game mentality that says, ‘You must lose in order for me to win.’
God, however, offers us a Third Option that stands in stark contrast to the two offered by culture. God’s Third Option invites us to honor that which we have in common, the presence of His image in every person we meet. When we honor the presence of His image in others, we acknowledge their priceless value as precious and beloved of God. The Third Option empowers us to see people through God’s eyes, which enables us to treat them in a manner that honors the potential of His image in us.”
This book addresses racial division, but what I also appreciate is the reminder to see the other things that divide and apply the same principle of honoring the image of God in anyone we are tempered to see as “them” (political, theological, economic divides also come to mind). At the end of each chapter are “Next steps”, scripture, and a prayer.
“Culture plays a big role in perpetuating racism by wrongly insisting that there are only two options you can choose from: us or them. Culture pits one group of people against another by promoting a zero-sum-game mentality that says, ‘You must lose in order for me to win.’
God, however, offers us a Third Option that stands in stark contrast to the two offered by culture. God’s Third Option invites us to honor that which we have in common, the presence of His image in every person we meet. When we honor the presence of His image in others, we acknowledge their priceless value as precious and beloved of God. The Third Option empowers us to see people through God’s eyes, which enables us to treat them in a manner that honors the potential of His image in us.”
This book addresses racial division, but what I also appreciate is the reminder to see the other things that divide and apply the same principle of honoring the image of God in anyone we are tempered to see as “them” (political, theological, economic divides also come to mind). At the end of each chapter are “Next steps”, scripture, and a prayer.
April 14, 2021
“This book isn’t about guilt, but rather encouragement for people of all ethnicities to be compassionate and understanding of those who experience a different reality.” The idea of this book is that we don’t have to choose either one side or another when it comes to the racial divid in our country, but instead we choose what Miles refers to as the third option, which is to honor God’s image in all human beings. Biologically we are all the same, all made in God’s image. We all strive for life, liberty, and happiness and we all deserve this because of Jesus.
Miles does a good job of explaining how people experience things through different points of view, and just because you haven’t experienced something, doesn’t meet that those things do not exist in other’s lives and that their concerns aren’t valid. His advice is to always believe the best in people’s intentions, not to be afraid to put yourself in another’s shoes by being the “other”, and always give Grace to others as we are all continuously learning. He addresses issues such as blind spots and in-and out-group bias, and offers suggestions on how to work through some of these issues.
Overall I think Miles does a great job of discussing issues that can sometimes be tough or uncomfortable in a thought-provoking, encouraging way based on biblical truths.
Miles does a good job of explaining how people experience things through different points of view, and just because you haven’t experienced something, doesn’t meet that those things do not exist in other’s lives and that their concerns aren’t valid. His advice is to always believe the best in people’s intentions, not to be afraid to put yourself in another’s shoes by being the “other”, and always give Grace to others as we are all continuously learning. He addresses issues such as blind spots and in-and out-group bias, and offers suggestions on how to work through some of these issues.
Overall I think Miles does a great job of discussing issues that can sometimes be tough or uncomfortable in a thought-provoking, encouraging way based on biblical truths.
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August 15, 2020This was an incredibly powerful book and even though I had to wait months for it to arrive, due to its popularity, I'm so glad that I did have the chance to read it.
It was a very easy book to engage in. McPherson's premise is that there's an in-group with whom we're very comfortable and an out-group with whom we're generally uncomfortable but there's also a third option which is to see the image of God in everyone and to honour this.
The value of honouring the God in everyone is incredible for all of us. It's about having a culture of honour, love and respect.
I particularly liked that McPherson says we all have something to learn from each other and need to assess ourselves, and what our values and beliefs are.
He writes with a mix of personal history/anecdote, stories of others in his world and research to give weight to his words.
There's something for everyone in here no matter what your race, ethnicity or cultural heritage.
It was a very easy book to engage in. McPherson's premise is that there's an in-group with whom we're very comfortable and an out-group with whom we're generally uncomfortable but there's also a third option which is to see the image of God in everyone and to honour this.
The value of honouring the God in everyone is incredible for all of us. It's about having a culture of honour, love and respect.
I particularly liked that McPherson says we all have something to learn from each other and need to assess ourselves, and what our values and beliefs are.
He writes with a mix of personal history/anecdote, stories of others in his world and research to give weight to his words.
There's something for everyone in here no matter what your race, ethnicity or cultural heritage.
September 27, 2020
Timely book on how racism is pervasive in our world today. I chose this one because I know Miles personally and I like how his books are always filled with practical stories that are relatable. Which also makes for an easy page-turner.
Speaking from a life time of personal experiences, he gets right down to the heart of the matter. Miles takes time to share tangible ways we can challenge ourselves to a new perspective in regards to how we think and feel about people who don’t share our skin color. The key word is ‘honor’.
As a Pastor, Miles writes this book from a religious perspective, weaving in God/Jesus themes, and Bible versus on nearly every page.
I feel this limits the reach of this book to Christian believers only. I don’t see non-Christians reading this book cover to cover, and therefore not being challenged with the insights and personal perspective the book offers.
Racism is real and needs a solution inside and outside of Christianity.
Speaking from a life time of personal experiences, he gets right down to the heart of the matter. Miles takes time to share tangible ways we can challenge ourselves to a new perspective in regards to how we think and feel about people who don’t share our skin color. The key word is ‘honor’.
As a Pastor, Miles writes this book from a religious perspective, weaving in God/Jesus themes, and Bible versus on nearly every page.
I feel this limits the reach of this book to Christian believers only. I don’t see non-Christians reading this book cover to cover, and therefore not being challenged with the insights and personal perspective the book offers.
Racism is real and needs a solution inside and outside of Christianity.
May 11, 2021
This is an excellent book that hits the issue of racism head on. Miles a former NFL player for San Diego Chargers. Following his career turned Minister with a multi racial church in San Diego. Miles talks about the one family we all belong too, the human family. He makes a point the 99.6 percent of everyone is similar. What's the difference each individuals unique DNA and the complexion of our individual skin tones. He talks about how ones environment can affect us throughout life. He talks about individual in groups and out groups and how all of us react when people invade our groups and what our thinking is perceived by both individuals or groups. He talks about how to step out of each others comfort zones and open communications that can provide into each others lives. Miles bring a lot of scripture into his writings and provides self help tasking to improve ones live and interactions between ALL ethnic groups. This is a very good book for all to read.
January 18, 2023
I'm not impressed. McPherson's book may be good for those who do not think there is systemic racism in this country but having read several justice books including "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson, I'm convinced there are problems. As a Christian I already know the biblical mandates that McPherson suggests are the third option. The book also has a biblical credibility issue when he suggests that "Saul" (p. 74) chose King David out of Jesse's sons. It was not Saul but Samuel. That error should not have gotten past McPherson or his editors and makes one question the rest of the content.
That said, I read about 2/3rds of the book and think if one wants to know a biblical perspective (I found no other biblical issues), questions to ask themselves about racism and prayers to pray, it's a worthy read. Make no mistake I think the book has value. I just think that others better convinced me, we need a third option.
That said, I read about 2/3rds of the book and think if one wants to know a biblical perspective (I found no other biblical issues), questions to ask themselves about racism and prayers to pray, it's a worthy read. Make no mistake I think the book has value. I just think that others better convinced me, we need a third option.
April 21, 2025
Miles McPherson recently attended an event at a local church. His story was impactful, so I bought his book on what affected his life the most: racism. He does a good job at addressing the problem biblically. Commonly, racism is an accusatory topic, but not in this book. Similarly, neglecting the topic is also a problem, but not here, "When someone says 'I don't see color,' they are simply ignoring reality... Claiming to be color-blind shuts down attempts at engaging in a meaningful conversation about race... We live up to the standard that God has placed on us as humans when we love people for who they are, even at the expense of potential criticism from those who are 'like us,' rather than pretend to overlook our differences." (pp 10-12). This book applies to more than racism, and shows how it atleast indirectly still affects American churches. Most importantly, it provides answers for the problems presented.
June 1, 2020
When I started this book, I was hoping for an academic framework regarding race relations and racism. This book is not that. However, it was an excellent read. McPherson challenges readers of all ethnicities and races to confront their biases, but he does so with grace and conviction (in the Christian sense of the words) rather than shame or incrimination. The text provides examples of situations and thoughts (conscious or not) that you might have that you were not aware were biased and it makes it glaringly obvious where you are falling short. In contrast to popular concepts circulating in our culture today, The Third Option leaves you with hope that we can be unified as a society. We change society by changing hearts and we change hearts by building relationships. This requires us to value those who are in our "out-group" and recognize their worth and dignity as image bearers of God.
November 9, 2020
This was an awesome book. The Third Option goes against how our culture pressures us to be on one side or the other... instead we honor what we have in common. Affirms that we are all in process -- I may consider myself not racist, but I can absolutely still behave in ways that are hurtful to others - racism, sexism, cultural bias and more - less than a neutral view re: people, culture. Miles communicates beautifully, weaving verses, prayers and specific next steps in each chapter. WOW. I learned so much, and I still have so much to learn. Biases, Blind Spots, Micro-agressions, and more. I can assume a posture that "I don't know"...and I WANT to know how to honor God and honor others simply because they ARE. There is hope for improving my awareness, and my understanding, my behavior. We are made in the image of God, each of us is beautiful. Great NFL stories too! You can find Miles on Youtube; also he has a series on this topic via the Rock Church.
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