While two books don’t make a movement, the recent release by New York Times bestselling author Ed Gungor, "What Bothers Me Most About Christianity," reminded me of another book I commented on this spring, "10 Things I Hate About Christianity."

Gungor, whose "There is More to the Secret" was a hit two years ago, explores the doubts he wrestles with even as he pastors a church in Tulsa.

In reflecting on the some of the contradictions and misgivings that plague him decades into ministry, Gungor adds to an image jumpstarted by "Hate" author Jason Berggren. Namely, a kinder, gentler Church that isn’t so absolutely sure of itself or its interpretations of scripture.

After all, it is a Church that has a spotty history (the Crusades and the Inquisition for starters), which Gungor explores in one chapter that will leave many readers squirming. And, according to author Thom Rainer, a Church that still struggles with its image because of such realities as Christians who treat each other poorly and "holier than thou" attitudes.

Unlike the 30-something Berggren, Gungor speaks as the father of four grown children and a maturity forged through years of seeing that faith and prayer don’t always work as prescribed.

Not only does the author reveal that such experiences have made him kinder, less dogmatic and more compassionate, he admits that he still has a voracious curiosity about evil. Why is it here? Why so ever-present? Can it be pushed back? The surprise for those who demand certainty in every situation—he doesn’t think a satisfactory answer can be found this side of eternity.

Which is the point: the Church doesn’t have every answer to every question. If Paul could write of mystery on more than one occasion, why are we afraid to admit there are just some things that we will never know while we’re on earth?

Such humility could go a long way toward making those outside the Church more open to our claims about Jesus. As Gungor notes, historically Christians have been notorious for pushing Christ down people’s throats in antagonistic, hostile and even violent ways that run contrary to the Savior’s love.

He sums up his observations on this regrettable behavior: "So much of what evangelicals call evangelism may, in the final analysis, be more hubris than anything else."

One of his most controversial views is that following Christ is a call to surrender in the culture war. He suggests ditching power weapons by refusing to leverage political alliances or demonize the opposition, and declining to form pressure groups that use pressure tactics.

Yet, his call to choose influence instead makes sense, particularly in light of his historical review—and how Constantine’s granting of power to the Church ultimately led to corruption and political machinations that would make Washington, D.C. blush.

Gungor makes many other points that will provoke some and prod others to explore their faith, such as:

While Gungor’s book may make some Church leaders uncomfortable, taking the time to ponder its message could lead to a humbler stance and more love-based action. Both would make a welcome trend.