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Cultural Counterfeits is one of author and podcaster Jen Oshman’s latest releases. The book takes readers through common cultural lies about womanhood and examines them through the lens of Scripture. It generally seems that Christians who publicly examine cultural occurrences through a biblical lens tend to take on a harsh, condemning tone while rebuking culture’s sinful patterns. What I appreciate about this book is that the tone is compassionate, gracious, and charitable without compromise. The chapter on why it’s good to be a girl really encouraged my heart as a female myself and the mother of two daughters.
Cultural Counterfeits begins with a history of current cultural beliefs about women. As a fan of American history, I found this to be fascinating. I particularly enjoyed the chapter of the book that addressed marriage and motherhood. Jen’s voice in this area is very refreshing and much needed. I was encouraged by Jen’s acknowledgement that, “. . . the Christian church—at least the church in the United States, which I love and serve with my whole heart—has a tendency to set marriage and motherhood on a pedestal that Scripture does not support,” (pg. 152).
I felt hesitant as I approached the chapter on abortion wondering if the content would be primarily condemning. Since I had a type of miscarriage that is considered spontaneous abortion, I wasn’t sure how I might feel after reading this particular chapter. With wisdom and compassion, Jen approached the topic in a way that many Christians would do well to learn from. I am very grateful to her for examining not just the concept of abortion from a biblical perspective but the need for the church to nurture women who have had abortions. I appreciate that her tone toward this tender topic communicates that those who have had an abortion are not without hope.
Cultural Counterfeits is about women and for women but it is a helpful read for men too. I really enjoyed this book and will be thinking about it for a while and I look forward to reading more from Jen Oshman in the future.
I received Cultural Counterfeits compliments of Crossway in exchange for my honest review.
Wow, Lauren! Thank you so much for this thoughtful review! I can tell you really engaged with the book and for that I am truly grateful. I’m so glad you found it encouraging. Thank you for reading and sharing! With love and gratitude, Jen Oshman
Thanks for the comment and for writing the book, Jen! I know the Lord will use it to bless and serve the church for years to come!