Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage

Written by Gavin Ortlund and D. A. Carson

Narrated by Tom Parks

In theology, just as in battle, some hills are worth dying on. But how do we know which ones? When should doctrine divide, and when should unity prevail? Pastor Gavin Ortlund makes the case that while all doctrines matter, some are more essential than others. He considers how and what to prioritize in doctrine and ministry, encouraging humility and grace along the way. Using four basic categories of doctrine in order of importance, this book helps new and seasoned church leaders alike wisely labor both to uphold doctrine and to preserve unity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: ChristianAudio.com
• Release date: May 29, 2020
• ISBN: 9781545915004

Gavin Ortlund

Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Ojai in Ojai, California. He was previously a research fellow for the Creation Project at the Carl F. H. Henry Center for Theological Understanding at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is the author of Finding the Right Hills to Die On, Theological Retrieval for Evangelicals, and Anselm's Pursuit of Joy.

Reviews for Finding the Right Hills to Die On

[Lerato Matlhebegoane · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An excellent, biblically grounded book. It gives a helpful framework which balances the need for Christians to have moral courage and pursue unity within the body of Christ. It exhorts Christians to be prepared to die on the hill of the Gospel and core Christian doctrines, while approaching discussions of other doctrines with greater gentleness, love and humility in pursuit of Christian unity. I highly recommend it.

[Kendra · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A very thought provoking book. I do not see eye to eye with the author on most of his theological positions, but the author humbly reminds the reader that is not the point of the book. Rather, he presents his case for assessing theological issues and proposes 4 categories to help us with this. Again, the author reminds the reader that we may not completely agree with the assigned categories of various theology; however, his hope is that by reading this book we may more seriously consider our own motives and humility as we meditate on theological triage, especially for the unity and health of the church and furtherance of the Gospel.

[James McArthur · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is an extremely helpful read regarding the doctrines that can and do divide in the Christian faith. There are divisions in all the major religions, however, as Christians we are called to be known for our love for each other and not for differences that should not separate us.

[Trenton Parker · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great book and very helpful for thinking through how we rank Christian doctrines and have unity within the body of Christ.

[Jeremiah · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Every one in the Christian church should read this book.

[Erik Eliason · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is definitely in my “Must Read” section for my fellow Christians. Hopefully you feel challenged as well as encouraged by the author, as I certainly have.

[Eleah Noelle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Absolutely amazing! I 10/10 recommend reading/listening to this book. In recent years my heart has been grieved by how the reformed church, myself included, has responded to theological differences. This book has illuminated the way in which I must seek unity with my brothers and sisters. As I listened to Ortlund discuss the humility and grace we must extend to one another, the Holy Spirit has also convicted me to repent and seek forgiveness from those that I have alienated due to theological differences.
“Finding the Right Hills To Die On” is a beautifully written book, that has given me much to consider.

[Sandisiwe Eletu Yengeni · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Really helpful and convicting book that does not w people’s perspectives. Thoroughly enjoyed this work by our brother in Christ

[Almari Lexow · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent book to read and so very relevant for our times!