The Gospel According to Oprah

By Marcia Z. Nelson

Book Overview

In this book, religion reporter Marcia Nelson explores the spiritual dimensions that are prevalent in all aspects of the Oprah Winfrey media empire. Though Oprah is rarely explicitly religious on her television show or in her magazine, Nelson points out that there are several major Christian themes that weave through these aspects of her life and work: confession, redemption, healing, mission, forgiveness, and salvation. Nelson concludes that Oprah is a "compelling spiritual teacher in a spiritually eclectic and ever-practical America." This book will appeal both to Oprah fans and people who are fascinated by the intersection of religion and popular culture.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0664229425
• ISBN13: 9780664229429
• Release Date: September 2005
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 0.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.8" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

A Force for Good in the World

"The greatest pain in life is to be invisible. What I've learned is that we all just want to be heard." ~ Oprah Winfrey "The Gospel According to Oprah" is a brief exploration of Oprah's main teachings. Oprah is known for her generosity and compassion. She also explores forgiveness, teaches gratitude and promotes healing. This book helped me to understand why Oprah has such a profound influence on our society and communities around the world. For the most part, the author had to rely heavily on analysis of Oprah's show. She also read quite a few of Oprah's magazines. She explores fun and serious topics. Like who hasn't tried a soda Oprah recommends in her magazine or read a book she has promoted on her show. Throughout this book, Oprah's wisdom becomes very apparent. She is truly a force for good in the world. In conclusion, I remember my excitement at finding Oprah's magazine at my local library (they were selling them by the stack). She has also had a profound influence on my life, everything from getting me to walk on my treadmill to getting me started in reviewing back in 2000 (I wanted to know more about a book being discussed and thought it would be fun to review it for her audience). If you enjoy this book, you may also want to look for Oprah Winfrey Speaks: Insights from the World's Most Influential Voice. I also recently reviewed: The Oprah Winfrey Show. ~The Rebecca Review

A very good "starter" book.

My pastor preached about "the Real Jesus" today, and even used parts of this book in his message. I didn't know he was going to take Miss Winfrey as his sermon text today. I read the book, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I don't agree with OPRAH's confusion concerning the exclusive claims of Jesus Christ, but I do believe that the "attraction" factor concerning her empire and fame has valuable lessons to teach many Christians in this Postmodern, 21st century world in which we live. If the church practiced some of the practical principles which OPRAH has mastered over the last 20 years, we (the church) would see dramatic changes in how we relate to each other and the world. Grant it be so.

An informative theological exploration of the famed and prestigious television talk show hostess Opr

The Gospel According To Oprah by Marcia Z. Nelson is an informed and informative theological exploration of the famed and prestigious television talk show hostess Oprah Winfrey. Packed from cover to cover with details and distinctly informative specifics on Oprah's passion for the Christian Gospel, author and spiritual informant Marcia Z. Nelson deftly presents a truly inspirational book of insight and inspiration. The Gospel According To Oprah is very strongly recommended reading for anyone seeking greater sense of their spiritual self, and is a "must read" for all Oprah fans.

If you don't watch O, this will help you get why others do

Not being a TV watcher, Marcia Nelson at least helped me understand what was the allure of Oprah. I appreciated the categories and organization of this short, but informative book. For Oprah fans and those who wonder about the show, this helps sort it out, not sparing the criticism, but also giving the reader an appreciation of the Queen of Media Appeal.

It might just change your mind...

I've never paid much attention to Oprah's television show, but this book helped persuade me to watch it now and then. The author shows that even though Oprah doesn't use a lot of religious jargon or overtly Christian messages, she continually preaches a social justice gospel: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. In an age of celebrity excess--a trap that Oprah does occasionally fall into--here is one celebrity putting her money where her mouth is to do some good. A lively, readable book, for fans and doubters alike.