The simplicity of the central Christian message is stark in its clarity: love your neighbour as yourself. But carrying out this demand is a less simple matter. Among the difficulties encountered is that of fear - fear to let go of personal habits and ingrained attitudes; fear of the unknown outside our limited experiences; fear of the extent of self-commitment which is required.
This book considers with sympathy and understanding this stranglehold of fear upon the good intentions of so many Christians, dealing with it tolerantly, perceptively and with constant reference to the New Testament. And besides showing how fear in all its forms can undermine ordinary human relationships, it gives many heartening instances of genuine attempts being made at living in Christian community.