Beyond Skin Deep

The Color of a Soul

Non-Fiction - Religion/Philosophy
26 Pages
Reviewed on 10/26/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Beyond Skin Deep takes a deep dive into what makes us human from a philosophical and spiritual standpoint. Michael W. Waithe draws from lessons in the Bible and explores what being human truly means. The book opens with the first story of Creation when God made man in His own image. According to Waithe, a human being is composed of three manifestations -- body, soul, and spirit. The author further delves into the concept of spirit and reiterates that the color of our soul matters more than the color of our skin, as fundamentally, we're all human, regardless of our racial, cultural, or ethnic makeup. Waithe encourages everyone to surrender themselves to Jesus to earn eternal life instead of eternal damnation. Every soul needs to be redeemed, as we will all be judged for our deeds here.

Beyond Skin Deep explores various aspects of the human condition through a Christian perspective. This book is tailor-made for readers of theology and philosophy. Michael W. Waithe offers some thought-provoking ideas about our emotions, feelings, and free will and how they drive our actions. The author also proposes the belief that our soul reflects what we are and where we come from. The book contains many verses from the Bible that lend credence to the relevant topic discussed. Waithe's writing style is very engaging, and it is one of those books that you can read over and over again and find something new to reflect upon. It's primarily written for Christian readers, but I think even non-Christians will learn from this book. I found it very motivational, enlightening, and illuminating. Highly recommended!

K.C. Finn

Beyond Skin Deep (The Color of a Soul) by Michael W. Waithe offers a philosophical and religious exploration of how God views humanity from a spiritual perspective. Rooted in biblical scripture, the book reminds readers that all have sinned and are in need of a relationship with God. Drawing on Romans 3:23 and Acts 17:23, Waithe emphasizes the importance of recognizing the deeper, divine aspects of human existence beyond physical appearances. Through reflection and scripture, the book encourages readers to seek a closer relationship with their Creator and contemplate their spiritual journey.

Author Michael W. Waithe presents complex spiritual concepts with remarkable clarity and depth, making profound theological ideas accessible without oversimplifying them. His thoughtful integration of biblical scripture throughout the text provides a solid foundation for his philosophical insights, while never feeling heavy-handed or too preachy. There's clear warmth in the confident and friendly tone of this concise book. I was particularly moved by his exploration of human identity beyond physical appearance, finding his perspective both enlightening and deeply relevant to contemporary discussions about our sense of worth and dignity. The way he weaves together scriptural teachings with practical spiritual guidance creates a meaningful roadmap for readers seeking to deepen their faith journey. What I found most compelling was his ability to address universal spiritual truths in a way that transcends cultural and physical differences, inviting readers of all backgrounds to contemplate their relationship with God more profoundly. Overall, I highly recommend Beyond Skin Deep for anyone seeking a thought-provoking exploration of spirituality and human identity through a biblical lens.

Courtnee Turner Hoyle

In Beyond Skin Deep: The Color of a Soul by Michael W. Waithe, the author empathizes with people who are treated unethically because of the color of their skin. Waithe hopes to raise awareness about prejudiced behaviors so individuals can stop making harmful comments or committing hurtful actions to others. Waithe discusses the debate of the soul, God's creation of man, the presence of a soul, and the difference between the body, soul, and spirit. He gives examples of the prejudices placed in his mind in his youth and explains the difference between the mind, will, and consciousness. Using verses from the Bible, Waithe points out that one's soul, light or dark, is most important.

Michael W. Waithe understands that the only color that matters is the color of a person's soul. Waithe was raised in an area that promoted certain prejudices. As he grew mentally and spiritually, he learned not to make a snap judgment about a person based on their skin color. While using scripture to outline the variations between people who live in the light or dark, Waithe details how some people seem to physically change as they get further into the dark or light. Individuals must determine where they want their souls to spend eternity, and, hopefully, they will choose to embrace all their brothers and sisters, no matter their differences. People who may need help in understanding that the color of a person's flesh does not determine their salvation will benefit from reading Beyond Skin Deep: The Color of a Soul.

Carol Thompson

Beyond Skin Deep by Michael W. Waithe explores humanity’s spiritual essence, urging readers to look beyond external appearances and consider the soul’s true nature. Waithe’s work is anchored in Christian teachings, exploring concepts like the body, soul, and spirit as outlined in biblical scripture. The book serves as a reflective guide, encouraging readers to see past the superficial and focus on the deeper aspects of identity, spirituality, and purpose. Each chapter examines a specific theme, beginning with the human composition: body, soul, and spirit. Waithe emphasizes that skin color, while outwardly visible, has no bearing on one's intrinsic worth or the “color” of the soul. In later chapters, the author addresses themes such as the importance of redemption, the consequences of living disconnected from God, and the concept of eternity.

Among the readings, “The Cost of a Soul” contemplates the inherent value of human life. Michael W. Waithe discusses Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice, illustrating the magnitude of divine love and the redemptive power it offers. The author remains steadfast in his message that true transformation occurs within and that life’s deeper purpose is realized by connecting with God and understanding our spiritual identity. Beyond Skin Deep is a thought-provoking journey that combines theology with introspection, challenging readers to look within themselves and seek a higher understanding of existence. Waithe’s heartfelt exploration of spiritual truths serves as a reminder of the significance of one’s inner self. Beyond Skin Deep is for anyone seeking to connect or reconnect with God. It’s a powerful and moving book.

Luwi Nyakansaila

Beyond Skin Deep by Michael W. Waithe explores man’s essence beyond physical appearance. The author emphasizes the importance of the soul over our outward features, highlighting that God requires a transformed person who believes in Him and His son Jesus Christ. He explains the difference between the body, soul, and spirit, and delves into social inequalities and conflicts that have divided us based on our skin color. By understanding the difference between the colors of our skin and soul, we can begin to realize that true worth stems from one’s character and spiritual essence rather than superficial traits. The book covers redemption and damnation, the eternal nature of the soul, and the need for individuals to cultivate a relationship with God, dismissing societal prejudices as deceptive tools of division.

Beyond Skin Deep is a very interesting book that touches on issues of race, identity, and spirituality. First impressions always count; in fact, the very first thing we notice in a new acquaintance is their skin color. More often than not, these initial assessments and judgments result in distortion of the character and value of people because of their race and ethnicity. In this book, Michael W. Waithe explains how God sees beyond our appearance, urging readers to do the same and develop a deeper understanding of one another based on the essence of our soul. The book is well-written with simple language and engaging narration. Important words and phrases are highlighted in bold text, effectively guiding readers through key concepts. I enjoyed reading Beyond Skin Deep and think it is a much-needed book that offers vital lessons to help us foster unity and a deeper love for one another and God.