Not What You Think: Why the Bible Might Be Nothing We Expected Yet Everything We Need

Not What You Think takes an honest, fresh look at the Bible—without the baggage of misconceptions or easy answers. It leans into the tough parts that can make modern readers pause, wrestle, or even walk away.

If you’ve ever had doubts about the Bible, you’re not alone. Many see it as outdated, intolerant, or even irrelevant. And honestly? Those questions make sense. But what if we set aside assumptions and encountered Scripture for what it really is?

Michael and Lauren McAfee understand that tension. They grew up in church, spent their twenties finding their way in New York City, and are now pursuing doctoral studies in theology and ethics—all while wrestling with their own bible questions. In this thoughtful and engaging read, they invite you to consider:

• What if our questions about Scripture aren’t a problem, but the starting point?
• What if the Bible isn’t just a set of rules to follow but a story to step into?
• What if its message is even more powerful and relevant than we’ve imagined?

Not What You Think is an invitation to rediscover the Bible with fresh eyes and an open heart—and maybe, just maybe, be surprised by what you find.

Lauren McAfee is the founder and visionary of Stand for Life and also serves as the ministry director at Hobby Lobby. Lauren is the author of Only One Life, Not What You Think, Legacy Study and Created in the Image of God. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Ethics and Policy. Lauren previously worked for her father, Steve Green, while he founded Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, serving as curator, artifact collection manager, and director of community engagement. Lauren and Michael are happily married with two fierce and feminine girls, Zion and Zara.

Michael McAfee is the president and founder of Inspire Experiences, a PhD student studying public theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and an Oklahoma City Thunder fanatic. His greatest accomplishment in life is escaping the friend zone with Lauren when they were in high school. Michael and Lauren wrote a book on next-gen Bible engagement titled Not What You Think. They are covenant members of Council Road Baptist Church where Michael serves as one of the teaching pastors.