He believes that Dawkins is right when he argues that it is necessary to critique religion, and right to demand that there be an external criterion for interpreting texts; but argues that Dawkins appears unaware that religions and their texts possess internal means of reform and renewal, and that Dawkins seems unaware of the symbolism of several of the Bible passages which he quotes. McGrath cites the works of numerous authors, including Kenneth Pargament, Harold G. Koenig, and Terry Eagleton, to demonstrate how closely he feels religious faith to be tied to well-being.
He agrees with Dawkins that religion should be subject to examination, and that a separate framework for interpreting texts is necessary; but disagrees with Dawkins' claim that religions are unable to undergo internal renewal, and that Dawkins overlooks the symbolic significance of certain Bible passages he quotes. McGrath cites numerous authors to illustrate his argument about the connection between faith and overall health.