Thank you, J, for your comment and question which you left regarding "Breathe Evangelism".
Which book? I relate to Tina and your advice about “baby steps” and agree. When it gets to the point of study though, I have trouble. Sometimes when I get their attention in learning more or accept something to read, they may be uncomfortable about following me to a preacher’s office for further help or to call one over (I feel like we’re ganging up on them). I believe when the “rubber meets the road,” they don’t believe the messenger, me, that I am qualified to study with them. Is there a book (easy for dummies) you recommend to guide you through scripture or to give to someone that encourages the student? I have looked at some things (either they are not me, not my style or too time consuming in the recipient’s mind). j
First, I throw the good question to the readers. What book would you recommend J?
So many books will do. I like to recommend books that speak of Jesus.
Henri Nouwen's The Return of the Prodigal as well as The Wounded Healer do a terrific job of portraying our Savior. Yancey's newest, What Good Is God? is a wonderful heart opener for doubters. My new MVP! book is specifically written for those who feel inadequate; like they would never be good enough to be accepted by God.
I am not fond of "steps books" for they tend to lead one to develop a nature to follow rules rather than the Person. However, different strokes for different folks surely is in play here. Having just concluded an actual class series I did for seekers leading toward Baptism Sunday is study I ponder about placing in book form.
I believe a great variation of books which open the mind and heart to God are most useful in growing one's spirit toward the Son.
Second, I mention all us this to other readers for any to comment. What books have you found effective? What would you offer as effective direction for J?
If we're talking about just finding something that's pretty easy to use to talk to someone about Jesus, one that I was introduced to as a young Christian uses the book of Mark to see who Jesus is and what He offers us. You can find an online version of it here: http://www.knowtruth.com/study/mark_study_1.php.
ReplyDeleteIf you're looking for something easy outside of Scripture to introduce someone to Jesus, there's a little book by Tony Jones, "Twelve Days With Jesus," that I've been pretty impressed with. You can find it here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0834150506/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000ZKCNCS&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0MNFTGA4MWJNXVJYFFH1