Unlikely converts, improbable stories of faith and what they teach us about evangelism
Most Christians have people in their lives who they're sure will never come to faith. Whether they're too committed to their sinful ways, too angry at God, or too quick to shut down any mention of the saving grace of Jesus, these long shots don't seem worth approaching.
But some of the most unlikely converts have the strongest faith stories, and they can be a source of incredible encouragement for Christians who are trying to evangelize those around them. Randy Newman knows firsthand the discomfort that comes with sharing the gospel. He's been tongue-tied and timid too. But the truth is, we don't need to sound like the brilliant, charismatic, legendary evangelists.
In this book, Randy shares surprising conversion stories straight from those who took the long way around to Christianity. He considers current cultural trends that make evangelism more difficult today. Then with his characteristic upbeat style, he offers practical ways, and even exact wording, to proclaim the gospel and includes a plan of action.
In the end, Unlikely Converts encourages us to remember that while the Great Commission requires us to share the good news, it does not require perfection, only confidence in the message.
Publisher: Kregel
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9780825445637
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Randy Newman has served in campus ministry for over thirty years. He now teaches at several evangelical seminaries and ministers in a variety of churches. He is currently a senior teaching fellow with The C. S. Lewis Institute in Washington, DC.
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“We need this book. Not because its author is a gospel guru, but because he’s so much like us: a timid evangelist. Randy Newman writes that he can’t remember sharing the gospel without fear, but that hasn’t stopped his mouth or iced his heart. Few combine the heart for the lost, the patient ear, and the tongue of grace like Randy. He shows us how to let our speech always be gracious while still feeling unceasing anguish about hell-bound friends and family made in God’s image. Let a brother who knows reluctance help you walk faithfully forward in yours.” -- David Mathis, executive editor at Desiring God & pastor of Cities Church