Bringing the Gospel Home: Witnessing to Family Members, Close Friends, and Others Who Know You Well. By Randy Newman. Wheaton: Crossway, 2011.
I don't know of any Christian who hasn't struggled with this issue, and I don't know of any better resource on this issue!
When it comes to witnessing to family members and close friends, Christians generally either clam up and never really witness at all or go to the other extreme and come across with a holier-than-thou attitude. Newman's book brings much balance, encouragement, and insight to the discussion.
Other books on evangelism can tend to be legalistic or manipulative in tone. Bringing the Gospel Home acknowledges the struggles and failures of witnessing at all, much less to family and friends. Newman's tone is encouraging. He grounds the discussion in Scripture, provides tools and suggestions, and then gives examples of those who have put these tools into practice.
Two important strengths: sound theology and insightful advice. The topic of evangelism naturally leans toward practical application. However, sound, biblical theology must inform our practice, and Newman provides a great balance. As far as advice, there is not a single chapter that is not helpful. Personally, learning to patient and consistent, allowing God to move upon hearts and open discussion, and learning how to respond in ways that invite conversation instead of closing a door were all valuable.
I found myself more confident in building relationships and initiating possible future evangelistic opportunities while reading through the book. In fact, my wife and I actually followed through with engaging a family in our neighborhood before I finished the book.
It will not only equip and encourage you in a most difficult area, but it will move you to begin, for some, maybe to begin again. I highly recommend Bringing the Gospel Home to every believer.
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