by Normal Geisler & David Geisler

Could evangelism be a part and parcel of our lives?  If it could, how would we address queries and objections?

The Geislers believe Evangelism should be a daily event. They lay out how everyone, with a bit of love, wisdom, knowledge and gumption, could be a genial and enthusiastic evangelist.

First, faith should be as objective as far as that is enabled by all available knowledge and wisdom. Apologetics, where both doubts and issues on God are addressed through known facts and rationale, fills a large part of the book.  The authors use many situations as illustrative lessons. Beyond setting out well-argued answers to questions laid upon our faith, the Geislers also propose that we adopt four occupations’ overarching mind-sets when engaging the inquirers; Musicians listen, Artists illuminate and illustrate, Archaeologists uncover details and the unseen (issues) and Builders build bridges and beachheads.  All these behaviors should be used appropriately and flexibly towards bringing someone to know, adopt and grow in the faith.

Second, every human encounter is subjective. We bring ourselves – personality, behavior and character – to every relationship and are the living representatives of our faith. In that light, one key driver of evangelism is not only our effort but also our inherent selves.

Third, the book is upfront about certain things. Importantly, it tells us to reconsider our perception of evangelism; it is as not a one-time formulaic event to be used periodically but is instead a journey of patience and co-discovery with those with whom we share our faith.  It does not have to be an in-your-face-risk-a-friendship event but can be patient, full of care, respectful, flexible and incremental.  With that understanding, evangelism can be a holistic, natural, daily event.

Fourth, the authors remind us that whatever efforts, wisdom and knowledge that one may apply in evangelism, only the Holy Spirit can inspire and convict each and every person. This should encourage us further to share our faith knowing that God is there every step of the way and He oversees the entire process and outcomes.

Finally, the book reminds us that we should evangelize as we have been gifted with salvation – love and forgiveness have filled us – and we should share this gift of eternity. Because no matter what anyone is going through now, both good and bad, eternity is all that truly matters.

Reviewed by
Ian Khoo