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How to Tell the Truth: The Story of How God Saved Me to Win Hearts—Not Just Arguments
The story of Preston Perry’s path toward God. A hope-filled apologetics and evangelism book written by the popular cohost of the podcast, With the Perrys. Includes a foreword by Jackie Hill Perry.
In this compelling and gripping book, Preston tells the story of how God chased him. The streets of Chicago were his home, and it was there that he encountered all sorts of people who had their own versions of the truth—from Jehovah Witnesses to Mormons to Hebrew Israelites. That is where Preston discovered not only the importance of the truth but how to tell the truth in a way that speaks to someone’s heart. Sharing our faith is not about winning arguments; it’s about winning hearts. And the way we do that is by engaging with friends, neighbors, and coworkers around us about our beliefs with truth, dignity, and respect.
With How to Tell the Truth, you will: be inspired by Preston’s own incredible story about how God transformed his life forever by showing him the very heart of what it means to be a Christian; be equipped with practical and easy ways to reach your friends and your neighbors with the truth of the gospel with kindness and love; be challenged to respond to God’s call to be bold. Eternity is at stake.
This book is like no other book you’ve read. Preston’s own story, including his successes and failures, is woven throughout the book to help us see how urgent our task is—and how powerful our God is.
In this compelling and gripping book, Preston tells the story of how God chased him. The streets of Chicago were his home, and it was there that he encountered all sorts of people who had their own versions of the truth—from Jehovah Witnesses to Mormons to Hebrew Israelites. That is where Preston discovered not only the importance of the truth but how to tell the truth in a way that speaks to someone’s heart. Sharing our faith is not about winning arguments; it’s about winning hearts. And the way we do that is by engaging with friends, neighbors, and coworkers around us about our beliefs with truth, dignity, and respect.
With How to Tell the Truth, you will: be inspired by Preston’s own incredible story about how God transformed his life forever by showing him the very heart of what it means to be a Christian; be equipped with practical and easy ways to reach your friends and your neighbors with the truth of the gospel with kindness and love; be challenged to respond to God’s call to be bold. Eternity is at stake.
This book is like no other book you’ve read. Preston’s own story, including his successes and failures, is woven throughout the book to help us see how urgent our task is—and how powerful our God is.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
297 people are currently reading
3571 people want to read
About the author
Preston Perry
11 books67 followersPreston Perry is a poet, author, teacher, apologist and evangelist from Chicago. By the grace of God, Preston has become a formidable communicator of the gospel. His love for people inspires him to pair transparency and vulnerability with his creativity in a way that promotes freedom. Preston pursues engagement with people from various faith backgrounds. He has a palpable passion for God’s word, and stands on biblical truth amidst his study of other religions. Preston’s writing and teaching has been featured on ministry platforms like The Gospel Coalition, the Poets in Autumn Tour, and Legacy Disciple. In 2017, Preston founded an apologetics YouTube channel and Bold Apparel as avenues to engage the public in theological discourse. Though Preston shares God’s desires for humanity publicly - he considers his family his primary ministry. Preston resides in Atlanta with his wife Jackie and their four beautiful children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 350 reviews
May 30, 2024
When I heard that Preston was writing a book last year, I knew it would be a must read—and y’all, it did not let this (south suburban) Chicago girl down!!
Reading this book felt like being at a coffee shop with a wise godly friend. You’ll learn a lot about Preston, how he came to faith, and how the Lord led him to love evangelism and apologetics. He doesn’t share “glory days” stories though—he’s so real and honest about all the ways he got it wrong and how the Lord (through His Word and faithful Christian mentors) helped him to grow.
But Preston doesn’t only share his story. He also gives the reader practical advice to help us be more effective in reaching people with the gospel.
I really enjoyed the way he wove his stories in with wise counsel. I also loved that this isn’t just wisdom for the extrovert—anyone with any temperament could put his suggestions into practice.
This is a book for every believer! Whether you feel like you’ve been graced with the gift of evangelism or not, we’ve all been called to share the good news. It’s relatable, accessible, edifying, and encouraging. Highly recommend!!
Reading this book felt like being at a coffee shop with a wise godly friend. You’ll learn a lot about Preston, how he came to faith, and how the Lord led him to love evangelism and apologetics. He doesn’t share “glory days” stories though—he’s so real and honest about all the ways he got it wrong and how the Lord (through His Word and faithful Christian mentors) helped him to grow.
But Preston doesn’t only share his story. He also gives the reader practical advice to help us be more effective in reaching people with the gospel.
I really enjoyed the way he wove his stories in with wise counsel. I also loved that this isn’t just wisdom for the extrovert—anyone with any temperament could put his suggestions into practice.
This is a book for every believer! Whether you feel like you’ve been graced with the gift of evangelism or not, we’ve all been called to share the good news. It’s relatable, accessible, edifying, and encouraging. Highly recommend!!
March 10, 2024
I absolutely loved this fairly short, powerful book on evangelism.
Preston Perry has such an incredible gift with words. His testimony is astounding and the way he tells his story is positively gripping. I devoured this book. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down!
How to Tell the Truth was engaging and full of practical advice and wisdom.
I couldn’t recommend this book more.
Thanks to NetGalley and B&H Pub for my gifted e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Preston Perry has such an incredible gift with words. His testimony is astounding and the way he tells his story is positively gripping. I devoured this book. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down!
How to Tell the Truth was engaging and full of practical advice and wisdom.
I couldn’t recommend this book more.
Thanks to NetGalley and B&H Pub for my gifted e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2024
A quick listen- relevant, sound, and encouraging!
January 15, 2025
Encouraging and challenging! A great starting place for Christians seeking to effectively share their faith with others.
"Apologetics isn't about winning a debate. True apologetics is about honoring Christ as holy, loving others more than ourselves, and presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ in love."
"The ultimate goal of apologetics is not to win an argument. It is to win a heart."
"Apologetics isn't about winning a debate. True apologetics is about honoring Christ as holy, loving others more than ourselves, and presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ in love."
"The ultimate goal of apologetics is not to win an argument. It is to win a heart."
July 13, 2024
Loved this. Felt like a chill chat with a cool dude about really important stuff.
But really — I really respect Preston and his approaches to both evangelism and apologetics so hearing more of his story and learning from him in this book was 🤌🏼. Highly recommend.
But really — I really respect Preston and his approaches to both evangelism and apologetics so hearing more of his story and learning from him in this book was 🤌🏼. Highly recommend.
January 15, 2025
Fascinating stories, encouraging message, poetic writing. A quick and easy read. If/when Preston writes a memoir, I'll read it in a heartbeat.
February 18, 2025
I love the Perrys! I have read books and studies by Jackie in the past, but have never read any of Preston’s work. This is such an encouraging & convicting book. I was so encouraged by his story and touched by his honesty about his own failures with evangelistic conversations. I listened to the audio book, and I loved hearing him read it. It really felt like I was sitting in a coffee shop with him, soaking in his wisdom. Overall, this is a well written book that is full of scripture and is great for equipping and encouraging believers to point others to Christ!
May 28, 2024
“The ultimate goal of apologetics is not to win an argument. It is to win a heart” Probably one of my favorite reads this year. Sometimes we over complicate what “sharing your faith” looks like. I loved all the real life experiences he included as examples of evangelism and discipleship.
September 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! A quick listen but an encouraging one!
June 5, 2024
First of all, it is a powerful testimony of Preston’s own story. From his upbringing in Chicago, to how God saved Him, and how he is learning to use the gifts given to him to exalt Christ, we have the privilege of learning more about the experiences that have shaped him. It is good to reflect on God’s sovereignty over the lives of all of His people, and what a miracle it is that we’ve been given new life.
Secondly, Expertly woven throughout his story is a mixture of practical helps and exhortations to share the faith, as well as a deeper look at some of the Scriptures that should inform how we represent Christ.
His boldness is contagious. His writing style is clear and direct, laying out where he is wanting to go plainly, while still being beautiful and imaginative. It is told in his unique voice and his way, which is really refreshing (even if I did have to Google “what does the expression ‘Like a g’ mean?” 😂). This book is artistry, passion, and a gift of loyal boldness to King Jesus. It is a gift to the church that is in need of a renewed commitment to evangelism and to love.
Since starting this book, I have slowed down and been more prayerful and less rushed in my interactions with strangers. I have prayed more consistently for opportunities to speak of Jesus, and am curiously praying about what the fears are that keep me from speaking up more often. May we grow in boldness and fear of the Lord. Jesus is worth everything!
Secondly, Expertly woven throughout his story is a mixture of practical helps and exhortations to share the faith, as well as a deeper look at some of the Scriptures that should inform how we represent Christ.
His boldness is contagious. His writing style is clear and direct, laying out where he is wanting to go plainly, while still being beautiful and imaginative. It is told in his unique voice and his way, which is really refreshing (even if I did have to Google “what does the expression ‘Like a g’ mean?” 😂). This book is artistry, passion, and a gift of loyal boldness to King Jesus. It is a gift to the church that is in need of a renewed commitment to evangelism and to love.
Since starting this book, I have slowed down and been more prayerful and less rushed in my interactions with strangers. I have prayed more consistently for opportunities to speak of Jesus, and am curiously praying about what the fears are that keep me from speaking up more often. May we grow in boldness and fear of the Lord. Jesus is worth everything!
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July 14, 2025Absolutely devoured this one. Especially loved the structure of practical advice, personal examples, and in-depth scripture annotation all layered together. Thank you, Preston, for doing the hard work of both writing the book and living out the content. A must-read!
November 19, 2024
A short, clean depiction of what Christian apologetics should be. Perry offers a convicting case against traditional debate-style conversations with unbelievers and for a more biblical approach of building relationships and sharing the truth within that context.
October 14, 2024
This book was such an easy, quick read and a perfect reminder of how to be more Christlike.
I like how Preston pointed out throughout his book that not only should we prioritize understanding scriptures and being ready to explain the hope and the faith with us - but that we should also prioritize understanding other people’s views and asking questions like why are they in that religion? Why do they read that verse that way? Have they always been taught this?
Seeking to love the person and show them Jesus should always be the top focus. What are you trying to win; an argument or a soul to Jesus?
I like how Preston pointed out throughout his book that not only should we prioritize understanding scriptures and being ready to explain the hope and the faith with us - but that we should also prioritize understanding other people’s views and asking questions like why are they in that religion? Why do they read that verse that way? Have they always been taught this?
Seeking to love the person and show them Jesus should always be the top focus. What are you trying to win; an argument or a soul to Jesus?
July 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and feel encouraged after listening to it. I don’t typically resonate with the “typical” method that a lot of evangelists use when they share the Gospels with the people around them. I find that they tend to be too aggressive, generic, and ineffective.
Preston’s approach, however, is much more personable, and is something that I think more nonbelievers would relate to. It provides a perfect balance between both making an intellectual case for our faith while also caring about the person’s personal experience and how that may affect his/her view of God. His personal story and examples were very helpful. Highly recommend!
Preston’s approach, however, is much more personable, and is something that I think more nonbelievers would relate to. It provides a perfect balance between both making an intellectual case for our faith while also caring about the person’s personal experience and how that may affect his/her view of God. His personal story and examples were very helpful. Highly recommend!
July 23, 2024
With Evangelism having a heavy stigma in many denominations for the past couple of decades, Preston conveys the presentation of the Gospel in such a graceful manner. He breaks down the practicals of being present and willing to engage in conversations.
Through his testimony, he advocates for truth and relying on the character of God to bring breakthroughs and encouragement to those without hope.
I appreciated that he talks at length about seeing the value in others, seeing that behind every lie/unbelief is brokeness and woundedness.
He clarifies the different approaches between street evangelism versus sharing the hope of the Gospel to friends and family, which I found a valuable distinction.
Through his testimony, he advocates for truth and relying on the character of God to bring breakthroughs and encouragement to those without hope.
I appreciated that he talks at length about seeing the value in others, seeing that behind every lie/unbelief is brokeness and woundedness.
He clarifies the different approaches between street evangelism versus sharing the hope of the Gospel to friends and family, which I found a valuable distinction.
June 23, 2024
I really do appreciate the honesty and transparency from Preston. I would recommend this book if you genuinely want to love people and not start an argument. If you want to win an argument, this isn’t the book for you. But if you are looking to win hearts for Jesus and love people well, then this is the book for you. Encourage me to teach others to love well and be a friend
May 27, 2024
I didn’t want to put this book down. It pulls you in first chapter with his story and how he came to know the Lord. How there were seeds planted long before he made the decision to follow God. He does a great job of explaining evangelism vs apologetics and how they work hand in hand. He took something that is very intimidating and made it feel doable. I couldn’t get through it fast enough.
Key verse- “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;”
1 Peter 3:15 NASB1995
Key verse- “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;”
1 Peter 3:15 NASB1995
June 22, 2025
I really liked this book! Preston is so gifted with words and story telling. Evangelism is a big struggle for most, but reading Preston's story and experiences was a great encouragement.
July 26, 2024
This book was 🔥 I love how Preston writes, it’s so personal while teaching truths so clearly. It’s written with humility which I really appreciate and gives a call to all Christians to win hearts not arguments. Highly recommend!
June 14, 2024
Listened. Short, practical book. Some good points.
September 25, 2025
earlier this year, i had the privilege of sitting under preston’s teaching at a conference, and i left eager for more of his wisdom. this book was everything i hoped it would be.
at its core, preston’s message is a call to recognise the urgency of the great commission - a mandate for every follower of Jesus.
his insights are both challenging and deeply necessary, compelling us to live boldly and unapologetically as Christ’s ambassadors. by grounding his advice in Scripture and weaving in personal stories, he offers clear, practical application that invites radical transformation.
“but we are called to intentional living, to, as paul says,’make the best use of the time’ we have (ephesians 5:16).i know this can sound daunting and challenging to some, like I'm asking you to step outside yourself. but how else can we follow a God who stepped off an eternal throne to dwell in time to save us if we don't abandon our comfort to also pursue others? and much of the time, it looks like what my grandmother did for me: modeling what a Jesus-filled life looks like, being ready to answer other people's questions, and being a stable, God-honoring presence in your community so that others can know who to turn to when they have questions.”
a powerful and timely read—i’m so glad i read this & i highly recommend!!
at its core, preston’s message is a call to recognise the urgency of the great commission - a mandate for every follower of Jesus.
his insights are both challenging and deeply necessary, compelling us to live boldly and unapologetically as Christ’s ambassadors. by grounding his advice in Scripture and weaving in personal stories, he offers clear, practical application that invites radical transformation.
“but we are called to intentional living, to, as paul says,’make the best use of the time’ we have (ephesians 5:16).i know this can sound daunting and challenging to some, like I'm asking you to step outside yourself. but how else can we follow a God who stepped off an eternal throne to dwell in time to save us if we don't abandon our comfort to also pursue others? and much of the time, it looks like what my grandmother did for me: modeling what a Jesus-filled life looks like, being ready to answer other people's questions, and being a stable, God-honoring presence in your community so that others can know who to turn to when they have questions.”
a powerful and timely read—i’m so glad i read this & i highly recommend!!
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August 9, 2024FINISHED! Book #6 in My Project! I A Faith-oriented book/month. My personal self-help thing. I'm anti-cheese, Bono-esque in my beliefs, sometimes terribly old-fashioned, oft-repugnant to my fellow religious folk.
Evangelism is a tough topic. For me. As a writer, who exists very much in a secular space. I'm sure--here's my big confession--this is one reason why I love U2 so much. I like that they neither compromise their beliefs nor their art. They say what's gotta be said, but they don't pander artistically. I respect that a lot. It's what I admire most, frankly.
That said, I'm not like Preston Perry, who's pretty classic evangelist. HOWEVER. he's one of the good guys. He's sensitive, not obnoxious, and has a good head on his shoulders. He's this guy from the "bad parts" of Chicago. But he's a freakin' poet--like spoken word stuff--and I found the writing very engaging. I could easily just read a book of his Chicago stories . . .
Evangelism is a tough topic. For me. As a writer, who exists very much in a secular space. I'm sure--here's my big confession--this is one reason why I love U2 so much. I like that they neither compromise their beliefs nor their art. They say what's gotta be said, but they don't pander artistically. I respect that a lot. It's what I admire most, frankly.
That said, I'm not like Preston Perry, who's pretty classic evangelist. HOWEVER. he's one of the good guys. He's sensitive, not obnoxious, and has a good head on his shoulders. He's this guy from the "bad parts" of Chicago. But he's a freakin' poet--like spoken word stuff--and I found the writing very engaging. I could easily just read a book of his Chicago stories . . .
May 12, 2025
I absolutely love the Perry’s and their fire for Jesus! Preston’s story is so powerful and encouraging.
Often times we overcomplicate evangelism and apologetics, but Preston reminds us of its simplicity and brings it back to the heart of the gospel.
This books offers stories of failures and successes for the kingdom - honestly it’s a real journey of examining your heart’s motive. It offers practical examples of how to share your faith by using the gifts God has given you without losing sight of the goal: winning hearts not arguments or boosting our ego.
Often times we overcomplicate evangelism and apologetics, but Preston reminds us of its simplicity and brings it back to the heart of the gospel.
This books offers stories of failures and successes for the kingdom - honestly it’s a real journey of examining your heart’s motive. It offers practical examples of how to share your faith by using the gifts God has given you without losing sight of the goal: winning hearts not arguments or boosting our ego.
August 12, 2024
this book was exactly what I needed to hear. Preston’s story is one so different than mine but we are saved by the same God and have the same call to share his love with others (even if we do it in different ways)! This book is both practical and challenging, reminding and equipping all those who follow Christ to look for opportunities to share their faith.
November 27, 2024
In his book, Preston shares how he came to faith in Christ and his journey growing as an evangelist and apologist. He writes with such grace and humility with a true desire to see more people boldly sharing Christ. I really appreciated this book and found myself encouraged and inspired to look for more opportunities to share the good news of Jesus. Preston is able to admonish his readers without using guilt or shame. This book is a gift to all Christians!
January 7, 2025
Preston Perry is a great storyteller, so that in itself makes this a compelling read (or listen, in my case). This is a fantastic combination of examples from Preston's life and scripture, with practical challenges and advice for those who love Jesus and want to share the truth of what he has done in their lives. All in all, you can really tell that Preston loves Jesus and loves others deeply.
June 17, 2024
Loved this! Preston shares practical ways, rooted in the Word, on how to win hearts (not arguments). I was also moved by his powerful testimony (which made me cry) and anecdotes from his life, highly recommend reading this!
August 29, 2024
A Michael recommendation for a change.
Very very good. Might even be this year’s favourite.
I was encouraged by his Grandmas witness to him. She had a sincere faith and Preston noticed her unique joy and strength that his other family members didn’t have. A tangible impact from the Lord. Can people see this hope in me?
1 Peter 3:15-16
Very very good. Might even be this year’s favourite.
I was encouraged by his Grandmas witness to him. She had a sincere faith and Preston noticed her unique joy and strength that his other family members didn’t have. A tangible impact from the Lord. Can people see this hope in me?
1 Peter 3:15-16
September 18, 2024
I’m so so grateful to God first that He never leaves us. Secondly, He has used Preston mightily. I’ve never read a book on evangelism like this!!! Christ followers are responsible for sharing their faith and it can be done with God’s help on how He’s created us. We just need to be willing and faithful. This book is a balance of Preston’s story and his God-given gift of sharing his faith. This was winch a great read!
August 27, 2025
This right here, this is what it means to be a christian. To make disciples to meet people where they are. Preston shows how to witness without shoving the gospel down someone’s throat. as someone who’s an introvert I appreciate the approach that sometimes how you live is a tool in itself. A life that draws others to you and makes them wonder why you have hope. represent Christ well.
“it doesn’t matter who you’re talking to, you always want to be polite, personable, empathetic, and engaging”
Romans 12:15
“sharing the gospel isn’t about making others feel bad about their past. it’s about helping them see a more hopeful future in Christ”
A bold approach with gentleness and kindness. I think the Christian society has forgot what it’s like to truly love one another.
1 Peter 3:15 “but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear”
this is a MUST read
“it doesn’t matter who you’re talking to, you always want to be polite, personable, empathetic, and engaging”
Romans 12:15
“sharing the gospel isn’t about making others feel bad about their past. it’s about helping them see a more hopeful future in Christ”
A bold approach with gentleness and kindness. I think the Christian society has forgot what it’s like to truly love one another.
1 Peter 3:15 “but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear”
this is a MUST read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 350 reviews