Speaking of Jesus: How To Tell Your Friends the Best News They Will Ever Hear

by J. Mack Stiles

The gospel really is the best news anyone will ever receive. So why do Christians shy away from talking about Jesus outside of church? And, when they do speak of Jesus, why do they often get a disinterested or scornful reponse?Mack Stiles offers a wealth of answers, ideas and stories in this heads-up, hands-on evangelism handbook. His creative strategies for reaching an ethnically, culturally, economically, educationally, geographically and ideologically diverse world with the best news ever are drawn directly from his own work as an evangelist in today's student world. In Speaking of Jesus he shows readers how to keep their eyes open for "divine appointments," how to approach others with a servant spirit, how to cross relational barriers, how to simply tell one's own story of faith, and how to answer questions with honesty and confidence.Speaking of Jesus may well be an Out of the Saltshaker for the 1990s and beyond. With contagious enthusiasm, Stiles stresses that evangelism isn't about exhibiting superhuman courage or perfecting specialized techniques or exercising extraordinary gifts. Instead, he shows that people of faith can use everyday situations and everyday language to pass on the simple--and simply wonderful--news about Jesus.

Genres: Evangelism, Christian, Christian Living, Faith

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 6, 1995

About the author

J. Mack Stiles is CEO of Gulf Digital Solutions and general secretary for the Fellowship of Christian UAE Students (FOCUS) in the United Arab Emirates. He has worked for many years with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in the United States.

Reviews

[Kelly Gwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far the best book on evangelism I’ve read so far. Stiles sees it all through the lens of the Gospel, and really emphasizes genuine obedience in all of life. This book isn’t one big guilt trip to get you fired up about converting people and doing your “duty.” This is truly a whole-life call to genuine consecration that INCLUDES and results in the overflow of sharing the message of reconciliation. I also appreciated that he was very clear that the work of conversion is GOD’S work, and we can trust HIM to do what He does, and don’t have to manipulate or pummel people. We can have genuine love and curiosity and be ready to deliver His message as His ambassadors as we seek opportunities to share. He’s experienced, and balanced, and practical, and trustworthy. It definitely didn’t give me that same “off” feeling I’ve had about many other “exhortations” to witness verbally to others. He emphasizes discipleship and community as well; reminding readers that much church growth in the NT was a result of radical gospel-centered community living, and focuses on Jesus’ plan and prayer which emphasizes community love and unity as a powerful witness of His reality and message. Mack Stiles’ JOY and sense of wonder at being allowed to participate in the ministry of reconciliation is contagious. Highly highly recommend this book!

[Nathan Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Enjoyable, challenging, accessible, practical. The best thing on evangelism I’ve ever read.

[Jack · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually enjoyed this book quite a bit! It is from InterVarsity Press, so it is slanted a little towards the college scene, but it made some great points about evangelism that anyone can use. If you have ever wndered how to share your faith effectivley this might be a good read for you.

[Adam Liebler · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading this book I have learned a better understanding of where I stand between God and the people that have not yet realized that he is the real deal. I am an ambassador of God what I do and say represent God. As a human being I am not perfect thus the reason for needing Jesus, am going to mess up. This book helps me to know better ways of acknowledging and proclaiming Gods love for us and what his son Jesus Christ has done in order to make us right before the Father. I would highly recommend this book to people as it has challenged me in ways I didn’t expect and I can honestly say that they have made me stronger in my faith with God and it has given me many more opportunities to share with the people around me. The book may seem to go off track a bit at times but it always found a way to tie those moments into an overlaying message. Just read it.

[Danny Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've really developed a love for accessible books. Stiles is just such a great writer with really memorable stories strewn throughout this book. And one thing that I love that Stiles does is give a base rubric for sharing your faith. This takes practice and this takes time. But if you can get down a base gospel presentation and a base testimony, you will be a long way into your journey.

Also, his metric (complete with a chart) of what makes a good evangelist was incredibly helpful. He writes that you need to be motivated, accessible, and equipped. Especially as you disciple, it is so helpful to put your people (and yourself) on this chart and point to what needs to be worked on.

[Keith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some weird examples that I don't think were helpful. But, offered good conversation when studying with friends

[Ryan Cavanaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good and simple to read book on evangelism

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very comprehensive, concise and readable book on evangelism. Stiles' stories do much to illustrate his points and make them more memorable. This is one of the best books on the subject that I have read and is encouraging, sound, and helpful.

[Shorel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good foundational book on EV. I'd recommend it as a starting point on learning to share Jesus' story.

[Steve Nation · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on how to share the gospel I've read so far (just trumping know and Tell the Gospel and Promoting the Gospel)

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT!!!