Those Who Show Up

by Andy Flannagan, Stephanie Heald (Editor)

An encouragement to Christians to become involved in politics and the local community at any level.

Genres: Christian, Politics

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 27, 2015

Reviews

[Martin Tiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you're not usually a margin-scribbler, keep a pencil handy when you read this book. It's full of insights which you will want to come back to, ponder and put into practice. The book gives an inspiring, daunting, hopeful, account of how Christians can, and should, get involved in our hard-won political democracy, rather than just standing outside it with our placards and slogans, keeping ourselves 'pure' from 'the world'. It's certainly moved my thinking along in this regard.

[Rob Seabrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

At different times in my life, at local and national elections, I have voted for all three main UK political parties as well as independent candidates. I have always found it easier to vote for the person, their character or integrity, rather than partisan party politics.
And like many people, I have regularly complained about the lack of good leaders, the state of politics, the lack of integrity or honesty and the seemingly corrupt nature that power has on some politicians, whilst never being willing to step in myself and do anything about it. But, I have always found myself saying how much better it would be to have Christians in those positions of influence and power. To have our lawmakers carrying out the task with a Christian influence and foundation.
Andy addresses these issues in a very logical, non-confrontational way, showing the importance of people like me and you getting involved at all levels, local and national. Especially important in what is looking likely to be an election year in the UK and the US.
He highlights that much of what goes on in the political arena is in fact carried out by ordinary people who just want to make a difference to their society, which pretty much mirrors some of the fundamental principles of Christianity.
His points are backed up with Scripture, as well as plenty of examples of people who live out their faith in serving their community at different levels. People of faith who have got involved and made a significant impact on their communities.
If you are interested in politics, especially if you feel called to engage in political spheres of any level, then please do read this book. It will encourage you to follow your calling and offer some truly sound advice in how to go about it in the right way. In fact, even if you are not a Christian, Andy’s advice will still serve you very well through a career in politics at any level.
Andy is humble in his writing, making the topic accessible and approachable. He writes with great wisdom. His purpose is to encourage, which he does well ... he has certainly made me think. There is a whole political mission filled out there that needs all our support.
See more reviews of Christian books at https://www.robseabrook.com/category/...

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written. well researched and well argued. In our current situation, to find agreement with someone from your own party is seen as remarkable and to find agreement from another party is almost miraculous. Therefore, I read Andy's book expecting there would be quite a few points upon which we disagreed. To my surprise, this was not the case. The reason being, is the appeal the author makes is one which acknowledges that although Christians may see things differently they have a very positive contribution to make. I like the way he uses a mixture of argument, theology and personal story to suggest getting involved makes a great deal of sense. Having now met the author himself, I can truly say this is someone who practices what he preaches and is therefore worth listening to!

[Robin Peake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and winsome read for Christians flirting with politics that will draw you to engage more.

There's an excellent overview of politics in the Bible and some great stories of ordinary Christians finding that access and influence are much closer than we think.

[William Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book to encourage Christians to take a stand in the public square, whatever your politics.

[Alison Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book. An exploration of what it means to truly get involved. Those committee meetings are where it all begins. Sharing ideas, challenging the status quo and then uniting and taking action.

[Martyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A passionate argument about how Christians should engage in the politics in the UK and beyond. Worth a read even if politics isn't your thing.