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Joyfully Spreading the Word
Many Christian women view evangelism as an optional add-on to their Christian lives--which means it's often neglected in the face of constant distractions, cultural discomfort, and busy schedules. And yet, God has called women to joyfully spread the good news in all the various contexts to which God has called them. It's time for a renewed vision of the necessity, urgency, and practicality of the call to share the good news of Jesus in any situation. With a clear articulation of the message of the gospel alongside concrete personal stories and practical examples from ten women, this book supplies role models who show women how to faithfully and effectively share the gospel in any season of life.
192 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2018
17 people are currently reading
545 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen B. Nielson
27 books24 followerssee also: Kathleen Buswell Nielson
A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Kathleen Nielson holds M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in literature from Vanderbilt University and a B.A. from Wheaton College (Illinois). She has taught in the English departments at Vanderbilt University, Bethel College (Minnesota), and Wheaton College. She is the author of numerous Bible studies, and the book Bible Study: Following the Ways of the Word, as well as various articles and poems. Kathleen has directed and taught women s Bible studies at several churches and speaks extensively at conferences and retreats. She serves as director of women s initiatives for The Gospel Coalition and on the board of directors of The Charles Simeon Trust. Kathleen and her husband Niel (president of Covenant College 2002 2012, now leading an enterprise in global Christian education) have three sons, two beautiful daughters-in-law, and a growing number of grandchildren!
A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Kathleen Nielson holds M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in literature from Vanderbilt University and a B.A. from Wheaton College (Illinois). She has taught in the English departments at Vanderbilt University, Bethel College (Minnesota), and Wheaton College. She is the author of numerous Bible studies, and the book Bible Study: Following the Ways of the Word, as well as various articles and poems. Kathleen has directed and taught women s Bible studies at several churches and speaks extensively at conferences and retreats. She serves as director of women s initiatives for The Gospel Coalition and on the board of directors of The Charles Simeon Trust. Kathleen and her husband Niel (president of Covenant College 2002 2012, now leading an enterprise in global Christian education) have three sons, two beautiful daughters-in-law, and a growing number of grandchildren!
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 17, 2024
Very practical, rich, and helpful book on evangelism!
August 15, 2021
Some really helpful and encouraging sections and stories mixed in with lots of ‘okay’ chapters. I think it felt like lots of authors pulling in different directions rather than one united book.
January 10, 2019
Encouraging, a gentle spur to action. I appreciated the reminder that as Christians, we are all called and equipped to share our faith---by the power of the Holy Spirit. We are not adequately prepared or fully knowledgeable, but He is!
Excellent book overall, with some expected variation due to multiple authors.
Excellent book overall, with some expected variation due to multiple authors.
December 13, 2018
3.5 stars. I got a bit bogged down in part one. Maybe I just needed to take more time to read it slowly and digest it better. Really enjoyed part two and found it very helpful.
October 14, 2018
Joyfully Spreading the Word edited by Kathleen Nielsen and Gloria Furman focuses on the centrality of evangelism in the Christian life. Now, joy probably isn’t a word many followers of Jesus associate with evangelism. In fact, many view it more as an added extra (even if they would never say this). Joyfully Spreading the Word is therefore a a helpful, and needed, correction on this issue.
The primary audience of Joyfully Spreading the Word is female, and anyone will benefit from reading regardless of gender. One of the reasons for this is the contributors pay attention on ensuring their work will help those who want to become better at sharing their faith. Another important factor is that each contributor paints stories from their everyday life. While contexts vary, the stories plant evangelism in a reality which can easily be applied to oneself.
Joyfully Spreading the Word isn’t a book full of heroes. The women that contribute to the book are ordinary people who live their faith in ways that help others see Jesus. Their stories reflect their experience, from neighbours and friends, to college campuses and work colleagues, to children and grandkids. The richness of the examples don’t give give us something to follow but show how evangelism happens in the context of everyday life.
Not all the stories are victories. Some end with people coming to know Jesus but some don’t. This is so refreshing. Who hasn’t felt like an evangelistic failure because you’ve just finished a book full of victories but you’ve tried no one came to Jesus! We need books that help us see that evangelism is loving our neighbours and sharing Jesus with them whether they believe or not. Thankfully this is one of those books.
Joyfully Spreading the Word does 2 balancing acts really well. Firstly, it approaches the subject holistically. What evangelism is, is the topic of many books. Equally, there are many books about how to evangelise. But Joyfully Spreading the Word deals with both the the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ well. It achieves this succinctly with section 1 looking at the ‘what’ of evangelism and section 2 dealing with the ‘how’.
The second balancing act Joyfully Spreading the Word does well relates to the contributors. One of the difficulties with books with various contributors is there is that jarring moment between chapters as the reader adjusts to the new writer. While each contributor has their own tone and style, the change in writer do not negatively impact the book as a whole. Much of the credit for this must go to the editors.
The primary audience of Joyfully Spreading the Word is female, and anyone will benefit from reading regardless of gender. One of the reasons for this is the contributors pay attention on ensuring their work will help those who want to become better at sharing their faith. Another important factor is that each contributor paints stories from their everyday life. While contexts vary, the stories plant evangelism in a reality which can easily be applied to oneself.
Joyfully Spreading the Word isn’t a book full of heroes. The women that contribute to the book are ordinary people who live their faith in ways that help others see Jesus. Their stories reflect their experience, from neighbours and friends, to college campuses and work colleagues, to children and grandkids. The richness of the examples don’t give give us something to follow but show how evangelism happens in the context of everyday life.
Not all the stories are victories. Some end with people coming to know Jesus but some don’t. This is so refreshing. Who hasn’t felt like an evangelistic failure because you’ve just finished a book full of victories but you’ve tried no one came to Jesus! We need books that help us see that evangelism is loving our neighbours and sharing Jesus with them whether they believe or not. Thankfully this is one of those books.
Joyfully Spreading the Word does 2 balancing acts really well. Firstly, it approaches the subject holistically. What evangelism is, is the topic of many books. Equally, there are many books about how to evangelise. But Joyfully Spreading the Word deals with both the the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ well. It achieves this succinctly with section 1 looking at the ‘what’ of evangelism and section 2 dealing with the ‘how’.
The second balancing act Joyfully Spreading the Word does well relates to the contributors. One of the difficulties with books with various contributors is there is that jarring moment between chapters as the reader adjusts to the new writer. While each contributor has their own tone and style, the change in writer do not negatively impact the book as a whole. Much of the credit for this must go to the editors.
August 23, 2018
“Evangelism has an expiration date. The story of the Bible reveals that evangelism is not eternal. It is a means to and end, and that end is fellowship with God forever... History is going somewhere. Time is literally running out.” -Gloria Furman
This book WAY exceeded my expectations. It is edited by two women I love to hear teach, but it’s chapters are written by different authors. The content was not what I was expecting at all; it was way better. This book has a great mix of teaching/instruction and stories that will encourage the stew out of you. You’ll be refreshed in the gospel and given some practical tips on sharing the gospel as well as instruction on targeting specific groups of people (I found these chapters so helpful). I am listing the chapters and authors below to help give some insight into what’s in this gem of a book. It’s a quick and easy read, definitely not too heavy for those who struggle to read theological books.
1 - The Glorious What of Evangelism (Becky Pippert)
2 - The Heart of the Evangelist (Megan Hill)
3 - The Cultural Mandate and the Great Commission (Camille Hallstrom and Kathleen Nielson)
4 - Mercy Ministry and Proclamation Ministry (Eowyn Stoddard)
5 - Spreading the Word in Everyday Life (Gloria Furman)
6 - Spreading the Word among Children (Jamie Love)
7 - Spreading the Word among University Students (SharDavia Walker)
8 - Spreading the Word in the Workplace (Happy Khambule with Kathleen Nielson)
9 - Spreading the Word among Friends Identifying as LGBTQ (Rosaria Butterfield)
10 - Spreading the Word in Diverse Contexts (Multiple Women)
I received a free copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.
This book WAY exceeded my expectations. It is edited by two women I love to hear teach, but it’s chapters are written by different authors. The content was not what I was expecting at all; it was way better. This book has a great mix of teaching/instruction and stories that will encourage the stew out of you. You’ll be refreshed in the gospel and given some practical tips on sharing the gospel as well as instruction on targeting specific groups of people (I found these chapters so helpful). I am listing the chapters and authors below to help give some insight into what’s in this gem of a book. It’s a quick and easy read, definitely not too heavy for those who struggle to read theological books.
1 - The Glorious What of Evangelism (Becky Pippert)
2 - The Heart of the Evangelist (Megan Hill)
3 - The Cultural Mandate and the Great Commission (Camille Hallstrom and Kathleen Nielson)
4 - Mercy Ministry and Proclamation Ministry (Eowyn Stoddard)
5 - Spreading the Word in Everyday Life (Gloria Furman)
6 - Spreading the Word among Children (Jamie Love)
7 - Spreading the Word among University Students (SharDavia Walker)
8 - Spreading the Word in the Workplace (Happy Khambule with Kathleen Nielson)
9 - Spreading the Word among Friends Identifying as LGBTQ (Rosaria Butterfield)
10 - Spreading the Word in Diverse Contexts (Multiple Women)
I received a free copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2018
I received a free e-book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review (Thank you!). All thoughts are 100% my own.
This book is split into two parts, and has ten chapters. Each chapter is written by a different woman. The first part is titled “Core Concerns” and goes over the basics of the gospel and evangelizing. The second part is “Representative Contexts” and contains advice and stories.
I don’t remember very much from a few chapters, but I enjoyed the book overall. Even though the target audience is women, I can see men benefiting from this book as well. This is a very theologically sound book, plus anthologies (is that the right word?) are such a great way to find new authors.
This book encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, but I’m far from approaching strangers. I’m a HUGE introvert with social anxiety. I’m the type of person who doesn’t talk unless someone talks to me first. Most of the evangelizing I do is in Facebook groups, forums, etc.
Sharing the gospel on social media is just as important as sharing it with friends, family, and co-workers, and going overseas as a missionary… John Piper once said, “Scatter the seeds of Truth to the winds of social media. If God wills, you can touch someone around the world with what you say.”
Click here to read more.
This book is split into two parts, and has ten chapters. Each chapter is written by a different woman. The first part is titled “Core Concerns” and goes over the basics of the gospel and evangelizing. The second part is “Representative Contexts” and contains advice and stories.
I don’t remember very much from a few chapters, but I enjoyed the book overall. Even though the target audience is women, I can see men benefiting from this book as well. This is a very theologically sound book, plus anthologies (is that the right word?) are such a great way to find new authors.
This book encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, but I’m far from approaching strangers. I’m a HUGE introvert with social anxiety. I’m the type of person who doesn’t talk unless someone talks to me first. Most of the evangelizing I do is in Facebook groups, forums, etc.
Sharing the gospel on social media is just as important as sharing it with friends, family, and co-workers, and going overseas as a missionary… John Piper once said, “Scatter the seeds of Truth to the winds of social media. If God wills, you can touch someone around the world with what you say.”
Click here to read more.
May 16, 2018
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Crossway.
It has been many years since I have read any books on the topic of evangelism and those i have read in the past I have often found disheartening and not particularly helpful. However this new book edited by Kathleen Nelson and Gloria Furman is a fantastic resource to assist and encourage women in their evangelistic efforts. The first section of the book covers why we should be evangelising and is a section steeped in gospel truths which served as a beautiful reminder of the truth that we have to share. I particular enjoyed the chapter on 'Mercy Mission and Proclamation Ministry' which reminded us that compassionate ministries are all well and good but they have to be accompanied with Words of Truth.
The second section shared practical advice, encouragement and examples of evangelism in a variety of contexts, from every day life to the home and University contexts among others.
This book will leave you reinvigorated to share the gospel with all that you come into contact with. It also will leave you much encouraged as it is packed full of stories of people being brought to faith. It is a short and easy read. A really excellent book!
It has been many years since I have read any books on the topic of evangelism and those i have read in the past I have often found disheartening and not particularly helpful. However this new book edited by Kathleen Nelson and Gloria Furman is a fantastic resource to assist and encourage women in their evangelistic efforts. The first section of the book covers why we should be evangelising and is a section steeped in gospel truths which served as a beautiful reminder of the truth that we have to share. I particular enjoyed the chapter on 'Mercy Mission and Proclamation Ministry' which reminded us that compassionate ministries are all well and good but they have to be accompanied with Words of Truth.
The second section shared practical advice, encouragement and examples of evangelism in a variety of contexts, from every day life to the home and University contexts among others.
This book will leave you reinvigorated to share the gospel with all that you come into contact with. It also will leave you much encouraged as it is packed full of stories of people being brought to faith. It is a short and easy read. A really excellent book!
August 29, 2018
Despite inevitable hardships, women in the United States live a pretty comfortable life. We go about our lives, attend church and try to do good, but many Christian women view evangelism as an "optional add-on" to their everyday lives. Sure, we should do it, but it's uncomfortable or we are too busy or we think we're not gifted in that way.
When we think like this, sharing the gospel is often neglected. And yet, God has called women to joyfully spread the good news.
Joyfully Spreading the Word: Sharing the Good News of Jesus provides dozens of practical examples and personal stories for Christian women to be inspired to share the gospel.
In it, you'll learn how to faithfully and effectively share the gospel, no matter your age, neighborhood or spiritual gifts.
October 24, 2018
*I received a free e-book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.
Thoughts:
What an encouraging read. This book was better than I anticipated.
I loved that each of the chapters were written by women, for women. I also enjoyed how the authors creatively sectioned off the book into biblical appreciation (the WHY behind sharing our faith) & practical application (the HOW to do it). There is so much power in sharing our stories and experience. It's what brings us together! And this book does just that.
It's also an easy read. Some theological books take a while to get through or are too difficult to finish. This book is not that. It really is enjoyable.
I’ll definitely be recommending this to friends and family.
Thoughts:
What an encouraging read. This book was better than I anticipated.
I loved that each of the chapters were written by women, for women. I also enjoyed how the authors creatively sectioned off the book into biblical appreciation (the WHY behind sharing our faith) & practical application (the HOW to do it). There is so much power in sharing our stories and experience. It's what brings us together! And this book does just that.
It's also an easy read. Some theological books take a while to get through or are too difficult to finish. This book is not that. It really is enjoyable.
I’ll definitely be recommending this to friends and family.
February 11, 2022
I think I was hoping for less intellectual discussion and more actual encouragement, especially after the introduction said something about simply telling these women's stories being one of the best ways to approach the subject of evangelism. On the other hand, there were some really encouraging sections, especially in the more personal experiences, and I loved the continued emphasis on God's Word as being sufficient for evangelism without us needing to have fancy diagrams or catchy phrases. 3.5 out of 5 stars, rounded down because I really like a bunch of these authors and was hoping for more than was delivered here.
July 30, 2018
**I received this book from Crossway through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Everything I’ve read from Gloria Furman has been excellent, including this book that she edited along with Kathleen Nielson. I appreciated that the chapters were written by different women and the way the book is separated into two sections: first, Biblically why we share our faith and second, practical application and stories of women sharing their faith in different contexts. I’ll definitely be recommending this one to friends!
Everything I’ve read from Gloria Furman has been excellent, including this book that she edited along with Kathleen Nielson. I appreciated that the chapters were written by different women and the way the book is separated into two sections: first, Biblically why we share our faith and second, practical application and stories of women sharing their faith in different contexts. I’ll definitely be recommending this one to friends!
August 25, 2018
Joyfully Spreading the Word: Sharing the Good News of Jesus
This book came at just the right time for me, I am starting to want to tell everyone about Jesus. It is very encouraging and keeps you engaged. Each author wrote a different part of the book. It is beautifully written and will help any women that are trying to fulfill her calling in spreading the joy of Jesus.
This book came at just the right time for me, I am starting to want to tell everyone about Jesus. It is very encouraging and keeps you engaged. Each author wrote a different part of the book. It is beautifully written and will help any women that are trying to fulfill her calling in spreading the joy of Jesus.
February 8, 2023
This was not very engaging. I ended up skipping my entire sections, honestly. Gloria Furman’s section was good. But the rest was not amazingly written. I was disappointed because I have been convicted lately of my lack of zeal for reaching the lost for Christ, and this book did not deliver in the practicality department. The gospel truly is amazing. This book, not so much.
April 17, 2021
This book is solid biblically and provides a good “why” for sharing God’s good news with others. While if offers some practical ways to open conversations with others, I wish there was a LOT more practical advice in the book.
July 29, 2019
Every Believer need to read this book! Yes, man too even though it is written to women, you can get the idea from them too. Thankful for this book and change some of my insight too! Very helpful too!
April 26, 2020
Highlights for me in this book was the chapter my friend Eowyn Stoddard wrote on word and deed, and the very helpful chapter written by Rosario Butterfield.
November 26, 2020
Very encouraging book with numerous examples of how to share the gospel in everyday relationships by being steeped in the Word and by being intentional in your relationships.
February 5, 2024
I love this book. I’ve read it twice. It’s well written and very practical.
February 25, 2024
Enjoyed some chapters more than others.
Want to read
May 21, 2018*This is an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley. No review, positive or otherwise, was required—all opinions are my own.*
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews