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Talk the Walk: How to Be Right Without Being Insufferable
This attitude-altering book invites Christians to cultivate boldness and humility in communicating gospel truth. By uncovering self-righteousness and spiritual arrogance, Talk the Walk by pastor and author Steve Brown shatters stereotypes and helps believers consider how they present the good news without watering it down.
The Christian faith is true, and while we may be right on issues of salvation and theology, we may miss the less articulated truths of humility, love, and forgiveness. We live in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christians and their faith. Talk the Walk unpacks the call to go out into the world and share faith by being truthful and winsome. By helping men and women love others out of a deeper love in Christ the one who first loved us Talk the Walk helps Christians present the gospel clearly and with compassion.
Take a step back and look at others perceptions. Explore the tools necessary to accomplish an attitude change of confidence and humility, repentance and truth. Share the message of Christ without distorting it. Speak confidently without being cold. By operating out of humble gratitude for the gospel, begin to talk the walk of Christian faith, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus.
The Christian faith is true, and while we may be right on issues of salvation and theology, we may miss the less articulated truths of humility, love, and forgiveness. We live in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christians and their faith. Talk the Walk unpacks the call to go out into the world and share faith by being truthful and winsome. By helping men and women love others out of a deeper love in Christ the one who first loved us Talk the Walk helps Christians present the gospel clearly and with compassion.
Take a step back and look at others perceptions. Explore the tools necessary to accomplish an attitude change of confidence and humility, repentance and truth. Share the message of Christ without distorting it. Speak confidently without being cold. By operating out of humble gratitude for the gospel, begin to talk the walk of Christian faith, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus.
160 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2019
21 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Steve Brown
674 books16 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 28, 2020
I hate to admit this, but this is the first book I’ve ever read from my grandfather. It was amazing! I loved that his writing sounds exactly the way he preaches and ministers on his podcast, and this book had so many times where I would laugh because it reminded me so much of Pops.
July 16, 2019
I don’t listen to much Christian radio these days, but back when I was teaching, I often did. I frequently heard brief snippets by “Key Life” host Steve Brown. He had a deep, appealing voice, and he made sense too. So when I heard that he’d written a book that was up for review, I decided to request a copy (thank you to New Growth Press).
Steve’s book is called “Talk the Walk: How to be right without being insufferable.” This seemed particularly relevant in today’s society. Especially with all the bombardment by social media, how can Christians stand up for their beliefs without alienating others? It’s something I think about often.
Brown raises several points on this issue that I found interesting. He begins by assuring us that, as Christians, we *are* right. We *do* end up winning. However, we should be careful in sharing our news: “Being right is extremely dangerous for a Christian and, in fact, may be the most destructive danger a Christian ever faces in communicating to those who do not want to hear.”
“It is often enough to say, ‘Jesus loves you, and I do too’ … Answering questions that are not raised, and going places that are not presently important is offensive and a waste of time. It is better that Christians remain silent.”
I could see the reasoning behind Brown’s thinking, although I tend to be a bit more interventionalist (at least in my mind!). However, he sold me best in his chapter, “Nobody’s Mother.” Here, he points out “believers’ limitations,” cautioning that we don’t need to share everything we know with everyone we know. We don’t need to take on every need to pray over, and we don’t need to fret over the salvation of every person we meet. Christians can’t “die on every cross.” I know — sounds a little heretical. But I think it makes sense.
From an unbeliever’s perspective, if a Christian comes around trying to knock them over the head with “the truth,” it can seem a bit much — it can seem as if the Christian is trying to control the person, or be their “mom.” “If you have an agenda for someone else, stop it. There are few things more irritating and more of a hindrance to real communication than trying to be someone’s mother.” For instance, what if a new Muslim acquaintance of yours decided to try to convert you to Islam. He/she constantly talks about Allah being the truth, invites you to the mosque, etc. This would seriously give me the creeps, and I would try to distance myself from that person, finding them way too controlling and intrusive. It makes sense to me that the same could be true of the same situation with a Christian/non-Christian.
“Christians are not called to straighten out the world of unbelievers. We are not their mothers. But what about looking for what is good, and affirming it, in unbelievers? What would happen if Christians were less critical and more affirming? Would you be willing to rein in your political and even moral views if you knew that people would come to Christ because you did?” I found the concepts in this chapter really thought-provoking.
Brown also suggests that Christians be more transparent, not presenting Christians as perfect/better than others, and not overemphasizing the joys of Christian life to unbelievers. “Victorious living is sometimes barely keeping your nose above water, sinning a little less on occasion than you did before, and getting up in the morning to face the pain of a bad marriage, a cancer prognosis, or a rebellious child when you would rather just stay in bed. When Christians pretend that is not true, nobody wants to listen when they talk about Christ.”
“We should speak softly and let God carry the big stick if He wants. The big-stick stuff is way above our pay grade.”
I found a lot of good food for thought in “Talk the Walk” and would recommend it to Christians who have thought over these issues.
Steve’s book is called “Talk the Walk: How to be right without being insufferable.” This seemed particularly relevant in today’s society. Especially with all the bombardment by social media, how can Christians stand up for their beliefs without alienating others? It’s something I think about often.
Brown raises several points on this issue that I found interesting. He begins by assuring us that, as Christians, we *are* right. We *do* end up winning. However, we should be careful in sharing our news: “Being right is extremely dangerous for a Christian and, in fact, may be the most destructive danger a Christian ever faces in communicating to those who do not want to hear.”
“It is often enough to say, ‘Jesus loves you, and I do too’ … Answering questions that are not raised, and going places that are not presently important is offensive and a waste of time. It is better that Christians remain silent.”
I could see the reasoning behind Brown’s thinking, although I tend to be a bit more interventionalist (at least in my mind!). However, he sold me best in his chapter, “Nobody’s Mother.” Here, he points out “believers’ limitations,” cautioning that we don’t need to share everything we know with everyone we know. We don’t need to take on every need to pray over, and we don’t need to fret over the salvation of every person we meet. Christians can’t “die on every cross.” I know — sounds a little heretical. But I think it makes sense.
From an unbeliever’s perspective, if a Christian comes around trying to knock them over the head with “the truth,” it can seem a bit much — it can seem as if the Christian is trying to control the person, or be their “mom.” “If you have an agenda for someone else, stop it. There are few things more irritating and more of a hindrance to real communication than trying to be someone’s mother.” For instance, what if a new Muslim acquaintance of yours decided to try to convert you to Islam. He/she constantly talks about Allah being the truth, invites you to the mosque, etc. This would seriously give me the creeps, and I would try to distance myself from that person, finding them way too controlling and intrusive. It makes sense to me that the same could be true of the same situation with a Christian/non-Christian.
“Christians are not called to straighten out the world of unbelievers. We are not their mothers. But what about looking for what is good, and affirming it, in unbelievers? What would happen if Christians were less critical and more affirming? Would you be willing to rein in your political and even moral views if you knew that people would come to Christ because you did?” I found the concepts in this chapter really thought-provoking.
Brown also suggests that Christians be more transparent, not presenting Christians as perfect/better than others, and not overemphasizing the joys of Christian life to unbelievers. “Victorious living is sometimes barely keeping your nose above water, sinning a little less on occasion than you did before, and getting up in the morning to face the pain of a bad marriage, a cancer prognosis, or a rebellious child when you would rather just stay in bed. When Christians pretend that is not true, nobody wants to listen when they talk about Christ.”
“We should speak softly and let God carry the big stick if He wants. The big-stick stuff is way above our pay grade.”
I found a lot of good food for thought in “Talk the Walk” and would recommend it to Christians who have thought over these issues.
January 18, 2020
I listen to Steve Brown’s radio show, Key Life, in the mornings while I get ready for work. I love his deep, deep voice and common sense.
This is a quick book. Some of my takeaways:
If Christians do not care about people and love them first, they will not be open to hearing our message.
Don’t answer questions that are not asked.
There IS truth. Truth often divides and offends. Truth never changes. Truth often cuts before it heals. Only truth heals, frees and redeems. Anything else might make you feel good, but is useless and destructive.
Believers and unbelievers alike weep, worry, sin, have terrible secrets and shattered dreams. God says “I know, child” and it’s His presence with us in these situations that make the difference.
It takes divine intervention to believe. People won’t accept that they are sinners in need of a savior without the Holy Spirit. There is nothing I can say that will change someone without divine intervention. This is above my pay grade.
Love that is based on who we are or what we have done is not love. This is reward. Loving without conditions and being silent until asked is the best witness to our God who loves us in spite of ourselves.
This is a quick book. Some of my takeaways:
If Christians do not care about people and love them first, they will not be open to hearing our message.
Don’t answer questions that are not asked.
There IS truth. Truth often divides and offends. Truth never changes. Truth often cuts before it heals. Only truth heals, frees and redeems. Anything else might make you feel good, but is useless and destructive.
Believers and unbelievers alike weep, worry, sin, have terrible secrets and shattered dreams. God says “I know, child” and it’s His presence with us in these situations that make the difference.
It takes divine intervention to believe. People won’t accept that they are sinners in need of a savior without the Holy Spirit. There is nothing I can say that will change someone without divine intervention. This is above my pay grade.
Love that is based on who we are or what we have done is not love. This is reward. Loving without conditions and being silent until asked is the best witness to our God who loves us in spite of ourselves.
July 31, 2019
Talk the Walk
How to Be Right Without Being Insufferable
by Steve Brown
New Growth Press
Christian , Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 03 Jun 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Talk the Walk through New Growth Press and Netgalley:
This book points out that to often Christians see non Christians as the enemy. We are reminded too that we as Christians are not required to be fixers.
We are reminded too that real truth is practical.
In this book Steve Brown reminds us that though Christianity is true on the aspects of Salvation and Theology that we may in-fact miss the less articulated truths of humility, love, and forgiveness.
We are reminded too that we live in a society that is getting increasingly hostile towards Christians and there beliefs, and Steve Brown gives us some of the tools that may help to in some ways to bridge that gap.
I give Talk the Walk five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
How to Be Right Without Being Insufferable
by Steve Brown
New Growth Press
Christian , Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 03 Jun 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Talk the Walk through New Growth Press and Netgalley:
This book points out that to often Christians see non Christians as the enemy. We are reminded too that we as Christians are not required to be fixers.
We are reminded too that real truth is practical.
In this book Steve Brown reminds us that though Christianity is true on the aspects of Salvation and Theology that we may in-fact miss the less articulated truths of humility, love, and forgiveness.
We are reminded too that we live in a society that is getting increasingly hostile towards Christians and there beliefs, and Steve Brown gives us some of the tools that may help to in some ways to bridge that gap.
I give Talk the Walk five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
August 26, 2019
If you are a Christian who wants to help others and remind yourself how to speak truth with a humble heart, then consider reading 'Talk the Walk: How to Be Right Without Being Insufferable' by Steve Brown.
See full review at: http://www.entrustedbygod.org/2019/08...
See full review at: http://www.entrustedbygod.org/2019/08...
January 3, 2020
Not every book I read is life changing, but this one is because it takes the deepest and most important parts of the Christian faith and uses that to help us share that faith.
As Christians, we are often encouraged to walk the talk, put our lives where our mouths are, but Steve Brown turns that expression on its head and challenges us to Talk the Walk, sharing his insights on how we can talk about the Christian walk in a way that demonstrates Christ and opens doors to sharing our faith. His subtitle is humorous and poignant: How to be Right Without Being Insufferable.
In a post-truth culture, learning how to share THE truth with those who need to hear it is more difficult than ever, even as it is more important than ever.
Brown’s first point starts with our own heart and motivation as Christians. Too often Christians approach non-Christians as the enemy. Brown rightly teaches that we need to come from a place of love and compassion before we can share the truth of Jesus and His desire for a relationship with us.
Steve Brown writes profoundly in a way that is uplifting and inspiring while deeply convicting. His writing is a rare gift that is eloquent and conversational. His ideas are effective and helpful, whether you're a relatively new believer or have been in ministry for decades.
Every chapter challenges us to change the way we see ourselves, and others, and maybe even how we understand God/theology as we seek to grow in how we approach sharing the truth with others. Recognizing that we’re not always right in every way even if we hold a primarily correct worldview helps us tear down barriers to being heard.
As the author of How to Talk so People Will Listen, Steve Brown certainly has the depth of knowledge to teach people to communicate more effectively and uses his wisdom to help Christians be better ambassadors for Christ in Talk the Walk.
He encourages us to share mindfully, without watering down the truth. Talk the Walk shows Christians how to be bold and confident enough in our faith to learn to share it in a way that doesn’t offend, even though the truth often will.
Brown does address the fact that the truth offends. Brown suggests that how and when (or if) we share the truths of our faith in this climate requires deep spiritual discernment, as does knowing how much to share. He gives many tangible examples of how we can openly share the gospel without using a fire hose when a cup would do.
The truth will do the offending. We should not. Brown points out that the biggest risk to our faith is the fact that we are right because holding the truth can make us mean and arrogant. We start placing divisions and setting requirements that Christ never did.
Brown’s book challenges us to let Jesus really change us before we seek to change the world. When we approach sharing the Gospel with humility and grace, armed with knowledge and wisdom, we will reach people with the love of Christ.
Steve Brown’s Talk the Walk is page after page of convicting wisdom. Based in scripture, Talk the Walk uses the lessons of the Bible to teach us to be better purveyors of God’s truths. Some books are worth reading and some books are worth reading over and over. Any Christian who hopes to share the Gospel effectively should read this book regularly. I know I will.
I received a copy to review from the publishers, but all opinions are my own. I could not recommend this book more highly.
As Christians, we are often encouraged to walk the talk, put our lives where our mouths are, but Steve Brown turns that expression on its head and challenges us to Talk the Walk, sharing his insights on how we can talk about the Christian walk in a way that demonstrates Christ and opens doors to sharing our faith. His subtitle is humorous and poignant: How to be Right Without Being Insufferable.
In a post-truth culture, learning how to share THE truth with those who need to hear it is more difficult than ever, even as it is more important than ever.
Brown’s first point starts with our own heart and motivation as Christians. Too often Christians approach non-Christians as the enemy. Brown rightly teaches that we need to come from a place of love and compassion before we can share the truth of Jesus and His desire for a relationship with us.
Steve Brown writes profoundly in a way that is uplifting and inspiring while deeply convicting. His writing is a rare gift that is eloquent and conversational. His ideas are effective and helpful, whether you're a relatively new believer or have been in ministry for decades.
Every chapter challenges us to change the way we see ourselves, and others, and maybe even how we understand God/theology as we seek to grow in how we approach sharing the truth with others. Recognizing that we’re not always right in every way even if we hold a primarily correct worldview helps us tear down barriers to being heard.
As the author of How to Talk so People Will Listen, Steve Brown certainly has the depth of knowledge to teach people to communicate more effectively and uses his wisdom to help Christians be better ambassadors for Christ in Talk the Walk.
He encourages us to share mindfully, without watering down the truth. Talk the Walk shows Christians how to be bold and confident enough in our faith to learn to share it in a way that doesn’t offend, even though the truth often will.
Brown does address the fact that the truth offends. Brown suggests that how and when (or if) we share the truths of our faith in this climate requires deep spiritual discernment, as does knowing how much to share. He gives many tangible examples of how we can openly share the gospel without using a fire hose when a cup would do.
The truth will do the offending. We should not. Brown points out that the biggest risk to our faith is the fact that we are right because holding the truth can make us mean and arrogant. We start placing divisions and setting requirements that Christ never did.
Brown’s book challenges us to let Jesus really change us before we seek to change the world. When we approach sharing the Gospel with humility and grace, armed with knowledge and wisdom, we will reach people with the love of Christ.
Steve Brown’s Talk the Walk is page after page of convicting wisdom. Based in scripture, Talk the Walk uses the lessons of the Bible to teach us to be better purveyors of God’s truths. Some books are worth reading and some books are worth reading over and over. Any Christian who hopes to share the Gospel effectively should read this book regularly. I know I will.
I received a copy to review from the publishers, but all opinions are my own. I could not recommend this book more highly.
July 2, 2019
Steve Brown has reached the age where he feels comfortable sharing his thoughts no matter what others think. (1450/2386) That's exactly what he does here.
Brown is convinced Christian faith is true but he is also convinced Christians do not have to be insufferable about it. Many Christians push truth and end up waving a red flag in front of a raging bull. Christians know how to be self-righteous, he says. Brown reminds us about the more important characteristics of humility, love, and forgiveness.
I found many welcome surprises in this book. Brown writes that Christians are not called to be fixers. (364/2386) We're not here to fix others, fix our culture, fix our nation. We do bring our witness to the world but the results are up to God. Brown is strong on God's sovereignty. God's in charge and we need not worry so much. We can love our neighbor well while not constantly worrying about how to share the gospel with them. God's got it.
Brown identifies the presupposition of his book: Christians are called to speak truth, often to people who do not want to hear it. (381/2386) One's heart attitude in communicating and living truth is so important. Be honest in life, Brown encourages. “When Christians hide their pain, they do not have a message to give.” (1865/2386) Be real to neighbors and let them see and inquire about the life and truth within.
I really like this book. He tells great stories on himself and others to illustrate how Christians can be more irritating to others rather than being salt and light. This book is a wake up call to Christians, challenging our honesty and effectiveness in being like Christ. Many self-righteous Christians may not like this book. It might undermine their drive to be the savior of the declining culture or the declining nation. It might make them think again about what they really believe about God and what He is doing in the world.
I think this book needs to be read by every Christian. You'll be challenged. You might feel uncomfortable as Brown will encourage you to rethink how to live your witness in the world. Perhaps most interesting of all, you'll get to learn a little Latin too.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Brown is convinced Christian faith is true but he is also convinced Christians do not have to be insufferable about it. Many Christians push truth and end up waving a red flag in front of a raging bull. Christians know how to be self-righteous, he says. Brown reminds us about the more important characteristics of humility, love, and forgiveness.
I found many welcome surprises in this book. Brown writes that Christians are not called to be fixers. (364/2386) We're not here to fix others, fix our culture, fix our nation. We do bring our witness to the world but the results are up to God. Brown is strong on God's sovereignty. God's in charge and we need not worry so much. We can love our neighbor well while not constantly worrying about how to share the gospel with them. God's got it.
Brown identifies the presupposition of his book: Christians are called to speak truth, often to people who do not want to hear it. (381/2386) One's heart attitude in communicating and living truth is so important. Be honest in life, Brown encourages. “When Christians hide their pain, they do not have a message to give.” (1865/2386) Be real to neighbors and let them see and inquire about the life and truth within.
I really like this book. He tells great stories on himself and others to illustrate how Christians can be more irritating to others rather than being salt and light. This book is a wake up call to Christians, challenging our honesty and effectiveness in being like Christ. Many self-righteous Christians may not like this book. It might undermine their drive to be the savior of the declining culture or the declining nation. It might make them think again about what they really believe about God and what He is doing in the world.
I think this book needs to be read by every Christian. You'll be challenged. You might feel uncomfortable as Brown will encourage you to rethink how to live your witness in the world. Perhaps most interesting of all, you'll get to learn a little Latin too.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 15, 2019
Whenever I read the work of Steve Brown, I am challenged, encouraged, and forced to think deeply. And sometimes, he is downright irritating! Dr. Brown’s newest book, Talk the Walk is no exception. Longtime readers will recognize Brown’s witty way with words, self-effacing personality, love for the gospel, and his uncanny ability to back you into a corner.
Talk the Walk is a book about evangelistic influence. Tragically, however, the influence of some Christians has been found wanting, to put it mildly. Brown laments this sobering reality and urges his readers to pursue is different path.
The subtitle of the book, How To Be Right Without Being Insufferable is an accurate description of the content and the heart of the author. Brown acknowledges up front that Christians are a people of the truth. In short, they are right. Christians are beneficiaries of a meta narrative (a big story that speaks to ultimate reality) - the correct meta narrative. But the theme of the book is more about conveying the truth in a way that is compelling and winsome. Instead of focusing on theological minutiae, Brown challenges readers to look outward in order to make an impact on the lives of hurting people.
The author reveals several ways that Christians can put the truth to good use in the marketplace of ideas. Instead of merely “being right,” Brown encourages his brothers and sisters to “live right” and to live in light of the truth.
Careful readers will notice that Steve Brown loves the Word of God. He loves the gospel. And he loves the truth. But he is unwilling to abandon a strong Christian testimony.
I personally benefitted from Talk the Walkand trust that many more will be prompted to move beyond the church walls to make a difference for the sake of the gospel. Then and only then, will they talk the walk.
Talk the Walk is a book about evangelistic influence. Tragically, however, the influence of some Christians has been found wanting, to put it mildly. Brown laments this sobering reality and urges his readers to pursue is different path.
The subtitle of the book, How To Be Right Without Being Insufferable is an accurate description of the content and the heart of the author. Brown acknowledges up front that Christians are a people of the truth. In short, they are right. Christians are beneficiaries of a meta narrative (a big story that speaks to ultimate reality) - the correct meta narrative. But the theme of the book is more about conveying the truth in a way that is compelling and winsome. Instead of focusing on theological minutiae, Brown challenges readers to look outward in order to make an impact on the lives of hurting people.
The author reveals several ways that Christians can put the truth to good use in the marketplace of ideas. Instead of merely “being right,” Brown encourages his brothers and sisters to “live right” and to live in light of the truth.
Careful readers will notice that Steve Brown loves the Word of God. He loves the gospel. And he loves the truth. But he is unwilling to abandon a strong Christian testimony.
I personally benefitted from Talk the Walkand trust that many more will be prompted to move beyond the church walls to make a difference for the sake of the gospel. Then and only then, will they talk the walk.
July 15, 2019
When I saw the subtitle of this book, I knew I wanted to read it. Effectively sharing the truth of the Gospel, without watering down the message, seems to be more challenging than it was 30 years ago. This book is at times admonishing, encouraging, and convicting. It’s also at times a little confusing, because I’m going to be thinking through a couple of his conclusions along the way. As the author walks us through times when he believes we should speak up and when we should be silent, he never lets us forget that we should speak (and live) the Truth in love. Even though Christians are right, our attitude as we share the love of Christ with an unbelieving world will shout louder than our words. Steve Brown gives us great examples of standing firm and speaking the Truth in love, yet doing it for the right reason and with the right motives.
This book will definitely make you think as you read. I’m glad for the challenge this pastor gives us through this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This book will definitely make you think as you read. I’m glad for the challenge this pastor gives us through this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
March 27, 2020
A conversationally toned book about how to share the Gospel --without being a jerk about it.
An easy read, with many good reminders, much of this felt like review for myself personally as our church as always talked extensively about this topic in various settings, from the pulpit, to Sunday School, Small Group and more. The book does a good job of stressing the importance of a compassionate presentation of the Gospel, and it's OK if someone doesn't want to hear us. Our job is to spread the word and glorify God, God will change their heart--but we must be conscious that the way that we talk about God doesn't push someone away unnecessarily or in a harsh self-righteous way like the Pharisees of Jesus' day. Though we shouldn't tiptoe around the truth either.
It's a balance and it's not easy. This book does a good job of talking through that balance, though at times I thought that it could have been more concise.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
An easy read, with many good reminders, much of this felt like review for myself personally as our church as always talked extensively about this topic in various settings, from the pulpit, to Sunday School, Small Group and more. The book does a good job of stressing the importance of a compassionate presentation of the Gospel, and it's OK if someone doesn't want to hear us. Our job is to spread the word and glorify God, God will change their heart--but we must be conscious that the way that we talk about God doesn't push someone away unnecessarily or in a harsh self-righteous way like the Pharisees of Jesus' day. Though we shouldn't tiptoe around the truth either.
It's a balance and it's not easy. This book does a good job of talking through that balance, though at times I thought that it could have been more concise.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
July 23, 2019
This is a book for Christians who want to grow in faith and share the Gospel without being obnoxious in our brash culture. It's wry, funny and wise. I laughed out loud at many of his observations from decades of serving as a pastor. He is self-deprecating, sharing his own embarrassing stories of getting it wrong, which puts you at ease. I enjoyed his tips on when silence is a good idea, balanced by reasons that we can't stay silent. This book will challenge you, causing you to wince at your own foibles. But that's healthy, because we all need to weed out the Pharisee inside that threatens to take over our words and actions. Talk the Walk is refreshingly honest, and that's what I appreciate most about it.
I received a preview copy of Talk the Walk from Netgalley.
I received a preview copy of Talk the Walk from Netgalley.
July 30, 2019
We live in a time in which Christians need to rethink how we approach non-believers. Too often we come across as self-righteous and ready for a (verbal) fight. Yet, this will not win anyone to Christ. And isn’t that what we are supposed to be doing?
Here, in his Talk the Walk, Pastor Brown uses a lot of Biblical support, analogies and personal stories to build a case for changing the way Christians speak to, and try to win non-believers to Christ.
We need to remind ourselves that, “they need what we needed. The only difference between you and them is Jesus. We had very little to do with that. We still do not”
This is a wonderful book, and could really change the attitude that non-believers have toward Christians, if most Christians adopted Steve Brown's style.
Here, in his Talk the Walk, Pastor Brown uses a lot of Biblical support, analogies and personal stories to build a case for changing the way Christians speak to, and try to win non-believers to Christ.
We need to remind ourselves that, “they need what we needed. The only difference between you and them is Jesus. We had very little to do with that. We still do not”
This is a wonderful book, and could really change the attitude that non-believers have toward Christians, if most Christians adopted Steve Brown's style.
June 1, 2019
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley. The description intrigued me as I knew it would be dealing a lot with Christian attitudes and the way we present the Gospel to unbelievers. With each page I was challenged and it gave me greater perspective on how to navigate conversations that are based on Christian truth but to balance that with grace and understanding. I really enjoyed the author’s personal stories and his transparency with how he has failed and learned through many years of conversations. I think this book is a great asset to any believer and it will enlighten, encourage and challenge all on how to align the talk with our walk with Jesus.
July 12, 2019
An insightful book that will help Christians reassess the way they speak about Jesus to an unbelieving world. It’s an easy read at about 160 pages, with lots of illustrations and examples. If you are someone who struggles to share your faith, this will give you some wise ideas as you proceed into the world with love and gentleness and truth, standing along people and getting to know them. If, on the other hand, you are very keen to share your faith, but tend to be a little forceful or strong willed as you do so, this might help you reconsider the way you go about it, and challenges you to consider more silence, more grace, more understanding and more wisdom. Recommended reading.
May 6, 2020
I've been encouraged by the number of books which have asked Christians to re-examine their attitudes to non-believing friends and to the work of evangelism as culture has continued to drift from its Christian moorings. This is one of those books. It's not without merit - I particularly appreciated the regular refrain not to take myself too seriously as I share my faith. Perhaps I'm not the anticipated reader but much of the rest left me underwhelmed. I'd turn back more quickly to John Leonard's 'Get Real' or Elliot Clark's 'Evangelism as Exiles.'
July 9, 2019
Steve Brown always has something to say in an interesting way. And this book is no exception. He points to various things which can enhance or harm the church's witness. The book is full of excellent illustrations. It is a book that will make you think. You may find yourself nodding your head or saying "amen to that."
May 25, 2019
First sentence (from the introduction): The modern world says that it is impossible for a thinking person to have a metanarrative—an interpretation that accounts for all reality... At the risk of sounding arrogant and offensive, let me say here that there is, in fact, a true metanarrative. It is called the Christian faith. It is a stable, clear, and profound metanarrative.
It is near impossible to read Steve Brown without hearing Steve Brown's voice in your head. Now that the obvious has been said, I'll skip to the review.
Talk The Walk is an engaging, challenging read. I found myself strongly agreeing and strongly disagreeing with the text--sometimes within the same paragraph. (Is Steve Brown just playing devil's advocate or does he really believe this outrageously?) At the very least it is a thought-provoking read. Do I agree? disagree? why is he right? why is he wrong? does the Bible really mean this? and say that? am I guilty of what he's describing?
has my mind been changed about this or that?
The premise of Talk the Walk is startling and a bit outrageous. He asserts that Christians are dangerous when they're right. The more Biblically sound and doctrinally correct we are, the more likely we are to value TRUTH and devalue love and compassion. In other words, if we know we are right and others are wrong, we are less likely to be kind, compassionate, and gracious. Christians who know they are right may perhaps talk about love, mercy, and grace. But they display it infrequently--if at all. Correct orthodoxy can fail to lead to correct orthopraxy. Brown believes that orthopraxy is just as important if not more important than orthodoxy. Orothopraxy is about how we put into practice our beliefs, how we live out the faith in the day to day.
Brown does not seem to be advocating throwing out the truth. "As someone has said, once you see truth you cannot simply unsee it." He is not one of those that redefines the virtue of humility as introducing doubt, embracing uncertainty, and throwing assurance out the window. Where the Bible is clear, plain, obvious, assertive, believers should have confidence and certainty. To not trust in God's promises is not a virtue.
What Brown does seem to be advocating is selectively sharing the truths we believe. Brown seems to be saying that just because you know something to be true or something to be false does not mean you have to share that. You can remain silent and perhaps should remain silent in many situations. Sometimes speaking up or standing up for the truth you hold so dear makes the situation worse not better. You may feel satisfied that you defended God's truth, but the person on the other end, the other side, now has even more reason to distrust or despise Christians.
He discusses this in-depthly in chapter three, "The Sound of Silence." He opens it with this sentence, "Christian truth is about as welcome in today’s culture as a wet shaggy dog shaking himself at the Miss America Pageant. Truth does not matter, but intolerance does. If the subject is salvation, Christian truth suggests that there are those who are saved and those who are not. If the truth is about sin, then some things are right and others are wrong. If it is about hell and heaven, it means that one place is hot and the other is not. If it is about forgiveness, then some are forgiven and others are not." While we are called to speak gospel truths in love and rely on God's power, he says, "The truth we have is precious, dangerous, and explosively powerful in the way it can heal or hurt. There are times when silence really is golden."
Brown is most concerned with the ATTITUDE of Christians who are doctrinally right or correct. These are people who believe rightly about God and hold to the truths of the Christian faith. You can have a correct faith but hold a wrong attitude.
It is near impossible to read Steve Brown without hearing Steve Brown's voice in your head. Now that the obvious has been said, I'll skip to the review.
Talk The Walk is an engaging, challenging read. I found myself strongly agreeing and strongly disagreeing with the text--sometimes within the same paragraph. (Is Steve Brown just playing devil's advocate or does he really believe this outrageously?) At the very least it is a thought-provoking read. Do I agree? disagree? why is he right? why is he wrong? does the Bible really mean this? and say that? am I guilty of what he's describing?
has my mind been changed about this or that?
The premise of Talk the Walk is startling and a bit outrageous. He asserts that Christians are dangerous when they're right. The more Biblically sound and doctrinally correct we are, the more likely we are to value TRUTH and devalue love and compassion. In other words, if we know we are right and others are wrong, we are less likely to be kind, compassionate, and gracious. Christians who know they are right may perhaps talk about love, mercy, and grace. But they display it infrequently--if at all. Correct orthodoxy can fail to lead to correct orthopraxy. Brown believes that orthopraxy is just as important if not more important than orthodoxy. Orothopraxy is about how we put into practice our beliefs, how we live out the faith in the day to day.
Brown does not seem to be advocating throwing out the truth. "As someone has said, once you see truth you cannot simply unsee it." He is not one of those that redefines the virtue of humility as introducing doubt, embracing uncertainty, and throwing assurance out the window. Where the Bible is clear, plain, obvious, assertive, believers should have confidence and certainty. To not trust in God's promises is not a virtue.
What Brown does seem to be advocating is selectively sharing the truths we believe. Brown seems to be saying that just because you know something to be true or something to be false does not mean you have to share that. You can remain silent and perhaps should remain silent in many situations. Sometimes speaking up or standing up for the truth you hold so dear makes the situation worse not better. You may feel satisfied that you defended God's truth, but the person on the other end, the other side, now has even more reason to distrust or despise Christians.
What if we remained silent by not defending ourselves? What if we remained silent when others are condemning those whose lifestyle, politics, or religious views are deemed unacceptable? What if we remained silent and refused to be the social, political, and religious critic of every opinion that wasn’t our own? What if we remained silent in the face of rejection? What if we refused to share the secrets we’ve been told or tell the stories we’ve overheard? What if we remained silent and overlooked the foibles of others? What if we looked at the pain of our neighbor and just loved him or her, instead trying to fix the unfixable? What if our response to confusion, fear, and guilt was simply, “I know”? There is a powerful witness in that kind of silence.
He discusses this in-depthly in chapter three, "The Sound of Silence." He opens it with this sentence, "Christian truth is about as welcome in today’s culture as a wet shaggy dog shaking himself at the Miss America Pageant. Truth does not matter, but intolerance does. If the subject is salvation, Christian truth suggests that there are those who are saved and those who are not. If the truth is about sin, then some things are right and others are wrong. If it is about hell and heaven, it means that one place is hot and the other is not. If it is about forgiveness, then some are forgiven and others are not." While we are called to speak gospel truths in love and rely on God's power, he says, "The truth we have is precious, dangerous, and explosively powerful in the way it can heal or hurt. There are times when silence really is golden."
Brown is most concerned with the ATTITUDE of Christians who are doctrinally right or correct. These are people who believe rightly about God and hold to the truths of the Christian faith. You can have a correct faith but hold a wrong attitude.
If you continue to remind yourself about who you are—and allow God’s Spirit and your Christian family to remind you—much of this book will be irrelevant. You are the son or daughter of the King. You are loved, accepted, and forgiven, without reservation or exception. Your Father, the King, will never let you go, never leave you alone in the dark, and never ask you to go anywhere or do anything where he will not stand with you. Actually, he always thinks that a party without you is not even a party.
April 13, 2020
Steve Brown has GREAT things to say.but this book is kinda half-assed.
July 16, 2019
In this new book from author Steve Brown, readers are urged to speak the truth even when people don't want to hear it. Using his own experiences and those of others, Brown urges Christians to "talk the walk of Christian faith, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus" and make sure that their true message can be heard and that others will want to hear that message. Christians who are self-righteous and arrogant may be tuned out but those speaking with love, humility, and forgiveness are more likely to be heard. On page 30, Brown shares that "Sometimes it is best to be silent and to let love, freedom, and joy do the talking."
There are so many sections and so many statements that deserve to be highlighted and this is a book that needs to be read over and over. Some of his statements gave me pause and some made me seek the ultimate authority: The Holy Bible. Talk the Walk isn't a "light" book but it is a book filled with light.
I received a complimentary copy from New Growth Press but a positive review wasn't required. These are my honest thoughts.
There are so many sections and so many statements that deserve to be highlighted and this is a book that needs to be read over and over. Some of his statements gave me pause and some made me seek the ultimate authority: The Holy Bible. Talk the Walk isn't a "light" book but it is a book filled with light.
I received a complimentary copy from New Growth Press but a positive review wasn't required. These are my honest thoughts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2019
Basically a long form version of the radio show. I really enjoyed reading this and Steve always has a way of sharing the Gospel in a way that is easy to digest for the regular man.
August 19, 2019
Necessary reading for uptight people. Sometimes we can be insufferable. Steve Brown details why we shouldn’t be that about our faith.
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