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How (Not) to Save the World: The Truth About Revealing God’s Love to the People Right Next to You

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A practical, straightforward guide for Christ-followers who want to talk about Jesus without feeling weird or pushy.   

Ten years ago, Hosanna Wong packed her life into suitcases and started traveling the country to talk to people about Jesus. She quickly discovered lies she had believed that held her back from actually sharing God’s love. 

It turns out, believing lies that you’re not enough, your story doesn’t matter, and there’s no way for you to make an impact… that’s how not to save the world. 

Through faithfully studying God’s Word and fumbling through her own flawed progress, Hosanna uncovered what the Bible says about revealing God’s love in our everyday lives.

With honesty and humor, Hosanna will help you:


Embrace your unique story to naturally talk about Jesus through your real life and authentic relationships;
Discover the three most effective steps to take when fighting for a loved one who is in a tough place;
Overcome the lies that hold you back so you can step into your calling and empower people to encounter God.
It turns out, you can naturally share God’s love in your everyday life. You can fight for those you love, and a world Jesus loves. There is a way for every person you know to realize how valuable they are to God. You’ve been created for it, equipped for it, and you’re ready for it. Let’s go!

288 pages, Paperback

Published August 17, 2021

163 people are currently reading
1097 people want to read

About the author

Hosanna Wong

14 books74 followers

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5 stars
423 (66%)
4 stars
162 (25%)
3 stars
47 (7%)
2 stars
5 (<1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
1 review
August 18, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The way that Hosanna broke down a number of lies we believe and provided truth was so equipping. She shares vulnerable stories of ways that she had previously got it so wrong and then how she navigated learning the truth about how to genuinely love people and reveal Gods love to people.

The chapter where she talks about turning off the Christianize and being real, learning the language of our loved ones was so great. Exactly who you are is exactly who God wants to use at this exact moment in time. We don't have to strive to be perfect to speak truth to our friends. Its about loving the one in front of you, that is what Christ did. The mission is for us to love the world. Jesus came to save the world. That task was His calling. Not ours.

I highly recommend this book if you are interested in reaching your world for Christ. Its an easy read full of golden takeaway truths. Its also a good book to do in a small book club or study where you can break down the 14 chapters into the lies we've believed and how to navigate walking in truth.
Profile Image for Jen Good.
269 reviews30 followers
August 22, 2021
I loved this practical and encouraging book! Believing that it is our job to save the world is definitely how (not) to save it. God has already done the work, and now our job is to rely on His power and use the unique circumstances He has placed us in to share His love with the people in our everyday lives. Through her own story and experiences, Hosanna Wong lays out some practical steps we can take to live our lives in such a way that sharing Christ becomes a natural part of our daily lives. It’s so encouraging to realize it’s not up to us to do something big, but just to take small steps of faithfulness! How (Not) to Save the World is engaging, fresh, and relevant no matter your age, occupation, or season of life. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
123 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2021
Wow, what to say about this powerful, emotional, empowering and realistic book! I highly recommend this book to all who have felt called to witness the love of Jesus. 5 stars does not seem like enough!

Such a powerful message, simple yet profound and often overlooked. The premise of this book is to demonstrate that it is not our role to “save” the world, Jesus already did that for us. Our job is to love our neighbors, care for them, connect with them, and share Jesus's love for them. This is such a refreshing, motivating and empowering perspective.

I love the “callouts” throughout the book, the authors way of truly focusing on high points in a succinct way. The author takes great strides to demonstrate real examples throughout readers can connect with and demonstrate people over productivity, taking the next step rather than waiting for things to be perfect, and many other powerful examples.

I highly recommend all read this, you will not be disappointed. Thank you Thomas Nelson publishing and NetGalley for this free book. The comments above are of my own without influence.
Profile Image for Donna.
4,523 reviews156 followers
August 19, 2023
This author is now on my radar. I've read both of her books and I enjoyed them so much. She speaks with such enthusiasm and love...what is not to like? I love the positive messages.

There are a couple of things that kept it from 5 stars though. I'll just mention the one that is high on my pet peeve list. It was the repetition. I've heard most of her stories in her other book. New book? Then new stories please.

But her dedication to serve and preach is infectious. I loved her poetry too. So 4 stars.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
653 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2021
This was an inspiring and fun book to read. Saying that, I also felt like this is one of the most powerful book on evangelizing I have read. I always felt that I wasn't doing all I could for God because I do not go out on the mission field. However, the mission field can be at your own doorstep.

We are asked to take care of those around us, just as Jesus did for everyone around him. We are to care and love others as well as share Jesus's love with them. This involves wanting to listen to other's stories and being willing to share your own.

I love the simplicity of this book and the variety of "call out" that are included throughout. These call outs emphasize the high points in a fun way.

I recommend this book most highly for all.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Thomas Nelson--W Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Paula3.
151 reviews
December 20, 2021
Such an inspirational, honest book. I absolutely adore Hosanna Wong’s writing style. Her personal vignettes are highly relatable, raw, and powerful. This book is so hopeful and positive in a current world where life can sometimes feel overwhelmingly hopeless and negative. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Jaimie.
9 reviews3 followers
August 17, 2021
Hosanna's book "How (Not) to Save the World" is the best book I've ever read on evangelism. As someone who was raised in church, I always felt like I didn't really have a testimony, and I wasn't very gifted at sharing my faith with others. I saw the big crusades and read the books on going door-to-door, etc... but felt like everyone else was better at it than me. As I read Hosanna's book, I realized that this was a lie that I had believed. I had also believed the lie that I had to "wait for perfect" to do it right. Her chapter on rest (#14) also really spoke to me - "Jesus rested, and Jesus saved the world." Hosanna teaches us that as we share our stories with others, Jesus is the one who will lead people to Him. That takes the pressure off. I have never thought about it this way.

Hosanna unpacks 14 different lies that hinder us from sharing our faith with others, and gives us practical, easy ways that we can begin to show God's love to the people right next to us. The book is not only practical and useful, but she is an excellent writer and funny, too. This is not your average book on evangelism. I could definitely see this being a great small group study for churches, too.

She shares with honesty, humility and humor her life story and her own experiences. I especially love her honesty when sharing her feelings regarding the church (chapter 13) and how she overcame hurt to love the church even more.

I encourage every believer to pick up a copy of this book; you won't want to put it down, and you'll want to share it with everyone you know. Very grateful that God put this message on her heart.
Profile Image for Debbye Z'araya-Baciak.
1 review
August 17, 2021
Powerful! Inspiring! Relatable! Empowering!

Hosanna brings a powerful presence to ministry! How (Not) to Save the World, is engaging and encouraging, while being open, honest and authentic. It also honors God, and is going to be a great resource for many.

Each time Hosanna, has a new release I can't wait to get my hands on it. This book did "NOT" disappoint!! Again, this book has something that speaks to individuals no matter where they're in their faith. Sometimes the old ways of ministering seem stale and not relatable to many of us out here. Through spoken word and each one of her books, I have found acceptance in my own spiritual journey. She brings a relatable & modern spin to new/seasoned christ followers.

Hosanna, is so authentic, open and trusting to share everything that she so willingly does. She teaches us that it is okay to be different, to be our own authentic self. It is okay to not know everything and feel comfortable admitting it. Teaching us once again that our greatest tool is listening and being present. That we do not have to "save" the world, because God already did that. We just need to be there to love and lift one another.

This book is just another tool to empower us. A "MUST" read! The "call out" throughout were cool too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley, but have also purchased the audible and 2 extra copies for family members since. All of the opinions above are solely my own.
1 review
August 17, 2021
This book is an amazing read for those who want to share their faith. It helps you peel back some of the hangs up that keep us from doing so and explains more practical ways of truly loving others and being a part of God’s great commission in our everyday lives. Highly recommended book as one who has believed many of the lies discussed in the book that we tell ourselves. It provides a road map of sorts for not letting your fears dictate you.

There is a way to help others see the truth in a way that is not overbearing and judge mental. Hope you pick it up and inspired to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
2 reviews
August 17, 2021
For Real!!!!! After the Bible, this is the best book and resource out there on evangelism. If you have been wondering about how to share God's love with those around you (not in a pushy or cheesy way), you have got to read this book. After I finished it, I totally noticed my interactions changing with people, in a good way. Hosanna Wong's stories and vulnerability in this book are so needed in the world and culture that we live in today. Check it out, you won't be sorry.
Profile Image for Becky B.
9,209 reviews181 followers
July 12, 2021
Hosanna Wong shares lessons about living the Christian life she has learned through growing up a preacher’s kid in an unconventional church in a tough area of town, being called to unconventional ministry when she graduated from college (because how many Christian spoken word ministries do you know of, and how many of them are Asian American women), and just going through the highs and lows of being on this planet. Through stories from her own life, she swallows her pride and shares things she has learned about what God has called us to as Christians and what He hasn’t called us to. Best practices, and pitfalls. Triumphs and failures. With humor, humility, and very readable stories, she shares how to get to a better place.

I really appreciate how Hosanna Wong can speak to the young adult generation. She throws in modern slang and references (and interpretations for those of us older people who may need help), but it never detracts from the message. And by my saying that, I hope you don’t think this is just for teens or those just out of college. What is in here is timeless truth that the Church needs to hear or be reminded of. Her call to remember what God has really called us to as the Church and to realign our priorities is supremely important. And you can tell it is written from a place of love and humility. There are tough truths in here, but they are presented in a way easy to swallow, and there are practical ideas of how to apply each chapter. I am absolutely thrilled to be able to add an Asian American Christian woman to our library shelves as soon as this comes out. The international school I work at serves a predominantly Asian community, many of whom are racially mixed like Hosanna, and it will blow some of them away to know that there are Asian American women who write Christian books and get published. But the best parts of this book aren’t because of who the author is. The best parts are that it presents truth and encourages everyone to be who God has really made them to be. It honors God, and I believe will be helpful to many. Highly recommended.

Notes on content [based on ARC]: No language issues or sexual content. The author’s father died pretty young and she talks about how that affected her and her family.

I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Ben.
2,734 reviews230 followers
August 22, 2023
Better Than I Expected (and I expected a lot)

This book is nothing short of a beacon of inspiration, radiating with wisdom and authenticity.

Hosanna's words resonate like a symphony, conducting readers on a journey through life's complexities. Her insights on work and purpose are like a guiding light, prompting us to question our existence and delve into the depths of our relationship with God. With profound clarity, she emphasizes the pivotal importance of focusing on our relationship with God as the cornerstone of our journey.

A particularly moving aspect of the book is Hosanna's touching reflections on the passing of her father. Her ability to share her vulnerability and kindness in the face of such loss is a testament to her strength and grace. These passages offer a profound connection to readers who may have experienced similar losses, reminding us of the power of love and resilience.

Through her personal narrative, How (Not) to Save the World also unravels the intricate tapestry of identity. As Hosanna traverses between her Chinese roots and the bustling urban life of the intercity, she candidly shares her own struggles with the absence of her father. This dynamic exploration of identity resonates deeply, as she navigates the intersection of cultural heritage, personal journey, and life's challenges.

The discovery of this book through Hosanna Wong's captivating videos on YouVersion is a testament to the far-reaching impact of her message. As an inspirational figure, she has brought her wisdom to life in written form, creating a treasure trove of guidance, reflection, and hope. She is also, surprisingly (as in, it is surprising she is one - a really unique artistic way to express yourself), a shockingly good slam poet!

I enthusiastically recommend How (Not) to Save the World to anyone seeking an authentic and transformative reading experience. Hosanna's ability to weave together faith, identity, and resilience is both captivating and empowering. With a well-deserved score I will be giving this book, this book stands as a testament to the power of sharing one's journey and embracing God's love that surrounds us all.

Prepare to be uplifted, enlightened, and inspired as you journey through the pages of this remarkable work. Let Hosanna's words guide you toward a deeper understanding of purpose, identity, and the boundless love that connects us all.

4.8/5
Profile Image for Rebecca Ketterer.
157 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2023
I absolutely loved this book, maybe because this is something I have struggled with, but also for inspiration, encouragement, and hope. Hosanna Wong is fascinating and beautiful; her words, stories, passion, faith, and voice just spoke to my soul….and it was grounded in so much scripture! I started out listening to this book on Libby, but was taking so many notes and quickly realized that this will be a book that I refer back to over time. So, I then ordered it and highlighted like crazy. Her interludes are also uplifting and amazing. I can’t recommend this book enough to any Christians who are struggling with how they can best make an impact on others lives and who hold onto guilt for what they have been unable to do or told they could not do.
Profile Image for Leya Delray.
Author 1 book38 followers
September 10, 2021
I laughed, I cried. I was challenged, encouraged, and filled with hope while reading this book. Hosanna Wong has an amazing talent for writing and SUCH an important message to share. If you've ever struggled with how to share the gospel in a way that feels natural and authentic to your personality (I have!) or wondered what was wrong with you because you couldn't do it like your friend does (join the club!) this book is a MUST. It's not about following a formula or marking "evangelized" off your good Christian to-do list. It's about being filled with the love of Jesus, looking at the world through His eyes, and showing a broken humanity the love God has for them.

Highly recommend.
2 reviews
August 25, 2021
This book is so timely! Hosanna breaks down the lies we believe about ourselves, others and God hinder us from being and doing all that God created us to be/do.
She shares her own stories of being on the road, losing her dad and what she has learned while in ministry. Stories do change the word! This one will definitely get you moving in the right direction if you: feel less than, find yourself fighting battles you aren't sure you should be fighting, struggle with rest, want to know how to love those closest to you well, are taking or have taken a faith step and are currently in the valley, have experienced loss, are in ministry and/or want to share the gospel with others.
Get it! You won't regret it. The gems in there are worth more than the price of the book. They'll last you a lifetime.
1 review
August 25, 2021
Hosanna has written this book in such a way that it is informal enough to feel like you are immersed in her story but without that awkward writing style that irritates with excessive use of ‘chat-like’ prose without proper sentence structure. On top of that, the content is ON FIRE! This has reinvigorated me personally, but what an impact this could have if the church really took hold of what in essence are such simple points of reflection. A must for anyone who is serious about sharing the Christian message with anyone in their lives
Profile Image for Sara Dangerfield.
Author 1 book10 followers
February 8, 2024
This book. 🔥 Hosanna has a gifted way of writing that draws you in, and as she speaks truth there is trust built between you and her. You trust her. You trust her because she allows you to discover the truths in scripture, reiterates what God says through His word, and then challenges you to rise above the status quo. This isn’t just a poetic artist taking advantage of a book deal. This is a follower of Jesus who desperately wants the kingdom of God to GROW.
Profile Image for Julie.
171 reviews11 followers
September 6, 2023
I heard Hosanna Wong speak at a women’s event last year and loved her story, her vibe, her artistry, her passion for Christ, and knew I needed to buy her book.

This is the perfect toolkit of what (not) to do to win the world for Christ and share His love in the every day. Hosanna calls out the roadblocks we allow in our way like gossip, doubting ourselves, not loving our neighbor, and hiding our stories. It was challenging but approachable and gave practical takeaways (including a guide for using social media!) to apply. She weaves her own life experience into the narrative, so you really get to know her voice throughout. Check it out 🖤
1 review
August 25, 2021
Hosanna witnessed her first murder at 9yrs old! And wrote "This was the first moment I remember feeling like I was supposed to save someone". I could immediately relate, it was not a murder but I witnessed my very close friend being abused by her step father as a young teen and I felt the exact same feeling Hosanna Wong describes in her first chapter of "How (not) to Save the World".
Profile Image for Isabelle Ray.
252 reviews17 followers
August 20, 2022
It took awhile to finish this, but it was so good to just take time to really focus on the message and takeaway from each chapter. I highly encourage anyone to pick up this book if you can because it holds so much wisdom on how to view the world and your role as a Christian.
Profile Image for Elizabeth .
330 reviews42 followers
May 5, 2024
I read this for book group and I think I need to reread it for personal consumption. There was so much to glean from Wong and my attention was on guiding discussion that I think I missed a lot for personal growth. This was the third and final book in our apologetics grouping and the previous two books we read were far more academic so this one felt like a quick read. I appreciated her reminder that as believers we tend to be more forgiving of unbelievers than we are of fellow believers who wrestle with their sin or who make mistakes.
2 reviews
August 19, 2021
The way Hosanna can make her stories come to life through these pages is unmatched. I felt every emotion reading this book! Ten years ago she said yes to Jesus, packed her bags and risked it all. All for the glory of God and the saving of souls. She shares the truth about revealing God's love to the people right next to us. Her story about her brother Elijah, the consistent showing up for him, stepping into his world and loving him right where he was... Man, that one got me!!! Personally, I've been challenged and also encouraged to never stop fighting for the people I love. I can't say enough good things about this book. You just have to read it. Thank you Hosanna for this rare gem. Praying it gets into the hands of as many people as possible. 10 STARS IF I COULD!!!
Profile Image for Cathy.
285 reviews4 followers
September 13, 2025
Such a fabulous book with practical suggestions for sharing Gods love with those around.
Hosanna showed me I only have to be myself and allow God to use me. Simple and yet profound!
1 review
August 18, 2021
Loved reading this book, “How (not) To Save The World!” What meant the most to me were the life experiences that Hosanna shares in this book about loving and reaching out to others in her life about Jesus. The stories she shares are real-deal, practical, and have lots of humorous side notes right along with them. And, she walks us to the place that Jesus has walked her to...sharing the love of Jesus is firmly rooted and intertwined into a thriving relationship with Him. It sounds kind of funny, but a lot of times we do try to share love of Jesus and the gospel without Him. It’s definitely how (not) to do it. Anyway, friends...just another reminder Jesus loves you, He loves us...His Church, and He loves those that don’t know it yet. And, He’s calling us to take the next step with Him in serving and loving others. Thanks so much for sharing, Hosanna!
1 review
August 23, 2021
Hosanna’s writing and storytelling is so relatable and vulnerable— this book is a game changer. It’s exactly what I needed to read, and what the world needs to hear!!! Definitely would recommend this to anyone who needs to be encouraged. Hosanna gives practical advice while sharing her personal story and it’s already given me a new perspective, and I’m not even done reading yet!
1 review
August 20, 2021
Hosanna takes to through her own life’s journey and shares what she’s learned about sharing the gospel. She shows us that it doesn’t have to be a big event, we don’t have to know all the scriptures by memory, and we don’t have to carry the burden of changing people. We simply love, and why not start with those right in front of us in our homes and in our circles! So so good, practical and needed in times like this.
Profile Image for Marla Crisman.
2 reviews
August 20, 2021
Hosanna's message of hope found in her life lessons is so needed in 2021. She shares candidly how to live a life of authenticity and how to genuinely love those around us every day. I read it cover-to-cover in two sittings! Now, I'm ready to read again with a group of friends!
1 review
August 20, 2021
“The mission is clear. The people are us. The time is NOW.” Hosanna pours out her heart in each page of this book. This book is filled with 14 lies, 14 truths that will set you in 14 chapters. Grab a copy as this book transforms your life. A MUST READ. 10 out of 10.
Profile Image for Cynthia Cornog.
8 reviews
May 16, 2024
I love this practical, equipping guide from Hosanna Wong. As Christians we know the commission of Jesus to go and make disciples. The question for many of us is how. In this book, Hosanna helps alleviate the pressure by sharing her story and guiding the reader on what not to do. By the way, there is a 5 part study guide for this book also. I’m fired up!
Profile Image for Christine Lynn.
2 reviews3 followers
October 17, 2023
I've just started reading this book, its so encouraging! Its so inspiring. I love how Hosanna shares her story! Expounding on the different lies we've believed and how to navigate the truth! I like how she shares lessons about living out our christian life and sharing the gospel! So powerful, inspirational, relatable. I just love her authenticity, vulnerability, her love for God and others! Great book for discipleship and evangelizing and to even do with small groups! I highly recommend this book by Hosanna, it will not disappoint!
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