Overcoming Walls to Witnessing

by Timothy Beougher

Booklet

Genres: Evangelism, Christian, Christianity, Christian Living, Nonfiction

89 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Jonathan Downing · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple, helpful examination of six barriers individuals often have to sharing their Christian faith. Organised into six chapters, it's easy to read either within an afternoon, or taking a chapter a day and considering each more deeply. Brilliant to read a fortnight before our CU events week :)

[Christian Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This incredibly short book is incredibly impactful. While some of the references may be a little outdated, Beougher really hits at the heart of the issue by highlighting the key areas that keep Christians from sharing the Gospel. If you are looking for a book to give to someone who wants to learn more about evangelism or you are looking for book that will encourage you to be more burdened for the lost, then I think this short 62 page booklet is a great place to start.

[Michael Goforth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good little overview of how to get past the barriers that often prevent us from witnessing. This was published in 1993 and is definitely dated, which is why I only gave it 3/5, but it was interesting how many ideas it contained that I have heard in recent years as “new” and “innovative.” Dr. Beougher was ahead of his time!

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short high level book to overcome your excuses to not witnessing. It doesn’t really go into how to witness but lists other resources for that.

[Rob Sumrall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when the title to a book clearly explains the substance of the work. Overcoming Walls to Witnessing does exactly that! Dr. Beougher lays out the most common fears that grip the heart of the would-be evangelist and he destroys those fears with the hammer of God's Word. He speaks to the heart of the every-man in a language that is easily grasped and about topics that ubiquitous in the church. There is a reason this book has circulated in print for so long!

On a side note - I had the privilege of studying under Dr. Timothy Beougher at SBTS. He is writing what he lives. The man is an ardent evangelist.

[Chris Joines · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent book. If we are honest with ourselves, we have used every excuse Beougher confronted when it comes to evangelism. This is a timeless book and should be in your library. We can all find ourselves in the excuses that he addresses in this book. Super easy to read and easy to digest. Might need to read this every year!

[Bianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overcoming Walls to Witnessing is an encouraging and practical guide for anyone who struggles with fear, hesitation, or feelings of inadequacy in sharing their faith. Timothy Beougher tackles common objections—like the fear of saying the wrong thing or worrying about hypocrisy—and reminds readers that God’s power, love, and discipline equip us to witness effectively.

I loved how the book emphasises that we don’t need to be perfect or have it all together to share the Gospel; God works through our weakness, our compassion, and our willingness to step out in faith. The sections on using Scripture, praying for boldness like Peter and John, and understanding the spiritual motivation behind evangelism were particularly powerful.

Beougher also grounds practical advice in daily life, showing that witnessing isn’t just a strategy or technique—it’s a lifestyle shaped by prayer, love, and intentionality. The book challenged me, encouraged me, and reminded me that fear doesn’t need to control us; the call to share God’s love is greater than our excuses.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quickly covers the main issues that inhibits Christians from witnessing. A little dated, such as suggesting giving cassette tapes to unbelieving friends. But the idea can be pushed into our modern society easily.

[Alexis Hewitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview, but I would've appreciated a bit more of a deep dive or substance in the sections. I didn't come away from this read feeling like I learned anything new, just reminded of good evangelical principles.

[Ryan Rust · Rating 4 out of 5]

This little book was full of gut punching conviction. Personal evangelism is a place where I feel totally inadequate and this book comforts me in that is exactly where God can use me.

[Connor Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview, but dated.

[Tristan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very short, pamphlet style read. It is good and very encouraging to gain boldness in our witnessing. Would be nice if a more in depth version existed that expands the ideas that Beougher presented.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book! A quick read but full of helpful tips for Evangelism! I would recommend it to anyone.

[Cheryl Bennett · Rating 1 out of 5]

My first review was positive. However, after rethinking it, I'm not so sure I would recommend it. It has some positive points but there is, sadly, a lack of urgency to spreading the gospel.

[Cameran Handy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple overview of evangelism. The book starts strong but I feel slows down in the later chapters. Some good advice but at times felt gimmicky in approach to evangelizing.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some helpful things

[Jennifer Thomason · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so amazing! I don’t want to be a spoiler but every believer should read this! Have your highlighter ready!

[Logan Prettyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful for clarifying our fears of witnessing and how to move beyond them.

[Mark A Powell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent overview of common objections to evangelism, but dated and cliche-ridden in places.