Yearning for the Vast and Endless Sea: The Good News about the Good News

Evangelism is a contentious word, but what if we recovered an authentic understanding of it as good news that enables people to know they are drenched in the love and grace of God? This book aims to redeem evangelism from its present predicament by setting it in a deeper and richer theological context, asking how the church and individual Christians can communicate the love of God in language and action, and exploring how the good news is received.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: Canterbury Press Norwich

Evangelism is a term that carries a lot of weight and can evoke various assumptions and perceptions. It can stir up suspicion, suggest tribalism, or even be perceived as a desperate attempt to address declining numbers. For some, the term has become tainted and irreparably damaged. However, what if we could reclaim an authentic understanding of evangelism as the good news that empowers individuals to recognize their profound connection with the love and grace of God? How can we achieve this?

This book is designed for everyone who desires to share the gospel but feels disconnected from the prevailing perception of evangelism. The title is inspired by the words of Saint-Exupery, who emphasized the importance of inspiring people to yearn for the vast and endless sea rather than simply gathering them to collect wood for shipbuilding.

In this book, Chris Russell aims to redeem evangelism from its current state of affairs. He provides a deeper and more comprehensive theological framework to contextualize evangelism, explores how the church and individual Christians can effectively communicate the love of God through language and actions, and delves into the ways in which the good news is received by individuals.

Throughout the book, Russell draws upon the insights of writers such as Bonhoeffer, Newbigin, and Pope Francis, particularly their landmark document, Euangelii Gaudium. By integrating these diverse perspectives, Russell offers a fresh and invigorating perspective on evangelism that seeks to reclaim its true essence as a means of spreading the joy and hope of the gospel.

Whether you are a seasoned missionary or a new believer seeking to understand the role of evangelism in your faith journey, this book is a valuable resource for you. It will help you deepen your understanding of the gospel, develop effective communication skills, and become more confident in sharing your faith with others. So, let us embark on this journey together and reclaim the true meaning of evangelism as a powerful tool for spreading God's love and grace in the world.

Weight: 174g
Dimension: 140 x 214 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786225177