The last chapter of this book of one hundred and seventy pages begins with the words, “Why doesn’t the New Testament mention evangelism much?” It then proceeds to confirm the answers provided in the earlier chapters by visiting and giving a brief exposition of the epistle to the Ephesians to show where the New Testament emphasis does lie. I think Graham Tomlin brings a liberating understanding of evangelism as an activity which is intrinsically based in the church living as Christ’s body, under His Lordship, showing forth His kingdom ways in the midst of society so that others ask the first question of Acts chapter two ‘What does this mean?” This is a short, but outstanding book first published in 2002 and now in its third edition complete with study notes at the end. It is an ideal teaching tool for any church as it roots the whole subject of evangelism soundly in good ground. It is so helpful to find a book that is scriptural and establishes the fact that the church is to live the life in its community, finding ways to show forth the King and His Kingdom ways. It is a welcome relief from the usual fare of methodologies undertaken by specialist Para church organizations that, if we do not get involved with them a subtle sense of guilt is engendered. Is my church worth going to? Does it have a life that is different because there are transformed people who gather there unto the Lord their God? I like the way this author is so honest in his approach to this subject, he is thoroughly contemporary in his understanding of society. Here is a must read book for pastors and leaders and it comes from someone who has been an ordained minister in England for many years and is far from out of touch. By his own admission much of what he writes here comes from his own forty years of experience worked out in several church situations both Baptism and Anglican. Every chapter has something pertinent to all of us as the author seeks to bring a blend of theology and practice, doctrine and experience. This is by far the best of the books written recently on the subject of the church and its mission. Here is something that will point the way to life together as God’s people in the midst of our communities.
