The summary of the reading
In their book, Paul Chilcote and Lacey Warner examine the peculiarities of modern evangelism. In particular, the authors discuss the primary purpose of this practice. Overall, they attach importance to such a goal as the winning and salvation of souls. People, who are engaged in this activity, focus on the idea that they spread the news about “a liberating and a searching God”. In other words, one should speak about the deity that wants to give people a chance for salvation. Moreover, the authors discuss the Biblical justification of evangelism. In particular, they examine various sayings of Jesus Christ. This justification is particularly important at the time when modern societies become more secular. To some degree, this trend can be observed in the United States; therefore, it is more difficult to explain the rationale for evangelism. Apart from that, the authors discuss the role of evangelism after 1945 because World War II profoundly changed people’s views on the role of religion for separate individuals and communities. So, the authors focus on how evangelism evolved due to this trend.
Additionally, Paul Chilcote and Lacey Warner discuss the connections between evangelism and the notion of social justice. It should be mentioned that many people, who may convert to Christianity, are often affected by poverty, inequality, and the inability to shape the political life of the country. In turn, it is important to highlight the idea that Christianity is based on the values that contribute to social justice. Additionally, it is vital to lay stress on the idea that the teaching of Jesus Christ transcends racial or ethnic boundaries. This viewpoint can appeal to people who struggle with the legacies of colonialism, racism, and discrimination. In turn, preachers should make sure that their behavior does not include the elements of prejudice and bias. This is one of the pitfalls that should be avoided by ministers.
Moreover, the authors discuss the cultural peculiarities of evangelism. In many cases, people, who adopt Christianity, are often pressured to abandon their cultural heritage. This situation has often been observed in various African countries. Additionally, preachers have often been insensitive to the culture of local people. In fact, their values and worldviews have often been neglected. In turn, the authors believe that the situation has to be changed. These recommendations can significantly improve the practices of preachers. Overall, these suggestions are important for people who want to promote Christian values in Africa and other regions.
Responses to the questions
It is possible to say that the writers identify several issues that are critical for the continuing importance of evangelism in the modern world. In particular, preachers should understand the historical, social, and economic peculiarities of countries in which they want to promote Christian values. Additionally, they should keep in mind that individuals do not immediately embrace Christian values. This process is usually very gradual. Moreover, they should be continuously exposed to the teachings of the Bible. In turn, many preachers often expect that people can quickly convert to Christianity. However, this approach can undermine the efforts of people who act as evangelists.
The main theological implication of this text is that evangelism should lay stress on the theology of compassion and liberation. In particular, preachers should display empathy for people who can be affected by various hardships such as poverty or malnutrition. Moreover, evangelist theology should help a person explain the nature of injustice in the modern world. As it has been said before, this form of preaching is based on the assumption that God wants to save every individual. Furthermore, believers are expected to do their best to spread Christianity. Therefore, one can say that evangelism is a duty of Christians. This is one of the points that should be identified.
Apart from that, one should discuss the pastoral implications of this text. In particular, pastors should be involved in the life of local communities. In this way, these people can demonstrate that they adhere to Christian values and principles. Additionally, they will act as role models for other people. Overall, it is critical for them to act as caregivers. This is one of the issues that should be taken into account by the readers of this book.
Overall, the researchers mention several themes that can be examined in further studies. In particular, the authors examine the status of evangelism in secular societies. Moreover, in such communities, religion plays a smaller role. Thus, one should examine how evangelism can retain its relevance under these circumstances. Furthermore, it is important to analyze the way in which preachers can promote the welfare of vulnerable communities. As it has been said before, the theology of liberation is important for the promotion of Christian values throughout the world. Therefore, one should discuss the way in which the principles can be implemented. It seems that this question is important for the promotion of Christian values in various developing countries
Bibliography
Chilcote, Paul, and Warner Laceye. The Study of Evangelism: Exploring a Missional Practice of the Church. New York: Eerdmans Publishing Co, 2008.