A sad broad-stroked truth about Christians is that we underestimate what’s involved in the non-believer’s journey. We like everything short, simple and sweet. And when it comes to our role as messengers, we have been exhorted to “tell” the gospel, not to get into their shoes. Book after book, pastor after pastor, have declared that if we merely tell others about Jesus—it will suffice. So off we go with our one-hit-wonder lines on our tongues—thinking if we can just get in a spiritual word—hearts will swing fully to God.
Some, dumping the naiveté, intuit the error. Why would we assume that something of such magnitude could be achieved by a mere telling, especially for those beginning from distant starting points? Honestly, “telling” might not achieve anything outside the proper frame for influence. At many levels, including relational connection and trust, most are beyond the cast of a single line. A need for relational processing exists. This call to a broader approach is magnified in a time of pluralistic perspectives, where intelligent people have legitimate questions, and where hearts lack ample courage. These people hang at the fringes of our church circles; neither convinced, nor properly courted, they do not have what is required to enter such a new and mysterious spiritual relationship.
Thus, honoring the progressions necessary for their journey, I wrote a relatively small book called Steps to Faith. In short, readable vignettes, this 103 page-turner (published by Wipf and Stock Publishers), lay a pathway for spiritual discovery. It invites non-believers to take “The First Step” of exploration. Through the years, innumerable people, some far from God, have gotten onto a path that led them to faith. This is Steps to Faith!
Adaptably designed for a group, class, or one-to-one sharing, this book gives inquirers the chance to examine faith and explore questions, in order to want to encounter the true and living God. For years, we have taught it, interactively, to build relationship and rapport with seeking friends. (All you need is one or two teachers and a team of journey guides).
Another benefit is how this book equips Christians to dialogue fruitfully on spiritual matters (This is a huge need in the church; we are not good at conversation!). Appealing to both head and heart hang-ups, it is meticulously crafted to cut through the haze. Consider the endorsement from Compass Bible Church Senior Pastor Mike Fabarez:
“Steps to Faith provides a useful and instructive guide to understanding and explaining the biblical truths that our world desperately needs to hear. Whether you want to know what it means to place your faith in Christ, or you seek to improve your dexterity in effectively leading others to faith in Jesus, this book is for you.”
It’s available on Amazon, and discounted prices on my site. May you reach wider circles by offering a necessary exploratory experience! Gospel blessings!
