Out of the saltshaker (by Rebecca Manley Pippert)

(Amazon UK link)

'Out of the saltshaker', which I have read before, is an encouraging book in my opinion. It was written some years ago and intended for students. But it is but relevant to Christians of all ages.

The author, Rebecca Manley Pippert, uses anecdotes and Scripture to show what evangelism really is - or should be! But rather than trying to use set formulae or lists of points, she talks about being friendly with those around us, caring for them, meeting their needs and taking them as they are. Christian outreach, she explains, is something that will come naturally if we care enough about God, just as we might talk about our other interests.

Unfortunately, as the author points out, many people are put off by the pushy nature of some Christians who want to share God with those around them, but have no idea how to go about it. She explains that it's not our responsibility to convert people - that's the work of the Holy Spirit. Instead we need to be ourselves, and to care for those around us. Of course we can bring God into conversations, as appropriate, but friendship is important in itself.

This is not a long book but it is well-written, interesting, and very thought-provoking.

Recommended.