Seeker Small Groups: Engaging Spiritual Seekers in Life-Changing Discussions

Not sure of how, exactly, my glowing review of Garry's book would be conveyed, I surveyed some other reviews already posted. The most negative stated: "Its a lie to think you have to arrange a time and place and to build relationships with people to share the gospel or to get them to a point where they are open to spiritual truths." I would like to thank the author of this review for giving me the words with which to praise Garry's book. If I may paraphrase the line, above, it says that "you don't need to spend so much time in relationship-building in order to accomplish your agenda of sharing the Gospel." The point of Garry's book, I believe, is that building a relationship IS sharing the Gospel!!! Loving people and creating a safe environment for them isn't a means to sharing the Gospel, it IS the Gospel!!! As someone involved in vocational ministry, I would like to thank Garry for teaching me how to leave my hidden agenda aside, so that I may accomplish God's agenda. This book breaks the mold of our thinking, where evangelism is relegated to doing anything possible to force the Gospel down a person's throat at any time. By putting into practice the philosophy of this book, we are able to BE the Good News in a person's life while, at the same time, providing a forum where a seeker may be comfortably introduced to fellowship and accountability as they take their first steps on a path which will eventually lead them to an intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior.

Seeker Small Groups is an invaluable resource for ministry in a postmodern society. Gary Poole's heart for seekers is contagious! He writes, "Seekers matter to God; therefore they matter to us." If the 21st century church is to make great strides in reaching the lost for Christ, we must understand the spiritual concerns of seekers and create opportunities where they can ask probing questions regarding the Christian faith. A seeker small group has tremendous value in that it provides a non-threatening environment for unbelievers to explore the claims of Scripture. This book provides the reader with principles and methods for launching a seeker small group. Poole argues that everyday, ordinary Christians can lead a seeker small group. He provides practical instruction in guiding seekers through the Five Phases of Spiritual Discovery. This strategy, referred to as Emphatic Evangelism, does not require expertise in outreach ministries. It simply requires that one be willing to accept the seeker, ask great questions and listen intently. For those who may be a bit nervous about starting a seeker small group, Poole offers some suggestions for inviting friends, making a first impression, and conducting future meetings. He also explains how to develop a discussion outline that moves seekers from their current beliefs to the biblical truth they need to discover. Personal stories by the author, leaders, and participants give testimony to how the small group ministry has been a powerful tool in helping seekers cross the line of faith. For every Christian who is serious about leading seekers to Christ, this book is a must.

I have always admired people who could strike up spiritual conversations the way I ask directions to the ladies' room. But I was too shy and afraid--afraid I'd be rejected, or worse, that I'd be asked a question I couldn't answer and blow it. This book has the answers for people just like I am. Without suggesting a personality change and requiring we non-evangelist-types reach out to seekers with brazen boldness, Poole offers a gentle, yet effective approach to evangelizing. And guess what? It works. The author walks the reader step-by-step through the process in such a way that spiritual discussions aren't forced, but an outgrowth of a genuine interest in the other person. I regret all my missed opportunities to share my faith with family and friends, but now, I have very effective tools that fit the personality of a non-evangelist like I am. What's more, I'm not afraid to use them!

In my opinion, Garry Poole's book is an outstanding work on one of the best evangelistic tools in contemporary Christianity; Seeker Small Groups (SSG's). In this work Poole explores many aspects of developing, leading, and maintaining SSG's. If you are interested in SSG's this book is a must read.On top of the helpful insight and advice given for SSG's - Poole includes a hidden nugget for personal evangelism. In Chapter 5, 6, & 7 Poole explains the importance of asking great questions, listening well, and "emapthic evangelism." These three elements help to outline the most important skills that Christians need to truly share their faith and to love people well. This book gives readers tangible steps that will help them share their faith in a world that is increasingly postmodern. All-in-all this book is a great read for anyone interested in SSG's and evangelism. Don't let the title fool you, there is more in this book than just Small Group advice.

This book has all the answers! It is a postmodern look at engaging spiritual seekers in today's world. Garry Poole bases this on true relationships with people but gives suggestions on how to take the conversation--and ultimately the seeker's trust--to a deeper spiritual level. It focuses on listening, truly listening, and asking relevent questions. And every question someone could possibly have in leading his or her own small group is answered. And it works! I've used this book on a practical level--and never thought I could. I highly recommend this book to those who have spiritual seekers in their lives (which includes just about everyone).