The Coffeehouse Gospel: Sharing Your Faith Through Everday Conversation

Many so-called Christians think faith is all about themselves and God (individualists) or it's about being right and proving everyone else wrong (legalists) or it's what works for them since they think every road leads to heaven (postmodernists). But faith is about community--community with the Father, Son, Spirit, Church, and a hurting world that needs reconciliation. I am a minister in churches of Christ and I am a huge fan of "coffeehouse ministries." So I bought this book thinking it would be about that. I quickly learned it is about more: (as the subtitle states) "sharing your faith in everyday conversation." The biggest struggle where I minister is getting people to know how (or even that they ought) to share their faith story with everyone around them. Turner challenges us to do just that in very practical ways that are relevant. Turner is very open and honest in this very conversational book, saying things like "No calling on my life is more engaging and at the same time stressful than God's call for me to be His witness" (p. 5). It's all about being a witness in the way Jesus was. The various conversations with people he shares are great. And the exercises to help people know and share their own story with people are fantastic. I will be using this as a teaching tool. One final theological note: when he (or anyone else) starts people down the "Romans Road" (which he uses as an example of basics to know), someone should remind him to stop at 6:3-11.

I read Coffeehouse Gospel over the holiday weekend. It's a quick read. I love Turner's personal writing style. It's like he's talking right to me. I like that. But the most important part of this book is its message. I finished reading this book wanting to share my story of faith. It made me want to go out do something. I was challenged by this book. I think you will be, too. Thank you Matthew for writing from your heart.

I just have to say that this book was breath of fresh air for me. I believe will all my heart that you will read this book you will become better equipped to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. I loved it.

Coffeehouse Gospel is a great book to read and not be afraid to share it with others. It is easy reading and to the point. When I finished reading it I really felt I had found a way that I could share my faith without offending anyone. The author is not afraid to share his mistakes which helps you to relate to the content. He is witty but also serious about how to share with others your relationship with Christ.

I just got this book, and I LOVED it. The stories were honest and relevant, and I felt like I could easily apply a lot of the advice to my life. The Coffeehouse Gospel really encouraged me to share my faith in everyday conversation- just like the title says. I strongly recommend it to anyone who struggles with the term "evangelism" because it breaks down that word's stereotypes. DEFINITELY check out this book. It will encourage you to evaluate the way you share your faith and challenge you to be a stronger Christian.