Rich Kao

A wonderful little treatise by George G. Hunter, Dean of World Missions & Evangelism at Asbury Theological Seminary.  The opening paragraph in the preface states the case well for why the book was written...in the face of a postmodern, neo-barbarian, feeling driven culture,  where do we look for answers when it comes to winning souls once again?  I like Dr. Hunter's chippy (not chirpy) attitude which almost borders on irreverance or angers at times at the lack of historical perspective current church planters take in addressing this issue.  The basic premise of the book?  Church history in the form of how the Celtic's evangelized (specifically St. Patrick, yes, of St. Patrick Day's fame) gives us a resounding answer.  After tracing the effects Patrick had on evangelizing the Irish and Europe, the book elucidates key method's of the Celtics that Dr. Hunter says should be applied today.   Here's a snapshot of what Patrick and the Celtics did:

    > They evangelised in communities ("apostolic bands"). 
    > Christianity was a movement, not an institution. 
    > They practiced the idea that the seeker needed to "belong before they believed."  
    > They were deeply given to the "ministry of conversation."
    > They were deeply committed to the "ministry of hospitality."
    > They were committed to understanding the people among whom they lived.

The book has its "academic moments" but is clearly inspired by a passion for the lost and recovering "methods" that can aid the church in doing so.