Beyond Awkward

Beyond Awkward: When Talking About Jesus is Outside Your Comfort Zone by Beau Crosetto was a good read. The book discussed a lot of things that I never considered before. It also ventured into depths that I neglected within myself, either afraid to admit my failures or ashamed to inspect my shortcomings. I believe it is applicable to almost anyone, especially those were are either new to evangelism/ministry and have no clue to go about it, or are those that have been hurt when talking to someone about their belief/disbelief of Jesus.

Basically, through many fun and relative examples (that you either or on the giving or receiving end have more than likely encountered), the book discusses why Christian conversations are so awkward, and from there, what to do about it. It first discusses why our environment and culture has influenced this tension. Then it shows how certain actions and words can make our conversations awkward. From here, it makes an important distinction with being awkward and from being creepy, and how to prevent the latter and be more careful while in the former. Another important distinction shown, was that of being timid and that of being pushy, and how to move from those far areas into a place of practical obedience. It shows, as Christians, what signs to be looked for in terms of how we communicate with another/others as well as to where to place our faith. The book also teaches well in terms of patience, timing, and listening. All in all, awkwardness is shown in a positive light to bearing much fruit, if applied properly in terms of how we deal with it.

I think this book is good for non-Christians to read as well. This book shows Christians in a humble regard, in that we do make mistakes, and we are prone to falsely and incorrectly misrepresenting our belief and love for God, as well as our desire for all peoples to have a relationship with our God. More than likely, if you are a non-Christian that has had bad experience with hearing from another person about God, its because of how the person was speaking to you. They were either not trained, not listening to you, nor listening to God properly. All of these can be possibilities, however, all of these, in time and in faith in God, can be rectified.

Beyond Awkward has many strong questions for those of all levels in terms of their faith. Definitely will change your outlook and willingness to pursue and continue conversations such as these.