Author: Jim Henderson

Its a classic human trait to try and determine success. Are we winning, are we loosing? How would we even know if we were successful. If you play for the Sacramento Kings, you know that a 50+ win season and a trip to the playoffs means success. When I play golf (one of my favorite hobbies) I know I've had success if my score is closer to 80 than to 90.

In matters of faith or the church, many of the same questions about success are asked. Historically, the church has used the indicator of conversions to faith as one of it's determiners of success. Jim Henderson, in his book Evangelism Without Additives gives us a new way to think about living the life of a believer who shares their faith. The 5th chapter, named "Count Conversations, Not Conversions," explains how important basic "middle level" conversation is in relationship. Studies have concluded that ideas are shared, and even trusted once we are included in community and social context. These trust elements start with conversation. Jim writes, "we change our minds about life, not simply because of correct information, but because we trust our conversation partners."

Talking about the weather, kids, ones job, or the bills may seem less than important for the Christian with a single minded focus on conversation, but Jesus was happy to spend time doing just that. Dinner with "unbelievers" was a salacious act in the eyes of the highest religious order, but Jesus did not need their permission or approval.

Giving people our attention in conversation, as Jim states, is more relational and life giving than asking for or expecting a decision. Attention - not decision.

When our conversations with people do begin to address issues of faith, Jim reminds us of the Celtic Way of Evangelism, lived out by Saint Patrick in AD 432. Patrick started with the assumption that the people he grew to know and talk with were receptive to his thoughts on faith. He also saw conversation in this light -- his goal was not to wrestle people to the ground with theology. Instead, his goal was to nudge people across the starting line towards Jesus.

When we learn or remember that speaking and feeling are closely related, we can see why Jesus, in John 13:35 said that people "will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." The unified life of faith Jesus modeled and has called Christians to live out, through the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit involves all levels - including the middle level conversations about "those Kings" and the weather.

Joedy Zapara - book reader