Now in its 17th year, the 2020 Outreach Resources of the Year honors the past year’s best books that emphasize outreach-oriented ideas and ministries.
The evangelism and discipleship category was evaluated by Michelle Sanchez, executive minister of Make and Deepen Disciples for The Evangelical Covenant Church, and an Outreach magazine contributing editor.
RESOURCE OF THE YEAR
You Found Me: New Research on How Unchurched Nones, Millennials, and Irreligious Are Surprisingly Open to Christian Faith
by Rick Richardson (IVP)
You Found Me presents some of the most important evangelism findings of this generation. Only 10% of churches in America are growing primarily through reaching new people rather than through transfers. Richardson and his colleagues conducted rock-solid research with thousands of these churches, the treasures of which are summarized in this work. Despite what the doomsday predictions might have us believe, many people are still surprisingly open to Christian faith. This book shows us, from research-based experience, exactly how to engage them.
You Found Me is also a powerful read because it is personally transformational. It highlights the key research finding that evangelistic fruitfulness among a church community begins with the senior pastor modeling evangelism in a way that others can imitate. Growing our churches starts with growing our own hearts. This book is a must-read for every Christian leader.
ALSO RECOMMENDED
The Unsaved Christian: Reaching Cultural Christianity With the Gospel by Dean Inserra (Moody)
This book brilliantly breaks down the different types of cultural/nominal Christians and gives practical next steps on how to engage them.
Unlikely Converts: Improbable Stories of Faith and What They Teach Us About Evangelism by Randy Newman (Kregel)
Newman’s genius is conversation, and once again in this work he winsomely guides us with concrete examples of what to say and how to say it in ways that lead to unlikely converts.
Faith for Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon by David Kinnaman (Baker)
Summarizes fresh research on five practices that contribute to resilient faith among today’s young adults residing in Digital Babylon.
Gospel Witness: Evangelism in Word and Deed by David M. Gustafson (Eerdmans)
This impressive evangelism textbook expertly covers the basics of evangelism praxis while also remaining fully conversant with current trends and movements.