EMQ » January–March 2022 » Volume 58 Issue 1
[memberonly folder=”Members, EMQ2YearFolder, EMQ1YearFolder, EMQLibraryInstitution”]By Priscilla Pope-Levison
Baker Academic, 2020
208 pages
US$19.39
Reviewed by Ed Scheuerman, professor of Intercultural Studies, Lancaster Bible College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, having previously served with Pioneers for twenty-three years in Southeast Asia.
I believe it was D.L. Moody who said, “I like my way of doing evangelism better than your way of not doing evangelism.” In Models of Evangelism, Pope-Levison removes the excuse of not knowing how to do evangelism. This primer examines what evangelism in America looks like in the twenty-first century and answers the how to with eight models available to individuals and churches.
The eight models presented are: personal, small group, visitation, liturgical, church growth, prophetic, revival, and media. The book is well structured, making it easy to compare and contrast each model. Each chapter covers the biblical bases of the model, theological themes that anchor each model in Scripture, a historical discussion of practitioners of the model, practical steps to utilize each model, and an objective appraisal of each model. Her footnotes are helpful additions for those who want to go deeper into some of the concepts presented.
In the historical discussion for each model, Pope-Levison makes it clear that she is dealing with the American context. With that in mind, this book is well suited for pastors, laity, future church planters, elders, and others who might be willing to evaluate their church’s commitment to the Great Commission and making disciples of all nations. Those preparing to serve cross-culturally would also benefit from reading this book, as it would give options to consider in strategic planning.
Theologically, Pope-Levison expertly connects key theological emphases (e.g., Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, pneumatology, etc.) to each model.
Her practical foundations section for each model is extremely helpful for understanding what its implementation involves. This helps to balance the theological and historical sections. And I deeply appreciate that she does not shy away from being critical in assessing each model. Perhaps one of the best applications is that no one model needs to stand alone.
Additionally, I appreciated the inclusion of a theology of the kingdom of God, especially when contrasted with a theology of the church. Some models have the potential to over (or under) emphasize one of these. Likewise, she appropriately discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in some of the models.
But the most important takeaway for me consisted of the five recurring characteristics of good evangelism described in the conclusion. This summary gives the reader what is needed to personally choose an appropriate combination of models. These key characteristics are practicing hospitality, forming relationships, living with integrity, bearing the Christian message, and rooting oneself in a church (182).
I will be using material from this book in the Discipleship/Evangelism class that I teach as well as when I consult with churches. Pope-Levinson has covered the ancient (liturgical), the current (media), and all options in between. May God use this book to further his kingdom, both here, in America, and around the world.
For Further Reading
Borthwick, Paul. Great Commission, Great Compassion: Following Jesus and Loving the World. IVP Books, 2015.
Ott, Craig. The Church on Mission: A Biblical Vision for Transformation among All People. Baker Academic, 2019.
Stiles, J. Mack. Evangelism: How the Whole Church Speaks of Jesus. Crossway, 2014.
