Speak by Nish Weiseth
Visit the Author's website HERE
Publisher: Zondervan
Publishing Date: August 5, 2014
Goodreads Summary:
Speak, by popular blogger Nish Weiseth, is a book about the power of telling our own stories and hearing those of others to change hearts, build bridges, advocate for good, make disciples with grace, and proclaim God's kingdom on Earth today.
Nish Weiseth exhorts today's Christians to follow Jesus' example by using story as a vehicle for change. After all, Jesus was a master storyteller. He frequently and effectively used the art of storytelling to communicate deep truths about God, humanity, love, and eternity to a culture on the brink. His stories defied social norms, revealed God's Kingdom, and fiercely advocated for the least of these.
With examples from Scripture as the foundation, Speak is a call for grace, openness, and vulnerability within the evangelical church. Nish Weiseth encourages those in the Body of Christ to know their own story of transformation and redemption---and to use those stories as a catalyst for change at both a personal and global level.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Buy a copy for your Kindle for $7.99 today! (7/24/14)
My Thoughts:
Well, I can tell you right from the beginning: this was not the book I was looking for. I once again fall for a decent sounding description and a lack of time to do any good research before requesting on Netgalley. I may becoming notorious for this.....
I loved the basic, the bare bones, the heart of where Weiseth was trying to take us. We can only truly understand a person, their choices, their paths, their decisions by stopping, listening to their stories. It is all about being intentional and caring about those around you. By taking the time to slow down and listen to your neighbor's heart, you can make a difference in their lives. Ultimately, Weiseth is hoping it opens a door for evangelism.
A lovely concept that I, as an INFJ, am all for. And don't misunderstand any part of what I am going to say, because I love hearing and sharing life with others. But as a form of evangelism, our stories can only ever be a reflection of Christ. To truly know Him and lead others to Him, we need the Gospel. I am a firm believer that if the Gospel never comes into play, we aren't truly leading others to Christ. This major component was missing from 'Speak'. Listening and telling our stories can only open the door, establish a beginning connection, which, is still fantastic.
Overall, I was left feeling incomplete. Wieseth is a master word wielder; she tells stories on a regular basis. And while sharing life, story, history with others is super important, it cannot be all there is for evangelism. I could recommend this readers firm enough in their faith to see the difference. Also those looking for a primer on the power of good story. 'Speak' receives 3 stars from me, but feel free to give it a shot and tell me your own thoughts!!
I think putting emphasis on the power of stories is a good thing, especially because the Bible is God's story (emphasis on story). And stories are generally how we communicate with other people, how we process information and experiences. At the same time, I completely get what you're saying. Testimony of how God has worked in your life is great, but the goal is a relationship with God. If your stories are making people curious to meet the guy behind them, awesome. If not, maybe rethink the approach?
ReplyDeleteI think you hit it right on the button. I'm sure Speak was trying to work towards that conclusion, but just missed it. This book has had lasting power for me, by reminding me to listen and ask questions more than talk about myself!
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