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 PrintableVersion Out of the Saltshaker and Into the WorldOUT OF THE SALTSHAKER AND INTO THE WORLD First published 20 years ago and with over half a million copies in print, this 'how to evangelise' book has now been extensively revised. The first half of the book consists of updated chapters on Jesus's life, values and lifestyle, on practising the presence of Jesus and on conversational skills. The later chapters cover new issues such as the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism and witnessing to post-moderns and New Agers. Manley Pippert writes with great enthusiasm in a clear, racy style. Points are reinforced by numerous stories of her encounters with different individuals. As the cover blurb states: 'People crowd the pages of Becky's book.' The downside is that many Christians could be left thinking that their lives are incredibly dull by comparison! How-ever, we are reminded that: 'God isn't glorified in our lives if we try to wear our best friend's personality. We must be who we were created to be.' (p.109). There are many thought-provoking comments throughout the book. For example: 'I believe one of the critical issues that the church faces is how not to shrink from naming sin and still be the bearers of grace.' (p.161). Although the book aims to encourage personal evangelism, it is reassuring to find the importance of the local church affirmed in several places. It is noteworthy that, on sharing the gospel message, the following observation is made: 'Christians often feel inadequate in evangelism because they haven't memorised enough Bible verses. Scripture memory is an invaluable tool in developing our Christian character, but frankly, I have not found that sharing isolated verses with seekers is as effective as when we share the stories of Jesus or passages of Scripture that have moved us. In my experience, that is when the Spirit operates with greater power' (p.169). Ironic, then, that two of the three gospel outlines contained in an appendix are based on a proof-text approach! Out of the Saltshaker is a refreshingly straightforward, inspirational book that deserves to be read even more widely than it is already. An attractively produced journal (ISBN 0 85111 647 7) designed as a companion to the book and an audio book (two cassettes, ISBN 0 85110 250 6) read by the author are also available from IVP. Kim Hubbard,
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