Books

Many of us find reading a good book a great-encouragement as a starting point or ‘top-up’ of our confidence and competence in sharing the gospel. We asked experienced evangelists and local church leaders for their ‘go to’ book recommendations (and why these are their top picks).

Being the Bad Guys: How to live for Jesus in a world that says you shouldn’t

Stephen McAlpine

Our reviewers said...

“Good insights into understanding our culture and how to do local church evangelism in that context.”

“He shows how we have arrived at being the bad guys and how to live in this hostile environment. An excellent book.”

Evangelism

J Mack Stiles

Our reviewers said...

“Must-read for church leaders on establishing a healthy culture of evangelism in the local church.”

“Very helpful, from someone who is doing it and passionate about it.”

Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God

JI Packer

Our reviewers said...

“A timeless classic that with Biblical clarity shows how a robust understanding of God’s sovereignty is not a barrier to our responsibility to evangelise but is instead a huge incentive and encouragement.”

Evangelism in a Skeptical World: How to make the unbelievable news about Jesus more believable

Sam Chan

Our reviewers said...

“Wide-ranging from apologetic to practical advice, even on how to prepare an evangelistic talk.”

“This is a more robust, technical version of ‘How to talk about Jesus (without being that guy)’ more aimed at church leaders and people really serious about evangelism.”

Have No Fear

John Lennox

Our reviewers said...

“Short and simple encouragement in sharing the gospel.”

“Tips on being a winsome witness from a seasoned practitioner.”

Honest Evangelism

Rico Tice

Our reviewers said...

“A great and sympathetic book by an experienced evangelist who knows how tough it can be.”

“Humble and realistic, yet very motivating.”

How to Talk About Jesus (Without Being That Guy)

Sam Chan

Our reviewers said...

“Accessible top-tips for investing in intentional relationships with unbelievers and pointing them to Jesus.”

“Very easy to read. Great principles and practical ideas.”

Intentional

Paul Williams

Our reviewers said...

“Very easy and short read. Very helpful and practical in terms of the importance of and how to take the conversation to Jesus.”

“Written by a minister who knows how to engage personally in evangelism.”

Questioning Evangelism

Randy Newman

Our reviewers said...

“An engaging read that demonstrates using questions in evangelism.”

“Masterful at showing how to engage with people by asking questions as Jesus did.”

Stay Salt

Rebecca Manley Pippert

Our reviewers said...

“She is great at applying the gospel to everyday life.”

“Her classic updated to give us confidence in today’s hostile world. A must-read!”

Story Bearer: How to share your faith with your friends

Phil Knox

Our reviewers said...

“Sharing and discovering stories is a wonderful way to approach evangelism.”

“An engaging must-read book showing how to be a story for Christ today.”

Tactics: A game plan for discussing your Christian convictions

Greg Koukl

Our reviewers said...

“Good for helping people who have got stuck in a rut with unbelieving friends. Good to mine for training tools.”

“Particularly good at showing how to ask strategic questions which he calls the ‘Colombo’ effect.”

Sample church description

All Saints Littletown is a warm, friendly church made up of all ages and nationalities. We are ordinary people who have discovered the difference it makes to have a relationship with God through his Son, Jesus.

We meet twice on Sundays at 11am and 7pm for about an hour to worship God and learn from his Word, the Bible. Refreshments follow the morning service.

During the week, we run a variety of activities, including a toddler group, children’s groups, and a coffee morning for seniors.  We also offer regular sessions for those exploring the Christian faith—providing space to learn about Jesus and ask questions.

Whether you’re exploring, seeking community, or simply curious—you’re warmly welcome here!

Churches that sign up to join the mission will enjoy unlimited downloads of all the training videos.

There will also be a limited access subscription for churches and individuals that want access to the videos without full access to all the LIFE ‘26 mission resources.