cover image Discipling in a Multicultural World

Discipling in a Multicultural World

Ajith Fernando. Crossway, $19.99 trade paper (288p) ISBN 978-1-4335-6285-3

Using the metaphor of “spiritual parenthood,” Fernando (Reclaiming Love), teaching director of Youth for Christ in Sri Lanka, convincingly describes his recommended method by which mature “disciplers” (or evangelical “shepherds”) can convert others to Christianity. Fernando’s method prioritizes “unhurried” spiritual guidance of select individuals over less concentrated attention to many. With sensitivity and insight, he discusses challenges that may put new converts to Christianity in emotionally charged predicaments, such as when a new convert’s family disapproves of the conversion, potentially leading to persecution or rejection. To that end, Fernando stresses the importance of disciples maintaining strong ties with families and offers guidance for obeying the Christian commandment to honor parents, even when those parents object to the convert’s new faith. The book’s second section looks at the discipler’s role in affecting personal transformation in new Christians, through emphasis on doctrines of atonement and grace and the practices of confession and forgiveness. Fernando writes for an evangelical audience, but readers from across the Christian theological spectrum will be intrigued by his ideas on spiritually engaging new Christians with cultural sensitivity. (Feb.)