The Coffeehouse Gospel

Do you feel you could be doing more to witness to other people about what you believe, but are too shy or just don’t know what to do? This book might be for you . . .

Have you ever thought about what it is you’re called to do?” (p 1). Whatever it is, Matthew Turner asks probing questions challenging the reader to find that calling and acknowledge “… if you’re a follower of Jesus, you’ve been called to be His witness” (p 13).
The Coffeehouse Gospel is peppered with Turner’s real, and random, conversations, each offering an opportunity to share his faith with someone. But it isn’t that easy, is it? We often feel inadequate, ill-equipped or just uncomfortable to start a conversation with our friends about Christianity, let alone complete strangers. These excuses often stop us from responding, or even listening, to the Holy Spirit’s little nudges.
Not allowing room for any excuses, Turner writes, “So, no matter if you’re shy, bold, obnoxious, ADD, funny, boring, ugly, or cute, if you’re a follower of Jesus, He’s called you to share your life story as a statement of His mercy, grace, love, and forgiveness” (p 17). And it’s really that compelling.
Turner doesn’t leave you feeling bad about not sharing your story or about the times you’ve ignored those little nudges. He’s encouraging and real in spurring the reader into sharing their story. “It is not merely about your testimony; it’s about the everyday life experiences all of us share” (p 66).
Turner is refreshing in his outlook on evangelism and sharing one’s faith. He encourages the reader to be honest about the real things in life. Although there are obstacles to sharing one’s faith, Turner pushes the reader to write their story down with key texts to get you started (p 122–135); and much more.
The Coffeehouse Gospel encourages and strengthens Christians to be active. “It’s a Christ-follower’s ultimate goal to reach out to those who do not know the loving-kindness of God” (p 141). Be challenged, feel a bit uncomfortable and read on.

The Coffeehouse Gospel
Matthew Paul Turner
Relevant Books, 2004, 161 pages