As the title of this book suggests, Richard Stearns, author and CEO of World Vision, suggests that there is unfinished buisiness for those who claim to be followers of Christ. God has given us - the church - a mission.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. ~Matthew 28:19-20
Through this command, God invites us to join him in changing the world. This is the foundational message of this book. Stearns explains how God has created each and every one of us to play an important role in creating the kingdom of God here on earth and how we will find fulfillment and joy in accepting this invitation and responding obediently.
Not only is this book full of wisdom, scripture and sound advice, it also gives the reader a glimpse into the life of the man behind World Vision. Richard Stearns is a man after God's heart. He has a heart for motivating and encouraging others to love the poor as God loves the poor.
One quote especially had me smiling...
"God's deepest desire is not that we would help the poor. God's deepest desire is that we would love the poor; for if we love them, we will surely help them."
This was said to a large group of World Vision donors attending a conference. Doesn't it make you think of the reference to sounding like a gong in 1 Corinthians 13:1?
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do have not love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal. 1 Corinithians 13:1 (emphasis mine)Love is the key ingredient. Anyway, back to the book....
This book is a wake up call to every believer. It is not enough to believe....believing is only the beginning. God has given us a mission and we must enthusiastically and energetically answer the call to finish the work He began.
I highly recommend this book, as well as Richard Stearns first book, The Hole in our Gospel.
Have you read either of these books? If so, I would love to hear your thoughts.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
