All posts tagged Book Review

“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.” – Philippians 2

Just read ‘Shining Like Stars’, a book all about students around the world holding out ‘the word of life’ in their universities and beyond. The book is published by IVP and written by Lindsay Brown, former General Secretary of IFES. The book takes us through the history of IFES (International Fellowship of Evangelical Students), from the first Intervarsity Christian groups in the 1920’s, to the formation of IFES, as 10 national groups in 1947, and the continued growth to the present day with IFES groups in over 145 countries.The book is easy reading and combines lots of two main things… biblical examples of courageous men and women, and a faithful God – particularly focusing on Daniel, and looking practically (and biblically) at the motivation and techniques used for mission. These two areas are consistently supported by examples of people all around the world involved in student ministry.The book has helpful things to say on; trusting God’s sovereignty and faithfulness, taking risks for the gospel, perseverance through trials, methods for reaching students with the gospel, honouring God in our work – and our whole lives. One really encouraging thing to come out from this book was stories of reconciliation, particularly from Rwanda and Yugoslavia, where the bond between Christians was stronger than racial differences and is an awesome witness to whole nations of the peace that comes from being in Christ.

One of my favourite stories from the book is that of a Georgian student – a Muslim, in a Muslim family. At an IFES conference he was so compelled by the love he saw that he gave his life to Christ. Soon after returning, his grandfather died, and many mourners came to his funeral. The student stood up to a community of Muslims and said:“My grandfather was a Muslim, my father is a Muslim and I have been a Muslim. I have searched the Koran, but I couldn’t find salvation in it. Now at my grandfather’s graveside I want to tell you that I have found salvation in Christ. How I wish that you could all believe in Jesus.”

There are loads of encouraging stories like this, not to mention the timelessly chalenging quotes dotted around from the likes of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Howard Guinness, John Wesley, and William Carey not to mention all the lesser known students and staff working to bring the gospel to students all around the world.