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Spiritual Equipping for Mission: Thriving as God's Message Bearers
God calls his people to mission. But the demands of crosscultural ministry can be overwhelming and draining, leading to discouragement and burnout. All of our strategies and methodologies for reaching others are useless if we are incapable of living the holy, faithful lives God intends for us. Yet God does not leave us on our own. The Holy Spirit equips us to succeed and thrive spiritually in preparation of becoming God's message bearers in the world. Spiritual formation and discipleship are at the core of effective and fruitful mission. Mission professional Ryan Shaw unpacks ten fundamental spiritual keys we need to practice to have a successful outer global witness. He shows how we can partner with God to experience Jesus' transforming power and presence, with practical insights for praying, growing and persevering as God's servants in the world. God is calling a new generation to serve long-term to fulfill the Great Commission. The Holy Spirit is at work within us to equip and enable mission workers in and out of the field. Discover how you can become who God wants you to be as his ambassador to the world.
- GenresFaith
208 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2014
12 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 8, 2016
I recommend this book to all desiring to pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus and find their place in Great Commission, which is The Lord's mandate to all of us. Very challenging and convicting read.
December 14, 2018
A great book for all but especially message bearers.
Very readable and essential topics were covered. It had practical ideas of how to apply God’s Word into our daily lives and re-fill our cups.
Very readable and essential topics were covered. It had practical ideas of how to apply God’s Word into our daily lives and re-fill our cups.
September 1, 2014
Book Review on Spiritual Equipping for Mission by Ryan Shaw.
After the book True Discipleship by William McDonald and Calvary Road by Roy Hession, it is refreshing to read Spiritual Equipping for Mission by Ryan Shaw.
Spiritual Equipping for Mission is a manual for anyone who wants to serve Nations with a Good news of Christ as a "message bearer" .
It deals with the inner spiritual foundations which needs to be laid as a person prepares to serve Jesus Christ with a focus as a "message bearer".
It is a spiritual and practical manual for laying solid character foundations in a person's life. The formation of solid spirituality to serve the peoples and the nations is a must for every follower of Jesus Christ in or outside their own cultures and nation(s).
This book must be used for personal reflections and applications to build Jesus like character as a "messenger of the Good News of Christ" to the whole world. The book helps one to prepare and commit himself / herself to serve people in their life time service and journey. It is a book to be read over and over again as a manual to be followed in serving peoples of the nations.
This book must be an orientation for anyone who is planning to become the "message Bearer" in their own culture or in other cultures. Therefore, the churches, the service organisations, the educational institutions must use this book in preparing all people with introspection and application. It not only covers "don't-s" but what "to do" and "be". "Being" dictates the life style of a person in a culture. Without the foundation to "being", one cannot serve the people well in a person's own or overseas cultures.
Therefore this book Spiritual Equipping for Mission by Ryan Shaw helps to begin with a right note.
I recommend this book to all who want to be the sweet "message bearers of the Good News of Christ" . I recommend this book for all ages, all genders, all professionals, all educationalists to read, digest and apply as the life takes you in your spiritual and practical journey.
K. Rajendran, Associate Director, [Strategic thinking / leadership Development / Global Roundtables],
World Evangelical Alliance Mission Commission. Bangalore, India; Skype: krywwf; Phone +91 9945881913; Website:http://mc.worldea.org; http://www.worldevangelicals.org/comm...
"World Evangelical Alliance Mission Commission catalyses a community of global leaders and provide a platform for multi-cultural voices to advance Gods mission"; “WEA is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with Economic and Social Council of the United Nations”
Pramila & K. Rajendran represent the Evangelical Presbyterian Churches through MPC. "Our Kingdom Concept: Living Out the Unchanging Word To Serve an Ever-Changing World
Members of the AlongSideAsia Team.
After the book True Discipleship by William McDonald and Calvary Road by Roy Hession, it is refreshing to read Spiritual Equipping for Mission by Ryan Shaw.
Spiritual Equipping for Mission is a manual for anyone who wants to serve Nations with a Good news of Christ as a "message bearer" .
It deals with the inner spiritual foundations which needs to be laid as a person prepares to serve Jesus Christ with a focus as a "message bearer".
It is a spiritual and practical manual for laying solid character foundations in a person's life. The formation of solid spirituality to serve the peoples and the nations is a must for every follower of Jesus Christ in or outside their own cultures and nation(s).
This book must be used for personal reflections and applications to build Jesus like character as a "messenger of the Good News of Christ" to the whole world. The book helps one to prepare and commit himself / herself to serve people in their life time service and journey. It is a book to be read over and over again as a manual to be followed in serving peoples of the nations.
This book must be an orientation for anyone who is planning to become the "message Bearer" in their own culture or in other cultures. Therefore, the churches, the service organisations, the educational institutions must use this book in preparing all people with introspection and application. It not only covers "don't-s" but what "to do" and "be". "Being" dictates the life style of a person in a culture. Without the foundation to "being", one cannot serve the people well in a person's own or overseas cultures.
Therefore this book Spiritual Equipping for Mission by Ryan Shaw helps to begin with a right note.
I recommend this book to all who want to be the sweet "message bearers of the Good News of Christ" . I recommend this book for all ages, all genders, all professionals, all educationalists to read, digest and apply as the life takes you in your spiritual and practical journey.
K. Rajendran, Associate Director, [Strategic thinking / leadership Development / Global Roundtables],
World Evangelical Alliance Mission Commission. Bangalore, India; Skype: krywwf; Phone +91 9945881913; Website:http://mc.worldea.org; http://www.worldevangelicals.org/comm...
"World Evangelical Alliance Mission Commission catalyses a community of global leaders and provide a platform for multi-cultural voices to advance Gods mission"; “WEA is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with Economic and Social Council of the United Nations”
Pramila & K. Rajendran represent the Evangelical Presbyterian Churches through MPC. "Our Kingdom Concept: Living Out the Unchanging Word To Serve an Ever-Changing World
Members of the AlongSideAsia Team.
September 24, 2014
Ryan Shaw's Spiritual Equipping for Mission is a must-read for anyone who wants to serve Christ effectively in this world. He focuses intently and persistently and very practically on the priority of pursuing Jesus Himself as our primary ambition and objective in life, which is the only way to become a true message-bearer.
Ryan shares from his own experience how God has called and taught him these things. He humbly shares some of his own missteps along the way and then describes some of the wonders God has worked as he has followed Christ.
As one who has been involved in ministry and missions – or message-bearing, as Ryan so rightly describes it – for more than 50 years, I have experienced the subtle temptation to do the work of mission without pursuing Jesus before other things in my daily work. Through the years the Lord has taught me and I have followed many of the principles Ryan sets forth here; I have even trained my students in doing so. Still, the demands of needy people and programs, the tyranny of the urgent, and the temptation to excel in human eyes quickly snuff out ones spiritual reserve. I have often stumbled and fallen. God in His mercy has picked me up time and again.
Ryan's book is a message from God to me. I have not been able to read it quickly. God has shown me areas of personal failure that have short-changed my effectiveness in ministry. He has searched my own heart and lifestyle, showing me ways to pursue my first-love anew. God can take you on a similar journey, personally tailored to your own life and mission.
Whether you are beginning a lifestyle of mission, or have been pursuing Christ's mission for decades, I urge you to approach this book with an attitude of spiritual hunger, and not haste. You will find Spiritual Equipping for Mission to be a practical tool for the Lord Himself to use in making the Kingdom of Heaven a much greater reality in your life, and giving you Light to share with the nations.
Ryan shares from his own experience how God has called and taught him these things. He humbly shares some of his own missteps along the way and then describes some of the wonders God has worked as he has followed Christ.
As one who has been involved in ministry and missions – or message-bearing, as Ryan so rightly describes it – for more than 50 years, I have experienced the subtle temptation to do the work of mission without pursuing Jesus before other things in my daily work. Through the years the Lord has taught me and I have followed many of the principles Ryan sets forth here; I have even trained my students in doing so. Still, the demands of needy people and programs, the tyranny of the urgent, and the temptation to excel in human eyes quickly snuff out ones spiritual reserve. I have often stumbled and fallen. God in His mercy has picked me up time and again.
Ryan's book is a message from God to me. I have not been able to read it quickly. God has shown me areas of personal failure that have short-changed my effectiveness in ministry. He has searched my own heart and lifestyle, showing me ways to pursue my first-love anew. God can take you on a similar journey, personally tailored to your own life and mission.
Whether you are beginning a lifestyle of mission, or have been pursuing Christ's mission for decades, I urge you to approach this book with an attitude of spiritual hunger, and not haste. You will find Spiritual Equipping for Mission to be a practical tool for the Lord Himself to use in making the Kingdom of Heaven a much greater reality in your life, and giving you Light to share with the nations.
October 9, 2014
An eye opener and a heart stirrer for everyone who has committed their lives to the Lord. This book is not only for those striving to bring forth the gospel to the unreached but also to all who follows Jesus. This is not a formula but a very essential reminder of living righteous with God.
While message bearers prepare themselves in serving a nation long term, they undergo various trainings that is more on the methodology, Spiritual Equipping for Mission can also be added to it. Every disciple must continuously seek the Holy Spirit for regular and consistent filling. Ryan summarized a spirit-filled life in 10 essential keys.
In this book, Ryan fearlessly shared his ups and downs in the ministry—on how he sometimes relied in his own ability and strength rather than God’s. This attitude is not uncommon to Christians especially when we want to get things done as fast as possible. That results to not being sensitive to what God is saying.
“God matures us by walking with us through hindrances and it’s a lifelong process.” – Ryan Shaw
Ryan also laid down what to expect in the field—that it is not easy to work for the Kingdom of God. That abiding in God is only what we can afford. As we desire to keep on serving Him, pruning will always be present, challenges will get harder. These are expected because this is the cost of following Jesus. That is why we need to be fully saturated in His presence and be clothed in His word.
Having read this book, I strongly felt the conviction. It reminded me how I am lacking in some areas of my walk with God. This book changed me. It is not only a story of life experiences in the field but also a message from God.
As you read this book, I pray that God will open your heart and be sensitive in hearing from the Holy Spirit and may it bring a renewal of the spirit in your life.
While message bearers prepare themselves in serving a nation long term, they undergo various trainings that is more on the methodology, Spiritual Equipping for Mission can also be added to it. Every disciple must continuously seek the Holy Spirit for regular and consistent filling. Ryan summarized a spirit-filled life in 10 essential keys.
In this book, Ryan fearlessly shared his ups and downs in the ministry—on how he sometimes relied in his own ability and strength rather than God’s. This attitude is not uncommon to Christians especially when we want to get things done as fast as possible. That results to not being sensitive to what God is saying.
“God matures us by walking with us through hindrances and it’s a lifelong process.” – Ryan Shaw
Ryan also laid down what to expect in the field—that it is not easy to work for the Kingdom of God. That abiding in God is only what we can afford. As we desire to keep on serving Him, pruning will always be present, challenges will get harder. These are expected because this is the cost of following Jesus. That is why we need to be fully saturated in His presence and be clothed in His word.
Having read this book, I strongly felt the conviction. It reminded me how I am lacking in some areas of my walk with God. This book changed me. It is not only a story of life experiences in the field but also a message from God.
As you read this book, I pray that God will open your heart and be sensitive in hearing from the Holy Spirit and may it bring a renewal of the spirit in your life.
Read
October 5, 2014Ryan Shaw speaks in the eleven chapters of this brilliant new book with a unique voice full of passion and intent. In today's mission circles, 'preparation' or 'equipping' for christian cross-cultural work often focuses mostly if not exclusively, on methods, knowledge, skills, and so on and even when Spiritual preparation is mentioned, it usually just gets a little mention and is lost in the middle of many other concerns. What is unique about Ryan Shaw's 'SPIRITUAL EQUIPPING FOR MISSION: THRIVING AS GOD'S MESSAGE BEARERS' is that the often marginalized issues of spiritual equipping have been given the center stage. In this book, Ryan discusses convincingly both the need for and the pathways for developing 10 essential keys for thriving rather than surviving as Kingdom laborers. In a rare combination of depth and simplicity, the book lays out the path of effective and enduring cross-cultural christian work. When the worker is 'correct', he will no doubt have breakthroughs in his work and these 10 keys outlined in this book describe that kind of worker. Ryan's choice of the word 'keys' is very interesting; it clearly illustrates that successful christian work is often 'locked' behind closed doors which many people never really get to unlock. But with 'keys' such as God's powerful presence, humility, a lifestyle of prayer, an understanding of times/seasons and many more, the doors that normally stand closed are set to become open. Everyone who desires to thrive and not just survive, to create impact in ministry and not just be busy doing good religious activities will find this wonderful book a very helpful resource.
October 5, 2014
Two words best describe “Spiritual Equipping for Mission”: Practical and Passionate.
Ryan Shaw is first of all a man who is passionate for God and his global purposes. I’ve been blessed to serve alongside Ryan. He is a man of the Word; a man of vision, passion, and courage; a man who is teachable; a man whom the Lord can use. These are rare qualities in our age. Shaw’s passion for Christ and His Kingdom will motivate any follower of Jesus Christ to go deeper in his or her walk with God.
Shaw has also written a practical book, which highlights ten essential characteristics of those who effectively share God’s message. Much training of cross cultural workers focuses on cultural adaption, language acquisition, communication skills or strategy. While these are important, the inner spiritual dynamics that produce eternal fruit are essential – and too often neglected. Shaw shows the importance of each characteristic, and, more importantly, shows how each is nurtured. Shaw shares his own journey of how God has taught him to be a fruitful message bearer. The examples drawn from missionary biographies serve to underscore the significance of the ten essential characteristics.
“Spiritual Equipping for Mission” will first of all benefit anyone who wants to make his or her life count for eternity. Of course those preparing for cross cultural service will find this volume especially helpful. And those who equip cross cultural workers will find this a useful resource. But to be of value, “Spiritual Equipping for Mission” must not only be ready, but put into practice.
R Mitchell Assistant Director of Research OC International
Ryan Shaw is first of all a man who is passionate for God and his global purposes. I’ve been blessed to serve alongside Ryan. He is a man of the Word; a man of vision, passion, and courage; a man who is teachable; a man whom the Lord can use. These are rare qualities in our age. Shaw’s passion for Christ and His Kingdom will motivate any follower of Jesus Christ to go deeper in his or her walk with God.
Shaw has also written a practical book, which highlights ten essential characteristics of those who effectively share God’s message. Much training of cross cultural workers focuses on cultural adaption, language acquisition, communication skills or strategy. While these are important, the inner spiritual dynamics that produce eternal fruit are essential – and too often neglected. Shaw shows the importance of each characteristic, and, more importantly, shows how each is nurtured. Shaw shares his own journey of how God has taught him to be a fruitful message bearer. The examples drawn from missionary biographies serve to underscore the significance of the ten essential characteristics.
“Spiritual Equipping for Mission” will first of all benefit anyone who wants to make his or her life count for eternity. Of course those preparing for cross cultural service will find this volume especially helpful. And those who equip cross cultural workers will find this a useful resource. But to be of value, “Spiritual Equipping for Mission” must not only be ready, but put into practice.
R Mitchell Assistant Director of Research OC International
September 28, 2014
A Systematic Approach to Missions and Personal Spiritual Growth
Ryan Shaw’s real life examples, biblical verses and stories, provide a fresh vulnerability of the true rewards and difficulties when serving in the Mission Field abroad. This book provides a systemic approach to help both young message bearers and mature message bearers in the divine calling the Lord has placed upon their lives. The structures (“Keys”) within the book are not only simple, but extremely powerful and ultimately freeing as we look to go deeper in our relationship with the Lord.
As a lay leader, I read this book from various perspectives, including that as a public leader/servant, husband, father, and son. I found it challenging and refreshing and plan on using it to strengthen my walk and the mission he has called me to domestically. The Holy Spirit spoke to me in specific areas that the Father desires I invest in and I appreciate the practical examples Ryan provides to help fulfill this calling.
I appreciate Ryan’s willingness to talk about the difficulties in the missionary work and potential solutions to the massive exodus of missionaries. This provides me with a framework to pray for all message bearers domestic and abroad.
The true message from the Lord through this book was no matter where you are in your walk, be motivated to dive deeper in what God has for you and be intentional about it, so your growth in the Lord is sustainable and ever deepening. This takes significant time, but is well worth it in our relational pursuit of the Father.
Ryan Shaw’s real life examples, biblical verses and stories, provide a fresh vulnerability of the true rewards and difficulties when serving in the Mission Field abroad. This book provides a systemic approach to help both young message bearers and mature message bearers in the divine calling the Lord has placed upon their lives. The structures (“Keys”) within the book are not only simple, but extremely powerful and ultimately freeing as we look to go deeper in our relationship with the Lord.
As a lay leader, I read this book from various perspectives, including that as a public leader/servant, husband, father, and son. I found it challenging and refreshing and plan on using it to strengthen my walk and the mission he has called me to domestically. The Holy Spirit spoke to me in specific areas that the Father desires I invest in and I appreciate the practical examples Ryan provides to help fulfill this calling.
I appreciate Ryan’s willingness to talk about the difficulties in the missionary work and potential solutions to the massive exodus of missionaries. This provides me with a framework to pray for all message bearers domestic and abroad.
The true message from the Lord through this book was no matter where you are in your walk, be motivated to dive deeper in what God has for you and be intentional about it, so your growth in the Lord is sustainable and ever deepening. This takes significant time, but is well worth it in our relational pursuit of the Father.
September 28, 2014
This book is intentionally written for message bearers but I think it is suitable for any follower of Jesus Christ who wants to walk with God strong and well for a life time. It stresses the importance of spiritual growth in a message bearer’s life. If we want to have fruitful ministry, we need to first cultivating deeper inner life with God. The ten spiritual keys mentioned is like a path leading us how to follow God and finish strong and well.
Personally I was greatly benefit from reading this book. First, there are many practical examples and it helps me rethink how I can integrate these ten spiritual keys in my life. Second, it also helps me how to live a focused life. I am not very focused in my life and ministry. Ryan really demonstrates how to do it as a life model and explains with clear steps. Third, I learn that God really concerns and loves me. He wants me to grow in His likeness. My focus should not only on the ministry but I should take responsibility for my personal growth in Him. This part needs to be intentional developed otherwise I will easily allow other ministry to replace it. This book challenges me to reorder my life.
I believe that as we cultivate our lives around these 10 spiritual keys. Our lives will be strong in Christ and we will be suitable in whatever ministry God puts us in. It is not easy but as we persevere, we will see fruit in our lives.
Personally I was greatly benefit from reading this book. First, there are many practical examples and it helps me rethink how I can integrate these ten spiritual keys in my life. Second, it also helps me how to live a focused life. I am not very focused in my life and ministry. Ryan really demonstrates how to do it as a life model and explains with clear steps. Third, I learn that God really concerns and loves me. He wants me to grow in His likeness. My focus should not only on the ministry but I should take responsibility for my personal growth in Him. This part needs to be intentional developed otherwise I will easily allow other ministry to replace it. This book challenges me to reorder my life.
I believe that as we cultivate our lives around these 10 spiritual keys. Our lives will be strong in Christ and we will be suitable in whatever ministry God puts us in. It is not easy but as we persevere, we will see fruit in our lives.
October 8, 2014
This is not just another book that talks about equipping in terms of skills needed or methodology of missions. It goes back to the core of the Christianity by hightlighting ten essential spiritual keys to build the spiritual life of a message bearer, or more commonly known as the missionary. But this term is not used by the author to avoid its colonial linkage.
This is a praiseworthy book because it fills the gap that is left by loads of literature focusing on the 'doing' rather than the 'being'. It is also not a simple 'read the Bible and pray everyday' kind of book. It is packed with lots of biblical examples and real life experiences from the author and other message bearers. The author also gives very practical and executable suggestions to build the inner life.
There are many insights in the book that God is revealing in our times. It is recommended that we take time to reflect and mull over them. It has many interesting topics which are usually not covered in other mission books, such as being saturated with the powerful presence of God and understanding the times and seasons of God.
A lot of things in this book has spoken to me, many of which dealt with my own inner life as I serve God. In my opinion, this book is not just suitable for message bearers or mission mobilizers, it is a book recommended for all disciples who are keen to rediscover an authentic Christian life.
This is a praiseworthy book because it fills the gap that is left by loads of literature focusing on the 'doing' rather than the 'being'. It is also not a simple 'read the Bible and pray everyday' kind of book. It is packed with lots of biblical examples and real life experiences from the author and other message bearers. The author also gives very practical and executable suggestions to build the inner life.
There are many insights in the book that God is revealing in our times. It is recommended that we take time to reflect and mull over them. It has many interesting topics which are usually not covered in other mission books, such as being saturated with the powerful presence of God and understanding the times and seasons of God.
A lot of things in this book has spoken to me, many of which dealt with my own inner life as I serve God. In my opinion, this book is not just suitable for message bearers or mission mobilizers, it is a book recommended for all disciples who are keen to rediscover an authentic Christian life.
October 2, 2014
Let every disciple of Jesus get a hold of this book. This is for the scarred veterans, to encourage them to finish well; and this is for the zealous novices, so they may be oriented to the realities in the battlefield and be spared from the fiery darts of disillusionment.
Spiritual Equipping for Mission is an indispensable and practical tool for every disciple of Jesus who desires to make a global impact in God’s Kingdom while constantly cultivating a deeper inner life. The 10 spiritual keys Ryan highlighted in this book aren’t new; however, his way of unpacking them brought them to life that it searches the heart of a reader and effectively motivates him to grow more in these areas. Humbly written, this book honestly presents the “keys” as disciplines that are not so easy to develop but extremely necessary to pursue! What makes it more authentic and impressive is that the author’s life is himself a student to developing them.
While reading this, I personally discerned God’s love for His Church that He would craft a powerful masterpiece such as this book, through an earthen vessel like Ryan, so He may once again display His determination in preserving and perfecting His Bride and His faithfulness to reaching this lost world.
Spiritual Equipping for Mission is an indispensable and practical tool for every disciple of Jesus who desires to make a global impact in God’s Kingdom while constantly cultivating a deeper inner life. The 10 spiritual keys Ryan highlighted in this book aren’t new; however, his way of unpacking them brought them to life that it searches the heart of a reader and effectively motivates him to grow more in these areas. Humbly written, this book honestly presents the “keys” as disciplines that are not so easy to develop but extremely necessary to pursue! What makes it more authentic and impressive is that the author’s life is himself a student to developing them.
While reading this, I personally discerned God’s love for His Church that He would craft a powerful masterpiece such as this book, through an earthen vessel like Ryan, so He may once again display His determination in preserving and perfecting His Bride and His faithfulness to reaching this lost world.
March 10, 2015
In his book Spiritual Equipping for Missions, Ryan Shaw does a masterful job of bringing to focus a subject that is often overlooked by today’s missionaries. In an era where equipping for missions is at a minimum, Shaw’s book is much needed and timely. And for this reason alone, I would recommend this book for anyone wishing to embark on a career in missions.
In many ways, what Shaw’s book covers are not new insights, as often is in many books like these. However, Shaw does a good job in pulling out 10 key concepts. Especially needed for this time is his chapter on Persevering with Steadfastness and Stability (chapter 10). In an instant gratification world that we live in, the idea of longevity being a key to fruitfulness is a foundational reminder.
Chapter after chapter, Shaw balances Scripture and life experiences well to help the reader understand what it would take to thrive as God’s message bearers.
Recommendation: Must read for anyone interested in being a part of God’s mission.
In many ways, what Shaw’s book covers are not new insights, as often is in many books like these. However, Shaw does a good job in pulling out 10 key concepts. Especially needed for this time is his chapter on Persevering with Steadfastness and Stability (chapter 10). In an instant gratification world that we live in, the idea of longevity being a key to fruitfulness is a foundational reminder.
Chapter after chapter, Shaw balances Scripture and life experiences well to help the reader understand what it would take to thrive as God’s message bearers.
Recommendation: Must read for anyone interested in being a part of God’s mission.
September 24, 2014
This book takes us from the externals of service for God to the essential core of life and ministry. Ryan begins by explaining the Great Commission of Jesus, the unfinished task and need for message bearers. Not people defined primarily by great mission strategies or techniques, but by an authentic spirituality that keeps conformity to Christ as life’s centerpiece. He explains ten “inner life characteristics” or “spiritual keys”. They are life-long values and disciplines that shape us as joyful lovers of God who say yes to selfless service for the pleasure it brings him. The chapters are peppered with illustrations from his own journey as a message bearer and include practical ‘how to’ content. This book is a ‘must read’ for every message bearer, and should be read by every believer that’s serious about discipleship. It’s easy to read, but shouldn’t be read quickly. Its life-transforming truths require processing time if they are to be translated into personal experience.
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October 10, 2014I began reading Ryan Shaw's Spiritual Equipping for Missions on a long trip from Chicago to Accra. Once I began reading, I couldn't stop. By the time we touched down in Accra, I had long finished the book and I was refreshed and challenged. This is the kind of book that you have to keep on your desk or a conspicous part of your bookshelf so you can continue to refer to it from time to time. It will truly equip as well as remind both new and veteran Message Bearers and Cross-Cultural Workers about the essentials. This book will help you to keep the main thing the main thing. It is a book someone definitely had to write and I m so glad the Lord worked through Ryan to write it. It is a must read for all in the Missionary Movement as well as all aspiring to.
September 29, 2014
As people are sent out to engage in cross-cultural mission as message bearers, it is essential to have a firm foundation, rooted in the character and nature of the God of all things. Ryan Shaw's book 'Spiritual Equipping for Mission' lays out ten spiritual keys – from lifestyle prayer to cooperating with God, among other important topics - which nurture deeper relationship with God in Jesus. Each chapter deals with an extremely pragmatic way of pressing into Jesus so that message bearers are both equipped and encouraged to persevere in what God has called them to.
Such a book is a gift to both those engaged in cross-cultural ministry, and those preparing and equipping them to go well. 'Spiritual Equipping for Mission' is well worth the investment!
Such a book is a gift to both those engaged in cross-cultural ministry, and those preparing and equipping them to go well. 'Spiritual Equipping for Mission' is well worth the investment!
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October 1, 2014 Ryan has written a much needed word for all message bearers and Christian workers home and abroad. I have known Ryan since he was finishing up college and working as a janitor. He is a man of character and experience who writes from his heart. This book is a refreshing word for this message bearer of fifteen years in Peru.The ten essential spiritual keys Ryan shares in this book will open your life and ministry to a deeper walk in God. Enjoy reading and applying this must read book.
E.David Eschenbach
Founder and President of Eschenbach International Ministry 2011
Missionary to Peru since 1999
Asociate pastor of Refuge of Hope Church in Pucallpa, Peru
Obrero Asociado de AGEUP University Ministry since 2009
Youth with a mission 1987-1989
E.David Eschenbach
Founder and President of Eschenbach International Ministry 2011
Missionary to Peru since 1999
Asociate pastor of Refuge of Hope Church in Pucallpa, Peru
Obrero Asociado de AGEUP University Ministry since 2009
Youth with a mission 1987-1989
September 24, 2014
This book is a great resource to anyone thinking about or already involved in any kind of ministry or mission work. Ryan Shaw has included a lot of very practical steps for tending to our spirit, and building a lasting and life-changing relationship with God, the sender of all "message bearers." We have operated under a wrongfully assumed notion that anyone involved in mission work must already have a solid relationship with the Lord. Research shows this is not necessarily true, and this book fills that gap by providing the tools, motivation, and guidelines to be able to build a good foundation to be able to stay in ministry for a life time.
September 29, 2014
How refreshing to read such a practical handbook on how to stay healthy in mission! In fact, the 10 keys which Shaw presents and expounds, will work for any follower on Jesus, not just missionaries. I love how the book methodically, and with examples from the author's own life, lays forward the timeless truths about how to continuously walk with Jesus. One of my favorite quotes from the book is from the chapter on Hungering and Thirsting for God: “Serving without spiritual abundance is doing so apart from God's plan.” The book will give you great keys towards being able to live in that spiritual abundance!
Veronica Darby, YWAM Thailand
Veronica Darby, YWAM Thailand
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October 4, 2014As a believer, we understand Eph 6:12 that we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. So it is crucial that we are equipped for that battle. This book brings to life the tools needed for that battle.
What I love is that it not only brings sound biblical advice, but that advice is laced with real life examples. He clearly has walked out these principles in his own life, and shares not only the accomplishments but also the things he would have done differently.
I think that this book provides bread to sustain a message bearer either to the nations or to your neighborhood.
What I love is that it not only brings sound biblical advice, but that advice is laced with real life examples. He clearly has walked out these principles in his own life, and shares not only the accomplishments but also the things he would have done differently.
I think that this book provides bread to sustain a message bearer either to the nations or to your neighborhood.
August 9, 2015
His intention, and the obvious needs of the saints, were very appropriate. We all need a closer walk with God, spiritual maturity, growth in Christ-likeness. No doubt.
However, much of his teaching and applications, I found very weak, and often not very biblical. Much reflects a contemporary style of spirituality, which in parts is responsible for the very lack of maturity he tries to confront.
Concerning the style, much too much of himself, his organisation, all the things he did right. Too much of selling Student Movement-2, or whatever.
Sorry, hard to compare this Oswald Sanders, Chambers, etc.
However, much of his teaching and applications, I found very weak, and often not very biblical. Much reflects a contemporary style of spirituality, which in parts is responsible for the very lack of maturity he tries to confront.
Concerning the style, much too much of himself, his organisation, all the things he did right. Too much of selling Student Movement-2, or whatever.
Sorry, hard to compare this Oswald Sanders, Chambers, etc.
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September 25, 2014Ryan Shaw has given us very practical ways on how to ‘thrive’ and not ‘survive’ as we partner with Jesus in His vineyard. I have been blessed to have been mentored by Ryan and getting to see him live out all the ten spiritual keys has greatly impacted my life. It is only when as message bearers we learn to sit at the feet of Jesus, becoming like Him that we are able to bear fruits to eternity. Thus I am a firm believer that when spiritual vitality slips, every other area goes with it!
September 24, 2014
Grab your highlighter and get ready for Ryan Shaw to take you on a revitalizing journey that will remind what a relationship with Jesus is really about. If you’re like me, you’ll openly rejoice at the end of every chapter as you recall the simplicity and the wonder of God’s call on your life as His message bearer!
October 1, 2014
Ryan gives a stirring call to persevere in key disciplines that will enrich the inner life of any disciple of Christ, let alone that of a message bearer (as he aptly renames missionaries). He packs insights from scripture and his own and wife’s experience, as God has led them in ministry. It was a great spiritual check-up for me.
October 3, 2014
I recommend this book for all believers…for some the spiritual keys may just be a reminder, for others these spiritual keys will give us the understanding of what is expected from a true believer by HEAVEN…but ultimately; we all are provided with the path to personal victorious Christian living for the salvation of the world.
October 17, 2015
Very practical
This book is very helpful in providing practical steps in pursuing God both on and off the mission field. Great book.
This book is very helpful in providing practical steps in pursuing God both on and off the mission field. Great book.
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