Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Messiology

Rate this book
Previously published as More Drops - Mystery, Mercy, Messiology In his most biographical book to date, George Verwer exercises his well-loved honesty and refreshing realism, sharing his own personal failures and looking at how God works through messy situations. Journey with this great man of faith as he explains that although everything we touch has its weaknesses and faults, God works through our fallenness and humanity. To George, the mystery of mysteries is how God keeps doing wonderful things in the midst of it all. Join George in 'Messiology' and celebrate what our great God is doing and how we can be part of His work.

Paperback

29 people are currently reading
112 people want to read

About the author

George Verwer

96 books10 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
35 (25%)
4 stars
43 (31%)
3 stars
42 (30%)
2 stars
13 (9%)
1 star
5 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Naomi L.
89 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2020
I don’t think that you should be able to read an entire book and have NO idea what the main point is... So even though there were decent thoughts in here, there was no flow/connectivity present at all, so I really just have no idea what I just read about.

Anyways, I read this in one hour because I am trying to beat Grace at a reading challenge 😝 I think I’m winning
Profile Image for Francesko Kola.
207 reviews19 followers
January 10, 2020
The experience that Verwer brings to the table is one of the greatest factors that enhances the book's overall experience. The author works hard to maintain the balance between truth and grace throughout the entire book, which is delighting.
Messiology is inspiring and it was a good read nevertheless.
Profile Image for John Desaulniers, Jr..
49 reviews16 followers
April 19, 2018
My first encounter with George Verwer was his book, Hunger for Reality. It was frankly a rebuke of lazy Christianity and a call to see the need for the world to hear about and see Jesus in His people. At the time, the book was a two-edged sword for me, as I both was convicted but also allowed myself to become a bit spiritually proud (you know, "I thank you that I'm not like other men...."). I don't fault the book or the writer, but the reader.

But Messiology tempers the rebuke of that book and does so in a wonderfully gracious way. Without ignoring the absolutes of biblical truth, Verwer recognizes there's much in the world that is simply not black or white, much as we would like to make it so. And he reminds us again and again that God uses broken and frail vessels. Where we might say, "There's no way God could use or bless ______, because _______," Verwer, with over fifty years of international and interdenominational ministry behind him, urges us to let go of that false certainty and instead embrace the messy grace and mercy of Christ.

I'm not sure I would have embraced this book as fully as I do now at other times in my life. And perhaps that recognition is why this book spoke so easily -- and brightly -- to me. Rather than a rebuke, this was a gentle embrace with a loving admonition, "C'mon, John. If Christ has accepted them, used them, blessed them -- in spite of their foibles and failures -- shouldn't you as well? And while you're at it, maybe you should let go of your own foibles and failures as excuses, too, and let God love, bless, and use you, too."

A good read. No orthodoxy is challenged. But some of the lines we draw are. It's a contemporary reminder that our Lord chose both Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector to be part of His founding twelve.
Profile Image for Dr. David Steele.
Author 8 books271 followers
June 2, 2016
George Verwer. Messiology. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 2016. 127 pp. $9.99

George Verwer, founder of Operation Mobilization writes with a wealth of ministry experience in his new book, Messiology. The author sets forth basic idea at the outset: “Messiology is the idea that God in His patience, mercy, and passion to bring men and women to Himself often does great things in the midst of a mess.” The author argues that God works in spite of people and will bring good out of church splits, division, and sinful behavior. “As always, “writes Verwer, “the concept of God working in the midst of the mess stares us in the face.” The subtitle summarizes the essence of the book: “The mystery of how God works even when it doesn’t make sense to us.”

Messiology is difficult to categorize in a specific genre. It is part personal/spiritual growth, mixed with missions, with an emphasis on discipleship and evangelism.
The biggest strength of Messiology is the years of experience that Verwer brings to the table. The life experiences of the author help readers gain a better understanding of his heart. Here is a man with a heart for God and a heart for the nations.

The author is exceedingly gracious and is willing to make certain allowances for the sake of the gospel. Verwer works hard to maintain the balance between truth and grace, yet it appears that grace edges truth out in several places.

The biggest weakness I could detect in Messiology is a lack of structure and flow. While the author shares from the heart, many of the thoughts and ideas dangle without any sense of connectedness with the overall theme of the book.

At times, theology is sacrificed at the “altar of unity” in Messiology. This may merely be a reflection of the heart of the author which many people would naturally gravitate to. For me, truth must guide our thinking, worldview, ministry philosophy, and our lives. Anything less may be taken captive by pragmatism and can easily result in a ministry that becomes compromised and watered down.

Messiology is inspiring and well-intentioned. Randy Alcorn sums up the book with typical graciousness: “God calls His people to high standards and honors their obedience, yet in His sovereignty can accomplish things despite their failures. By focusing on God’s greatness despite human failure, Messiology delivers an important message.”

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Yermom.
61 reviews7 followers
December 30, 2022
lived up to the name and was a bit of a mess
Profile Image for Nathan Albright.
4,488 reviews166 followers
April 22, 2018
This book is somewhat mistitled.  To be sure, the author presents a mystery, in God's providential workings through very imperfect human servants, but the book appears more an attempt to justify the author's own views and ways about evangelism and radical grace than about justifying God's own behavior.  It may be that as is often the case the author conflates his own views with God's views, but any reader of this book can get a sense that while the author is well-read and appreciates some books that are very good [1] and very bad [2], the author spends far less time talking about the Bible much less demonstrating a sound exegetical knowledge of scripture than he does writing about his own life and his efforts at proclaiming God and appreciating even those who are deeply flawed servants of God both for their theology (almost invariably Hellenistic Christianity of some fashion) and conduct (including quite a few scandal-ridden ministers and those whose efforts at fundraising even the author finds cringe-worthy).  Whether or not you like this book will depend on whether or not you find the author's approach winsome, and my view is decidedly mixed on that point.

In this mercifully short book of just over 100 pages, the author writes fifteen chapters that are widely disparate in terms of their tone and approach and often lack a great deal of coherence.  The author begins with a discussion of messiology, punning the look at salvation as well as human messiness (1).  The author then examines such subjects as writings (2), unity in diversity (3), the complexity of communication and human lives (4), mission work (5), and a lament about the dogmatism of the contemporary age in quick succession (6).  After this the author turns his attention to his own awkward personal story (7), the cost of both sin and mistakes (8), the sorts of imperfect leaders God uses (9), and a view of the balance between worship and walking in the Christian life (10).  The author then closes with chapters encouraging leaders to deal with the rough and tumble life as a Christian example in an evil world (11), dispenses advise on how to deal with haters like me (12), proclaims an interest in social action (13), discusses a consistent burden and vision (14), and encourages a development of faith from intellectual knowledge to heartfelt belief to action (15).

Ultimately, I found this book to be a mixed bag.  There were parts of this book I found to be very worthwhile, including the author's discussion of his work at promoting the anti-abortion writings of Randy Alcorn and Joseph D'Souza's writings on behalf of Dalit dignity.  There were parts of this book I found to be somewhat embarrassing like the author's discussion of his own courtship with his wife, and there were some parts of this book that I found to be deeply troubling, such as the author's blase acceptance of schismatism, his acceptance of ragamuffins who bring dishonor upon the Gospel through their lack of moral progress in attaining righteousness, and his seeming belief that he serves as some kind of spiritual authority on the workings of God's providential grace.  Had the author been more modest about himself and in closer alignment with the demand of God for holiness on the part of believers, and less smug about his avoidance of Pharisaical approaches, this book would have been a lot more enjoyable to read.  It is unclear what this author was truly intending to do in this book, but fewer attempts to justify himself and a greater willingness to engage with the messiness of God's providential workings in scripture would have been a good start.

[1] See, for example:

https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...

[2] See, for example:

https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2013...

https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
Profile Image for Marti Wade.
437 reviews10 followers
May 9, 2018
Read this for work... a coworker is recommending it in a publication I manage. So I was reading through a different filter than I might otherwise. I was looking for bits our readers could take issue with, and there were a few. For example, early on he talks about people from their ministry who fell into sexual sin (adultery) and lost their marriages over it, and how glad he was to meet up with them later down the road with their new wives. Similarly, he writes about other leaders whose ministry was characterized by false teaching or collapsed in scandal but who nevertheless he sees God using. Such statements might not go over so well in many circles, where that kind of behavior is seen as invalidating a ministry.

The book does feel like a bit of a hodgepodge of Verwer's wide ranging opinions and experiences, though they do hold together fairly well around a theme. And Verwer's commitments to transparency, grace, and looking to God to glorify himself through broken people (as if there are any other kind) really shines through. This book is worth reading, and I got the Kindle edition for only $.99. I'll let my friend's endorsement of it stand. But I don't think I, myself, would recommend it quite as freely or buy it in quantity to give away. One of his other, earlier books might be a better choice? This one might be most appreciated by "true fans" of George Verwer, rather than making a good introductory read.

The edition I got included an excerpt from Kate McCord's "Why Does God Call Us to Dangerous Places?" (from the same publisher), which I have yet to read and I think I'd like to pick up. And Verwer's book includes numerous references to other books he has found helpful over the years, many of them well worth reading.
Profile Image for W. Derek Atkins.
Author 5 books2 followers
March 10, 2022
Pearls of Wisdom from a Lifetime of Experience

I once heard George Verwer speak at the Urbana ‘87 World Mission Conference when I was a college student, so I’ve always respected this man. You can imagine my enjoyment at reading this book, in which Mr. Verwer passes on insights he’s gained from a lifetime of experience.

In some reviews, some have criticized this book as not having a central theme or a unified message. I understand the frustration, but if you approach this book as a conversation with a godly, elderly man who wishes to share what he’s learned from a lifetime of successes and failures, I think you’ll appreciate this book much more.

One takeaway I got from this book that has changed my thinking is that the proliferation of Christian denominations may actually be part of God’s plan for the advancement of his Kingdom, since God delights in diversity, having created all kinds of people who live in all kinds of places, climates, and circumstances. While we must recognize and repent of those sinful actions that have led to splits involving local churches and even entire denominations, we should also be open to the possibility that God can and does use even these kinds of messy circumstances—what George Verwer calls “messiology”—to accomplish his purposes.

If you want to gain insights from a man who has spent more than half a century serving Christ, read this book!
Profile Image for Heather.
61 reviews
December 13, 2024
The English nerd in me had a very difficult time reading this book. Verwer is a chaotic writer and just barely scratched the surface of the topic. I wish he had written a longer, in depth version. There is more he could have fleshed out, especially in navigating the ways God has used the sin and mistakes of others (what about the rapist who turns to Jesus? Church leaders who fall into incredible scandals? Denominations that stray from sound doctrine?) His abundant use of dependent clauses and distracting storytelling also drove me crazy, but I’m rating on content rather than grammar/writing style.

Although it was a hodgepodge of content, this short book spoke to my soul and was especially timely. Messiology is the idea that God, in His patience, mercy, and passion to draw people to himself, often does great things in the midst of mess (mess such as our sin and mistakes).

Favorite chapters:
Chapter 3 - Unity in the Midst of Diversity
Chapter 8 - Not just Sin, but Mistakes Cost
Chapter 9 - The Leaders God Uses

Verwer also mentions a ton of other books. Might be good to go back and look through other suggested resources.
Profile Image for Jessica Lynette.
165 reviews12 followers
June 13, 2024
Such an important book for those involved in Christian service! I try to read it every year.

It is a reminder and refocus on the greatness of God, the power of God, the smallness of ourselves, and the importance of a grace awakened attitude towards others.

He says on page 83 “I try to warn people about what I call destructive idealism, which leaves out the radical grave factor and eventually leaves people discouraged, confused or even wiped out completely.”

Messiology is defined as “the idea that God in His patience, mercy, and passion to bring men and women to Himself often does great things in the midst of a mess… it’s God’s way of working in spite of (actually, by means of) the messes we make to bring about His plans and purposes…”
Profile Image for Karissa  W. .
109 reviews
December 12, 2022
Dang. Where to start? I wouldn't recommend this book. It was very shallow and face value. This would have been better as a single chapter in a book about the theology of missions. He used way too many words to explain this. It would have been more beneficial to condense and add other things to make a full book. There were a couple good points but this book is a focus on missions. I don't think Verwer did that well. Got this book for a class and didn't enjoy having to continue reading it and wish I hadn't bought it. Probably won't purchase anything else by him until I have read it first. Not trying to be negative here but this is truly how I felt about it.
6 reviews
February 25, 2025
I do not recommend this book. I was highly disappointed that it was required reading for a missionary living class I took. Though I can agree with the author's initial premise he pulls a "bait and switch" right at the end making a lefthand turn on the last pages. I do not appreciate intellectual dishonesty. If you hold a particular view, be upfront about it, but don't pull it out at the last moment.
Profile Image for Josh Orwick.
12 reviews
September 2, 2019
I am hopeful this book opens a door to deeper lessons. With a large number of references to books that have influenced Verwer, and some enlightenment to OM, I am looking forward to exploring those avenues. The book itself is a quick read worth a couple hours of your time, but not overly convicting, eye-opening, or life changing.
Profile Image for Quist.
24 reviews
January 29, 2024
I practical book, by a very charismatic and energetic man, the late George Verwer.
If you've ever met George, I am sure you have a personal story about him.
This is a book which tries to create a down to earth theology of the sin, confusion and apparent ruin as seen in the entire history of the Church of Jesus Christ, as well as the individuals who are part of it. He labels it as Messiology, and cites many many examples of it, giving practical guidelines to deal with the mess. Overall a good read with some practical helps for those in Christian leadership or interested in Discipleship.
Profile Image for Beth Beutler.
Author 12 books9 followers
January 14, 2018
This is a quick read, and a good reminder that ministry can be messy and that God's grace abounds, above our judgment and criticism of others. I was reminded too that God works in a lot of different ways, through imperfect people and organizations.
Profile Image for Julie.
413 reviews
May 29, 2018
One of the most encouraging books I've read

George Verwer is an excellent communicator. I enjoyed this book which is a challenge to be more loving and gracious with others, especially those in the Christian family who are different than we are.
Profile Image for Hannah.
32 reviews1 follower
January 3, 2020
Good stuff, not very structured content-wise: mostly just his various reflections and exhortations. But all rooted on what he's seen and learnt of God, which makes it helpful. And a good strong call for us to have grace towards one another which feels needed.
Profile Image for Jim.
5 reviews
November 23, 2018
Easy to read and simple message. Excellent concept that God works through messy, imperfect people and in difficult situations.
Profile Image for David.
310 reviews6 followers
December 30, 2018
Verwer focuses on "messy morality" and "messy theology" and the need to forgive and accept others. It's stream of consciousness writing, which makes for a kind of "messy book" true to its title.
270 reviews24 followers
March 6, 2019
A sweet little book, simple and very much written in George Verwer's "voice."
953 reviews105 followers
January 13, 2020
Couldn't finish this book, even though I like the premise, i.e. that God is with us in our times of hardship and failure.
Profile Image for Anthony.
390 reviews3 followers
March 17, 2020
I know what you’re thinking. Anthony you’re reading a book about Christianity? What is this?

I know. Religion is complicated. I liked this book a lot which is probably saying something. Social distance really is making me read far and wide.
Profile Image for Aaron.
60 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2020
Serves as a great reminder that God is still sovereign overall no matter how grim a situation might be.
Profile Image for Pam.
67 reviews
December 18, 2020
One of those books I consider a must read for serious Christians.
Profile Image for Kymberly.
703 reviews39 followers
September 19, 2021
My husband & I read this book together and was so encouraged by it.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,218 reviews
November 22, 2021
Little bit of a memoir. He was kinda all over the place, but I enjoyed the book and he said some things that will stick with me.
6 reviews
March 1, 2025
When you can't understand a thing, just run to God, He is always there. Anw, a good book for baby Christians.
Profile Image for Scott Burns.
29 reviews4 followers
Read
August 1, 2016
Messiology

I love short quick and insightful books, which certainly describes George Verwer’s Messiology. The subtitle beautifully summarises what he tries to get across in the book “The mystery of how God works even when it doesn’t make sense to us.”

Written in the latter stages of a life as a career missionary, communicator, and respected evangelical leadership, Verwer invites people to consider how “God in His patience, mercy, and passion to bring men and women to Himself often does great things in the midst of a mess” (13).

Verwer writes from a place of great humility, revealing many ways he has fallen short over his life, and the various ways God has brought him from a place of critical judgementalism to a pace of greater grace, deeper unity, and a new appreciation of the place of mystery.

In a beautifully simple and humble way, Verwer calls us to trust God with our failures and our differences, to believe that He can work through us and others even when our methods are wrong, and along the way he helpfully draws attention to numerous books that have helped cultivate his heart and understanding in various areas of the Christian life.

And all of that in 127 small pages. This book is a little gem.

(I received this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.