Allan Dayhoff, D.Min., the Founder and Executive Director of Evangelize Today, writes about his life experiences and his path to evangelism. He presents a new approach to teaching evangelism that offers participants the opportunity to reflect on their own conversion process and to apply their new insights. The book provides "a perspective that might actually set some folks free to love, free to say, 'Tell me more'” (Dr. David B. Wallover, Senior Pastor, Harvest Presbyterian Church (PCA), Medina, OH). "Al's story is earthy and redemptive. He invites you to "listen to hear" in a way that is refreshing. I invite you to listen to those around you, but first listen to Al" (Dr. Tom Wood, President of CMM, Inc., Atlanta).
As a minister for nearly 25 years, Im convinced the church is the one organization Christ has created to bring the gospel to the ends of the earth. I’m also equally convinced that the US church has largely abandoned the mission by using a set of approaches and methods that are cultural and calling it Biblical.
Al lovingly and through narrative brings this to light while showing how to begin to think about “where do we go from here.” You need to read this though I doubt you will want to go on the journey. But once you do start the journey, You will discover unexpected joy.
A good book with a wonderful study guide for group discussion. “Listening to Hear” is a practice I have needed to learn for a long time. I know it’ll be a lifelong process to learn it. This book highlights the importance of being present as you go about your daily life and looking out for divine appointments. Taking the “as you go” part of the Great Commission to heart. While I don’t completely agree theologically with this book, it has left me with a lot to think about. Remembering to pour into eachother’s cups as believers and to take that time to rest with God as we go out into the world is a much needed reminder.
A good account of how the author found his parish, not so much inside the church, as outside—in a blues bar where he became affectionately know as Pastor Al.
Al Dayhoff chronicles lessons learned in moving from a “listening-to-respond” mentality to a “listening-to-hear” mentality, as well as his search for stories resident in the images of God he encountered in the blues bar.
Christians can demonstrate the love of God to their neighbors any time, anywhere - even in a blues bar. Dr. Dayhoff presents the reader with his unique account of how something as simple as listening to people (even strangers in a noisy bar) can change lives through the power of The Spirit. His unlikely story about an unlikely group of people coming together in an unlikely place is just the kind of story that God loves to author.
Dayhoff outlines five non-threatening questions that anyone can use to open the lines of communication with even the most reticent recluse. It really can be just as simple as saying, "Tell me more." If listening isn't your thing (Can any of us really say we're great listeners?) or if you're still developing skills in this area, read this book. It is a quick read that can make a lasting difference.