The Hole In Our Gospel

"The Hole In Our Gospel" is Richard Stearns new book. Stearns is the CEO of World Vision International. As you probably know, World Vision is a not for profit organization that ministers to people at risk, specifically those in poverty or experiencing extreme risk from tragedy (war, earthquake, disease, etc.) around the globe.

Here are some highlights from the book . . .

"The idea behind 'The Hole In Our Gospel' is quite simple. It's basically the belief that being a Christian, or follower of Jesus Christ, requires much more than just having a personal and transforming relationship with God. It also entails a public and transforming relationship with the world."

"For I was hungry, while you had all you needed. I was thirsty, but you drank bottled water. I was a stranger, and you wanted me deported. I needed clothes, but you needed more clothes. I was sick, and you pointed out the behaviors that led to my sickness. I was in prison, and you said I was getting what I deserved." (Richard Stearns version of Matthew 25)

"Bob Pierce once said, 'Don't fail to do something just because you can't do everything.'"

"So, in my opinion, the single most significant thing that can be done to cure extreme poverty is this: protect, educate, and nurture girls and women and provide them with equal rights and opportunities--educationally, economically, and socially."

"Sometimes I would like to ask God why He allows poverty, suffering, and injustice when He could do something about it. 'Well, why don't you ask Him?' Because I'm afraid He would ask me the same question."

"God never asks us to give what we do not have . . . But he cannot use what we will not give."

Mr. Stearns new book is both challenging and insightful, born from his personal experience in wrestling with the mission of Jesus to those in need around the world. Definitely worth your time!!!