Evangelism in an Age of Despair - Print

Evangelism in an Age of Despair
Hope Beyond the Failed Promise of Happiness

By Andrew Root

A transformative exploration that reimagines evangelism by addressing deep-seated despair, offering a theology of consolation as a beacon of hope beyond the elusive pursuit of happiness.

This book will help you:
•    Understand the cultural and theological challenges facing contemporary evangelism
•    Recognize the limitations of pursuing happiness as life’s ultimate goal
•    Develop a theology of consolation to address societal despair
•    Apply historical Christian insights to modern evangelistic practices
•    Equip your church to offer genuine hope and care in troubled times
•    Engage with fictional narratives that illustrate practical applications
•    Foster authentic connections within your community through compassionate outreach

Features
•    Interdisciplinary analysis combining theology, philosophy, and cultural critique
•    Exploration of historical figures such as Gregory of Nyssa, Macrina, Jean Gerson, Johann von Staupitz, and Martin Luther
•    Fictional case studies demonstrating 'consolation evangelism' in action
•    Critical examination of modern society’s obsession with happiness
•    Strategies for churches to become sources of consolation and transformation

Paperback, 304pp
6 x 9 inches, 0.5kg
ISBN 9781540968715
Baker Academic (2025)

[Allow 4 weeks]

Description
In an era where the relentless pursuit of happiness has led to increased stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression, traditional approaches to evangelism often fall short.

Evangelism in an Age of Despair challenges contemporary evangelism by addressing the profound despair permeating modern society. It argues that the church’s mission must shift from promoting superficial happiness to offering deep consolation rooted in Christian theology.

Tracing the historical and philosophical shift initiated by Michel de Montaigne – who emphasized individual happiness – Andrew Root contrasts this with Blaise Pascal’s assertion that humans are both soul and self, longing for something more profound.

Against this backdrop, Root contends that the church must engage with people’s deeper struggles rather than offering simplistic answers.

This book introduces consolation evangelism, where the church becomes a sanctuary for those burdened by life’s sorrows.

Through a fictional church narrative, Root illustrates practical applications of this approach, showing how communities can embody genuine care and presence.

He draws inspiration from historical Christian figures – such as Gregory of Nyssa, Macrina, Jean Gerson, Johann von Staupitz, and Martin Luther – who emphasized consolation as central to spiritual transformation.

Root critiques modern society’s obsession with happiness, suggesting that it contributes to cultural malaise rather than fulfilment.

By embracing sorrow and offering consolation, the church can guide individuals toward encountering the presence of Jesus Christ. This paradigm shift calls for evangelism that is less about numerical growth and more about authentic engagement with people’s profound needs.

Evangelism in an Age of Despair presents a compelling vision for churches to become beacons of hope, addressing the deep-seated despair of our times through a theology of consolation.

It challenges church leaders, ministers, and members to rethink outreach strategies, focusing on genuine care and the transformative power of shared sorrow and hope.

About the Author
Andrew Root (PhD, Princeton Theological Seminary) is the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He has authored over twenty-five books, including the Ministry in a Secular Age series, and is known for his interdisciplinary approach, integrating theology, philosophy, and cultural analysis to address contemporary issues facing the church.

Contents
1.    Introduction: The Crisis of Evangelism in Modern Times
2.    The Pursuit of Happiness: From Montaigne to Modern Malaise
3.    Understanding Our Sad Times: The Role of the Church
4.    The Theology of Consolation: Historical Foundations
5.    Consolation Evangelism: Principles and Practices
6.    Learning from the Ancients: Insights from Gregory of Nyssa and Macrina
7.    Medieval Wisdom: Jean Gerson and the Art of Consolation
8.    Reformation Perspectives: Staupitz, Luther, and Pastoral Care
9.    Implementing Consolation Evangelism: A Fictional Church Case Study
10.  Conclusion: Reimagining Evangelism for a Despairing World