Alister McGrath woke me from my globalized stupor in Starbucks in Singapore with the question “Will the twenty-first century be better for Christians than the disastrous twentieth century was?” In less than 175 pages the author explores this question with surprising clarity and astonishing breadth.

The Western church and missions need to fully awaken to the church in Africa. Historically, the Western church seems like a teenager in contrast to the long and complex history of the African church.

One of the most challenging tasks for Western missionaries to Africa is fitting into the local rhythms of money management. At the core of the misunderstandings that often develop is the mutual obligation and interdependence that shapes African life but clashes with Western independence.

Most missions operate in areas with high unemployment, no employment opportunities and low job skills. Often when missions incorporate business into their ministry, they begin to lose the ministry aspects and become focused on the economics.

This manual effectively addresses a critically important issue—how can those who are functionally illiterate have access to the Bible?

Ajith Fernando’s latest book provides an interesting perspective on leadership in the church and parachurch.