The 360° Disciple
J. ALTON GARRISON (Gospel Publishing House, 288 pp., paperback)
My library contains many books on discipleship. Authors include: Win Arn, James Montgomery Boice, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Charles Colson, and Eugene Peterson. Their books are invaluable to a comprehensive understanding of spiritual formation. Any pastor, however, who is serious about discipleship must read The 360° Disciple.
This book is a partial rewrite of an earlier book authored by Garrison entitled, Building the Winning Team. This rewrite, however, has effectively moved the original manuscript to a new level. In eight chapters the author leads the reader from simple theory toward a practical, holistic application of discipleship principles. The book not only makes a strong case for spiritual formation but it also identifies in practical terms how this transformation can happen within the church and the individual follower of Christ.
An additional benefit to the reader is seven additional chapters addressing various discipleship issues: personal evangelism, mentoring, ethnic challenges, discipling children, youth discipleship, and intergenerational discipleship. Writers who specialize in these fields address these areas.
Anyone who takes seriously the command of Christ to make disciples of all people will find this book indispensible. I am convinced the reader will not place this book on a shelf in his library but will keep it (as I do) on his desk for easy access.
Review by Wes Bartel, director of Discipleship Ministries for The Assemblies of God, Springfield, Missouri.
