Abstract
How can someone minister effectively in an honor-shame culture? Jayson Georges and Mark Baker take up this question in their new book Ministering in Honor-Shame Cultures: Biblical Foundations and Practical Essentials. Both authors bring their experiences from the mission field to this book. Georges (M.Div., Talbot) worked in Central Asia for nine years in church planting and micro-enterprise development, and Mark Baker (Ph.D., Duke University) served as a missionary in Honduras for ten years and is currently a professor of mission and theology at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary.
The book is divided into three main sections with appendices. Part one addresses cultural anthropology concepts of honor and shame. Part two, Biblical Theology, surveys the Old Testament and Jesus’ teaching. Part three, the longest of the book, address spirituality, relationships, evangelism, and conversion from the perspective of honor and shame. Three appendices provide key verses, Bible stories, and recommended resources for further investigation. Each chapter ending includes helpful reflection and discussion questions.
Georges and Baker accomplish their task in not just giving insight into what honor and shame is in anthropological and Biblical perspective, but also by providing many practical suggestions on how ministry can be conducted in these settings. The focus on practical ministry is the strongest section. Numerous stories from various countries as well as practical examples make this book applicable and accessible to many audiences.
A fuller treatment of honor and shame in the New Testament, especially from the book of Acts, would be helpful, although many New Testament examples are given throughout the book. In addition, the Appendix on Bible stories addressing honor and shame deserves a full chapter treatment.
Ministering in Honor-Shame Cultures is a strong contribution to the ongoing discussion of the honor/shame missiological discussion. The book is a necessary read for cross-cultural workers working, or anticipating working, in honor-shame contexts. It would also be a solid textbook for cross-cultural or missions courses.