TALK IN THE SHADE OF THE BO TREE: Communicating the Christian Faith Among Thai Buddhists

TALK IN THE SHADE OF THE BO TREE: Communicating the Christian Faith Among Thai Buddhists

From life in the monkhood as a revered Buddhist teacher to one of leadership in Christian evangelism in Thailand, the author is highly esteemed for his expertise in Pali-Sanskrit, the language of the Buddhist texts, in Buddhist doctrines and beliefs, and in Biblical scripture. Having established himself as a Christian Pastor and Bishop, he independently planted Thai churches throughout Thailand, building the largest Christian Bible-based, Spirit-filled outreach among Thais in Thailand. He was awarded Citizen of the Year 2 times by the Thai Government and an Honorary Doctorate in Divinity by Wycliffe University.As indicated by the title of his book, he engages the reader in a frank, casual discussion about Buddhism and Christianity to provoke thoughtful consideration of one's own beliefs. By sharing his depth of knowledge and research of the original Buddhist texts, he presents basic beliefs and practices of Thai Buddhism to provide insights to those who are "on the outside looking in." The book will also appeal to Thai Buddhists seeking understanding the tenets of their own faith while challenging Buddhists and Christians alike to question whether they are truly "in the faith". By sharing from his own quest for ultimate truth as a Thai Buddhist who found answers to life's questions in Christianity, he provides a unique perspective of the general Buddhist reaction to the Christian message as proclaimed by foreign missionaries. His insights into the Thai Buddhist mentality and into Christian missionary practices and tactics reveals pitfalls in the missionary outreach in Thailand during the past century resulting in general failure to "reach" the Thai Buddhist with the gospel. To encourage missionaries and lay Christians to be more successful in communicating the gospel among Thais, he reveals the secrets of success of his ministry among Thais. He encourages Thai and foreign Christians to find some common ground for effective discussion and correct interpretation among those to whom they present the Christian faith. The focus of evangelism should not be on choosing a religion, but rather, on revealing who God is. If we present our God and Savior effectively, with proper understanding, each can make his personal decision to receive Christ, and a relationship with God, or to reject Him. If communicated properly, the gospel is "good news" to hearers everywhere. The book is highly recommended for those researching and studying comparative religion, particularly the study of Thai Buddhism and Christianity. It is also a "need to read" book for any foreigner living or working in Thailand to better understand Thai people for successful inter-cultural communication.