A book review of Tangible: Making God Known Through Deeds of Mercy and Words of Truth by Chris Sicks (Colorado Springs, CO; NavPress, 2013) by Mary C. Amendolia

How did an atheist turn into a man of mercy? Tangible: Making God Known Through Deeds of Mercy and Words of Truth is as much about the transformation of the lives of others as it is about for the author Chris Sicks himself. The book is exactly what the subtitle states: tangibly making God known through deeds of mercy and words of truth.  This book is more than a “how-to” guide. The author addresses the “how to” of proclaiming God’s truth as well as providing concrete examples from his context of how his church demonstrates mercy in tangible ways.  He offers compelling ways Christians can engage others relationally, apologetically, evangelistically while at the same time helping those in material and spiritual need.

The author, Chris Sicks is the pastor of mercy at a church in the metropolitan Washington, DC area who is experienced in meeting the material and spiritual needs of others.  He has worked with the homeless, underprivileged children and recovering addicts. Sicks tells stories of lives transformed by the gospel through acts of mercy and words of truth.  He proposes two approaches: Tell and Show: Deeds Authenticate the Message and Show and Tell: Words Articulate the Message. The author does not dodge the hard questions about obstacles to faith. He addresses pain, hardship, suffering and persecution as well as revealing some of his own struggles and failures.

Tangible’s main message proposes a way of looking at Christian apologetics. Sicks argues for an apologetic of Mercy. Acts of mercy are a powerful demonstration of the good news of the Gospel. He writes:

“Generosity surprises people. In a world that pursues the self-centered goals of wealth, comfort, and fame, altruism can get people’s attention. The world is self-absorbed and expects everyone to be the same, so when believers adopt disabled children, tithe during a recession, and pour themselves out for others, people take notice.”  (p.48)

Sicks’ repeats his point throughout, “The apologetic of mercy is the combination of both word and deed ministry.” (p. 38) How many of you have heard the following quote, “Speak the Gospel, use words if necessary.”? Buried in the notes section is one of Sicks’ best points. Usually this line is attributed to St. Francis. “Well, he didn’t say it, and it doesn’t make much sense anyway. Word and deed are not interchangeable. Jesus preached the gospel with words – and He used deeds to authenticate His identity.” (Notes: p. 149, Chapter 3, number 4 – See St. Francis of Assisi and His World by Mark Galli)

The message of word and deed is repetitive but I don’t critique the author for the repetition. Most of us need the reminder that we don’t get a pass at evangelism just because we don’t have the “gift” of evangelism.  Additionally his message about practical demonstration of the gospel is just as important because scripture is full of direction to care practically for the poor, needy, orphan and widow.

Often I am a critic of book covers, especially Christian books – they can be cheesy or misleading. In this case however I think the publisher made a good choice. The cover is a blue-green textured hand, something Kindle readers will not fully appreciate. The hand is slightly raised off the cover thus holding the book in your hand is a tangible and tactile experience.

This is an engaging book and a fast read. Despite its diminutive size it makes up for it in its depth. The review questions at the end of each chapter are thought provoking and suitable for small group discussion. Tangible is relevant for all ages – teen to mature adult.