The Monkey and the Fish by Dave Gibbons opens with a compelling fable—a monkey, well-intentioned but misguided, attempts to help a struggling fish by taking it out of the water. What was meant to be an act of kindness turns into a tragedy. This story serves as a powerful metaphor for how we, as Christians, can sometimes approach sharing the gospel. Passion without wisdom can be dangerous. While our intentions may be good, our actions must be guided by understanding, cultural awareness, and a heart that truly listens.
As I read through the first chapter, two concepts stood out to me: Globalism and Third Culture. These themes are not just theoretical ideas but necessary shifts that the Church and believers must embrace in today’s ever-changing world.
Globalism and the Church
Globalism, as described in the book, refers to the increasing interconnectivity between nations, cultures, and individuals. It is no longer limited to trade, technology, or fashion—it affects every aspect of life, including the Church. However, the Church has been slow to respond to these changes. The rigid structures and traditional mindsets that once worked may no longer be effective in a rapidly shifting world.
The book states that globalism is a “disruptive force”—reshaping the world economically, socially, politically, and technologically. While this change brings both challenges and opportunities, it is crucial for the Church to adapt.
Personally, I see globalization as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has allowed nations to grow economically, bringing prosperity to countries like the Philippines. I recently came across an article predicting that the Philippines will have one of the strongest economies in Asia in the next 15 to 20 years, largely due to globalization. Industries such as the BPO sector and international trade are flourishing, providing jobs and economic stability. The same applies to the Church—we now use modern technology, multimedia presentations, and translated study materials to reach more people.
However, globalization also brings its disadvantages. Traditional values and customs are often overlooked in favor of modern convenience. For instance, Filipino practices like saying “po” and “opo” to show respect or the act of “pagmamano” (a gesture of honoring elders) are slowly being forgotten. Likewise, some church traditions are fading as congregations strive to appeal to contemporary audiences. While adapting is necessary, it should never come at the cost of losing what is valuable.
The book challenges us to be flexible yet resilient, to embrace change without compromising our core beliefs. It states, “We need fresh, counterintuitive ways of leading—in practice and philosophy” (p. 36). This means rethinking our evangelistic strategies. What worked in the past may not be as effective today. The challenge is to find new, creative, and relevant methods to share the gospel with a generation shaped by globalism.
Third Culture: The Key to Adaptation
The second term that resonated with me is Third Culture. This concept, often used by sociologists, refers to individuals who grow up in a culture different from their parents’ due to factors such as work or migration. In the book’s context, Third Culture describes a person’s ability to adapt to different environments and perspectives. For the Church, being a Third Culture Church means embracing diversity and being willing to change to meet people where they are.
Third Culture is described as “the mindset and will to love, learn, and serve in any culture, even in the midst of pain and discomfort” (p. 38). It is not limited to geography, language, or race—it is a posture of openness. For a Third Culture Christian, “home is wherever Jesus is” (p. 39). It is about honoring and celebrating cultural differences while finding unity in Christ.
The author emphasizes that Third Culture is not simply a strategy—it is a lifestyle. It calls us to live by two primary purposes: loving God and loving others (p. 44). In a world where division is prevalent, this mindset is essential. Rather than seeing differences as barriers, we should see them as bridges for connection.
The Call to Open-mindedness
A major takeaway from the book is the need for open-mindedness. The way we share the gospel matters just as much as the message itself. If we approach evangelism with a closed mind and rigid methods, we may end up like the monkey in the story—well-intentioned but ultimately harmful.
The author encourages believers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This doesn’t mean compromising biblical truth, but rather, learning how to communicate it effectively. It is easier to share the gospel when a foundation of understanding and genuine relationships has been built. People are more likely to listen when they know we respect their beliefs and backgrounds.
Instead of immediately condemning those who do not share our faith, we should take time to listen. The book reminds us that evangelism is not about fear-mongering or forcing conversions. The gospel is meant to be “good news”. If people only accept Christ out of fear of hell rather than an understanding of His love, then we have missed the point.
A great example of this principle is how we deliver difficult truths. Imagine telling someone, “You will perish if you don’t accept Jesus.” While this statement is biblically accurate, its delivery is harsh. Instead, we can find a better way to communicate the truth—one that invites understanding rather than fear. As the lyrics of an old song say, “Break it to me gently.” The key is to share with love and wisdom.
Finding a Common Ground
One of the most impactful lessons from the book is the importance of finding common ground when sharing the gospel. Jesus Himself did this throughout His ministry—He spoke in parables, used cultural references, and engaged with people in ways they could understand.
In today’s world, being adaptable and Spirit-led is crucial. The book states, “The more adaptive we are to the Holy Spirit and to diverse people groups and settings, the more we reflect who Jesus is and impact this new flat world” (p. 48). The Church must mirror Christ’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Final Thoughts
This review is based only on the first chapter of The Monkey and the Fish, and I have yet to finish the entire book. To be honest, I initially read it only because it was required for school. However, I now find myself genuinely intrigued by its insights and relevance.
If you are a Christian who struggles with how to engage with today’s rapidly changing world, I highly recommend picking up a copy. This book will challenge you to think differently about evangelism, culture, and your role in the Church. It is a reminder that while the gospel message remains the same, the way we share it must evolve to meet people where they are.
As I continue reading, I look forward to discovering more lessons that will shape not only how I view ministry but also how I live out my faith in an ever-changing, interconnected world.