Synopsis:Virtually every human endeavor involves interpersonal communication. Leading Christian scholar and media commentator Quentin Schultze and respected professor of communication Diane Badzinski offer a solid Christian perspective on the topic, helping readers communicate with faith, skill, and virtue in their interpersonal relationships. Designed as a companion to Schultze’s successful An Essential Guide to Public Speaking, this inviting book provides biblical wisdom on critical areas of interpersonal communication: gratitude, listening, self-assessment, forgiveness, trust, encouragement, peace, and fidelity. Given the rapid rise and widespread use of social media, the book also integrates intriguing insights from the latest research on the influence of social media on interpersonal relationships. It includes engaging stories and numerous sidebars featuring practical lists, definitions, illustrations, and biblical insights.

From the Back Cover: “A rich resource for learning to build real community”

Virtually every human endeavor involves interpersonal communication. An Essential Guide to Interpersonal Communication offers a solid Christian perspective, integrating intriguing insights from the latest research on the influence of social media on interpersonal relationships.

“Schultze and Badzinski provide a firm foundation for flourishing interpersonal relationships in a digital age, integrating timeless scriptural wisdom, cutting-edge communication research, and compelling insights from everyday life in a highly engaging, student-friendly volume.”
—Janie Harden Fritz, Duquesne University; author of Professional Civility: Communicative Virtue at Work

“Schultze and Badzinski seamlessly weave together contemporary communication research, the wisdom of Scripture, and the memorable words of Christian sages. The result is a book that not only increases our desire for warm friendship in a digital age but also offers inspired suggestions on how to reach this relational goal.”
—Em Griffin, author of Making Friends (and Making Them Count)

“At a time when we as a nation need to discuss important issues such as immigration, sexuality, racial unrest, and deep spiritual longings, we are losing the ability to talk with respect and civility. Unfortunately, social media often adds to our frustration and division. Where can we turn for help? Schultze and Badzinski remind us that the Scriptures and communication theory offer rich advice on how to discuss difficult issues–both face-to-face and through social media–in order to help interpersonal relationships flourish. Their insights are practical, wise, and much needed in today’s divisive communication climate.”
—Tim Muehlhoff, Biola University; author of I Beg to Differ: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Truth and Love

“This book is disturbing–in all the right ways. No matter how good you think your relationships are, be prepared to come away convicted, recommitted, and passionate about making them even better. If your relationships need restoration, hope fills these pages.”
—Robert Woods, Spring Arbor University

“Well researched, accessibly written, biblical in its wisdom, and practical in its advice. I gladly recommend this book as a rich resource for learning to build real community through effective communication.”
—Larry Crabb, NewWay Ministries; author of The Marriage Builder

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