Jesus’ dream team. Three impactful words that could have the potential to become the next blockbuster. At the book’s core stands Jesus, the Master of Excellence, who serves as the ultimate example in fulfilling the Great Commission.
The goal is clear: to spread the gospel in the best tactical way possible. Drawing from his extensive experience as a youth leader and army chaplain, Andrés Peralta emphasizes teamwork as a common thread throughout the book.
Written in two movements, the book explores, on the one hand, the theme of teamwork in the Bible, focusing on the New Testament and Christ’s missionary example. The methodology offers a detailed study of the biblical text to better draw from the original languages, the pedagogical essence for building a missionary team for the kingdom of God. Patience, intention, dedication, guided collaboration, support, friendship, and team spirit are the keys to success.
On the other hand, it conveys with a sense of urgency that the challenges today’s young people face encourage them to do mission work in their cities. Leaders must nurture team fellowship to achieve their goal, understanding that the transformative power of teamwork, in both leaders and team members, can bring hope and inspiration to the mission.
Peralta strategically placed stories in the book that are powerful tools to help readers relate to and deepen their understanding of the biblical teachings on teamwork and leadership. These stories come from well-known and lesser-known facts and from Peralta's personal experiences. The author also refers to historical facts that have marked the lives of men who stood out for their ability to manage by promoting collective well-being, facing obstacles, and making a difference. These men, such as Henry Ford, valued motivation and intentional relationships in the working environment, inspiring and motivating those around them (17).
Written in an engaging and easy-to-read style, the book is accessible to a lay audience. The Jesus’ Dream Team theme is itself a metaphor. The ideal team comprises a leader who, like Jesus, loves his team members and seeks to develop a close mentorship relationship with them (99–104). This leader plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity to achieve goals and objectives. Moreover, like the disciples, the participants must be ready to commit their whole hearts to genuine conversion and a willingness to learn. Together, leaders and participants sharing common values and purpose will form a team prepared to have missional strategies that will nurture a sense of growth and usefulness in their communities.
The last chapter provides practical guidance and tools to engage youth and accompany them in their personal growth. The author states, “In summary, three elements that make up teamwork: work, co-operation, and empowerment. When Jesus chose His disciples to announce the kingdom of God, this was work. He desired them to accompany Him to share experiences that would bring them together. Like the interrelation within Christ’s team, this component lays the foundation for every solid and cohesive team. Any team that feels empowered will undoubtedly do a good job” (19).
Ultimately, this book invites you and me to embark on a journey that will convince anyone of their vital role in Jesus’ mission to save souls.
