Hugh Halter and Matt Smay have given believers something to chew on with this book. Realizing as others have that the church has remained too "in-focused" and "consumer-crazed," have called leaders to take a fresh look at what their local assemblies should be doing as bodies of God's people. In entertaining language the authors have correctly stated the biblical mindset of the church—gathered together for mutual well-being, yet purposefully looking for ways to take the gospel out. Programs that all too often run their course in months or less are replaced by a fundamental spirit of seeking opportunities for going forth with the gospel. Mission is not promoted in overt ways as in large crusades, but in determined and caring ways sharing Christ in a winsome manner.
The highlight of the book is chapter seven which asks in the title, “To Gather or Not to Gather: Is that the Question?” Here the authors begin with a history of how churches gathered and then move toward practical ideas on how to gather while simultaneously having the willing attitude of scattering. What is done about children, the sermon, and worship in general? Several pointers are presented to aid the reader.
The authors do sometimes overstate their case and improperly relate the point of a biblical text. Discernment will be needed in those cases. All told this is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that can be given a fair look.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
The highlight of the book is chapter seven which asks in the title, “To Gather or Not to Gather: Is that the Question?” Here the authors begin with a history of how churches gathered and then move toward practical ideas on how to gather while simultaneously having the willing attitude of scattering. What is done about children, the sermon, and worship in general? Several pointers are presented to aid the reader.
The authors do sometimes overstate their case and improperly relate the point of a biblical text. Discernment will be needed in those cases. All told this is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that can be given a fair look.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Zondervan. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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