For The City

Here is a new book that some of you might be interested in that is set to release in April...  For the City: Proclaiming and Living Out the Gospel (Exponential Series) by Darrin Patrick, Matt Carter, and Joel Lindsey.

Here is a description:

Within ten years, nine out of ten people will claim 'no religious affiliation.' Many of these people will live in urban areas. Church leaders must learn how to effectively engage in ministry with this urban core, a group that includes both the poor and marginalized as well as the wealthy and influential. This book will guide readers in developing a philosophy of ministry that can lead to restoration and renewal in their city. Matt Carter and Darrin Patrick explain the biblical, theological, and historical foundations of ministry within the urban core and how to plant churches where the gospel is not only faithfully preached and shared but also brings substantial benefits to those living in the community. For the City relates the wisdom gleaned from years of serving their cities for the sake of God's kingdom. Carter and Patrick practically equip church leaders and Christians to look at their city as a mission field where individuals and churches can faithfully proclaim the gospel and live out the reality of a community changed and transformed by its message.

Here is an excerpt:

Many of us think we go to a great church. After all, nobody ever sets out on a spiritual journey to find the most mediocre, lukewarm church around. No, when most of us describe a great church, a successful church, what we are really talking about is a church that meets our needs. The church has preaching that makes you feel good or challenges you just a little, but not too much. The music is pleasing to you, meaning the church has drums or doesn’t have drums (depending on which you prefer). The church has a program or two that is right up your alley and makes you feel as if you have a place to serve.

And there is nothing wrong with good preaching, good music, and well-run programs.

But these things do not define a successful church. We are on dangerous ground when we seek to define the worth of a church by how it meets our felt needs. Instead, we have to start defining success of a church based on God’s criteria. Then we don’t we run the risk of spending every Sunday for the rest of our lives completely missing the heart of God.

A great church, a healthy church, is one in which Jesus Christ is found in word and deed. The emphasis here is on the word “and.” A healthy church isn’t just a preaching church. A successful church isn’t simply a hub for social justice. A God-honoring, gospel-loving church is one where the Word of God is the primary motivator for doing the work of God.

(HT:  Joel Lindsay)