Covid has been a problem throughout the world for a whole variety of reasons. But it has also been a problem for many Christians for a very specific reason, for some, covid has robbed church members of their understanding of what church is. It is heartbreaking to see people who were previously active in the church, to now be turning away from their faith. It is heartbreaking to see people lose their vision and understanding of what the church is and does. So please, please, pick up this book!
There are tons of books on the church, so what makes this one different? Here’s what Tony says…
“What is distinct about this little book is my attempt to speak to the “ordinary” Christian, with the aim that he or she – you – will realise the significance of the church and what role they can play in it. This is not a book for church leaders. though I hope they benefit from it; it is for anyone who wants to faithfully follow Jesus in the context of a local Christ-centred fellowship, and to enjoy making a difference as they do.”
This book is one of two books that I would encourage every church member to read (the other one, if you’re interested, is The Book Your Pastor Wishes You Would Read). This book is written with the church member in mind and designed to remind them of the importance and beauty of the local church. As a pastor, this is one of the most important messages that Christians need to hear right now. We’ve had months upon months of restrictions and it’s been hard. But a desire to gather together has not been the priority for as many as church leaders would have hoped.
This book gives you a marvellous view of the church, it will challenge you and it will call you back to the Bible. You’ll see the beauty of gathering with your local congregation and you will be spurred on in your service of the Lord.
One of the things I really like about this book is that it isn’t written to fill your mind. Sure, it does that, but the goal of the book is to lift your eyes to Christ, to fill your heart with devotion to Him and to help you put your hands to the plough as you seek to serve the Lord in your local context.
I could fill this post with great quotes and challenging insights, but I don’t want to stop you going and just buying the book that will be both a challenge and a huge encouragement to the local church member. Go here to buy your own copy for just £6.79*. You won’t regret it, in fact by a few and post them to friends. This is one of those books to have handy for a good gift.
Tony Merida is Pastor for Preaching and Vision of Imago Dei Church, Raleigh, NC; Director of Theological Training for Acts 29; and a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of a number of books, including Love Your Church, Ruth For You, The Christ-Centered Expositor, and Ordinary. He and his wife, Kimberly, have five adopted children.
**At the original time that this review was posted.
*** I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. This does not change the way I rate the book, my views are my own. ***
Chalmers' Blog 
Loved this book took a long time over each chapter and commented on it through my Facebook and Instagram page last month. Wish I could get my church members to read it too!
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