Publisher's Synopsis
If you are a Christian who is a member or leader of a dying congregation (one that's shrinking in numbers while increasing in average age), this book may be a Godsend for you. If your congregation is failing to retain its own children, is uninteresting to visitors, is uninspiring to its members, is not recruiting new members (little or no effective local evangelism), and is disconnected from your community---here are practical, workable solutions! These remedies are drawn from the latest Church Growth and Quality Management literature, as exemplified by Jesus' own actions. Although the many suggested "Action Items" in this book are mainly directed to Church of Christ congregations, they apply equally well to other faltering religious groups. Implementing these solutions may result in your congregation experiencing a joyfully-dramatic revitalization! The criticisms found in this book, however, are harsh. Christian readers of this book must be willing to back off, take a wider view of their activities, consider what really works, and be willing to move ever-closer to Jesus in everything that they do. In regards to doctrine, Christian congregations are encouraged to focus on the Radical Principles of Jesus. As to procedures, congregations are directed to follow Jesus' own example as to how to implement his teachings. So rather than just rolling along thinking things are "just fine" maintaining the comfortable "status quo" on a gently-declining path, congregations must embrace the Radical Jesus on an upward, difficult climb. This involves doing things that are hard, complicated, and even a bit dangerous. But accepting the discomforting challenge of Jesus may result in greater productivity, joy, and true growth! Can the "dying Church of Christ" (and other groups in similar dire straits) be saved? This book says "yes!" But congregations must be humble enough to admit that over the centuries their traditions have strayed from the real Jesus. They then must be wise enough to get back on track: by putting Jesus as their #1 focus. Following Jesus' Radical Principles and demanding Actions is held up as the key to intriguing visitors, inspiring long-term members, successfully recruiting new members, and retaining one's own precious youth!
