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Does Simple Church Exist?
Leadership Journal has an interesting article about Simple Church, leadership and church philosophy. Some good stuff, and some good observations to chew on. Here’s a clip:
Several weeks ago, I attended a conference based on the book Simple Church by Eric Geiger and Thom Rainer (Broadman and Holman, 2006). More than 400 ministry leaders from around my state packed the room, diligently taking notes. Their anticipation as the day began was palpable.
Then, last week, I was talking to several other pastors who were extolling the virtues of the Simple Church philosophy. Again, these leaders were passionately enthusiastic about this new book.
And just today, I was having lunch with a friend and fellow ministry leader who asked me excitedly, “Have you read the book Simple Church? It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read. I’m making our pastor read it.”
Clearly, the Simple Church concept has struck a nerve.
Indeed, I have read the book, and wrote a favorable review of it for Leadership. I love how it challenges churches that suffer from what the authors call “ministry schizophrenia.” Simple Church calls all church leaders to articulate a clear process for spiritual growth, and to streamline all ministries and programs in keeping with that process. While I read and review many books that do not make it to my “recommended” list, Simple Church is one that has earned my recommendation.
But I also have concerns about the book. Actually, it’s not really the book that concerns me; it’s the response of the many pastors and ministry leaders who are reading the book.
Simple Church is a great, easy-to-understand concept that many churches need to hear. But the process of implementing it is not all that simple. My fear is that the difficulty of the process will get lost on readers who are looking for a quick fix for their ministry.
JG
