Review of Growing an Engaged Church: How to Stop "Doing Church" and Start Being the Church Again
In a time when church attendance is declining and the world around us is in desperate need of hope, the call to actively engage with our communities is more critical than ever. Many Christian men resonate with the desire to reflect Christ in their daily lives—through service, fellowship, and outreach. Al Winseman’s book, Growing an Engaged Church: How to Stop "Doing Church" and Start Being the Church Again, serves as an essential guide for those looking to make that shift from mere participation to genuine engagement.
Themes and Insights
Winseman’s work dives deep into the factors contributing to an engaged congregation, highlighting a research-based approach that is both insightful and actionable. The main theme emphasizes that simply “doing church” is no longer sufficient; churches must transition to “being the church.” Winseman challenges church leaders to rethink traditional methods and adopt new strategies that genuinely inspire congregants to serve, give, and engage more deeply in their communities.
For Christian men, this book encourages taking meaningful action—whether through servant leadership, mentoring, or simply being a listening ear to those in need. It reminds us of the biblical call to serve one another as Christ served us (Mark 10:45) and how this extends beyond church walls into our neighborhoods and workplaces.
Biblical Foundations
Winseman aligns his teachings with Scripture, anchoring his arguments in the biblical principles of community and service. Passages such as Matthew 5:14-16 remind us that we are called to be the light of the world, drawing others to Christ through our actions. Each example and principle outlined in Growing an Engaged Church reflects the heart of community transformation that Scripture repeatedly emphasizes.
Structure and Readability
This book is well-organized, with each chapter building on the last. Winseman uses straightforward language and practical examples that make the content accessible to readers at any level. Additional resources, such as small group discussion questions and real-life case studies, make it not only a personal read but also an excellent tool for group settings.
One of the standout features is the Congregation Engagement Pyramid, which visually simplifies the complex ideas of engagement into relatable concepts. These actionable insights are crucial for churches looking to transition to a model of active engagement, encouraging men to consider how their unique talents can contribute to building up the Body of Christ.
Key Takeaways
This book has profound implications for how we view our faith communities. It shifts the focus from passive participation to active engagement, urging men to examine their roles within their congregations. It is an ideal resource for men’s ministry settings, discipleship cohorts, or church leadership teams, making it suitable for anyone passionate about revitalizing their church’s mission.
Ultimately, Growing an Engaged Church: How to Stop "Doing Church" and Start Being the Church Again serves to inspire men to fulfill their calling as leaders in faith, guiding others as they seek to be salt and light in their surrounding communities.
Call to Action
We highly recommend this book for individual reading, small group discussion, or church-wide studies. Winseman equips Christian men with the tools and insights needed to foster genuine community involvement, reminding us that our faith should spur us to action. By engaging in faith-based outreach, we not only experience personal growth but also help transform our communities for the glory of God. Embrace this call and let Growing an Engaged Church guide you on your journey to real engagement.