REAL CHURCH – Does it Exist?
“Real Church” Does it exist? Can I Find It? by Larry Crabb has been a very interesting read. It deals with topics such as authentic Christianity, church as a whole, issues facing the church today, types of churches and their shortcomings, and the re-establishment of the structure built upon the foundation in which our faith and the church is developed. Christ is and always will be the foundation, but it is what we build upon it that will determine the effectiveness.
When I reflect on the reading of this book I really felt that Larry was being honest, deep, rich, and vulnerable, however at the same time it felt like he was just burnt out with church and he was expressing his bitterness. But that is kind of what he was trying to get across. Christians should support one another, and be able to be there for one another especially in times of weakness. At times I wanted to put this book down because he went on for awhile describing all the churches he didn’t want to be apart of, but I’m glad I kept reading. Towards the end he did begin to reveal the type of church he wanted to be involved in. I wont spoil the details. I had to read the first 13 chapters to get there, so should you. You don’t truly appreciate the marks of an effective church until in indulge in the ones that aren’t.
Larry continues to challenge you through each chapter to be authentic in your faith and practice from an individual level to the church level as a whole. We are not to settle for good enough Christianity. We are to strive for excellence, and it begins with prayer and people. Praying for wisdom, discernment, and direction, followed by loving and serving people with Christ at the core. We all have a long ways to go, but it is time we pick up our crosses, and carry them daily.
I would recommend this book for all church leaders, and attendees as well, but be prepared. You will begin to question this book, and it’s motives, but in the end it will all make sense.
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