Deep & Wide

I've been reading this fabulous book by Andy Stanley called Deep & Wide and it's basically one of the best books I've ever read. There's so much truth and ideas that I'm already thinking of ways we can change how we do things with our youth, our church members, and more importantly, our community.

 

 

See, the book is focused on one thing: Creating churches unchurched people love to attend. How many times have you ever made an excuse to not go to church because it's too early, or they're too stuck up, or they're hypocrites, etc. etc. Come on, I know you've made those excuses because I know I have too. I shared this quote from the book the other day and I want to share it here because it honestly speaks so much truth into the current situations in many churches:

 

"Churches designed for saved people are full of hypocrites. You pretty much have to be a hypocrite to participate. Transparency and honesty are dangerous in a church created for church people. Consequently, the casualty in a church for church people is grace. It's hard to extend grace to people who don't seem to need it. And it's hard to admit you need it when you aren't sure you will receive it."

 

Uhm, can I get an amen, hallelujah?! We're always reminding our students that church is not the perfect place. It's the place where sinners come to be with others who love Jesus, to learn more about Jesus, and to express their opinions. Sometimes, more so than others. Ha! But in all seriousness, why are we not making church a place that people want to come to?

 

I haven't quite finished the book but, man. It's hitting me square between the eyes and filling my spiritual well. I highly recommend ya'll pick this book up. No, I'm not being compensated in any way for this. I just feel like our churches are failing at doing the second most important commandment that we are called to do - love others. Yes, that even means the unchurched.