Reclaiming God's Original Intent for the Church

The need for publication of "Reclaiming God's Original Intent for the Church" seems to emphasise the penchant humans have for making things more complicated then they need be. Through this work, Roberts and Marshall have attempted to return the focus of Christian church leaders and pastors to the basics of the Gospel by stressing the importance of making disciples rather than striving for increased numbers or programs that build a false sense of success or security. Their intended audience is those church leaders who have been disenchanted with the promises of church growth formulas or new and better programs who need to hear this clarion call to once again return to the simple Gospel. They call leaders to put into practice the essentials of developing character, serving, listening, loving, creating community and following the leading of the Holy Spirit in their churches in order to grow into the unique community of faith that enfleshes and authenticates the Gospel. I found this material refreshing in its simplicity and foundational in its importance. The authors have returned to biblical principles and encouraged readers concerning the necessity of applying such timeless wisdom in our postmodern culture. It's a book which inspires but also helps us take a look at some of the not so pleasing aspects of our churches today. It will engender enthusiasm and give positive direction to any who have committed themselves to Christian service and will lead to good fruit in the lives of those who accept its challenge to reclaim God's original intent.

Roberts and Marshall began their text with the wonderful intention of looking to Christianity's roots to determine how church should be carried out now. Their descriptions of early practice and the focused yet free nature of the early church were riveting and compelling. Unfortunately, they never seemed to get off the ground. They were both critical of making formulas for church success, and in this case seemed to eschew all practical advice for more esoteric and inconclusive musings. If you are looking for an interesting book to present an opposing worldview to normalcy in Chistianity this is a great book, but if you are looking for application look elsewhere or be prepared to do the work yourself.

Wes and Glenn put words to so many thoughts I've had about living this thing I call a Christian life. This book is intended for pastors and Christian leaders, but I'd recommend it to anybody who is serious about following Jesus.

Original Intent will encourage, challenge, and inspire you. If you wrestle with how to serve in a culture where the church is now on the margin of society, this book will lay out for you an approach based upon the much older ways of the apostles. Whatever size ministry you are in, this is a great book for leaders and staff to read to remind them of "first principles" and how to minister in a postmodern world. Get it.