WHY BOTHER WITH CHURCH? PB

A short, readable book that explains clearly and simply what the church is and why it really matters. The church has an image problem. It is widely viewed in the world at large as being outdated, boring, irrelevant and filled with backbiting hypocrites. How different that picture is to how the Bible talks about the new family that Jesus has gathered. It is a precious bride, a sparkling jewel, a lifeboat for forgiven sinners that is precious and holy; nurturing and warm; filled with truth, friendship and all embracing, forgiving love. Sam Allberry understands the collision between these two views, and how, even as Christian believers, we can lose sight of how truly wonderful church is and should be, and what a privilege it is to be part of, and to serve. In this brief accessible but thorough guide to church, Sam outlines what church is and why we need it. And how, when we have got it wrong, we can move closer to what a true church should be. Contents Introduction 1. Foundations: how to consider church 2. Life changing: how to attend church 3. Running: how to organise church 4. Imperfect: how to survive church 5. Wonderful: how to love church Conclusion Commendations Your church is a miracle. If you didn't know that, this book will help you understand why. New believers and old believers with conflicted feelings about the church will especially benefit. Read this excellent book to learn how to love Christ's people better and worship God more. Jonathan Leeman - Editorial Director, 9Marks An excellent and hugely important book. Up-to-date, punchy, humorous but penetrating, Sam makes the case that we need to rediscover the huge relevance of the church in our Christian lives. Terry Virgo - Founder of Newfrontiers This book about the church is a gift to the church. It's clear, winsome, and needed, reminding us of the great reality of the body of Christ called to live, worship, and minister together in his name until he comes. I'm grateful for this biblical call to remember who we are and what, by God's mercy, we get to be and do as his gathered people. Kathleen Nielson - Director of Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition Publisher: Good Book Company Paperback: 96 pages