One of the main ways I decide what to read is simply asking other gifted leaders, "What they are reading?" Who Stole My Church was suggested to me by a friend. My thoughts and reflections of this book is found below in the e-mail I sent to him upon finishing the book. I hope you will be prodded to read it.
Rick,
I want to thank you for your recommendation of “Who Stole My Church” by Gordon MacDonald. I read it in only a few sittings and I was delighted by how this book spoke to me. Here are some of my takeaways:
1. I could appreciate the perspective of how as pastors we can sometimes be more insecure then we would like to admit; and how much we desire positive feedback from those whom we are leading. Mainly, not to stroke our egos, but I believe we genuinely want to know that we are making a difference.
2. The second perspective I appreciated was how Gordon’s character in the book does a great job in celebrating spiritual growth, no matter how seemingly small, in the life of his church members. Moments like rejoicing over some one praying out loud for the first time or someone sharing how a portion of Scripture sheds new light in their life are things that not many notice but as pastors and leaders this is what we live for.
3. The history of music in the church was also very educational for me, in the sense that these conversations on worship style and music preference are nothing new. And the way he presented this subject matter in the small group discussion format was really effective.
4. Lastly, the hope and optimism of Christ church — I sensed that he was saying do not give up on seeing older churches being reinvented — we just need to be smart and patient in our processes.
Anyway those were a few my thoughts.
Again thank you for recommendation — I look forward to the next time we talk.
Rod
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