What if the church in your city becomes known for its love? God is on the move and doing a new thing around the globe. Citywide movements and global urban mission are two merging trends turning the church inside-out. In cities worldwide, the church is becoming known for its love, like Jesus said. How can you start such a movement in your city, town, or community? Most urban mission textbooks are written from and for a Western context, but this book is different! Jacob Bloemberg shares the story of Love Hanoi, a campaign-turned-movement that has … [Read more...]
Love [Your City]: 5 Steps to Citywide Movements
City. Story. Us. – A book by Susan Spousta
The population, diversity, and complexity of the world’s cities are growing. CITY. STORY. US. is based on the premise that urban influence and the need for urban ministry has never been greater. Reaching our cities begins with the stories they offer, collective and individual stories. This book challenges preconceived ideas, paralyzing fears, and residues of indifference to urban need . . . and urban blessing. Through the author’s story and the story of urban practitioners the city reveals itself as a place of personal and community … [Read more...]
The Externally Focused Church
If Your Church Vanished, Would Your Community Weep? Would Anyone Notice? Would Anyone Care? "I will never forget the comment of one fourth-grade teacher as she stood there, amazed at the work being done on her classroom by complete strangers: 'If this is Christianity, then I'm interested,' she said." from Forward by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson Learn from churches that have made serving their communities a priority--with dramatic results. Your church can be a firm pillar in your community because of the unwavering truth and love of its … [Read more...]
To Transform a City: Whole Church, Whole Gospel, Whole City
In the year 2007, the number of people living in the cities of the world—finally and irreversibly—exceeded the number of people living in rural areas. The earth’s population is now more urban than rural, and Christian leaders are trying to figure out what this means for the church. Pastors and kingdom-minded leaders know they need to engage the surrounding community with the gospel but are unsure about how to do so. Ministering in diverse and populous areas brings a unique set of challenges and promises. Evangelistic strategies that work in … [Read more...]
The Jesus Principles: Lead a Life That Even Death Can’t Stop
“Are you looking for a book to refresh your relationship with Jesus? Do you want to rekindle your fire for following Christ? Are you new to the Christian faith and want to go deeper faster in your growth? “The Jesus Principles” by Dr. Joseph Mattera is an incredible tool in your hand that will help you to do all of the above. Dr. Mattera has done it again, with this powerful and practical book that will challenge and empower you in your walk with Christ! As a pastor, I want to put a copy of this book in the hand of every long-time member as … [Read more...]
