Product Review

Everything about the Christian life contains the two realities of growth and discomfort. At the same time, we live in a world that tells us the opposite - that all can be had for nothing. Uncomfortable Growth focuses upon how any church might engage with the realities and practices that will make it more fully what it is called to be: God's people in the world for the sake of the world. This book is of particular value to ministers and pastors, but also to those who aspire to leadership in the Church, future church planters, and any who engage in strategic thinking about the local church as a base for mission. Honest reflections on the Vineyard's experience in the UK are offered by way of illustration. Lessons can be drawn for the benefit of all, pointing to God's amazing grace in using very ordinary people. The book has three parts: Culture, Theology and Practice. Part 1 explores the world's rapidly changing culture and spiritual landscape, and the Church's attempts to reshape itself in response. Part 2 looks at the person and work of Jesus (Christology) in order to understand the necessity and means of the believer's transformation; the Bible's grand narrative for determining the Church's mandate and mission (missiology); and the inspiring dynamic of N.T. church planting as a means of helping to shape the ecclesiology of every church. Part 3 moves to practice and application: making disciples, developing leaders, and planting and equipping churches. Questions are included for group discussion. "The total result is a remarkably well-balanced guide to church-based mission." Dr. Derek Morphew, Academic Dean, Vineyard Institute.