Not every church is, nor should it be, a “mega-church”. But every church should be a healthy church; a God-sized church.  Every church should be on mission with Christ, a light to our surrounding world.  Every. Church.  This book is not about how to build a mega-church reflecting that of the author’s own experience.   It is a book about health and purpose.  There is a premise here though, “If you pursue health, growth will be a naturally occurring by-product.” (See Psalm 1:1 – 3)

Before the introduction begins, there are several pages of endorsements from many of our nation’s leading pastors.  Here’s what just one has to say about The Blessed Church:

“Our world desperately needs healthy, vibrant churches, so I’m so thankful Robert Morris has written The Blessed Church—a book that draws on the Gateway ‘back story’ to describe the qualities of a healthy local church. More than anything, a heart for God and a love of people define the ministry of Pastor Morris and Gateway Church. If you want a growing vitality in your church, you will profit from every page of The Blessed Church.”

—Chris Hodges, senior pastor, Church of the Highlands

The book starts by examining the importance of vision.  Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” It all starts with vision.  That vision pulls you in the direction you’re heading. Just like all successful endeavors, there is first inspiration, the idea of what could be, the driving force…But remember, this is God’s story, not our own. So first and foremost, we must seek Him.

The book is effectively broken into these sections:

• Blessed Vision
• Blessed Shepherds
• Blessed Leaders
• Blessed Government
• Blessed Church Culture

Scattered throughout the book are a myriad of wise nuggets to think about.  They are aptly named, Keys to a Blessed Church.  Here are a few of my favorites, which can easily be applied to the life of any follower of Christ, not just church leadership:

“When faced with a major decision or challenge, don’t make a move without first getting alone with God and obtaining His counsel.” (Reference Psalm 119:105)

“When you let the Holy Spirit paint a vision upon the canvas of your heart, a picture will emerge that will stagger your imagination and test your faith.  If the vision doesn’t seem impossible to accomplish with your natural ability, it’s probably not from God.”  (Reference Exodus 3:11)

And how about this one:

“What spiritual injustice bothers you most? Righting a wrong is a key to your vision for ministry.”  (Reference: Psalm 39:2-3)

So while the target audience for The Blessed Church is undoubtedly pastors and lay- leaders, I think anyone can walk away with applicable truths to encourage spiritual growth.

The Blessed Church:  The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love by Robert Morris is currently available from most major book sellers.

If you’d like to read a sample, the first chapter is available on Scribd.

I reviewed this book as part of the Blogging for Books program with Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. Please click through from the icon, to see what others are saying about this encouraging and resourceful book and to rate this review.

Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review.  No other compensation has been received.