Karriker writes with a fond devotion to his subject, declaring, “I have a confession. I love the Church. I love the Church in all her various forms and permutations,” while urging readers to seek God’s direction in their church lives, particularly in light of the “worldwide upheaval” occurring today. He covers the Church’s history, biblical teachings on what it is meant to be and represent, and how modern events (including the COVID-19 pandemic) have affected the way believers and non-believers view church. In those discussions, Karriker notes a pattern of people engaging in on-again, off-again relationships with God. He advises Christians to doggedly pursue being worldly examples of Jesus’s teachings, writing that "our ability to make an impact on the world and those around us is dependent on our being positively different.”
Karriker’s main purpose for the Christian Church is clearly and candidly stated throughout as "Jesus’ plan to take His message of love and salvation by grace to all people everywhere in this hurting and dying world.” For that reason, he explores the Church not only as a place for Christians to gather and worship but also as the driving force behind Christians carrying out Jesus’s mission. This is an informative resource for readers seeking a deeper understanding of a well-known pillar in Christian worship.
Takeaway: Spiritual examination of the Christian Church’s function and meaning.
Comparable Titles: Edward W. Klink III's The Local Church, Joseph H. Hellerman's When the Church Was a Family.
Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: B
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-
