Review of "Simple Church"

A few weeks ago, it was suggested that I read Dr. Thom Rainer's book Simple Church. I acquired the book as well as an extra copy (for a giveaway starting tomorrow).

By the authors' own admission, the book is "a nerdy research project" (243). What I found most humorous was shortly after that statement they write: "Normal people don't read church research books on vacation. We do. But we are not normal." And where was I when I was reading this book? On a plane on vacation. To that, the authors write "Welcome to the club."

However, don't let that give you hesitation. The book is a extremely practical church statistic book. The authors never meant it to sit on your shelf next to your church philosophy books and counseling books that you reference constantly for how to keep your church in the right perspective. They merely were reporting the findings of their research.

"But Traver, why is this book on a blog about graphic design?" Well let me tell you. It is because the book contains positive marketing principles applicable to your church both through design and ministry. The book begins looking at popular companies like Apple, Google, Southwest Airlines, and Papa Johns. These companies claim their success comes from their simple approach to design.

The whole premise of the book is "Simple is better." We've been duped into this mentality that "More is better" and "Complexity shows my skill." Instead, what society really wants is the point. They want to get to the point. In a society filled with microwaves, instant coffee and fast food, we don't want the extra garbage, just get to the point.

Some of the best design I have seen is clean. It shares the information you need to know, and adds nothing else.

Simple Church takes that philosophy and applies it to the church. The research project is then unfolded. Complex churches are cluttered with mission statements, philosophies, programs and directions. Each staff member has a different idea of what they want to accomplish and no one is in harmony. These churches have been found to struggle for growth, even if they are large to begin with, and report little development as a church. The pastor is frustrated and work is going no where.

The simple church, on the other hand, has one goal. One desire. They want to move people along a process toward spiritual growth. All of the simple churches have this general plan: "Win people to Christ, disciple them, and teach them to serve and share Christ with others." It's a three step process.

The simple church desires to move people along those various steps. The pastor constantly pushes that agenda, and every church member knows the philosophy. Each staff member is unified, and the programs of the church desire to further that cause. The church is vibrant and growing.

The proof, the method, and what to do are all found in the Simple Church. The authors are witty, funny, and make reading this book an enjoyable time. It's not a dry or dull experience, and the information is beneficial. You can pick up your copy of Simple Church at Lifeway.

Posted in: Book Reviews