Discover what sets apart the true Christian Church amid a sea of options, misunderstandings, and culture-driven "churches"--look beyond coffee bars and busy calendars to where hope and life are found around Christ's Word and Sacraments.
Looking for something more than trend-chasing sanctuaries and weekly self-help pep talks? Meet the fictional Campbell family as they navigate church shopping in a city full of choices--from customer-focused megachurches and bustling community fellowships to political pulpits and tradition-soaked denominational halls. Through their search, real questions emerge: What holds a congregation together? What is the beating heart of a faithful church? Each chapter paints vivid scenes and sharp contrasts, inviting you to test the spirits and ask not just what's attractive, but what truly endures.
Features of Will the Real Church Please Stand Up?:
- Leader Guide at the back of the book.
- A discussion of the unity and purpose of each church.
- Eight examples of common churches you'll encounter.
- Break-out boxes discussing specific aspects of each church.
With sidebars on architecture, liturgy, catechesis, the difference between Law and Gospel, and spotlights on the seven false churches, this book is packed with concrete details and real-life questions. Written with a pastor's heart, author Matthew Richard will turn your attention to the comfort of Christ and His sacrifice, the hope of forgiveness, and unity that doesn't crack under life's struggles--all features of a truly Christ-centered church.
