Books:

Planting Churches

Having planted a church, as I read this book I asked myself, “Do I wish I’d read this before I started?” The answer is a qualified yes. Stuart Murray tackles the six questions of why, where, who, when, what and how of church planting with perceptive insight and balanced judgement.

Despite its relevance and wisdom, it was still a real effort to read. Lacking real life examples or case studies it all felt very theoretical and dry. I would have liked some of his observations and experiences brought to life to give it some vitality.

The real strength of this book lies in the questions it asks – there were some I’d never considered but wish I had. Anyone considering leading a church plant or fresh expression church would do well to read this book before setting out because the conversations that result will be tremendously helpful. As a basis for discussion in the planning for church planting, this book should not be ignored.

HIGH: Excellent questions that will help form healthy church plants.

LOW: Lack of real life examples connecting theory to practice.

Published by: Paternoster