This book offers a great perspective on one of the most common problems of the American church and modern society in general, complexity. We think we have to provide a large number of programs to spread the gospel. Our lives are complicated and fusy, so a simpler church may be, to many, a breath of fresh air.
As American churches have exceeded at spreading themselves to thin; ministry workers are frazzled trying to keep dwindling programs afloat. They end up plunging into the realm of mediocrity when they could easily offer less programs, reduce burnout and offer a better quality of ministries. It is not all about the numbers. Many churches have large numbers of attendees, but are they growing in their faith or are many people just being entertained once a week?
The book begins with the tale of a pastor who is trying to be everything to everyone He scrambles from meeting to meeting try to be a good role model for the church members. Later the authors contrast two churches, one that is program based and one that is simple. One is about trying to be all things to all people and the other about making disciples. The simple church is more focused on having the people within the church grow in Christ rather numerical growth.
The process is, well . . .simple. Churches should seek clarity, alignment, movement, and focus. Clarity is the singleness of purpose, stated in a single phrase. Movement is making sure there is a process of spiritual development that runs through the ministries of the church that fulfills the purpose. Alignment is defined as the process of making sure that all the ministries help fulfill the purpose. Lastly, focus is the process of just saying “no” to things that distract the church from its goals.
Some say American churches have changed from a purpose driven church, reaching others with the gospel, to a program driven machine. Even when programs are dying out, churches cling to them instead of looking for a better solution. Perhaps they should apply the AA motto “Let go and let God?”
I find myself recommending this book to pastors and church leaders as well as other Christian’s. The Simple Church is a great place to start. Hopefully over worked church members who read this will look with open eyes at their ministry areas and see if there is a simpler way to reach people.