Vertical Reach = 4
This book shows scriptural and contextual information regarding what God says about the size of a church and the truth about the "numbers" referred to in God's word. Different experiences are shared about how prayer, study and leading of the Holy Spirit empowered pastors and ministry leaders to be BIG enough to embrace being numerically small.
Ministry Message = 5
I've always known this and found it confirmed in God's word but this book says it so beautifully. BIG DOESN'T EQUAL SUCCESS. small doesn't equal failure. Following the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit and staying true to God's word is most important. Strategic and small can be more effective than BIG!
Craft = 5
O'Brien engages the reader with a conversational and easy tone. He offers bible based truth coupled with current data. His writing will appeal and speak to every learning and personality type. The stories are very well read. It is masterfully done. (It can't hurt that he is an editor)
Aesthetics = 5
The internal layout is well done. If I saw this book in a bookstore or on a website the title alone would stop me and cause me to read it.
Dollar$ & $ense = 4.75
The only thing that could have made me give this book a five would have been more details into the interaction between O'Brien and those whose stories he shares showing what transpired in their time with God to bring them to a place of focusing more on being effective than being "successful". Every member of a small church would be encourage by this book and I think EVERY PASTOR AND LEADER should read it. Numbers don't indicate success. BRAVO, Mr. O'Brien.
This does sound like a good read. Thanks for sharing.
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