Member Reviews
I’m not quite the right audience for this book but can see how it would be a very worthwhile, practical and useful one for pastors or leaders of churches .
While I'm not the target audience for this book, I found it very helpful to learn some about some of the research & thought processes that might go into changes made in a church. I'm also really interested in getting better at prioritizing discipleship. The author starts by getting his readers familiar with his fundamental philosophies that he's working from. Then, he identifies 4 groups of people & how to reach them-sleepers, seekers, consumers, & disciples. Sleepers & seekers aren't believers, but churches should still find ways to minister to them, especially the seekers. Consumers & Disciples are believers at varying degrees of warmth or apathy in their spiritual life. As I read the chapter about consumers, I was tempted to list out all the people that I feel are just apathetically consuming. However, the Holy Spirit did a lot to point out to me that I can very much fall into that consumer mindset. "What can my church do for me?" "If they make that change that doesn't serve me, I won't participate." I think these & embarrassingly more thoughts throughout my week. This book had some really practical ideas about how to make discipleship ministries running well at any local church.
The Discipleship Opportunity: A Guide for Churches in a Changing World
In "The Discipleship Opportunity," Daniel Im tackles the challenges facing churches in the modern world. Im argues that clinging to traditional methods of evangelism and leadership may no longer be effective in a society characterized by indifference, impatience, and political division.
The book is aimed at church leaders seeking to revitalize their congregations. Im equips them with practical strategies for:
Reaching those who are spiritually disengaged: Im acknowledges that many within the church itself might be going through the motions without a deep connection to their faith. The book offers guidance on rekindling a passion for Jesus within the existing congregation.
Discipling for a deeper faith: "The Discipleship Opportunity" goes beyond simply attracting new members. Im emphasizes the importance of nurturing existing believers and helping them grow in their understanding of Christianity.
Effective preaching in a new era: The book acknowledges that traditional preaching styles might not resonate with contemporary audiences. Im offers suggestions for crafting messages that are relevant and engaging in today's world.