- Can the church truly be the "city on a hill that cannot be hidden" that Jesus talked about in the Sermon on the Mount?
- Can it grow large enough to attract throngs of seekers and yet be loving enough to care for each individual that comes?
Bob Russell, pastor of Southeast Christian Church -- one of the largest and fastest growing churches in America -- says that it most certainly can. But it can only be done when we are submissive to God's will and allow Him to build that church. In the pages of this far-sighted, uncompromising book, Bob Russell and his son Rusty share the ten principles upon which this remarkable church was founded. Throughout the book, you will see God's mighty power at work in a church that began in 1962 with only 50 members and has now grown to over 14,000 and has become a bustling "city on a hill" whose beaming faith powerfully impacts its community and the world. This book shares not only the story of one of the most amazing churches in America but also the story of what your church can become as you follow these ten time-tested principles and allow God to build your church.
Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars(5 out of 5 stars)
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5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Doug Duty (Woodbridge, VA), March 11, 2008
GREAT book... I would recommend any pastor read this book and then pas it around to your church leaders (formal and informal).
Bob Russell uses real life examples and backs them all up with an over abundance of scripture. This book is straight forward and easy to read. It is a "keep it real" - "keep it simple" approach that can and should be used at any church - regardless of worship format, style or setting. One of the best books on church that I have ever read.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by James Mclachlin (Chatham, On,), February 29, 2008
an outstanding guide to church boards and pastors who need to keep focused on the idea of "keeping the main thing, the main thing".
Christians need to look at this model to see where it fits in their church as each church is different and has a different calling. The basics apply however to all churches.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Jere Davis (Greer, SC), October 27, 2006
This is the best book I have ever read on the subject of church growth. It clearly defines the essential elements found in healthly churches and focuses on the spiritual components of success. All church leaders should read this book for the practicle help it offers and for the inspiration it provides. As a church leader I have read it multiple times and try to read it every year. It continues to teach me.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Ronald Woodward (Springfield, VA), April 16, 2002
This is one of the most practical books that church leaders could use, to address the critical issues of building a God-centered church. In spite of their success at Southeast, Bob has kept the focus of their success on what God is doing there. EXCELLENT reading.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Mark (Williamsport, PA), December 30, 2000
Our Pastor's study group used this book for our weekly study. The ten principles for growing a dynamic church are practical and biblical. Through Russell's examples and experience, there is easy application for your church whether a 100 or a 1000. Nothing earth shattering here...just the biblical mandate and definition of a great church!
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Lori (Louisville KY), December 17, 2000
Awesome book! I would have enjoyed this even if I didn't attend Southeast. Bob is truly a man of God, but also could be your neighbor. He relates to people so well...and it shows through the progress of his ministry. It was great to have some of the 'behind the scene' details of Southeast and the way this awesome church has touched thousands of lives.
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