Church Planting Is for Wimps
How God Uses Messed-Up People to Plant Ordinary Churches That Do Extraordinary Things (Redesign) (9Marks)
Mike McKinley
BOOK REVIEW

In a world where the pressure to be perfect can feel crushing, Church Planting Is for Wimps emerges as a defiant manifesto for the flawed, the weary, and the hopeful. Authored by the insightful Mike McKinley, this book shatters the misconception that church planting is a task only for those cloaked in spiritual armor, free from the burdens of human imperfection. Instead, he opens up a world where the messiness of life and the grace of God intertwine to create extraordinary communities rooted in faith.
McKinley isn't merely addressing the mechanics of establishing a church; he's dissecting the very essence of what it means to be a part of a spiritual community. You might feel a tingle of recognition as you reflect on your experiences within the church-those moments of camaraderie, awkwardness, and a shared faith journey. Upon delving into the pages of this vivid narrative, one cannot help but feel a wave of relief washing over them. Here, you're embraced for your failures rather than condemned for them.
The author weaves stories of biblical figures, each bearing their battles, emphasizing that God uses imperfect people to bring about His perfect plan. Think of Moses, who stuttered, or David, who stumbled in pride; McKinley highlights how their mess-ups became platforms for monumental success. This perspective isn't just invigorating-it's liberating! It beckons you to understand that your past mistakes, your current struggles, and your insecurities play a crucial role in the larger narrative of faith. The rawness of McKinley's writing pierces through the facade often presented in religious contexts, encouraging a heart-to-heart connection with God and with one another.
Readers have echoed sentiments of hope and conviction, proclaiming that McKinley's candid approach has rejuvenated their calling to the church. However, not all feedback sings in harmony. Critics claim that the book's more informal tone could deter those seeking traditional theological discourse. But perhaps that's precisely the point-church planting is about breaking barriers, about shaking off the dust of traditionalism, and about embracing the real, raw, and raucous journey of faith.
In the fast-paced landscape of modernity, where people grapple with existential crises and the quest for belonging, McKinley's insights resonate profoundly. He doesn't just offer a framework for planting churches; he provokes a seismic shift in how you view your role within any communal faith setting. With its humorous anecdotes and gut-wrenching honesty, you are compelled to reflect deeply on your own contributions to the vibrant tapestry of your community.
From the congregation that feels stagnant to the disenchanted church-goer, this book provides an invigorating call to action. It fulfills the need for a deeper understanding of the church's mission-not just as a haven for the righteous, but a sanctuary for the broken and the seeking. The flood of emotions stirred by McKinley's vibrant prose fosters a sense of urgency to not only seek communion but to actively create it in spaces that often feel anything but sacred.
Ultimately, Church Planting Is for Wimps is not merely a read; it's a life-altering experience. Buckle up, for once you dive into McKinley's powerful narrative, you'll find yourself irresistibly drawn to question your own notions of faith, vulnerability, and your role within the church. Are you prepared to astonish the world with the extraordinary made possible through the ordinary? Because in McKinley's world, every wimp-including you-is a potential world-changer. 🌍✨️
📖 Church Planting Is for Wimps: How God Uses Messed-Up People to Plant Ordinary Churches That Do Extraordinary Things (Redesign) (9Marks)
✍ by Mike McKinley
🧾 128 pages
2016
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