Hitting the marks, restoring the essential identity of the church
Evaluating a church or choosing a good one can be a difficult task. So many styles, so many types, so many different experiences and focuses. We quickly see the activities of a church, and those can be important; but how much do they reveal about the churchs essential nature? Are there signs that a church is actually a good church, both on the surface and deep down? Those questions lead to others. What distinguishes a true congregation of Gods people from a cult, a misguided sect, or an apostate church? What may be signs that a church is drifting away from its calling? Historically, the church has provided answers to these questions from the Scriptures, which are a sure and lasting guide. Certain marks have been given to distinguish the true, visible church from false ones. In particular, there are three essential identification marks, which we will explore in this book. Whether you are looking for a church, seeking to understand your own church experience better, or wanting to guide others in deepening the church's true identity, this book is for you.
Publisher: Crown & Covenant Publications
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9781943017201
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After more than two decades in church planting, Barry York became the professor of pastoral theology and dean of faculty at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. In 2018, he became president. He serves as an elder, writes regularly for the blog Gentle Reformation, co-hosts the 3GT podcast, and is the general editor of the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Journal. Barry and his wife, Miriam, have six children and five grandchildren.
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As a pastor, this book is profoundly helpful. Shepherds of Christ's flock must have these three marks in mind or else we will drift away from what makes a church a church. Unfortunately, because our churches are so focused on developing programs, inculcating a certain church "culture," etc. we have forgotten these basic points that come down to us from the Reformers and from the Bible itself. I would think this book would also be quite instructive for people who are searching for a new church, though that's not where I'm coming from personally. Buy it, read it and buy someone else a copy too! Scott Moreland