Despite the progress our country has made in Civil Rights over the past century, Sunday morning is still one of the most segregated times in America. It seems like the only people striving to lead in the area of racial reconciliation are politicians, activists, and celebrities. Pastor Dan Willis wants to know… Where is the church? What can the people of God do to become leaders again and not … just be Johnny-come-lately followers? The art of bringing harmony to the masses lies in the love all should see in the church of God. If the church is to make a difference and return to relevance in this world, the only option is multicultural ministry. If leaders are not prepared to minister to this growing culture, then American Christianity is in danger of becoming nonessential to the body of believers. For years, Dan Willis has led a growing, multicultural Christian community in the suburbs of Chicago. In The Multicultural Church, Dan shares what he has learned, the mistakes he has made, and what can be done to successfully minister to a diverse culture.
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As I began reading this book I found one point throughout this book that I could agree with wholeheartedly. I can agree that music results in one way to potentially cross all cultural and generational divides. However, this divide can only be crossed with the right type of music. The music needs to give all the glory and praise to God.
A number of years ago, I went to an event held by the Salvation Army held in Pennsylvania. At this event one of the most meaningful and Spiritual events involved music. A woman was dancing in a way that brought glory to God.
I have to say there were many points in this book that I do not agree with at all. First, I feel that many politicians and celebrities are the last people anyone should be looking at for an example of how a Christian should behave. Too many of those individuals going against everything that is stated in the Bible. The Bible and Jesus Christ should be the only place and person we look to for how true Christians should behave.
I agree that Christians need to be like Jesus Christ and not look at the outside of someone. But instead, we should look to the inside to see how his or her heart is in regard to God. So check out this book for yourself.
I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.
My Thoughts On The Multicultural Church:
I think this is a wonderfully written book. It makes sense, it speaks in a language you can understand and it has some great points. There are some aspects of the book though that wouldn’t apply to me or my church because we’re in a very rural community with practically no diversity at all. That said our homeschool coop would be where we see diversity and where I can teach my children about that.
Within this book there are some great ideas and thoughts. It’s a short read that will make you think.
That said, I think this book would be best for church leaders or boards who are working towards a goal of making their church a multicultural church. Dan did amazing work in Chicago and I see this really being helpful to other churches in large areas. Where I live this wouldn’t apply as well.
There is something I want to consider here though. We need to make sure we don’t lose our own culture in bringing in the cultures of others. The church has a culture all it’s own with the Bible as a base. While we’re trying to become more accepting and broaden the church we need to make sure that we don’t lose the foundation we’re built upon in doing so. Just my two cents worth here.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
The book is a very quick read and although the author makes some good observations. The author does have good scriptures that emphasize the importance of ministering to everyone. God doesn’t see the color of our skin. He sees our heart and wants it to stay humble.
I did like the reference to praise and worship and how it helps calm us and draws us closer to God. The author has done a good job of showing how we can get out of our comfort zone and reach out to people. The author shares how his church has adapted to change and welcomed everyone to worship as the body of Christ. It is encouraging to see how people are reaching out and breaking down walls to share Jesus with others.
The book would be a nice tool for pastors as they get a vision to go outside their church and be the hand and feet of Christ. The author points out how many people have suffered from discrimination. I like that he has a heart to reach those who have felt unwanted or judged. Change is never easy, but it needs to happen so no one is left behind.
“Change is difficult. But with acceptance comes common ground and connection. God knows we are not really that different. He simply asks us to understand each other.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.