I asked some friends to help me compile the resources that
were most helpful to them when they were first learning about simple/organic
church life. Some of them were kind
enough to mention this blog as well as my book.
But this list represents ten other key resources mentioned in no
particular order.
Books:
1. Pagan Christianity by George Barna and Frank Viola
An in-depth look at many of our
current church practices and traditions with a prophetic call to move from the
business organizational model back to the living organism that church was meant
to be.
2. Organic Church by Neil Cole
A groundbreaking description of the
living, reproductive church that motivates readers to go and be the church in
the smoking sections of life instead of being satisfied with Sunday morning
church attendance.
3. Houses that Change the World by Wolfgang Simson
I have seen this book open people’s
eyes time and time again as Wolfgang challenges readers to break free from the
church structures of the past in order to bring the church to the people. You will find it difficult to go back to
‘church as usual’ after reading this.
4. The Naked Church by Wayne Jacobsen
From the cover: “This compelling
book will challenge you to look beyond the externals of contemporary church
life with its glittering buildings, extensive programs, beloved celebrities and
political muscle and find a relationship with God that will bring his powerful,
life-changing presence into everyday circumstances.”
5. The Rabbit and the Elephant (and other titles) by Tony
and Felicity Dale
How evangelism along with
micro-church planting can change our world… literally. This book is simple, to the point, and filled
with a refreshing look at how the world can be reached through the power of the
small.
Online Resources
6. House2House
A plethora of resources, articles,
videos, and links to other materials that you don’t want to miss.
Everything missional, including
lots of good video, all in one place.
8. What Is Simple Church – a video
A great
overview and insight into the world of simple church.
9. Tidal Wave – a video
An excellent foundation on the why and how of organic/house
church.
10. Simple Church on a Napkin – a video
Short and
to the point. It can be drawn on a
napkin!
Other Key Mentions:
Reimagining Church by Frank Viola
An Army of Ordinary People by Felicity Dale
Organic Leadership by Neil Cole
So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Anymore by Wayne Jacobsen
Lk10.com – Connecting and equipping house church leaders
around the world.
I know I have missed many great resources. Feel free to use the comments to add your own
favorites.
Comments
3 responses to “Top Ten Resources if You Are Newer to Simple/Organic Church”
Thanks Roger. I’m honored to have some books on the list.
fv
Psalm 115:1
Hi Roger,
I’d have to add Alan Hirsch’s ‘The Forgotten Ways’ and the associated ‘The Forgotten Ways Handbook’. Good material presenting an interesting and persuasive view of what is necessary for explosive growth.
The handbook introduces the material in a form suitable for group discussion.
In my opinion is one of the better books and a book a wholeheartedly recommend the book Snakes in the temple by David Orton. It is a very helpful tool to not only the change the place and number of people meeting but the whole look on being church.
http://www.sovereignworld.com/snakes-in-the-temple/