Offer a book review of Carlson and Lueken’s Renovation of the Church: What Happens When a Seeker Church Discovers Spiritual Formation. Submit an 850–1000 word review as a Word document in Turabian format. Be sure to include and identify the elements below (you could enumerate as below).
Offer a general assessment of the book.
Include five citations you believe to be important concepts supporting your assessment from anywhere within chapters 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7,10, and 12; only five citations (page numbers of e-book location) not five from each chapter.
Describe the gospel that was reconsidered (chapter 4).
Assess how the doctrine of the church was important; include the notion of sect, and the revision to the mission (chapter 8).
Explain how spiritual formation was central; address the alternatives to and foundations of genuine formation (chapter 9).
Appraise the changes to the worship experience, its structure and content (chapter 11).
Does this book offer any guidance for you addressing the tension of meeting institutional expectations (growth, administration, conducting worship) and the making of disciples?
Carlson, K., Lueken, M., & Willard, D. (2011). Renovation of the Church: What Happens when a Seeker Church Discovers Spiritual Formation. Downers Grove, IL: Inter Varsity Press.
ISBN: 978-0830835461
This is a summary of what I have so far.
1. General Assessment:
“Renovation of the Church” discusses the transformation of a seeker church as it integrates spiritual formation into its practices. The book explores the challenges and rewards of this process, highlighting the shifts in theology, church doctrine, worship experiences, and missions that result from embracing spiritual formation. Overall, the book offers valuable insights into the journey of a church seeking to deepen its spiritual roots while balancing the demands of growth and administration.
2. Description of the Gospel Reconsideration (Chapter 4):
In Chapter 4, the authors discuss how the church reevaluates its understanding and presentation of the gospel message. This reconsideration involve moving beyond a simplified or consumer-oriented gospel to a more holistic and transformative understanding of the good news of Jesus Christ.
3. Assessment of the Importance of Church Doctrine and Mission Revision (Chapter 8):
Chapter 8 may address the significance of church doctrine in guiding the transformation process. The notion of sect refer to the church’s identity and beliefs, while the revision of the mission suggests a realignment of priorities towards discipleship and spiritual growth rather than just numerical growth.
4. Explanation of the Central Role of Spiritual Formation (Chapter 9):
Chapter 9 delves into the central role of spiritual formation in the church’s renewal. It discuss alternatives to superficial or programmatic approaches to formation, emphasizing the foundational practices and disciplines that nurture genuine spiritual growth in individuals and the community.
5. Appraisal of Changes to Worship Experience (Chapter 11):
Chapter 11 explore the changes implemented in the church’s worship experiences, including alterations to the structure and content of services. These changes could be aimed at fostering a deeper sense of reverence, participation, and encounter with God among the congregation.
6. Guidance for Balancing Institutional Expectations and Disciple-Making:
The book offers guidance for church leaders and members navigating the tension between meeting institutional expectations such as growth, administration, and conducting worship, while also prioritizing the making of disciples. It provides insights on integrating spiritual formation practices into the fabric of church life to ensure that discipleship remains at the core of the church’s mission.
Overall, “Renovation of the Church” is a valuable resource for churches seeking to deepen their spiritual roots and engage in transformative practices while navigating the challenges of modern church life.
