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4.34 of 5 stars
Modern evangelicals have gained money, power, and influence, and it has been like giving whiskey to a two-year-old. The need of the hour is theolog... read full description

reviews

Oct 12, 2009
Gregory rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I may be biased (since Wilson was my teacher at New St. Andrews College, as well as my pastor during those four years), but this was my second time through this book, and I still found it incredibly helpful.

Yes, all the theological insights were great, and the writing was typically witty and humorous. But, what was most striking was how Wilson addresses huge theological and Biblical topics with a consistently practical and pastoral approach. The sub-title says it well: "Essays More...
Nov 10, 2010
Devan rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Powerfully persuasive reflections on what it means to be the church. Though I don't agree with all of his conclusions, I think his diagnosis of shortcomings within the evangelical community is spot on. As an example, his critique of contemporary worship music as relativistic is an incisive one. I support the use of contemporary worship music in the church because I think there is scriptural warrant for it - just as there is scriptural warrant for psalm-signing. However, I've seen contemporary wo More...
Sep 24, 2010
Chris rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Mother Kirk should be read in conjunction with David Wells' The Courage to be Protestant. The former being what we ought to be doing and the latter being what we ought not be doing. A great read for anyone remotely interested in studying the life of the Church.
Oct 10, 2011
James rated it: 5 of 5 stars
If you are considering going into any form of ministry, this book is a must-read. There are for more issues to understand and solidify in your own mind than simply doctrinal.

A good read all way 'round.
Sep 07, 2010
Douglas rated it: 4 of 5 stars
I generally liked this book. I have some quibbles about various parts - but over all very helpful. Like everything else he does - it is very applicational and practical, with a Wilsonewque twist.
Aug 04, 2008
John rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I read this about five years ago, and am currently re-reading it with great pleasure.

I have some real problems with certain aspects of Wilson's theology. I don't agree with his sacramentology, and since this book was written, some substantial problems with his soteriology have surfaced as well. But this book deals with practical church life, and there's nobody writing today on church issues with more engaging Chestertonian wit than Wilson. This book is funny and profound, and chur More...
May 13, 2009
Phillip rated it: 5 of 5 stars
We are currently reading this in our church (2009). It provides a vision of how the church should be that I have found quite refreshing.
Jun 10, 2011
Steven rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Lots of good stuff here and quite practical.
Jan 24, 2012
Michael rated it: 5 of 5 stars
yes, good for young pastors like me!
Sep 29, 2010
Jared added it
Great on many levels
Jul 22, 2009
Lindsey rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Churchy. Refreshing.
Feb 23, 2009
Daniel rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Just outstanding!
Oct 19, 2010
John rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is a great book on the church and its role in society. It covers a multitude of topics including the church's role in maintaining the Word of God in the language of the church. Wilson believes the modern church has abandoned responsibility of the Scriptures to corporations. He also covers preaching, teaching, church governance, qualifications for elders and deacons, worship, and the Lord's day. This is an excellent resource and I recommend it to all.
Jun 15, 2009
Gwen rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Great.
Jun 12, 2011
Jason rated it: 4 of 5 stars
My church is currently working through this book as our family Bible study. In comparison to other works by Pr. Wilson, the essays here are very rich and heavily foot-noted. There is much food for thought here for anyone interested in ecclesiastical reformation.
Aug 03, 2011
Caleb rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Satisfying book! Mother Kirk was for me tremendously insightful. Full of wonderful information that is served up gently and adequately by a most caring and competent pastor.
Dec 02, 2010
Peter rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Good meat and potatoes introduction to what a church should be about.
Apr 09, 2008
Mr. Pe added it
this is a great book and i recommend it to everyone
Mar 11, 2009
Jason rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Great stuff.
Jan 29, 2012
Jonathan rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Jan 26, 2012
Michael added it
Jan 25, 2012
Eric rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Jan 09, 2012
Craig is currently reading it
Jan 22, 2012
Michael marked it as to-read
Dec 30, 2011
Charles added it
Dec 29, 2011
Bill rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Dec 28, 2011
Narnain78 rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Dec 28, 2011
Corina is currently reading it
Dec 26, 2011
Christine is currently reading it
Dec 16, 2011
Mike marked it as to-read