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Church Shift: Revolutionizing Your Faith, Church, and Life for the 21st Century
Born in Nigeria, Adelaja was recruited as a teenager by Russian communists. Discover how God gave him a new assignment---to evangelize the Ukraine! Here's the astounding story of the unlikely pastor of Eastern Europe's largest megachurch. Recounting his struggle against prejudice and persecution, it will inspire you to maximize your impact for Christ. 224 pages, softcover from Charisma.
- GenresChristian
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 5, 2008
54 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 11, 2018
I read a quote by Sunday Adelaja on Facebook several months ago that peaked my interest, leading me to buy and read "Church Shift." I'd never heard of him before, and still don't know much about the author. So I cannot endorse the man or his ministry, and this review, though very positive, is cautious in not going outside of what is written in the book.
Adelaja is a Nigerian-born pastor of a Ukranian mega-church. That is an interesting story in itself, which makes the uniquely interesting. But that interesting story is only the backdrop for what is an even more compelling story--how the church, "The Embassy of God in Kyiv, Ukraine", where Adelaja serves as a pastor is fulfilling the Great Commission in Ukraine.
The book is called "Church Shift" because Adelaja argues that "God is not satisfied with the state of the modern church... With five billion people still unsaved, we must gain ground... if we are to see Jesus come back any time soon, the church must be reformed once again." p. xxi-xxii Right at the beginning, it is clear that his purpose is a big one. He expands upon this idea, writing:
"National transformation is at the heart of the Great Commission. It is the primary calling of everyone who follows Christ. This book will redefine your life by redefining what the Great Commission means for you... The principles you will learn in these pages will help you to establish the kingdom of God in your everyday life and in your nation by applying kingdom principles that dethrone the kingdom of darkness." p. xxvii
This review would become far too long were I to take the time to detail all of the good in the book. A few highlights will have to suffice. The book cuts against the grain in very challenging and meaningful ways. Each chapter is full of challenges to the Evangelical interpretation of the Great Commission.
At the heart of the book is a radical view of the mission of the church. Rather simply being satisfied with global missions emphasis, we must work to transform our own nations for the kingdom of God. Rather than being content with inviting unbelievers to church, Adelaja demonstrates how by meeting the marginalized where they are, loving people in their sin and hurt, answering the biggest challenges our people face, we can win not only people but the nations for Christ.
We will not win people by inviting them to church, but by helping them out of alcoholism, drug addiction, prostitution, marital counseling, healing racial wounds, and by challenging the ungodly power structures. When people see the power of God in action, the mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, they will seek and find the Triune God.
This is a message that the church needs to hear. It is the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but its emphases and tone will help us to hear the same story and good news that we are already well acquainted to in a new way, that will help us "shift" our thinking and become a more faithful church.
Adelaja is a Nigerian-born pastor of a Ukranian mega-church. That is an interesting story in itself, which makes the uniquely interesting. But that interesting story is only the backdrop for what is an even more compelling story--how the church, "The Embassy of God in Kyiv, Ukraine", where Adelaja serves as a pastor is fulfilling the Great Commission in Ukraine.
The book is called "Church Shift" because Adelaja argues that "God is not satisfied with the state of the modern church... With five billion people still unsaved, we must gain ground... if we are to see Jesus come back any time soon, the church must be reformed once again." p. xxi-xxii Right at the beginning, it is clear that his purpose is a big one. He expands upon this idea, writing:
"National transformation is at the heart of the Great Commission. It is the primary calling of everyone who follows Christ. This book will redefine your life by redefining what the Great Commission means for you... The principles you will learn in these pages will help you to establish the kingdom of God in your everyday life and in your nation by applying kingdom principles that dethrone the kingdom of darkness." p. xxvii
This review would become far too long were I to take the time to detail all of the good in the book. A few highlights will have to suffice. The book cuts against the grain in very challenging and meaningful ways. Each chapter is full of challenges to the Evangelical interpretation of the Great Commission.
At the heart of the book is a radical view of the mission of the church. Rather simply being satisfied with global missions emphasis, we must work to transform our own nations for the kingdom of God. Rather than being content with inviting unbelievers to church, Adelaja demonstrates how by meeting the marginalized where they are, loving people in their sin and hurt, answering the biggest challenges our people face, we can win not only people but the nations for Christ.
We will not win people by inviting them to church, but by helping them out of alcoholism, drug addiction, prostitution, marital counseling, healing racial wounds, and by challenging the ungodly power structures. When people see the power of God in action, the mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, they will seek and find the Triune God.
This is a message that the church needs to hear. It is the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but its emphases and tone will help us to hear the same story and good news that we are already well acquainted to in a new way, that will help us "shift" our thinking and become a more faithful church.
November 5, 2011
I read this book in my native Hungarian language, but i couldn't find it here so I just picked the original edition. I found it to be very inspirational. It changed my view on both my personal christian life and the mission of the church itself a whole lot.
--
Nem értettem egyet mindennel, amit a kötetben olvastam. Helyenként nagyfokú naivitást érzékeltem az író részéről, de nem vagyok benne biztos, hogy nem a fordítás során sérültek a szerző kijelentései.
Ezzel együtt, a könyv legnagyobb része igen inspiráló. Rengeteg kérdést vetett fel bennem, és meglepetésemre a legtöbbre választ is tudott adni. Nagyon elgondolkodtató és szemnyitogató az, ahogyan a gyülekezet küldetéséről, a társadalmi szerepvállalásról ír. Sokan mondják, hogy ez utóbbi minden keresztény feladata, de még sosem találkoztam olyan megközelítéssel, ami ezzel definiálta volna a keresztény értékrendet és életvitelt. Újszerű volt a megközelítés, de nagyon meggyőzően adta át. Ebben a dologban például úgy gondolom, igaza van. Az én gondolkodásomon sokat formált.
Nem tudnám ajánlani mindenkinek, mert úgy gondolom, bizonyos érettségre, szellemi szűrőre, bölcsességre szükség van ahhoz, hogy a belekerült emberit ki lehessen válogatni (legalábbis én így tapasztaltam). Ez egyébként nem fáradságos dolog, és nagyon megéri megtenni, mert ami megmarad, az kincs. Ha ilyen megközelítéssel látnánk hozzá személyes életünkhöz és a Krisztus testéhez, annak valóban radikális, reformáló hatásai lennének nem csak "életminőségünkre", de létszámunkra is. Úgy gondolom, minden gyülekezet-vezetőnek és -plántálónak érdemes volna olvasnia a könyvet. Nem azért, mert újat találna benne, hanem azért, hogy példát lásson maga előtt: az apcsel kettő nem veszítette el a szavatosságát.
--
Nem értettem egyet mindennel, amit a kötetben olvastam. Helyenként nagyfokú naivitást érzékeltem az író részéről, de nem vagyok benne biztos, hogy nem a fordítás során sérültek a szerző kijelentései.
Ezzel együtt, a könyv legnagyobb része igen inspiráló. Rengeteg kérdést vetett fel bennem, és meglepetésemre a legtöbbre választ is tudott adni. Nagyon elgondolkodtató és szemnyitogató az, ahogyan a gyülekezet küldetéséről, a társadalmi szerepvállalásról ír. Sokan mondják, hogy ez utóbbi minden keresztény feladata, de még sosem találkoztam olyan megközelítéssel, ami ezzel definiálta volna a keresztény értékrendet és életvitelt. Újszerű volt a megközelítés, de nagyon meggyőzően adta át. Ebben a dologban például úgy gondolom, igaza van. Az én gondolkodásomon sokat formált.
Nem tudnám ajánlani mindenkinek, mert úgy gondolom, bizonyos érettségre, szellemi szűrőre, bölcsességre szükség van ahhoz, hogy a belekerült emberit ki lehessen válogatni (legalábbis én így tapasztaltam). Ez egyébként nem fáradságos dolog, és nagyon megéri megtenni, mert ami megmarad, az kincs. Ha ilyen megközelítéssel látnánk hozzá személyes életünkhöz és a Krisztus testéhez, annak valóban radikális, reformáló hatásai lennének nem csak "életminőségünkre", de létszámunkra is. Úgy gondolom, minden gyülekezet-vezetőnek és -plántálónak érdemes volna olvasnia a könyvet. Nem azért, mert újat találna benne, hanem azért, hogy példát lásson maga előtt: az apcsel kettő nem veszítette el a szavatosságát.
April 23, 2025
Rethinking Church — A Provocative Blueprint for Kingdom Leadership
Sunday Adelaja’s Church Shift is a provocative reimagining of the Church’s role in society. He argues that the modern Church has become too insular, focused more on programs and personalities than on national impact. His central thesis - that Christians are called not to hide within religious structures but to rule and reform culture - is both inspiring and deeply challenging.
Adelaja writes from the perspective of a practitioner. He shares personal examples from Ukraine, where his congregation has launched social programs, influenced politics, and reshaped local economies. These real-life stories lend credibility to his bold claims. His conviction that the Church should be a training ground for societal leaders - not merely a sanctuary - is refreshing.
However, some may find his approach overly idealistic, especially in contexts where believers face systemic persecution or lack political freedom. Still, his insistence on cultural engagement over spiritual escapism is timely and scripturally grounded.
For Christians hungry to see their faith matter in government, education, media, and business, Church Shift offers both a theological framework and practical inspiration.
A timely reminder that the true Church is not confined to a building, but released into the world to influence and lead.
Sunday Adelaja’s Church Shift is a provocative reimagining of the Church’s role in society. He argues that the modern Church has become too insular, focused more on programs and personalities than on national impact. His central thesis - that Christians are called not to hide within religious structures but to rule and reform culture - is both inspiring and deeply challenging.
Adelaja writes from the perspective of a practitioner. He shares personal examples from Ukraine, where his congregation has launched social programs, influenced politics, and reshaped local economies. These real-life stories lend credibility to his bold claims. His conviction that the Church should be a training ground for societal leaders - not merely a sanctuary - is refreshing.
However, some may find his approach overly idealistic, especially in contexts where believers face systemic persecution or lack political freedom. Still, his insistence on cultural engagement over spiritual escapism is timely and scripturally grounded.
For Christians hungry to see their faith matter in government, education, media, and business, Church Shift offers both a theological framework and practical inspiration.
A timely reminder that the true Church is not confined to a building, but released into the world to influence and lead.
August 9, 2021
Ten years ago, a friend of mine introduced me to Church Shift. Previously, I had listened to sermons by Sunday Adelaja before, and was intrigued by his bold, candid presentation of the gospel. Church Shift is not a book one glosses over. I read it like a dose of medicine because every page is filled with so much knowledge and wisdom.
In a world where there is so much fuss about the intersection between religion, politics and secularism, Church Shift practically demonstrates how the Christian can cut across these domains to occupy, live out and deliver a Kingdom mindset, just as Jesus instructed (Luke 19:13). The author tells his own story of how he rose from abject poverty in his native country to lead the largest evangelical church in Europe, while transforming the society and nations around – including leading a revolution for political change.
Church Shift is a critical read for every Christian because it teaches the following (not exhaustive):
The rewards of obedience to God’s instructions. No doubt, obedience is hard yet if we obey, we enter a place of fruitfulness and rest that allows us to thrive.
Finding and operating in our promised land / sphere of influence. This may not be easy for everyone yet the author encourages us “to serve in another’s promised land while we find our own.”
Kingdom principles and the importance of kingdom-mindedness/having a kingdom mindset while operating in our various spheres of influence.
Love everybody always – “love and help people before you try to influence them (enter their world). Love them before they listen to you. Love them while delivering them from their bondage (which can be a very long time).” Leave judgement to Jesus.
Thriving in persecution – life is hard, hard, hard. Many times, we throw our hands in the air and give up. As Christians, we should enjoy the challenges and hard times we go through because that is how we are refined.
As the author states, “persecution may be the fastest way to become kingdom-minded, it’s like a pressure cooker that pushes out the old nature.” Count it all joy and be thankful (James 1:2-4)
Learn when to stop praying and engage – “many Christians are timid warriors. They hide in the prayer closet (like Gideon in the winepress), afraid of the consequences of taking risks. This fear is rooted in egocentrisim – masquerading as humility and practical thinking and is focused on yourself and what causes you pain.” The author refers to this as “serving your own comfort and not kingdom interests.”
Our world as we know it is filled with so much turmoil. The last 20 months have shaken our comfort zones and completely turned our lives upside down. Yet, the world is waiting for kingdom-minded Christians to restore order to all the chaos.
Influencing our communities, nations and world at large will never be accomplished within the 4 walls of the church. While the church is indeed the most important tool for carrying out the Great Commission, it is not the focus of the Great Commission.
Just as Jesus needed a donkey to enter Jerusalem, He needs us (kingdom-minded Christians) to enter our nations, cities, schools, workplaces and social spheres and be His influence in these domains. Arise! Shift! Deliver God’s restoration to a broken world!
Review by my beautiful Aunty Alice who we share the same passions on Christian literature.
In a world where there is so much fuss about the intersection between religion, politics and secularism, Church Shift practically demonstrates how the Christian can cut across these domains to occupy, live out and deliver a Kingdom mindset, just as Jesus instructed (Luke 19:13). The author tells his own story of how he rose from abject poverty in his native country to lead the largest evangelical church in Europe, while transforming the society and nations around – including leading a revolution for political change.
Church Shift is a critical read for every Christian because it teaches the following (not exhaustive):
The rewards of obedience to God’s instructions. No doubt, obedience is hard yet if we obey, we enter a place of fruitfulness and rest that allows us to thrive.
Finding and operating in our promised land / sphere of influence. This may not be easy for everyone yet the author encourages us “to serve in another’s promised land while we find our own.”
Kingdom principles and the importance of kingdom-mindedness/having a kingdom mindset while operating in our various spheres of influence.
Love everybody always – “love and help people before you try to influence them (enter their world). Love them before they listen to you. Love them while delivering them from their bondage (which can be a very long time).” Leave judgement to Jesus.
Thriving in persecution – life is hard, hard, hard. Many times, we throw our hands in the air and give up. As Christians, we should enjoy the challenges and hard times we go through because that is how we are refined.
As the author states, “persecution may be the fastest way to become kingdom-minded, it’s like a pressure cooker that pushes out the old nature.” Count it all joy and be thankful (James 1:2-4)
Learn when to stop praying and engage – “many Christians are timid warriors. They hide in the prayer closet (like Gideon in the winepress), afraid of the consequences of taking risks. This fear is rooted in egocentrisim – masquerading as humility and practical thinking and is focused on yourself and what causes you pain.” The author refers to this as “serving your own comfort and not kingdom interests.”
Our world as we know it is filled with so much turmoil. The last 20 months have shaken our comfort zones and completely turned our lives upside down. Yet, the world is waiting for kingdom-minded Christians to restore order to all the chaos.
Influencing our communities, nations and world at large will never be accomplished within the 4 walls of the church. While the church is indeed the most important tool for carrying out the Great Commission, it is not the focus of the Great Commission.
Just as Jesus needed a donkey to enter Jerusalem, He needs us (kingdom-minded Christians) to enter our nations, cities, schools, workplaces and social spheres and be His influence in these domains. Arise! Shift! Deliver God’s restoration to a broken world!
Review by my beautiful Aunty Alice who we share the same passions on Christian literature.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
This book stretches your perspective as a Christian from just attending church to attending to urgent needs in your nation with the power of Christ. The narrative tell how the Orange Revolution in Ukraine exploded sparked by the Church. It is a book needed during these war times in Ukraine.
January 7, 2018
Pretty good!
Great story throughout, good thoughts on focusing on the Kingdom of God and not just church activities inside a building.
Great story throughout, good thoughts on focusing on the Kingdom of God and not just church activities inside a building.
October 30, 2018
Pretty thought provoking book about the church today.
December 30, 2019
Get off the pew and be a transformer for your community
March 17, 2021
This is a very inspiring book, not only for Christians or God-fearing folk but anyone interested in impacting the wolrd for good.
September 15, 2021
Pretty interesting. Lots of anecdotal stories of God's faithfulness and provision.
July 2, 2025
How can I read this
August 30, 2011
I came upon this book purely on accident, and I am really glad for it! I got a whole lot personally out of this book.
Sunday Adelaja is a Nigerian pastor in the largest church in the Ukraine, and in this book he shares his experiences on how he ended up in Ukraine, and the challenges that he faced there. But interspersed throughout his own personal story are also discussions about the mission that God has for individuals and for the church.
Sunday uses many examples, but most prominently Moses, to encourage his readers to find their own "promised land" and go and make disciples, instead of holding back and being content with just sitting on the sidelines.
This book was inspiring, encouraging, and caused me to begin considering more fully what God truly has intended for me, and the steps I need to take to find my own "promised land" as well.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to those who struggle with the question "what am I supposed to be doing with my life"?
Sunday Adelaja is a Nigerian pastor in the largest church in the Ukraine, and in this book he shares his experiences on how he ended up in Ukraine, and the challenges that he faced there. But interspersed throughout his own personal story are also discussions about the mission that God has for individuals and for the church.
Sunday uses many examples, but most prominently Moses, to encourage his readers to find their own "promised land" and go and make disciples, instead of holding back and being content with just sitting on the sidelines.
This book was inspiring, encouraging, and caused me to begin considering more fully what God truly has intended for me, and the steps I need to take to find my own "promised land" as well.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to those who struggle with the question "what am I supposed to be doing with my life"?
October 12, 2009
I thought it was a book about organizing a church and was not interested at all. But my pastor lent it to me so I gave it a try and it turned out to be amazingly inspiring. It is about creating impact to our society. I can't stop recommending it to others.
February 11, 2012
Just read the first four chapters of this book and I felt like I have not started living for my purpose.I would like to encourage you to grab a copy for yourself from amazon stores or elsewhere.It's a must read for all who desire change for nations.
February 24, 2013
This book has great principles for any christian to think about if they want to change their nation or their called nation. The main lesson I see shining through is the power in complete obedience to God. God can and will change nations with those that are obedient to him and walk in faith.
January 22, 2019
Church shift: Mindset Shift
Totally a good read for anyone who is poised to be a reformer in any area of life or issues.
My faith is ignited and hope raised for a better future for the next generation believers.
Totally a good read for anyone who is poised to be a reformer in any area of life or issues.
My faith is ignited and hope raised for a better future for the next generation believers.
June 26, 2008
Tells how he transformed the Ukraine into a nation that accepts God and godly values from one that was anti-christian and loaded with social problems.
Read
August 8, 2009versi indonesia:
sangat inspiratif. memberikan wawasan baru tentang Kerajaan Allah
sangat inspiratif. memberikan wawasan baru tentang Kerajaan Allah
December 16, 2012
Excellent principles are laid out here for Christians to effect societal transformation.
Read
October 9, 2016Great work
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews