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Word-Centered Church: How Scripture Brings Life and Growth to God's People
It’s a question hundreds of pastors ask every What is the best way to grow? A lot of books give a lot of answers, but the best one comes from Scripture. Word-Centered Church brings that answer into sharp focus. Written by Jonathan Leeman, editorial director for the reputable ministry 9Marks, Word-Centered Church offers a thorough treatment of one of God’s greatest growing His people and growing His church. As simple as the concept may seem, it’s one that many churches miss, and to their own detriment. Because when churches center everything they do on God’s Word—when the pulpit ministry gives direction to every aspect of the church’s life—growth happens God’s way. God’s Word is what creates the church, and it’s what sustains it, too. Theological and practical, Word-Centered Church focuses on how the church hears, responds to, discusses, implements, and is transformed by Scripture. It’s not about high-octane production, superstar personalities, or postmodern entreaties, but stuff that is really old, really good, and really powerful. Word-Centered Church is the ministry-model book that churches need, because it advances the model God designed. For anyone who wants to grow or help others grow, Word-Centered Church is indispensable.
192 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2017
51 people are currently reading
369 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Leeman
81 books155 followersJONATHAN LEEMAN is the editorial director of 9Marks, which involves him in editing the 9Marks series of books as well as the 9Marks Journal. He has written a number of books on the church, including Reverberation, and he teaches theology at several seminaries. Jonathan lives with his wife and four daughters in a suburb of Washington, DC and serves as an elder at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington. You can learn more about him and his writing at www.9Marks.org.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 29, 2023
My favorite 9Marks book
May 31, 2019
Livro precioso! Leitura envolvente. Jonathan Leeman chama a nossa atenção para a importância de a Palavra de Deus reverberar em todas as áreas da vida de uma igreja local. Nossas igrejas devem ser estruturadas em torno da Palavra.
April 11, 2022
A helpful book with lots of true things. And a book that makes much of THE Book is one that is worth much praise, even if there was nothing here that was mind-blowing.
That being said, I was particularly struck by Leeman's point that the church is moved to love the world because of her love for God. And her love for the world means, above all, wanting to tell people about Jesus so they'll join the church in worshipping Him.
Also appreciated his point about counselling happening in the local church by the pastor/elders. I think that is a thoroughly Biblical approach and one that seems to be quickly discarded, in my opinion.
That being said, I was particularly struck by Leeman's point that the church is moved to love the world because of her love for God. And her love for the world means, above all, wanting to tell people about Jesus so they'll join the church in worshipping Him.
Also appreciated his point about counselling happening in the local church by the pastor/elders. I think that is a thoroughly Biblical approach and one that seems to be quickly discarded, in my opinion.
July 4, 2017
Some good reminders, but generally unimpressive. I don't see what all those endorsers on the cover were saying -- it's not groundbreaking, it's not penetrating, it's not revolutionary. Sure, it would be useful for churches and pastors who have gotten off-track, I suppose, but most of the stuff seemed rather obvious to me. I'm sure there are better Christian books on the Word out there.
I received a free copy of this book while at Book Expo America in New York City in summer 2017.
I received a free copy of this book while at Book Expo America in New York City in summer 2017.
July 8, 2017
What can free the heart? The bible does two things: It announces what God has done, and it confronts its hearers with this news and its implications.
For a follower of Christ, the word of God must be valued. In our churches today and with good intentions, it is the good music or the terrific programs that bring the masses to church. The networking that is found in corporations is now found in our churches. Good intentions do not change hearts. It is the word of God.
The book in three parts shares how a Word Centered church looks like using what else the word.
Part 1 The Word- A good place to start to invite as well as divide, free and gathers
Part 2 The Sermon-How the word exposes, announces and confronts
Part 3 The Church- The word in our music, prayer, disciples, and evangelism.
As Leeman shares without the word, it becomes about what we do, our efforts, and our glory but with the word, we are challenged by our self-rule and the reality of God's sovereignty.
A Special Thank You to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
For a follower of Christ, the word of God must be valued. In our churches today and with good intentions, it is the good music or the terrific programs that bring the masses to church. The networking that is found in corporations is now found in our churches. Good intentions do not change hearts. It is the word of God.
The book in three parts shares how a Word Centered church looks like using what else the word.
Part 1 The Word- A good place to start to invite as well as divide, free and gathers
Part 2 The Sermon-How the word exposes, announces and confronts
Part 3 The Church- The word in our music, prayer, disciples, and evangelism.
As Leeman shares without the word, it becomes about what we do, our efforts, and our glory but with the word, we are challenged by our self-rule and the reality of God's sovereignty.
A Special Thank You to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
November 1, 2024
En La iglesia centrada en la Palabra, el autor Jonathan Leeman argumenta que la autoridad de la Biblia debe ser el fundamento principal de toda iglesia. Y no depender de estrategias marketing, Leeman sostiene que una iglesia verdaderamente saludable se construye al centrarse en la enseñanza fiel de las Escrituras. Súper recomendado.
October 22, 2025
Very basic book, but incredible helpful for newer believers. The main idea is that the Word is central to the church. A simple, yet oft forgotten truth that no one will acknowledge, but their pragmatic approach to church reveals the truth that many churches today have lost faith in the power of God's Word for life and godliness.
October 31, 2025
Great. Word centered church presents the biblical philosophy every church should aim for.
July 23, 2023
A great encouragement for what the gathered assembly looks and sounds like.
May 5, 2017
I am very impressed with this book. I think Leeman has definitely identified a serious issue with the church in America. We give lip service to the importance of God's Word but do we really believe that it is the most powerful force in the universe? Do we really believe that it needs to be central to our church life and ministry?
Do we think the latest program will get people involved in ministry? Leeman says it is the transforming Word of God that will get people to surrender their lives and yield to Christ. This necessary work of the Word must begin in the pulpit and continue through the life of the church.
Leeman explores the theological basis for a Word centered church. He emphasizes the work the Holy Spirit does, necessary because of the condition of the unsaved man. Human persuasion or the latest glitzy program will not do it. Only the Word of God can free the sin enslaved heart. Leeman also gives some very practical suggestions to help pastors understand how to make the Word central, how to preach it and how to have it reverberate through the congregation. He includes teaching on having the Word central in singing and in prayer.
We should be looking for one thing, Leeman says, when we gather with a church: God's Word. Everything else should be “either a platform for the Word or evidence of the Word's life-changing power...” (889/1946) I wonder what would happen should a church governing body use that as a criterion for church ministry.
This is a serious issue. We are to make sure people join church because they love the gospel, not because the church is “cool.” There is a high chance someone will join a church and be deceived into thinking he is a Christian yet not be converted by the gospel. (818/1946)
I highly recommend this book to pastors and church leaders. It will challenge you to evaluate your ministry and reflect on whether you are trusting in creating the right ambiance or the power of God's Word to bring people into your church.
Food for thought: “One thing is necessary in our churches – hearing God's Word through preaching, reading, singing, and praying.” (169/1946)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Do we think the latest program will get people involved in ministry? Leeman says it is the transforming Word of God that will get people to surrender their lives and yield to Christ. This necessary work of the Word must begin in the pulpit and continue through the life of the church.
Leeman explores the theological basis for a Word centered church. He emphasizes the work the Holy Spirit does, necessary because of the condition of the unsaved man. Human persuasion or the latest glitzy program will not do it. Only the Word of God can free the sin enslaved heart. Leeman also gives some very practical suggestions to help pastors understand how to make the Word central, how to preach it and how to have it reverberate through the congregation. He includes teaching on having the Word central in singing and in prayer.
We should be looking for one thing, Leeman says, when we gather with a church: God's Word. Everything else should be “either a platform for the Word or evidence of the Word's life-changing power...” (889/1946) I wonder what would happen should a church governing body use that as a criterion for church ministry.
This is a serious issue. We are to make sure people join church because they love the gospel, not because the church is “cool.” There is a high chance someone will join a church and be deceived into thinking he is a Christian yet not be converted by the gospel. (818/1946)
I highly recommend this book to pastors and church leaders. It will challenge you to evaluate your ministry and reflect on whether you are trusting in creating the right ambiance or the power of God's Word to bring people into your church.
Food for thought: “One thing is necessary in our churches – hearing God's Word through preaching, reading, singing, and praying.” (169/1946)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 2, 2017
Leeman's work has largely involved considering what makes a healthy church. His latest (which might revisit previous writing) is ostensibly a church growth argument, but it's more than that, as Leeman states that "God's Word is the most powerful force in the universe."
The book implicitly answers the contemporary movement that people -- especially young people -- are more interested in actions than in words, that sermons are too long, etc. Leeman addresses these concerns, but wants to maintain focus on the Word. The strength of his position lies not in his defense of preaching but in the idea that this ministry "begins in the pulpit but then it must continue through the life of the church...The Word reverberates...as in a canyon."
It's an excellent look at the subject, both theologically and practically, and it's quite convincing. His take on worship and prayer should be widely considered, given that they're concise looks at these topics from angles not often popularly used.
His one moment of faltering comes in his chapter on discipling when he ventures into counseling. Here, although he offers a caveat, he seems to misunderstand both counseling and the knowledge required to do it well and safely. I'd recommend a clearer distinction between discipling and counseling and a willingness for church members and even pastors to refer difficult situations to trained counselors.
That aside, this book is a strong call to affirm the Word, and for the church to do so throughout its life and its body, in various ways.
[Review based on NetGalley edition.]
The book implicitly answers the contemporary movement that people -- especially young people -- are more interested in actions than in words, that sermons are too long, etc. Leeman addresses these concerns, but wants to maintain focus on the Word. The strength of his position lies not in his defense of preaching but in the idea that this ministry "begins in the pulpit but then it must continue through the life of the church...The Word reverberates...as in a canyon."
It's an excellent look at the subject, both theologically and practically, and it's quite convincing. His take on worship and prayer should be widely considered, given that they're concise looks at these topics from angles not often popularly used.
His one moment of faltering comes in his chapter on discipling when he ventures into counseling. Here, although he offers a caveat, he seems to misunderstand both counseling and the knowledge required to do it well and safely. I'd recommend a clearer distinction between discipling and counseling and a willingness for church members and even pastors to refer difficult situations to trained counselors.
That aside, this book is a strong call to affirm the Word, and for the church to do so throughout its life and its body, in various ways.
[Review based on NetGalley edition.]
December 5, 2018
#76/100
Leeman asserts that a church centered on the Word of God and its proclamation will grow since such a church honors the intention of God’s Word - to point us to the giver of all life, so that we might be saved and that we might be conformed to the image of his Son.
Resisting the trappings of slick production, gimmicks, promotions, programs, and events and focusing on simple discipleship is a key emphasis here.
Leeman grounds his assertions in brief expositions -like from 1 Thessalonians, where a humble band of bold servant-leaders set the pace and proclaimed the Word. In less than a month the church in that city went from those who were imitators to those who were not just examples, but also those whose example was being talked about throughout the entire region. Paul, Silas, and Timothy didn’t have events and programs, they had the Word, and a conviction that it alone brings growth.
Leeman also helpfully leads the reader through elements of a church’s service (in addition to the sermon) and assists us to examine whether or not our singing and our praying and our disciplining is centered on God’s Word.
This would be a great book to read as a church leadership group (elders/deacons) for the purpose of a refreshing and instructive and encouraging self-examination: is the main thing (the preaching of the Word of God) still the main thing? How does the preaching intentionally reverberate throughout the other parts of the church’s life and ministry, and in public and in private?
Leeman asserts that a church centered on the Word of God and its proclamation will grow since such a church honors the intention of God’s Word - to point us to the giver of all life, so that we might be saved and that we might be conformed to the image of his Son.
Resisting the trappings of slick production, gimmicks, promotions, programs, and events and focusing on simple discipleship is a key emphasis here.
Leeman grounds his assertions in brief expositions -like from 1 Thessalonians, where a humble band of bold servant-leaders set the pace and proclaimed the Word. In less than a month the church in that city went from those who were imitators to those who were not just examples, but also those whose example was being talked about throughout the entire region. Paul, Silas, and Timothy didn’t have events and programs, they had the Word, and a conviction that it alone brings growth.
Leeman also helpfully leads the reader through elements of a church’s service (in addition to the sermon) and assists us to examine whether or not our singing and our praying and our disciplining is centered on God’s Word.
This would be a great book to read as a church leadership group (elders/deacons) for the purpose of a refreshing and instructive and encouraging self-examination: is the main thing (the preaching of the Word of God) still the main thing? How does the preaching intentionally reverberate throughout the other parts of the church’s life and ministry, and in public and in private?
July 5, 2022
In this work, Jonathan Leeman writes to reorient the life of churches around God’s word. The book operates at both a diagnostic level critiquing false gravitational centers of churches (cultural affinity, mercy ministries, politics, ethnic identity, etc.) and positively directing his readers to see all of the churches life as dictated by Scripture. Thus in sum, Leeman pictures the church as one that reads the word, preaches the word, prays the word, sings the word, evangelizes by the word, and disciples by the word.
While Protestants (historically speaking) would always give a hearty amen to the centrality of the word, many if not most Protestant churches in the West have failed to consistently apply their doctrine of Scripture to their practice. Stated differently, a church that believes in inerrancy and yet fails to preach exegetically, is at best inconsistent (Leeman is charitable). While marketing to a certain demographic or culture can certainly “grow” a church faster, Leeman’s book shows that that social affinity and conversion are leagues apart. Instead the author demonstrates that the word of God is sufficient to produce, organize, instruct, and govern a people for God’s glory.
While Protestants (historically speaking) would always give a hearty amen to the centrality of the word, many if not most Protestant churches in the West have failed to consistently apply their doctrine of Scripture to their practice. Stated differently, a church that believes in inerrancy and yet fails to preach exegetically, is at best inconsistent (Leeman is charitable). While marketing to a certain demographic or culture can certainly “grow” a church faster, Leeman’s book shows that that social affinity and conversion are leagues apart. Instead the author demonstrates that the word of God is sufficient to produce, organize, instruct, and govern a people for God’s glory.
January 3, 2026
Scrolling through many of the negative reviews, the persistent theme is that Leeman didn’t say anything new. I agree with them. But I’m also convinced that that’s the entire point. This book is necessary precisely because it is a popular level book that refocuses the layman reader back to what ought to be primary in our posture and decision making as local churches. I have specifically recommended it to others as an introduction to our ecclesiological calculus. I have also emphasized to those people that the best thing they could do is go down the rabbit hole of Leeman’s recommended reading at the end of each chapter. I value this book BECAUSE it is not novel. I recommend this book BECAUSE Leeman didn’t try to say anything new in a world where everyone else is.
January 13, 2019
This is a must read for every person professing faith in Jesus Christ. This is not a deep theological treatise. This is a very readable and understandable argument for the place of Scripture in the local church. Leeman makes the argument that the Word of God should reverberate every aspect of a church gathering: the praying, the singing and the preaching. If you don't attend a Word-Centered Church, perhaps this book will lead you to find one.
February 22, 2024
I had a moment in the middle of this book where I was undulating between 3 and 4 stars. For the first part of the book, it wasn't so much that I disagreed with Leeman; I suppose it was more that I wasn't convinced he was saying anything particularly novel beyond what many have already said.
Ultimately, though, his chapter on Word-centered prayer won me over, as it is a beautiful and necessary exposition of how our prayer life is to be centered around the Word and its Giver. Prayer is one of those difficult areas of life for me, and I do believe Leeman's words on prayer as a spiritual gauge (particularly as regards its focus and content) were convicting to me. Too often, I have found myself more focused on the health and comfort of life as opposed to the continuation of Christ's kingdom and the salvation of souls. It got me good.
Leeman is actually a very witty and funny author; that much I have to credit to him. Sometimes, books like this have very cringy examples when trying to relate to everyday life; not so with Leeman. He understands those daily struggles and details them with an amusing and winsome tone.
He is not without criticism though. While the final few chapters are excellent, the first few are simply ok, and some of the middle ones border on poor (ch. 5-7). There is a sense, I feel, that some preachers have whereby "Gospel fealty" and "expositional preaching" take on a very denominational tone, and Leeman falls prey to that. His take on difficult passages is a good example; it seemed to me that his answer was simply, "Well, bucko, that's just how it is. God killed a bunch of Canaanites and He can because He wants to. And we've got to be ok with that." I would have taken a different approach of curiosity about the context of the passage and what it would have meant to the audience hearing it at that time. There are many ways to address these difficult passages, but it seems like Leeman would lock us into a Reformed interpretation only.
In the end, Leeman offers a helpful corrective, one that I ultimately would agree with. I would recommend it to any who want to think more about the primacy of God's Word in their personal and corporate lives.
Ultimately, though, his chapter on Word-centered prayer won me over, as it is a beautiful and necessary exposition of how our prayer life is to be centered around the Word and its Giver. Prayer is one of those difficult areas of life for me, and I do believe Leeman's words on prayer as a spiritual gauge (particularly as regards its focus and content) were convicting to me. Too often, I have found myself more focused on the health and comfort of life as opposed to the continuation of Christ's kingdom and the salvation of souls. It got me good.
Leeman is actually a very witty and funny author; that much I have to credit to him. Sometimes, books like this have very cringy examples when trying to relate to everyday life; not so with Leeman. He understands those daily struggles and details them with an amusing and winsome tone.
He is not without criticism though. While the final few chapters are excellent, the first few are simply ok, and some of the middle ones border on poor (ch. 5-7). There is a sense, I feel, that some preachers have whereby "Gospel fealty" and "expositional preaching" take on a very denominational tone, and Leeman falls prey to that. His take on difficult passages is a good example; it seemed to me that his answer was simply, "Well, bucko, that's just how it is. God killed a bunch of Canaanites and He can because He wants to. And we've got to be ok with that." I would have taken a different approach of curiosity about the context of the passage and what it would have meant to the audience hearing it at that time. There are many ways to address these difficult passages, but it seems like Leeman would lock us into a Reformed interpretation only.
In the end, Leeman offers a helpful corrective, one that I ultimately would agree with. I would recommend it to any who want to think more about the primacy of God's Word in their personal and corporate lives.
March 31, 2021
I was immediately drawn into this book after just reading the introduction. Leeman wastes no time getting right to the heart of the matter and lays out the path he will take for the rest of this phenomenal book.
He begins with, "People today are enamored with authenticity, which means being something, not saying something." (think about that for a minute)
He goes on to differentiate the roles God has assigned to words and actions: "Words create; actions are the creation. You see the same division of labor in Genesis 1 between words and physical matter. Words created; the physical universe was the creation...True spiritual life is produced in the heart only when the Father speaks with creation power through the Son and by the Spirit… Our invisible God is known only through His Word."
And this: "Actions speak louder than words, we say. And talk is cheap. Yes, but Christianity begins not with what we do, but with the announcement of what God has done. Furthermore, it’s only words that can challenge our self-rule. Melodies or visual images can inspire us, encourage us, or cause us to grieve. But only words can command us to surrender control of our lives and yield them to Christ." (again, just sit on these words!)
Words first. Actions follow.
Words are powerful. Or rather, God's Word is powerful. And absolutely necessary. Leeman talks about how we are in the "age of the ear" meaning we can't see God. After Adam and Even sinned He withdrew from the sight of the people, only let Moses see his back, and though Jesus came in the flesh, Scripture gives no account of his physical description. Scripture forbids idols or graven images of God. It's not what we see that God apparently wants us to pay attention to. But words. What we hear Him say.
You want to build God's Church? Read His Words. Out loud. Sing them. Pray them. Teach them. Share them. This book was previously printed under the title "Reverberation"- God's Word spoken from the pulpit and echoing, reverberating, through the lives of all who hear. I love that! Words that transform and change hearts. All aspects of a church should be centered on the Word- the premise of this book. Programs, small groups, ministries, missions, etc aren't bad, but if they are hindering or overshadowing the preaching, teaching, and reverberating of God's pure Word then we're doing it wrong.
I've grown up in the church and yet all of this kinda floored me. I've always had a high regard for the Bible and wouldn't have disagreed with any of this before. I know we need God's Word to hear from him and know the gospel, but Leeman does an outstanding job of bringing these principles to life. Of challenging how the church functions. Of questioning the church's faith in the Word- its veracity and its power. His analogies are spot on and every single point he makes is dictated by Scripture. It is straightforward and profound.
I'm currently part of a small church plant in my community and the truths Leeman teaches in this book are absolutely paramount for us to uphold as we seek to transform our community for Christ. Everything we structure moving forward and seek to implement needs to be centered on the Word or we are not actually calling people to the right gospel. Leeman points out that we shouldn't unite people under a specific style of music, age group, community, ethnicity, or ministry. Do we have faith enough in God's Word to grow His church or do we feel like we need to "help" it bring people to Him by appealing to emotions, visual allure, or cultural relevance? Do we treat the Bible as sufficient in growing a church? It's a convicting thought.
Leeman is not writing to condemn. He has grace for all churches. He does not single out mega-churches as an abomination, as lots of Christians tend to do. "May God fill all our churches!" he says. The concern is with any church's lack of faith in the Word and if they, whether intentional or not, present something else as primal other than God's Word. I found his book to be challenging yet inspiring. It doesn't tear down, but builds up and encourages, lovingly pointing out blind spots- exposing and covering them with Scripture.
I thought it was interesting when he suggested that a lot of churches adapt certain music styles, dress, ministries, or other visual components because they feel like they need to change people's minds about what church looks like or is about. But he strips that down when he counters, "[Churches] are not up against the need to change people’s minds about God like a political campaign… or a marketing campaign...What humans need is not a change of mind about God, but a change of nature. They need to be born again, given spiritual sight, set free. Style can’t do that. Law and good deeds can’t do that. Music and liturgy cannot do that, at least apart from the words of the gospel. We need something not with natural power but divine power. (2 Cor 10:3-4)" I often find myself falling into this trap. This way of thinking that, again, assumes the Bible as insufficient to reach people. That we need to dress it up with cool lights, hip music, charismatic leadership. As if that will help people recognize the sin nature we are all struggling against. How foolish!
I could go on and on about all the things he covers but then you won't read the book! A quick overview: It's divided into three parts and then subpoints-
- The Word (acts, invites/divides, frees, gathers)
- The Sermon (exposes (expositional preaching), announces, confronts)
- The Church (sings, prays, disciples (including church membership), scatters/invites)
This book will make you ask the right questions about the operations of a church- from the sermon's theology, the music's lyrics, the length and content of the prayers, and our own willingness to sit and listen to God's Word to name a few.
What does the way your church operates tell you about the things it values?
"No other medium of communication works quite like [His Word]. Present me with the picture of a pretty face, or a sound of a sweet melody, and my mind and heart can become engaged, yes, but apart from words, there is no challenge to my self-sovereignty. Only words—and especially words from a king—can call me to surrender my will."
It feels weird to express a strong recommendation for you to read this book that is all about centering your church and life on the Bible. So first- go read your Bible. But this is a good supplemental book that teaches us the same things we will find in the Bible- that God's Word is supreme and powerful. That "God’s Word working through God's Spirit" is the one thing absolutely NEEDED to create and grow a church, to transform people's hearts.
The Word first. Actions follow.
See more of my reviews at www.shelfreflection.com!
He begins with, "People today are enamored with authenticity, which means being something, not saying something." (think about that for a minute)
He goes on to differentiate the roles God has assigned to words and actions: "Words create; actions are the creation. You see the same division of labor in Genesis 1 between words and physical matter. Words created; the physical universe was the creation...True spiritual life is produced in the heart only when the Father speaks with creation power through the Son and by the Spirit… Our invisible God is known only through His Word."
And this: "Actions speak louder than words, we say. And talk is cheap. Yes, but Christianity begins not with what we do, but with the announcement of what God has done. Furthermore, it’s only words that can challenge our self-rule. Melodies or visual images can inspire us, encourage us, or cause us to grieve. But only words can command us to surrender control of our lives and yield them to Christ." (again, just sit on these words!)
Words first. Actions follow.
Words are powerful. Or rather, God's Word is powerful. And absolutely necessary. Leeman talks about how we are in the "age of the ear" meaning we can't see God. After Adam and Even sinned He withdrew from the sight of the people, only let Moses see his back, and though Jesus came in the flesh, Scripture gives no account of his physical description. Scripture forbids idols or graven images of God. It's not what we see that God apparently wants us to pay attention to. But words. What we hear Him say.
You want to build God's Church? Read His Words. Out loud. Sing them. Pray them. Teach them. Share them. This book was previously printed under the title "Reverberation"- God's Word spoken from the pulpit and echoing, reverberating, through the lives of all who hear. I love that! Words that transform and change hearts. All aspects of a church should be centered on the Word- the premise of this book. Programs, small groups, ministries, missions, etc aren't bad, but if they are hindering or overshadowing the preaching, teaching, and reverberating of God's pure Word then we're doing it wrong.
I've grown up in the church and yet all of this kinda floored me. I've always had a high regard for the Bible and wouldn't have disagreed with any of this before. I know we need God's Word to hear from him and know the gospel, but Leeman does an outstanding job of bringing these principles to life. Of challenging how the church functions. Of questioning the church's faith in the Word- its veracity and its power. His analogies are spot on and every single point he makes is dictated by Scripture. It is straightforward and profound.
I'm currently part of a small church plant in my community and the truths Leeman teaches in this book are absolutely paramount for us to uphold as we seek to transform our community for Christ. Everything we structure moving forward and seek to implement needs to be centered on the Word or we are not actually calling people to the right gospel. Leeman points out that we shouldn't unite people under a specific style of music, age group, community, ethnicity, or ministry. Do we have faith enough in God's Word to grow His church or do we feel like we need to "help" it bring people to Him by appealing to emotions, visual allure, or cultural relevance? Do we treat the Bible as sufficient in growing a church? It's a convicting thought.
Leeman is not writing to condemn. He has grace for all churches. He does not single out mega-churches as an abomination, as lots of Christians tend to do. "May God fill all our churches!" he says. The concern is with any church's lack of faith in the Word and if they, whether intentional or not, present something else as primal other than God's Word. I found his book to be challenging yet inspiring. It doesn't tear down, but builds up and encourages, lovingly pointing out blind spots- exposing and covering them with Scripture.
I thought it was interesting when he suggested that a lot of churches adapt certain music styles, dress, ministries, or other visual components because they feel like they need to change people's minds about what church looks like or is about. But he strips that down when he counters, "[Churches] are not up against the need to change people’s minds about God like a political campaign… or a marketing campaign...What humans need is not a change of mind about God, but a change of nature. They need to be born again, given spiritual sight, set free. Style can’t do that. Law and good deeds can’t do that. Music and liturgy cannot do that, at least apart from the words of the gospel. We need something not with natural power but divine power. (2 Cor 10:3-4)" I often find myself falling into this trap. This way of thinking that, again, assumes the Bible as insufficient to reach people. That we need to dress it up with cool lights, hip music, charismatic leadership. As if that will help people recognize the sin nature we are all struggling against. How foolish!
I could go on and on about all the things he covers but then you won't read the book! A quick overview: It's divided into three parts and then subpoints-
- The Word (acts, invites/divides, frees, gathers)
- The Sermon (exposes (expositional preaching), announces, confronts)
- The Church (sings, prays, disciples (including church membership), scatters/invites)
This book will make you ask the right questions about the operations of a church- from the sermon's theology, the music's lyrics, the length and content of the prayers, and our own willingness to sit and listen to God's Word to name a few.
What does the way your church operates tell you about the things it values?
"No other medium of communication works quite like [His Word]. Present me with the picture of a pretty face, or a sound of a sweet melody, and my mind and heart can become engaged, yes, but apart from words, there is no challenge to my self-sovereignty. Only words—and especially words from a king—can call me to surrender my will."
It feels weird to express a strong recommendation for you to read this book that is all about centering your church and life on the Bible. So first- go read your Bible. But this is a good supplemental book that teaches us the same things we will find in the Bible- that God's Word is supreme and powerful. That "God’s Word working through God's Spirit" is the one thing absolutely NEEDED to create and grow a church, to transform people's hearts.
The Word first. Actions follow.
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September 16, 2024
No new ideas here, just a reminder that the Bible is God's primary tool to reveal himself.
Main Point
“God’s Word, working through God’s Spirit, is the most powerful force in the universe and in the church. Father, Son, and Spirit wonderfully collaborate to pour forth their power through speech, to accomplish their single will through words.” (40)
Summary
God’s reveals himself and acts through his Word
God’s Word divides the church from the world, those who receive and those who reject
God’s Word frees the individual’s heart from slavery to sin
God’s Word gathers the church, and the church gathers for the Word
A sermon plainly exposes God’s Word
A sermon announces what God already accomplished
A sermon confronts people with God’s Word so the Spirit can change them
The church sings God’s Word
The church prays God’s Word to align their hearts to it
The church disciples to help follow God’s Word
Objective
Walk away with greater faith in the power of God’s Word
Foundational Points
God’s Word is an extension of God himself
God acts through his Word
God acts through his Word by his Spirit
God’s Word and Spirit act efficaciously
God speaks through human preachers and human words
Main Point
“God’s Word, working through God’s Spirit, is the most powerful force in the universe and in the church. Father, Son, and Spirit wonderfully collaborate to pour forth their power through speech, to accomplish their single will through words.” (40)
Summary
God’s reveals himself and acts through his Word
God’s Word divides the church from the world, those who receive and those who reject
God’s Word frees the individual’s heart from slavery to sin
God’s Word gathers the church, and the church gathers for the Word
A sermon plainly exposes God’s Word
A sermon announces what God already accomplished
A sermon confronts people with God’s Word so the Spirit can change them
The church sings God’s Word
The church prays God’s Word to align their hearts to it
The church disciples to help follow God’s Word
Objective
Walk away with greater faith in the power of God’s Word
Foundational Points
God’s Word is an extension of God himself
God acts through his Word
God acts through his Word by his Spirit
God’s Word and Spirit act efficaciously
God speaks through human preachers and human words
January 20, 2026
I consider Jonathan Leeman to be one of the preeminent ecclesiological voices on the modern landscape. You are not going to find an author that has written more extensively and faithfully about the church. Word-Centered Church is yet another fine contribution to his canon.
Many churches have adopted attractional approaches to ministry. They have eschewed a Word-Centered approach, opting for a brand of ministry that uses the Bible as a condiment to their array of ministries. Certainly they include the Bible, seeing it as inerrant and infallible. They do not, however, see the Word of God as sufficient. In other words, a successful church needs preaching and other things - sometimes good things like a vibrant children or student ministry. But the right preaching of Scripture is not primary. Leeman points out the flaws in these approaches and urges the reader to adopt a Word-Centered approach whereby the Bible drives everything in the life of the church. This book is a much-needed corrective in a day where churches struggle with their sense of identity.
Many churches have adopted attractional approaches to ministry. They have eschewed a Word-Centered approach, opting for a brand of ministry that uses the Bible as a condiment to their array of ministries. Certainly they include the Bible, seeing it as inerrant and infallible. They do not, however, see the Word of God as sufficient. In other words, a successful church needs preaching and other things - sometimes good things like a vibrant children or student ministry. But the right preaching of Scripture is not primary. Leeman points out the flaws in these approaches and urges the reader to adopt a Word-Centered approach whereby the Bible drives everything in the life of the church. This book is a much-needed corrective in a day where churches struggle with their sense of identity.
January 18, 2024
A splendid read. Best summed up with this quote:
"The declared Word of God both creates the church and gathers the church. Therefore, church gatherings center themselves on that Word. The sermons do. The songs do. The prayers do. The relationships do. The Word, then, reverberates out the church doors as the church scatters, each man and woman equipped as an evangelist and discipler. That’s been the story of this book.
God creates churches through His Word and Spirit; therefore, churches must center themselves upon God’s Word." (page 178)
"The declared Word of God both creates the church and gathers the church. Therefore, church gatherings center themselves on that Word. The sermons do. The songs do. The prayers do. The relationships do. The Word, then, reverberates out the church doors as the church scatters, each man and woman equipped as an evangelist and discipler. That’s been the story of this book.
God creates churches through His Word and Spirit; therefore, churches must center themselves upon God’s Word." (page 178)
October 10, 2024
My new favorite book on the importance of growing a church with God’s Word in the driver’s seat! Relevant, rich, and guaranteed to make an impact on readers. Leeman gives a biblical case for the primacy of God’s Word in churches, followed by the application of this principle in modern church contexts.
We grow churches not with trendy outreach tactics, but with God’s Word empowered by the will of God’s Spirit! And that takes patience and a trust that many pastors leading churches don’t yet have.
We grow churches not with trendy outreach tactics, but with God’s Word empowered by the will of God’s Spirit! And that takes patience and a trust that many pastors leading churches don’t yet have.
July 29, 2021
Leeman descortina a importância da pregação bíblica e cristocêntrica na vida da Igreja. É de suma importância abandonarmos as estratégias seculares e sociais para balizar o trabalho evangelísticos. Não é que alguns conhecimentos sociológicos a respeito da comunidade em volta não seja importante. Mas não podemos basear a nossa evangelização nisso. A Palavra precisa ter a primazia no trabalho da Igreja e ela está envolvida em todas as áreas.
June 25, 2019
Excelente! A Palavra deve ser a base de tudo o que a igreja é e faz (sermão, música, oração, discipulado...).
Recomendo à todo cristão e principalmente àqueles que foram chamados a instruir a igreja.
Recomendo à todo cristão e principalmente àqueles que foram chamados a instruir a igreja.
August 12, 2019
Vai imediatamente para o meu TOP deste ano.
Livro muito bom onde faz um estudo profundo sobre o valor da Palavra.
É ler e reler.
Livro muito bom onde faz um estudo profundo sobre o valor da Palavra.
É ler e reler.
May 19, 2024
4.5!! Loved all the biblical information. This would be a good book if you’re looking for a Christ-centered church or wondering if your current church is one!!
May 22, 2025
Really enjoyed this one!
June 8, 2025
One of the best expositions on how the church is structured and what makes it so amazing.
November 1, 2025
Accessible and straight forward. God builds His church with the word. No chaser
January 8, 2025
"La Palabra de Dios, obrando a través del Espíritu de Dios, es el instrumento primordial de Dios para hacer crecer a Su iglesia"
Este libro resultó ser una joya para meditar sobre la importancia de tener una vida centrada en la Palabra. El enfoque, como su título lo indica, es en el papel de la Palabra en la iglesia pero es imposible leerlo sin examinar también personal qué rol juega ella en nuestra vida.
Consta de tres secciones. En la primera encontramos una introducción teológica al efecto que tiene la Palabra de Dios en las personas. Luego se abordan estos mismos conceptos de forma más práctica al examinar el rol de la Palabra en el sermon (segunda sección) y en otros ministerios de la iglesia como la alabanza, oración y discipulado (tercera sección).
El estilo de escritura es muy ameno, con capítulos cortos y al grano, y y muchos ejemplos con los que uno se puede sentir identificado.
Muy recomendado para líderes de la iglesia pero también para aquellos que somos miembros que queremos ver a nuestra iglesia centrada en la Palabra
Este libro resultó ser una joya para meditar sobre la importancia de tener una vida centrada en la Palabra. El enfoque, como su título lo indica, es en el papel de la Palabra en la iglesia pero es imposible leerlo sin examinar también personal qué rol juega ella en nuestra vida.
Consta de tres secciones. En la primera encontramos una introducción teológica al efecto que tiene la Palabra de Dios en las personas. Luego se abordan estos mismos conceptos de forma más práctica al examinar el rol de la Palabra en el sermon (segunda sección) y en otros ministerios de la iglesia como la alabanza, oración y discipulado (tercera sección).
El estilo de escritura es muy ameno, con capítulos cortos y al grano, y y muchos ejemplos con los que uno se puede sentir identificado.
Muy recomendado para líderes de la iglesia pero también para aquellos que somos miembros que queremos ver a nuestra iglesia centrada en la Palabra
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