Gospel-Centred Church

Gospel Centered

by Steve Timmis, Tim Chester

Gospel ministry is much more than simply evangelism. It is about shaping the whole of our church life and activities by the content of and imperatives of the gospel. It is about ensuring that our church or group is motivated by and focused on the gospel, as opposed to our traditions, or the scores of other worthy causes and needs that could fill our time.

The principles contained in this workbook are an attempt to articulate what a true gospel ministry might look like. They are principles that can be worked out in a range of situations, from Sunday school or youth work to a whole congregation.

This workbook is not a recipe for success, but is rather designed to help clarify our thinking about how to be more faithful to God's saving message - not only in what we say, but in how we live our lives as the people of God.

Steve Timmis and Dr Tim Chester have years of experience behind them in churches large and small. Currently, they are part of the leadership team of The Crowded House - a church planting initiative in Sheffield, UK.

Genres: Christian, Church, Ecclesiology, Christian Living

Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

Steve Timmis has many years of experience with churches both large and small. He is currently part of the Crowded House initiative in Sheffield. He is married to Janet and has four children.

Reviews

[Brenda]

Wow. I'm sure there are other good books out there that challenge churches/bodies of believers to make a difference, to stretch outside their comfort zones, to remember that the Gospel is "what it's all about." (Platt's "Radical" comes to mind.) I confess I haven't exposed myself to many, but it's hard to imagine a book that does it in as a direct, concise, and practical way as this little book. It's arranged in 17 short sections, each beginning with a realistic example and ending with practical suggestions for application of the principle addressed. Although it seems arranged for small group discussion, I benefited from reading on my own. (A group setting might encourage more action, though.) Definitely recommend this one.

[Jeff]

This book is a practical treatment of Gospel-centeredness in a church. "Gospel-Centered" is a buzz word you see and hear a lot. Not everyone means the same thing by it and there are reasons to be very cautious with the approach. Though not agreeing with everything, I think Timmis and Chester are using it mostly right--how the Gospel shapes and directs the community of the church, including discipleship, evangelism, etc.

The book is designed as a study, so there are questions for discussion and such. It would be a good study for groups to work through. Some things will seem outlandish, but hear them out. I assure you will be challenged and convicted. The authors goal is not to give a church template but to help direct focus and provoke strategic thinking.

[John Rimmer]

Everything I've read by these men has been helpful, particularly when it comes to the importance and centrality of the local church.

[Amanda Barbeau]

This is a great book for churches and small groups to read and discuss whether they have a missional or a maintenance focus. Some things suggested in this book I think are a little too forward-thinking, but the principles are good, and if it prompts a good discussion then I think it will still be profitable.

[Joshua]

In a nutshell: How gospel principles shape the Church’s life

The Church is a growing body, which means it can experience growing pains, or become unhealthy or lethargic. Or, she simply may not know what to do next. This book is something of a timber yard for a church: plenty of material to help us grow together.

Full review here: http://www.elthampc.com.au/2018/02/19...

[Carl]

A great little home group resource examining the gospel in relation to our priorities for mission (evangelism), people (not programs or causes), and community (church).