Signs of Emergence: A Vision for Church That Is Always Organic/Networked/Decentralized/Bottom-Up/Communal/Flexible/Always Evolving

by Kester Brewin

Many in the church are recognizing that traditional "top-down" structures are no longer functional. The church is seen as an institution that is out of touch, ignored by the very people it seeks to serve, and unaware of the opportunities for ministry that exist as the interest in things spiritual rises. Signs of Emergence challenges the church to face its fears and take a bold step toward doing things in a completely new way--to adopt an evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, approach to change. Drawing on the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ, as well as urban theory, art, and social practice, Kester Brewin calls the church to dispense with tired structures and re-emerge as a networked, bottom-up organism that is responsive to the needs found in the urban environment. This unique book will be of interest to pastors, church leadership, and consultants.

Genres: Church, Theology, Leadership, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2007

Reviews

[Christopher Attridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read and a unique view point. Brewin offers an alternative outlook to the way the church needs to "emerge" itself into the local community.

[Chris Halverson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting things to think about, but a little too Freshman after his first philosophy class for me.
But I might be jaded right now.

[Robbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really enjoyed how the author brought several different areas of information into his book. There was a lot of poetry, discussions about art, science, etc. I also really enjoyed his discussion of change and his inclusion of waiting (or advent) as a precursor to change. However, I felt like his overall message was lost within those various discussions. I also would have liked him to elaborate more on his views of God, Christ, and scripture because I wasn't always sure where his view of church was coming from. Overall, I thought the book was okay. I would probably give it 2.5 stars if possible.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I felt that Brewing presented some interesting ideas I found many of his statements about Churches with a highly structured governing body to be at best generalizations and at worst nasty stereotypes. I would have appreciated more specific accusations, as well as more specific statements about how the nature of the Emergent Church movement may eventually supersede these models. Overall I give this a major "eh".

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd never heard Brewin's idea about Judas before. Brewin presents that Judas, like most people of the time, hoped for Jesus to establish an earthly kingdom. By turning Jesus over to the Jewish leadership, Judas hoped to force Jesus' hand to respond violently and begin a revolution. Jesus instead chose to build his kingdom ground-up through evolution rather than a top-down revolution.

[Edgar Cabello · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very thought-provoking book. Brewin is not using the term emergence in the same sense as has gotten overdone. He is taking a hard look at leadership in a new age and is proposing some pretty interesting ideas concerning the essence of God. Pretty raw.

[Chrisanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. It is a compelling introduction to the emergent church. I will read and learn more. Loved his theory about Judas. So much in life frustrates our expectations. I know Brewin's Judas all too well!

[Rj Grunewald · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read about 2/3 of the book and I just had to give up. I just couldn't finish it even though it was recommended as an amazing book.

[Bryant Rudisill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Such an amazing book! This is a must read. Don't judge the Emergent Church before you know what they even stand for. This isn't a knowledge that can be gained second hand. Just read the book.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great book my wife came across last week. First three chapters are full of highlights now cause its just that good. Recommend to all church leaders/planters. Good food for thought.