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The Blessed Church: The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love
"In The Blessed Church the biblical principles that lead to true success in the body of Christ are carefully explained." --Dr. Tony Evans, senior pastor at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
"What you will gain from reading this book is not only inspiration but also principles that will work in any church (or business) that wants to fully maximize its potential." -Perry Noble, pastor of NewSpring Church
In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris of Gateway Church explores how a church can be fast-growing and spiritually-enriching--and still healthy. With the powerful stories, candor, and humor he's known for, Morris shows how every component of your church--including mission, government, teaching, worship, small groups, giving, and outreach--can receive God's richest blessings.
Written for both church leaders and laypeople, The Blessed Church explores the vision and other qualities that make church "work"--regardless of size--in the twenty-first century.
Includes:
Blessed Church Action Plan
A Guide to Effective Church Leadership Retreats
"The Blessed Church is a must-read for anyone wanting to know how to build a church that God will bless." --Jimmy Evans, senior elder of Trinity Fellowship Church and CEO of MarriageToday
"Our world desperately needs healthy, vibrant churches...If you want a growing vitality in your church, you will profit from every page of The Blessed Church." --Chris Hodges, senior pastor, Church of the Highlands
"What you will gain from reading this book is not only inspiration but also principles that will work in any church (or business) that wants to fully maximize its potential." -Perry Noble, pastor of NewSpring Church
In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris of Gateway Church explores how a church can be fast-growing and spiritually-enriching--and still healthy. With the powerful stories, candor, and humor he's known for, Morris shows how every component of your church--including mission, government, teaching, worship, small groups, giving, and outreach--can receive God's richest blessings.
Written for both church leaders and laypeople, The Blessed Church explores the vision and other qualities that make church "work"--regardless of size--in the twenty-first century.
Includes:
Blessed Church Action Plan
A Guide to Effective Church Leadership Retreats
"The Blessed Church is a must-read for anyone wanting to know how to build a church that God will bless." --Jimmy Evans, senior elder of Trinity Fellowship Church and CEO of MarriageToday
"Our world desperately needs healthy, vibrant churches...If you want a growing vitality in your church, you will profit from every page of The Blessed Church." --Chris Hodges, senior pastor, Church of the Highlands
224 pages, Hardcover
First published August 21, 2012
43 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Robert Morris
54 books123 followersRobert Morris is the founding senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than 39,000 active members. He is featured on the daily television program The Blessed Life and hosts Worship & the Word on radio stations across America. He serves as chairman of the board of The King’s University and is the bestselling author of 14 books, including The Blessed Life, The God I Never Knew, Truly Free, and Frequency.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 14, 2013
Robert Morris is a very well known speaker. He makes good points in the book, "The Blessed Church". The main topic of the book is to tell simple secrets to growing a church that you know and love. Robert Morris is also the pastor of the Gateway church. In this book he tells how the church is blessed and grows from God's love and blessings, how the church body is formed and created and many other facts.
I enjoyed the very beginning of the book where he told of how Gateway Church was created and established. Very intriguing to read.
If you're a spiritual person and a religious person that believes in God and the Church...this book is meant for you!
I enjoyed the very beginning of the book where he told of how Gateway Church was created and established. Very intriguing to read.
If you're a spiritual person and a religious person that believes in God and the Church...this book is meant for you!
June 7, 2022
When I first gave my heart to the Lord and started to attend church I had a hard time understanding why they did certain things. When I finshed my bachlors degree in church minitry I walked away with a good understanding that answered some questions, but when I read this book, it openned my eyes to a greater understanding. I now have a full picture of the church and why things are running the way they are. I attended Gateway Church for ten years and everything in this book is just how the church is run. I love that no decision is made by the leaders unless it is unamimous by all of the board members. God is in control, not man. I believe that all churches should be run this way and all church leaders should read it.
March 12, 2013
“Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well.” You want a healthy church. But what does a healthy church look like and how do you turn your church into one? The Blessed Church by Robert Morris can help you!
I work in women’s ministry in my church and have worked with women, youth, and children all throughout my adult life. I’ve even been a church secretary. One thing I have learned is that there are many things that can make a church unhealthy. There are many things that will kill a church.
We are all ministers and when we adopt that mindset and realize that we all share a common goal of reaching the lost for the Lord, we will learn how to put the things aside that divide us. In this book, Robert Morris explains how he and his church members have fostered growth within their body.
In the book, Mr. Morris states that “God made us to want to bring increase.” It’s natural for us to want to grow. He says, “Writers want their books read by as many people as possible.” That rang true in my heart. This book made me realize that as important as book sales are to me, having a healthy, thriving church is equally as important.
We can use many strategies and have the best intentions to make this health come to our churches, but “it all comes down to the motivation and attitudes of our hearts.” Our goal must be to feed the sheep. If you’ve ever been in a church that won’t grow no matter what, it might be time to stop and assess things.
Sometimes churches grow in number but then things level out or fall. Why is that? Well, the parable of the seed tells us that the soil a seed grows in determines whether or not it’s fertile enough to sustain the test of time. “Healthy things grow. Growth without real health is unsustainable. If you want growth, pursue and monitor health.”
Churches sometimes try so hard to reach people and to make them stay once they arrive that they water things down. They try to make the Word of God palatable. They don’t want to step on toes. But, as this book says, “Unbelievers are attracted to, not repelled by, the power and presence of God. Spiritually hungry seekers are looking for something authentic and transformative—something bigger than themselves.” I’ve always felt like if someone walks into the doors of the church for a church service, then that person is seeking God. So why not give him what he’s looking for?
“A pastor’s job is to train up everyday evangelists and send them out, filled with the Word and the influencing power that comes from having been in God’s presence.” How exciting for a pastor to be able to preach to his congregation words of empowerment to send them out to conquer the world for God—and offer words to the seeker at the same time.
The book also speaks of the importance of the pastor having a vision and then casting that vision before his people. “A vision starts with an individual. In scripture, God didn’t impart vision to a committee. He spoke to an individual and called that person to communicate the vision clearly to others. Visions can only be accomplished by a team.” This shows how important each person within the church is. We’re all needed to accomplish the goal.
“A vision God can bless is a vision you allow Him to give you. It will require both great faith and holy audacity to receive it.” If you believe God has a bigger plan for you and your church, then be ready for him to bless you.
Here’s a few things Mr. Morris shares in regards to a pastor’s role:
• A pastor’s role is to feed the sheep. He should spend more time feeding than leading. People can’t go into battle malnourished. They must be fed.
• The wrong kind of shepherd will actually scatter the sheep.
• A true shepherd’s heart burns to see people helped and fed and matured and equipped.
• A shepherd who doesn’t care about these things will see his church get smaller.
• A true shepherd leads by example. He models where he wants his sheep to go.
“Only Jesus can call and gift true shepherds.”
Mr. Morris stresses the fact that pastors must include their families with them in ministry. They must not sacrifice them to the demands of ministry. “They must be good husbands and fathers first. They can’t be truly blessed leaders any other way.” Pastors must stay in the Word, pray, and raise up leaders so they will not have to do everything alone.
One thing Mr. Morris said really stuck out to me. He said, “Hold onto what God has given you with an open hand.” If you know that God owns everything and that He allows us to use them and have access to them for His purposes, then it’s easier to hold your hand open and ask Him to do with you and your resources whatever He wants to. You will soon see that you have even more than you started out with. With this attitude, not only will you be blessed, your family and your church will be, as well.
“Church is not about observing God. Or learning facts about God. It’s about experiencing God.” When we connect with a solid community within our churches, serve the Lord with gladness, commit our lives and our ministries to Him, blessings will abound.
I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I work in women’s ministry in my church and have worked with women, youth, and children all throughout my adult life. I’ve even been a church secretary. One thing I have learned is that there are many things that can make a church unhealthy. There are many things that will kill a church.
We are all ministers and when we adopt that mindset and realize that we all share a common goal of reaching the lost for the Lord, we will learn how to put the things aside that divide us. In this book, Robert Morris explains how he and his church members have fostered growth within their body.
In the book, Mr. Morris states that “God made us to want to bring increase.” It’s natural for us to want to grow. He says, “Writers want their books read by as many people as possible.” That rang true in my heart. This book made me realize that as important as book sales are to me, having a healthy, thriving church is equally as important.
We can use many strategies and have the best intentions to make this health come to our churches, but “it all comes down to the motivation and attitudes of our hearts.” Our goal must be to feed the sheep. If you’ve ever been in a church that won’t grow no matter what, it might be time to stop and assess things.
Sometimes churches grow in number but then things level out or fall. Why is that? Well, the parable of the seed tells us that the soil a seed grows in determines whether or not it’s fertile enough to sustain the test of time. “Healthy things grow. Growth without real health is unsustainable. If you want growth, pursue and monitor health.”
Churches sometimes try so hard to reach people and to make them stay once they arrive that they water things down. They try to make the Word of God palatable. They don’t want to step on toes. But, as this book says, “Unbelievers are attracted to, not repelled by, the power and presence of God. Spiritually hungry seekers are looking for something authentic and transformative—something bigger than themselves.” I’ve always felt like if someone walks into the doors of the church for a church service, then that person is seeking God. So why not give him what he’s looking for?
“A pastor’s job is to train up everyday evangelists and send them out, filled with the Word and the influencing power that comes from having been in God’s presence.” How exciting for a pastor to be able to preach to his congregation words of empowerment to send them out to conquer the world for God—and offer words to the seeker at the same time.
The book also speaks of the importance of the pastor having a vision and then casting that vision before his people. “A vision starts with an individual. In scripture, God didn’t impart vision to a committee. He spoke to an individual and called that person to communicate the vision clearly to others. Visions can only be accomplished by a team.” This shows how important each person within the church is. We’re all needed to accomplish the goal.
“A vision God can bless is a vision you allow Him to give you. It will require both great faith and holy audacity to receive it.” If you believe God has a bigger plan for you and your church, then be ready for him to bless you.
Here’s a few things Mr. Morris shares in regards to a pastor’s role:
• A pastor’s role is to feed the sheep. He should spend more time feeding than leading. People can’t go into battle malnourished. They must be fed.
• The wrong kind of shepherd will actually scatter the sheep.
• A true shepherd’s heart burns to see people helped and fed and matured and equipped.
• A shepherd who doesn’t care about these things will see his church get smaller.
• A true shepherd leads by example. He models where he wants his sheep to go.
“Only Jesus can call and gift true shepherds.”
Mr. Morris stresses the fact that pastors must include their families with them in ministry. They must not sacrifice them to the demands of ministry. “They must be good husbands and fathers first. They can’t be truly blessed leaders any other way.” Pastors must stay in the Word, pray, and raise up leaders so they will not have to do everything alone.
One thing Mr. Morris said really stuck out to me. He said, “Hold onto what God has given you with an open hand.” If you know that God owns everything and that He allows us to use them and have access to them for His purposes, then it’s easier to hold your hand open and ask Him to do with you and your resources whatever He wants to. You will soon see that you have even more than you started out with. With this attitude, not only will you be blessed, your family and your church will be, as well.
“Church is not about observing God. Or learning facts about God. It’s about experiencing God.” When we connect with a solid community within our churches, serve the Lord with gladness, commit our lives and our ministries to Him, blessings will abound.
I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 22, 2018
Really great resource that all Pastors and church leaders should read! Starts off slow in my opinion with a lot of the authors history and ‘getting to know you’ type details. But the best part was about 3/4 in when they go really into detail on church government and policies.
February 22, 2019
Enlightening! I learned SO MUCH reading this book about how a healthy church functions. Highly recommend!
June 26, 2023
Some sections are well written but you have read it all before.
January 25, 2013
“The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love”
“How can I help my church stay focused on its purpose?
What would a culture of generosity look like for my church?
What part does rest play in a healthy church?
Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well. After all, there’s no better place to experience God than in the loving, healthy community of a church. But what does an effective church look like? Is it possible to grow and be healthy at the same time?
Pastor Robert Morris has experienced firsthand the spiritual and relational excitement of a growing, dynamic church. In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris brings you practical wisdom for cultivating real growth by nurturing true and Biblical health in your spiritual community.” (From the Waterbrook Press Publishing Company Website)
About the Author:
Robert Morris is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since it began in 2000, Gateway has grown to more than 16,000 active members. Robert is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, seen in 80 million homes in the United States and in more than 200 countries around the world. He is the best-selling author of nine books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, and The Power of Your Words. Robert and his wife, Debbie, are the parents of three grown children and grandparents of two.
My Thoughts About the Book: The dream and passionate prayer of every pastor and the envy of some pastors who do not pastor such a church – The Blessed Church. And it is the type of church that every Bible-Believing, evangelical Christian would want to attend. So, how does one go about creating a “blessed church?” Glad you asked because I have a helpful book to recommend to you, The Blessed Church by Pastor Robert Morris of the large and spiritually thriving Gateway Church.
He begins his book by sharing God’s story of how Gateway Church was founded and what happened that it grew to be the size church it is today. Pastor Morris’ story about Gateway helps you understand where he is coming from as a pastor in the rest of the book…it enables the book to make more sense I think.
In the remaining part of his book, Pastor Morris elaborates about what a “blessed church” consists of and how God builds such a church body. He shares how important it is to have a “Blessed Vision,” “Blessed Shepherds,” “Blessed Leaders,” “Blessed Government,” and a “Blessed Church Culture” in order to be the blessed church God would like every church to be.
And to be very clear Pastor Morris is not promoting a “nickels, numbers and noses” approach to building a blessed church. He goes much deeper than looking at just those three components that seem to be the basic make up of some churches in our country today. Churches where the plan is to get ‘em (the people) in the church doors by any means possible, entertain the people to keep them interested and coming back each week, pester and badger them to give until the people either do give or leave the church. Those things are not his emphasis in the book; however, in a church where God’s Spirit is welcome and there is God’s vision for the church, pastors-teachers are rightly dividing and preaching the Word of God, church leaders actually lead the body in partnership with the pastors rather than working against them with their own agendas, a church government exists that is Biblical and functional, and finally a culture has been created where God and his Spirit are always welcome with the people loving and serving God and one another the way Christ intends as revealed in the New Testament…now such a church will grow and prosper numerically and financially. But in Pastor Morris’ mind and heart such church growth and prosperity are not the goal of the church or what a church should strive for…the goal of the church is to honor God by preaching and obeying his Word and the leadership and members serving him as the Spirit leads with it starting at the top of the leadership ladder and working its way down to the church members. And when a church does that then it will truly be a “blessed church” regardless of the size of its congregation or bank account.
For any Christian whether a pastor-leader in a church or a member, if you are longing to be blessed and see God bless your church then you will find Pastor Morris’ book a helpful road map to getting to your heart’s desired destination…which ultimately and will truly be A “Blessed Church!”
To purchase a copy of The Blessed Church click on the link below
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book at no cost from the Blogging for Books Bloggers program for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
“How can I help my church stay focused on its purpose?
What would a culture of generosity look like for my church?
What part does rest play in a healthy church?
Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well. After all, there’s no better place to experience God than in the loving, healthy community of a church. But what does an effective church look like? Is it possible to grow and be healthy at the same time?
Pastor Robert Morris has experienced firsthand the spiritual and relational excitement of a growing, dynamic church. In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris brings you practical wisdom for cultivating real growth by nurturing true and Biblical health in your spiritual community.” (From the Waterbrook Press Publishing Company Website)
About the Author:
Robert Morris is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since it began in 2000, Gateway has grown to more than 16,000 active members. Robert is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, seen in 80 million homes in the United States and in more than 200 countries around the world. He is the best-selling author of nine books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, and The Power of Your Words. Robert and his wife, Debbie, are the parents of three grown children and grandparents of two.
My Thoughts About the Book: The dream and passionate prayer of every pastor and the envy of some pastors who do not pastor such a church – The Blessed Church. And it is the type of church that every Bible-Believing, evangelical Christian would want to attend. So, how does one go about creating a “blessed church?” Glad you asked because I have a helpful book to recommend to you, The Blessed Church by Pastor Robert Morris of the large and spiritually thriving Gateway Church.
He begins his book by sharing God’s story of how Gateway Church was founded and what happened that it grew to be the size church it is today. Pastor Morris’ story about Gateway helps you understand where he is coming from as a pastor in the rest of the book…it enables the book to make more sense I think.
In the remaining part of his book, Pastor Morris elaborates about what a “blessed church” consists of and how God builds such a church body. He shares how important it is to have a “Blessed Vision,” “Blessed Shepherds,” “Blessed Leaders,” “Blessed Government,” and a “Blessed Church Culture” in order to be the blessed church God would like every church to be.
And to be very clear Pastor Morris is not promoting a “nickels, numbers and noses” approach to building a blessed church. He goes much deeper than looking at just those three components that seem to be the basic make up of some churches in our country today. Churches where the plan is to get ‘em (the people) in the church doors by any means possible, entertain the people to keep them interested and coming back each week, pester and badger them to give until the people either do give or leave the church. Those things are not his emphasis in the book; however, in a church where God’s Spirit is welcome and there is God’s vision for the church, pastors-teachers are rightly dividing and preaching the Word of God, church leaders actually lead the body in partnership with the pastors rather than working against them with their own agendas, a church government exists that is Biblical and functional, and finally a culture has been created where God and his Spirit are always welcome with the people loving and serving God and one another the way Christ intends as revealed in the New Testament…now such a church will grow and prosper numerically and financially. But in Pastor Morris’ mind and heart such church growth and prosperity are not the goal of the church or what a church should strive for…the goal of the church is to honor God by preaching and obeying his Word and the leadership and members serving him as the Spirit leads with it starting at the top of the leadership ladder and working its way down to the church members. And when a church does that then it will truly be a “blessed church” regardless of the size of its congregation or bank account.
For any Christian whether a pastor-leader in a church or a member, if you are longing to be blessed and see God bless your church then you will find Pastor Morris’ book a helpful road map to getting to your heart’s desired destination…which ultimately and will truly be A “Blessed Church!”
To purchase a copy of The Blessed Church click on the link below
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book at no cost from the Blogging for Books Bloggers program for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
February 24, 2020
Absolutely Fantastic
In just 1 book, Pastor Robert Morris has become one of my favorite writers. I love watching him preach even more! Such an anointed man of God!
In just 1 book, Pastor Robert Morris has become one of my favorite writers. I love watching him preach even more! Such an anointed man of God!
May 3, 2014
I read the Blessed Church, in exchange for review from Blogging for Books. The book was written by Robert Morris and published by Waterbrook Press. I have heard of Robert Morris's church before, concerning their programs and conventions, but never read a book by him before. I also know Pastor Morris is a pastor in Texas.
About the Author (copied from Amazon)
Robert Morris is the founding senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multicampus, evangelistic, Spirit-empowered church in the Dallas���Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than twenty-four thousand active members. He is featured on the weekly television program The Blessed Life, broadcast to approximately ninety million homes in the United States and more than two hundred countries around the world.
Robert holds a doctorate of literature and serves as chairman of the board of The King���s University. He is the best-selling author of nearly a dozen books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, The Power of Your Words, and The God I Never Knew. Robert and his wife, Debbie, have been married more than thirty years and are blessed
with one married daughter, two married sons, and grandchildren.
Why I chose the book:
I seen the book before on a few websites, but was not sure whether or not to buy it. I wasn't sure if the book was for me, a regular, church-goer, with no ministry--yet. I don't even know what my ministry is yet. I have done administration for a church before, but felt used at times.
For example, I worked on a church program for a revival for two weeks. I did this project on my own--at home--using my printer, ink, and paper, while tired from working Third Shift. On the day of the revival, there was a last minute change, concerning the guest speaker line-up. They wanted me to reprint all the programs over again with the new speakers name, without appreciation for the work I already done. I told them, they can scratch out the old name and write-in the new name because I worked too hard on this project. I also did the project out of the goodness of my heart. I don't have the time or patience or paper or ink to reprint based on one name change. It ended up being multiple name changes. None of the original guest speakers showed up. When I got to the one service, I could attend, the secretary did her own programs, filled with spelling errors, which made me more upset. I ended up leaving the church--after a few incidents, which had me questioning the administration. but I digress------------
The book talks about how we--no matter how role in the church--should want church growth. Growth does not mean numbers only--but reaching people and bringing them to Christ. Numbers don't mean anything if members are not growing in the Lord. The church will be growing exponentially, but will have a immature congregation, instead of having the members grow more mature in the Lord.
The book starts out with the story of Gateway Church and how the church grew. People wanted to know the secret to the church's growth. They wanted the how, but not the why--the purpose behind it. The author even stated how he wasn't sure whether or not to write the book because he didn't want to brag about the church's accomplishments. Great sign of humility. I also loved how Pastor Morris chose the name of the church. I also liked how he wanted the church to align with God's vision, instead of his vision. He sought out Godly counsel through other pastors, his wife, and of course God. Many people were confirming God's vision for the church.
Next, throughout the book, Pastor Morris provided keys to a blessed church such as don't succumb to disappointment. Things will happen. During disappointment, still seek out God and Godly counsel. Chapter four discusses how it is ok to have a vision for the church, in addition to wanting church growth. Other topics in the book include leadership, ministry, relationships (with staff), and church culture. Loved reading this book
About the Author (copied from Amazon)
Robert Morris is the founding senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multicampus, evangelistic, Spirit-empowered church in the Dallas���Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than twenty-four thousand active members. He is featured on the weekly television program The Blessed Life, broadcast to approximately ninety million homes in the United States and more than two hundred countries around the world.
Robert holds a doctorate of literature and serves as chairman of the board of The King���s University. He is the best-selling author of nearly a dozen books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, The Power of Your Words, and The God I Never Knew. Robert and his wife, Debbie, have been married more than thirty years and are blessed
with one married daughter, two married sons, and grandchildren.
Why I chose the book:
I seen the book before on a few websites, but was not sure whether or not to buy it. I wasn't sure if the book was for me, a regular, church-goer, with no ministry--yet. I don't even know what my ministry is yet. I have done administration for a church before, but felt used at times.
For example, I worked on a church program for a revival for two weeks. I did this project on my own--at home--using my printer, ink, and paper, while tired from working Third Shift. On the day of the revival, there was a last minute change, concerning the guest speaker line-up. They wanted me to reprint all the programs over again with the new speakers name, without appreciation for the work I already done. I told them, they can scratch out the old name and write-in the new name because I worked too hard on this project. I also did the project out of the goodness of my heart. I don't have the time or patience or paper or ink to reprint based on one name change. It ended up being multiple name changes. None of the original guest speakers showed up. When I got to the one service, I could attend, the secretary did her own programs, filled with spelling errors, which made me more upset. I ended up leaving the church--after a few incidents, which had me questioning the administration. but I digress------------
The book talks about how we--no matter how role in the church--should want church growth. Growth does not mean numbers only--but reaching people and bringing them to Christ. Numbers don't mean anything if members are not growing in the Lord. The church will be growing exponentially, but will have a immature congregation, instead of having the members grow more mature in the Lord.
The book starts out with the story of Gateway Church and how the church grew. People wanted to know the secret to the church's growth. They wanted the how, but not the why--the purpose behind it. The author even stated how he wasn't sure whether or not to write the book because he didn't want to brag about the church's accomplishments. Great sign of humility. I also loved how Pastor Morris chose the name of the church. I also liked how he wanted the church to align with God's vision, instead of his vision. He sought out Godly counsel through other pastors, his wife, and of course God. Many people were confirming God's vision for the church.
Next, throughout the book, Pastor Morris provided keys to a blessed church such as don't succumb to disappointment. Things will happen. During disappointment, still seek out God and Godly counsel. Chapter four discusses how it is ok to have a vision for the church, in addition to wanting church growth. Other topics in the book include leadership, ministry, relationships (with staff), and church culture. Loved reading this book
November 11, 2012
Robert Morris in his new book, “The Blessed Church” published by Waterbrook Press gives us The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love.
From the Back cover: How can I help my church stay focused on its purpose?
What would a culture of generosity look like for my church?
What part does rest play in a healthy church?
Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well. After all, there’s no better place to experience God than in the loving, healthy community of a church. But what does an effective church look like? Is it possible to grow and be healthy at the same time?
Pastor Robert Morris has experienced firsthand the spiritual and relational excitement of a growing, dynamic church. In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris brings you practical wisdom for cultivating real growth by nurturing true and Biblical health in your spiritual community.
The Greek word for church is “ecclesia” which means, “called out ones”. When he speaks of “church” Pastor Morris is not referring to the building but to the people that make up the body of believers. Wherever it is you attend “The Blessed Church” will help bring health and vitality. In six sections Pastor Morris shows us areas where we can ignite health: The Gateway Story, Blessed Vision, Blessed Shepherds, Blessed Leaders, Blessed Government, Blessed Church Culture. Pastor Morris walks us through what we need to know so that health can begin in us and spread throughout the body of believers and into our neighborhoods. Pastor Morris does a much better job in his book, “The Blessed Church” than I ever will. I recommend reading this book. You will be blessed.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back cover: How can I help my church stay focused on its purpose?
What would a culture of generosity look like for my church?
What part does rest play in a healthy church?
Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well. After all, there’s no better place to experience God than in the loving, healthy community of a church. But what does an effective church look like? Is it possible to grow and be healthy at the same time?
Pastor Robert Morris has experienced firsthand the spiritual and relational excitement of a growing, dynamic church. In The Blessed Church, Pastor Morris brings you practical wisdom for cultivating real growth by nurturing true and Biblical health in your spiritual community.
The Greek word for church is “ecclesia” which means, “called out ones”. When he speaks of “church” Pastor Morris is not referring to the building but to the people that make up the body of believers. Wherever it is you attend “The Blessed Church” will help bring health and vitality. In six sections Pastor Morris shows us areas where we can ignite health: The Gateway Story, Blessed Vision, Blessed Shepherds, Blessed Leaders, Blessed Government, Blessed Church Culture. Pastor Morris walks us through what we need to know so that health can begin in us and spread throughout the body of believers and into our neighborhoods. Pastor Morris does a much better job in his book, “The Blessed Church” than I ever will. I recommend reading this book. You will be blessed.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 25, 2016
In The Blessed Church, Robert Morris writes to share why Gateway Church does what they do, followed by the "what" of how they follow through with method. To do this, he distinguishes the book into six parts: 1) The Gateway Story, 2) Blessed Vision, 3) Blessed Shepherds, 4) Blessed Leaders, 5) Blessed Government, and 6) Blessed Church Culture. Morris explains the church functions in each of these categories, along with the theology and reasoning behind the functions. For each, he digs into Scripture and shows the biblical root for the process.
Morris's writing is easy to read, which makes this book a fairly quick read and simple to understand. It could be a good book to have on a church leader's shelf as it has helpful ideas and refreshing reminders. However, no leader should walk away from this as the model for "how to lead a healthy, growing church." Is it helpful for thinking and developing theology and practices? Yes. While my approach to ministry is not entirely the same as his, it's always good to think from a different angle. I appreciate that Morris has a strong belief in the primacy of Scripture and the need to listen to the Holy Spirit at all times in the Christian walk.
My only two nitpicks are the following. 1) Morris does not always show sufficient exegesis and interpretation of Scripture. Sometimes he jumps straight from Scripture to interpretation without adequately showing how he got to the interpretation from the study of Scripture. However, this may be due to the nature of the book in that the purpose is essentially to tell Gateway's story and now to write a commentary, so in order to keep the book simple, Morris may have simplified his study process. 2) Morris communicates strictly a male-only church leadership model. I do not know if he rejects woman church leaders and pastors, but it would seem so from his writing.
Overall, The Blessed Church is a good read. Though I wouldn't put it on my "Books Every Pastor Should Read" list, I'd recommend it to those who are wanting a quick read with simple truths that helps fan your passion for ministry.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook in exchange for an honest review.
Morris's writing is easy to read, which makes this book a fairly quick read and simple to understand. It could be a good book to have on a church leader's shelf as it has helpful ideas and refreshing reminders. However, no leader should walk away from this as the model for "how to lead a healthy, growing church." Is it helpful for thinking and developing theology and practices? Yes. While my approach to ministry is not entirely the same as his, it's always good to think from a different angle. I appreciate that Morris has a strong belief in the primacy of Scripture and the need to listen to the Holy Spirit at all times in the Christian walk.
My only two nitpicks are the following. 1) Morris does not always show sufficient exegesis and interpretation of Scripture. Sometimes he jumps straight from Scripture to interpretation without adequately showing how he got to the interpretation from the study of Scripture. However, this may be due to the nature of the book in that the purpose is essentially to tell Gateway's story and now to write a commentary, so in order to keep the book simple, Morris may have simplified his study process. 2) Morris communicates strictly a male-only church leadership model. I do not know if he rejects woman church leaders and pastors, but it would seem so from his writing.
Overall, The Blessed Church is a good read. Though I wouldn't put it on my "Books Every Pastor Should Read" list, I'd recommend it to those who are wanting a quick read with simple truths that helps fan your passion for ministry.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2012
I had never heard of Robert Morris or Gateway Church prior to reading this book. While some of the “keys” that are shared are very simple and well known, how often is it that we neglect the things that we “know?”
Morris begins the story of Gateway with his call to ministry by God and the further call led to Gateway coming to open on Easter Sunday in 2000.
The first part of the book focuses on the beginnings of Gateway and then on the topic of church growth. Morris comments, “Any kingdom ruled by Jesus would be healthy. And healthy things grow.” Now just because Morris is the pastor of a “mega” church, don’t tune him out – his list is one that can be used by churches of any size.
While writing about the vision given by God, Morris also articulates how to share the vision and to write the vision down to make sharing and understanding easier.
Now parts of this book are able to be utilized by any church member, but the main focus of the book is on the pastor of the church – the vision, the shepherding, and the example.
Some of Morris’ keys are listed below:
Get God’s counsel
Don’t succumb to discouragement
It’s okay to want to grow
Growth without health is unsustainable
You can’t communicate vision unless you have received vision from the Lord
Righting a spiritual injustice is a key to your vision of ministry
If a vision doesn’t seem impossible to accomplish with your natural ability, it’s probably not from God
If you are called to Pastor, you are called to lead
This is an excellent book; I can say there is something in there for every pastor that wants to be the pastor the Lord intends.
I received this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing at no charge in return for an honest review.
Morris begins the story of Gateway with his call to ministry by God and the further call led to Gateway coming to open on Easter Sunday in 2000.
The first part of the book focuses on the beginnings of Gateway and then on the topic of church growth. Morris comments, “Any kingdom ruled by Jesus would be healthy. And healthy things grow.” Now just because Morris is the pastor of a “mega” church, don’t tune him out – his list is one that can be used by churches of any size.
While writing about the vision given by God, Morris also articulates how to share the vision and to write the vision down to make sharing and understanding easier.
Now parts of this book are able to be utilized by any church member, but the main focus of the book is on the pastor of the church – the vision, the shepherding, and the example.
Some of Morris’ keys are listed below:
Get God’s counsel
Don’t succumb to discouragement
It’s okay to want to grow
Growth without health is unsustainable
You can’t communicate vision unless you have received vision from the Lord
Righting a spiritual injustice is a key to your vision of ministry
If a vision doesn’t seem impossible to accomplish with your natural ability, it’s probably not from God
If you are called to Pastor, you are called to lead
This is an excellent book; I can say there is something in there for every pastor that wants to be the pastor the Lord intends.
I received this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing at no charge in return for an honest review.
July 11, 2013
The Blessed Church by Robert Morris tells about the fascinating story of the Gateway Church and how any other church can make it possible to get to a large group of people and get new members. In my opinion it is a great book for people that are actually play a role in the church, no matter what position they actually have. For me, that I belong to the church but I am not involved in any kind of "work" around it, was it a good book to learn about the ways how pastors and everyone try to make us (just the followers how I like to call it) interested in our god and in our church. I am not from the states (and like you already realized is english not my first language) but it was quiet interesting to learn about the different ways how the churches and the systems are.I have to admit that I am not going to church as often as I'm supposed to be. But if our churches would be a little but more like the Gateway Church I'd probably feel more likely to go there. I would say that it is not as sterile as were I come from. And that is definitely a way to get the people to with joy and a good feeling.
October 5, 2012
I won this book from Goodreads giveaways - Thank You!
Robert Morris is a very inspiring motivational speaker and writer. He doesn't preach, he teaches. The insights he reveals in The Blessed Church should be taught and explained to every church leader, in any denomination, in any capacity. This book is very well written and easy to understand.
If only more of us would take the time to really listen to God. Thank God Robert did!
Robert Morris is a very inspiring motivational speaker and writer. He doesn't preach, he teaches. The insights he reveals in The Blessed Church should be taught and explained to every church leader, in any denomination, in any capacity. This book is very well written and easy to understand.
If only more of us would take the time to really listen to God. Thank God Robert did!
November 12, 2012
Everyone is curious to know the secrets for church growth. All churches go through valleys and peaks, and Robert Morris' book The Blessed Church: The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love gives some tips for church growth--not just in the numbers sense but in the wisdom, knowledge, and experience sense. http://jamiswords.blogspot.com/2012/1...
November 5, 2015
Simple, Powerful, Explosive
As always, Pastor Robert Morris delivers a simple and profound word on establishing a work that Christ would be proud of and operates at maximum effectiveness for the glory of God. Learn the timeless truths that have helped make Gateway a powerful influence in the nations.
As always, Pastor Robert Morris delivers a simple and profound word on establishing a work that Christ would be proud of and operates at maximum effectiveness for the glory of God. Learn the timeless truths that have helped make Gateway a powerful influence in the nations.
January 30, 2017
A good practical book about shepherding a flock and releasing people in their gifts. Morris is encouraging and affirming that not all congregations will be like his. Each congregation has it's own gifts.
September 5, 2012
I love working at Gateway!! this book is truly the heart of Ps. Robert and the leadership of this amazing church!
November 2, 2012
Check out my review of this book on Blogging for books. http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggi....
March 1, 2013
Sent a review copy by the publisher. Not my favorite book on churches or church growth but some good points, especially in the chapters on church governance.
Read
March 28, 2014Awesome, challenging.
February 10, 2016
This book should be read annually
November 9, 2014
An excellent approach to excellence (in church leadership).
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