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Churches in the Shape of Scripture
"Could you tell me something about the church of Christ?" "Could you tell me the difference between the church of Christ and the ___________ church?" If you've ever asked questions like these--or been on the receiving end of them-- then this is the book for you. Expect to walk away from this book not only knowing what churches of Christ are all about, but also with a clear understanding of many of the beliefs and practices that distinguish them from other church groups. Don't be surprised, though, if you also walk away with a renewed conviction that being a New Testament-shaped church is a goal worth pursuing, and that doing things God's way really does matter.
212 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
September 11, 2023
3.5 stars (rounded to 4)
Overall, this book was a decent explanation of the beliefs of the churches of Christ.
The book was well written with explanations given and sources cited that explained the reasoning behind some of the more beliefs. I think this is an intriguing read, and is a great resource for someone wanting to know more about this “type” of Christianity. This is a book that will for sure stay on my shelf.
A couple issues I had:
First, the sources cited were largely studies and outside sources. Although I don’t have issues with this, I felt as though some of the sections lacked biblical references that would’ve made it more solid for those who may wonder where the Bible verses are that support these claims. There were several allusions to certain Bible verses without actual quotes or citations to explain or connect the dots.
Secondly, the author (and church of Christ) harps on women and their role in the church for a large section of the book. Although I agree that women are not commanded into shepherding roles, I disagree with some of the logic that the author has here. His tone suggests that a woman is not to speak whatsoever, and is to be silent until she has left the building/assembly. The logic is that these verses are not a cultural thing because all women in all places were commanded to be submissive and not speak in church by Paul. The author suggests that we are not to apply this text as a cultural reference but as a direct application to the church today. The author then refuses to acknowledge the later chapters. If women keeping silent in the churches is to be applied to all congregations in all cultures, why do women in the churches of Christ not cover their heads when they pray? Why are head coverings allowed to be excluded from this? Fundamentally I don’t necessarily agree with some of the points made by the author in this regard. Also… completely ignoring the fact that there was a recorded example of a female deacon was interesting. I wondered if the author would bring that up. He did not.
Thirdly, some of the points made by the author were subjective. He says the church of Christ doesn’t do or act or believe a certain way because HE hasn’t seen this action or belief from them. He speaks on everyone’s behalf. This isn’t a good spot to be in when providing information; it’s biased. There are some controversial beliefs that MOST DEFINITELY are held by some of the churches and people in the church of Christ. Women being inferior? Absolutely some people believe that. The idea that they’re the only ones going to heaven? Absolutely some people believe that. I’ve experienced sexism within the church and watched one of my role models ask the church to pray for the soul of her father. He was a Christian, but he was a Baptist. As far as she was concerned, he might as well have been entirely lost. The author’s dismissal of these very real issues suggest that he possesses a sort of bias. I expected this, because he is a part of the church, but I had hoped for a more objective viewpoint.
However, this was a solid read, and if someone asks me to show them the historical reasons for these beliefs, I think this is a good resource.
Overall, this book was a decent explanation of the beliefs of the churches of Christ.
The book was well written with explanations given and sources cited that explained the reasoning behind some of the more beliefs. I think this is an intriguing read, and is a great resource for someone wanting to know more about this “type” of Christianity. This is a book that will for sure stay on my shelf.
A couple issues I had:
First, the sources cited were largely studies and outside sources. Although I don’t have issues with this, I felt as though some of the sections lacked biblical references that would’ve made it more solid for those who may wonder where the Bible verses are that support these claims. There were several allusions to certain Bible verses without actual quotes or citations to explain or connect the dots.
Secondly, the author (and church of Christ) harps on women and their role in the church for a large section of the book. Although I agree that women are not commanded into shepherding roles, I disagree with some of the logic that the author has here. His tone suggests that a woman is not to speak whatsoever, and is to be silent until she has left the building/assembly. The logic is that these verses are not a cultural thing because all women in all places were commanded to be submissive and not speak in church by Paul. The author suggests that we are not to apply this text as a cultural reference but as a direct application to the church today. The author then refuses to acknowledge the later chapters. If women keeping silent in the churches is to be applied to all congregations in all cultures, why do women in the churches of Christ not cover their heads when they pray? Why are head coverings allowed to be excluded from this? Fundamentally I don’t necessarily agree with some of the points made by the author in this regard. Also… completely ignoring the fact that there was a recorded example of a female deacon was interesting. I wondered if the author would bring that up. He did not.
Thirdly, some of the points made by the author were subjective. He says the church of Christ doesn’t do or act or believe a certain way because HE hasn’t seen this action or belief from them. He speaks on everyone’s behalf. This isn’t a good spot to be in when providing information; it’s biased. There are some controversial beliefs that MOST DEFINITELY are held by some of the churches and people in the church of Christ. Women being inferior? Absolutely some people believe that. The idea that they’re the only ones going to heaven? Absolutely some people believe that. I’ve experienced sexism within the church and watched one of my role models ask the church to pray for the soul of her father. He was a Christian, but he was a Baptist. As far as she was concerned, he might as well have been entirely lost. The author’s dismissal of these very real issues suggest that he possesses a sort of bias. I expected this, because he is a part of the church, but I had hoped for a more objective viewpoint.
However, this was a solid read, and if someone asks me to show them the historical reasons for these beliefs, I think this is a good resource.
November 12, 2018
This is a good summary of the normal rationale for the way that those of us who are in churches of Christ deal with some general and sometimes controversial doctrinal issues. Dan does a very good job at articulating these positions with grace and love, while still maintaining their necessity. I suppose it is outside of the scope of the authors' work to give a complete ecclesiology. The book is clearly intended for a more general audience who are outside of the fellowship of churches of Christ. It has a very Apologetic (faith defending) perspective. Dan covers the importance of Restoration, Salvation and church membership, Musical praise in the assembly, Sunday assemblies and communion, Gender roles in the assembly, and Church government. He also addresses criticisms he calls "myths & misconceptions" about churches of Christ.
The thing I loved the most about this book is that Chambers is willing to clearly state his doctrinal positions without backing away because they aren't popular in a politically correct culture. But at the same time he is very generous in assuming the goodwill of those who would disagree with him. He is willing to speak where he sees God speak and to allow God to be judge.
The thing I loved the most about this book is that Chambers is willing to clearly state his doctrinal positions without backing away because they aren't popular in a politically correct culture. But at the same time he is very generous in assuming the goodwill of those who would disagree with him. He is willing to speak where he sees God speak and to allow God to be judge.
May 28, 2019
This is such a wonderful book for anyone to study! It is a great study of how to become and live faithfully as New Testament Christians. It is very well written, clear to understand, and communicates in such a way so that most any reader can understand the Bible principles discussed. If you are searching to learn more and God and the Bible, if you are already a Christian, or are looking for a Bible study to have with a friend, this book is a wonderful way to start! Learn how we can go back to God's Word to see how He would have us, as Christians, to serve Him and how we can spend eternity with the Lord in Heaven!
For more information about these subjects, visit these websites:
apologeticspress.org
christiancourier.com
midwaycoc.org
For more information about these subjects, visit these websites:
apologeticspress.org
christiancourier.com
midwaycoc.org
May 6, 2015
Good book but not enough scriptures used that could have helped readers understand practices.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews