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Called to Stay: An Uncompromising Mission to Save Your Church
Will You Stay?
Caleb Breakey prays to God you do.
In Called to Stay Breakey takes a refreshingly honest look at the church, the problem of Millennials leaving, and the stark reality of why the church desperately needs them. He holds nothing back as he unleashes an ambitious rallying cry to heal the church and inject his generation's desire for truth, passion, and conviction into other believers.
Caleb knows that answering the challenge of his own generation leads to a transformed church.
And a changed church can change the world.
Caleb Breakey prays to God you do.
In Called to Stay Breakey takes a refreshingly honest look at the church, the problem of Millennials leaving, and the stark reality of why the church desperately needs them. He holds nothing back as he unleashes an ambitious rallying cry to heal the church and inject his generation's desire for truth, passion, and conviction into other believers.
Caleb knows that answering the challenge of his own generation leads to a transformed church.
And a changed church can change the world.
192 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
About the author
Caleb Breakey
13 books46 followersCaleb Breakey is the CEO of Speak It To Book, the premier ghostwriting agency for influencers, thought leaders, and industry celebrities. He is an ECPA Award finalist and a winner of the prestigious Genesis Contest for fiction writers, and he loves exploring truth through story. He writes in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and enjoys visits from a mischievous mini husky and a smiley Shiba Inu.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 10, 2015
This is one of those books whose intention I love: Don't church-hop, commit to the local church with her imperfections, use your gifts to serve others! As a pastor for the last fifteen years, I've seen others leave the local church for flippant reasons (and been tempted to leave myself for flippant reasons). So Breakey's call to millennials in particular to stay and serve is admirable and needed.
In the end, my primary frustration with this book is that the reason for the individual to stay in the local church is for the sake of the local church. In other words, you should stay in the local church so you can save the local church. This might be true, but there was little space given to the need of the individual for the local church for the individual's spiritual health. The message of the book was "Stay in the local church so you can save the local church." In reality, a more important reason to stay in the local church is that your growth and sanctification is dependent on the local church. God works through the church. Breakey's thesis was that the church needs you. The inverse is even more true: You need the local church.
Another concern: The book was written to the passionate, fervent, but frustrated Christian. I've seen these folks hop churches looking for a place that can keep up with their intensity for Jesus. The book could have covered more territory by speaking to apathetic, drifting Christians. Both are leaving churches, but for very different reasons. Breakey concentrates on only one of these.
Finally, there's an idolization of youth and energy that runs through the book. Energetic, outwardly-passionate Christians are lifted up (and the church certainly needs them), but there's almost an inadvertent disparagement of older, more contemplative, but wise and godly Christians.
There are a few people to whom I'd hand Breakey's book, but in the end it didn't cover enough territory to be widely beneficial.
In the end, my primary frustration with this book is that the reason for the individual to stay in the local church is for the sake of the local church. In other words, you should stay in the local church so you can save the local church. This might be true, but there was little space given to the need of the individual for the local church for the individual's spiritual health. The message of the book was "Stay in the local church so you can save the local church." In reality, a more important reason to stay in the local church is that your growth and sanctification is dependent on the local church. God works through the church. Breakey's thesis was that the church needs you. The inverse is even more true: You need the local church.
Another concern: The book was written to the passionate, fervent, but frustrated Christian. I've seen these folks hop churches looking for a place that can keep up with their intensity for Jesus. The book could have covered more territory by speaking to apathetic, drifting Christians. Both are leaving churches, but for very different reasons. Breakey concentrates on only one of these.
Finally, there's an idolization of youth and energy that runs through the book. Energetic, outwardly-passionate Christians are lifted up (and the church certainly needs them), but there's almost an inadvertent disparagement of older, more contemplative, but wise and godly Christians.
There are a few people to whom I'd hand Breakey's book, but in the end it didn't cover enough territory to be widely beneficial.
November 9, 2013
Most of us have at some point in our lives questioned our place in the church, wondered about the imperfections we've seen in the people there, or doubted our own worthiness. Who among us has not been disillusioned and frustrated at some point? There are reasons to go, we can make a multitude of excuses for why we wish to leave, and then we create new ways to validate our reasons... but how many of us have taken the time to consider staying, to put that time and effort into a reason to stay?
Perhaps, there are those among us who were never presented with the ultimate reason to stay.
With this book Caleb Breakey touches on the reasons why people go, and presents us with that one essential reason to stay. A reason that will lead you to not only reconsider leaving, but will also give you a new vision of your purpose, and encourage you to trust in Jesus, to have faith in his reasons for calling you to stay.
When I began reading this book, I was still fairly new within the church I was attending, still in the newlywed stage if you would. I could see the value in Caleb's words, because I had known those who had left, those who felt imperfect themselves, and those who felt that the church was imperfect-- that they were somehow above where the church was-- feeling it was hindering their personal walk in faith.
I passed the book along to my pastor, thinking, should the time ever come when someone wanted to leave, he'd have this book to guide them into a reason to stay.
By the time I borrowed it back, my honeymoon stage in the church was over. I was seeing some of those same imperfections in the people, in the church, and in myself. I could now relate to why people choose to go on a whole new level... a personal one.
Caleb leads us through and out of the frustrations we have with the church, and returns our focus to the teachings of Jesus, reminding us to turn our focus off of the splinter in the eye of the church (or those that attend) and onto the plank in our own eye.
How many times have you seen something and wondered, "Why doesn't someone do something about that..." Well, what if YOU are that someone? What if you are being called to stay in order to make that important difference? Stepping outside the boundaries of Christianity for a second, Mahatma Gandhi said, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world."
That's what this book is about. It's about being the change... being the one that stays and works faithfully through God's plan for you, in your journey with your church, and with yourself.
Yes, it's striking with its pretty cover, but it's what's within that yellow jacket that will change the hearts of those who read it. It is well written, but it is also passionate and purposeful, and in my humble opinion, it's brilliant.
Caleb Breakey takes a very real approach to a very real problem and gives us the ultimate reason to stay. And he backs his thoughts and reasons with undeniable Truth.
This is the guidebook that the body of every church needs. It is a timely and eye-opening resource for every member-- be they in the honeymoon stage or the golden years of their marriage to the church.
Called To Stay is a beautiful reminder that the church is the body of Christ, and that is why we make the commitment to stay.
Perhaps, there are those among us who were never presented with the ultimate reason to stay.
With this book Caleb Breakey touches on the reasons why people go, and presents us with that one essential reason to stay. A reason that will lead you to not only reconsider leaving, but will also give you a new vision of your purpose, and encourage you to trust in Jesus, to have faith in his reasons for calling you to stay.
When I began reading this book, I was still fairly new within the church I was attending, still in the newlywed stage if you would. I could see the value in Caleb's words, because I had known those who had left, those who felt imperfect themselves, and those who felt that the church was imperfect-- that they were somehow above where the church was-- feeling it was hindering their personal walk in faith.
I passed the book along to my pastor, thinking, should the time ever come when someone wanted to leave, he'd have this book to guide them into a reason to stay.
By the time I borrowed it back, my honeymoon stage in the church was over. I was seeing some of those same imperfections in the people, in the church, and in myself. I could now relate to why people choose to go on a whole new level... a personal one.
Caleb leads us through and out of the frustrations we have with the church, and returns our focus to the teachings of Jesus, reminding us to turn our focus off of the splinter in the eye of the church (or those that attend) and onto the plank in our own eye.
How many times have you seen something and wondered, "Why doesn't someone do something about that..." Well, what if YOU are that someone? What if you are being called to stay in order to make that important difference? Stepping outside the boundaries of Christianity for a second, Mahatma Gandhi said, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world."
That's what this book is about. It's about being the change... being the one that stays and works faithfully through God's plan for you, in your journey with your church, and with yourself.
Yes, it's striking with its pretty cover, but it's what's within that yellow jacket that will change the hearts of those who read it. It is well written, but it is also passionate and purposeful, and in my humble opinion, it's brilliant.
Caleb Breakey takes a very real approach to a very real problem and gives us the ultimate reason to stay. And he backs his thoughts and reasons with undeniable Truth.
This is the guidebook that the body of every church needs. It is a timely and eye-opening resource for every member-- be they in the honeymoon stage or the golden years of their marriage to the church.
Called To Stay is a beautiful reminder that the church is the body of Christ, and that is why we make the commitment to stay.
October 7, 2013
Author Caleb Breakey in his book, "Called to Stay," issues the call for Millennials--those in their teens to thirties--to "stop running and start doing what Jesus has commanded of us."
Highlighting the fact that Millennials are leaving the church in record numbers, Breakey himself has chosen to stay in the church. His desire is to humbly be an infiltrator who ignites change from inside the church by living an "all-out, cross-carrying, fully committed follower of Jesus" in order to "shift Christian culture back to Jesus in a way that's real and sustainable" (p. 16-17).
He calls other Millennials to do the same. Basing his premise on Hebrews 10:24-25, the author considers it the job of Millennial believers to infiltrate the church rather than leave it -- "to help brothers and sisters embrace the radical call of following Jesus" (pp. 24-25).
I admire Breakey's passion for the church and unity within the body, and I applaud his desire to see Millennials remain in the church as agents of change rather than giving up on her. As a Gen X-er, I have experienced frustration with the church, too, and have chosen to stay, to follow Jesus whole-heartedly, and to call other believers to do the same. While I agree with Breakey's stance, I'm afraid the language of "infiltration" may be a barrier for some as it seems to set up an "us vs. them" mentality. I would hate for that to cause some difficulties between older and younger generations.
At the same time, Breakey does speak of humility, child-like faith, and right motives. And he does encourage potential infiltrators to intentionally and prayerfully "dig deep" by:
- honestly assessing how their lives reflects the commands of Jesus,
- allowing their hearts to break where it needs breaking, and
- praying for restoration (p. 63).
Perhaps one of the best parts of the book was the "Follower Manifesto" on pages 67-71, reminding believers what's true of them in Christ--to really meditate on their identity in Christ.
Not only does Breakey call Millennials to stay, but he gives them practical ways to do just that in chapters seven and eight. He also leaves room for those exceptional situations where it may not be good to "stay," outlining some principles to help Millennials evaluate such situations. I can't say enough about how he encourages leavers to speak well of the church instead of tear her down. He also encourages leavers to look for a new church that loves God despite her faults, not a church that meets their needs. I like that perspective, because to often leavers look for new churches based on what it offers "me" rather than how "I" can use my gifts to serve God in the body of Christ.
True to his identity as a Millenial, Breakey offers opportunities for readers to engage with the text, other readers and himself through chapter videos, free downloads, Facebook conversations, and even "Tweetables." I applaud these opportunities for readers to join the conversation, to interact with each other, and to process what the principles mean for them in their own context. My only disappointment was that I was unable to locate the downloadable "Follower Manifesto" touted at the end of chapter 4. That could simply be because www.calledtostay.com is best viewed on a computer rather than a tablet.
If you're considering leaving the church, read Breakey's "Called to Stay" and enter the conversation. Check out additional resources at www.calledtostay.com and enter the conversation through Twitter and Facebook. You might be surprised what God calls you to do.
Get a copy of this 2013 Harvest House released through the books website above, at Amazon, or any other online or storefront book store. You won't be disappointed.
Highlighting the fact that Millennials are leaving the church in record numbers, Breakey himself has chosen to stay in the church. His desire is to humbly be an infiltrator who ignites change from inside the church by living an "all-out, cross-carrying, fully committed follower of Jesus" in order to "shift Christian culture back to Jesus in a way that's real and sustainable" (p. 16-17).
He calls other Millennials to do the same. Basing his premise on Hebrews 10:24-25, the author considers it the job of Millennial believers to infiltrate the church rather than leave it -- "to help brothers and sisters embrace the radical call of following Jesus" (pp. 24-25).
I admire Breakey's passion for the church and unity within the body, and I applaud his desire to see Millennials remain in the church as agents of change rather than giving up on her. As a Gen X-er, I have experienced frustration with the church, too, and have chosen to stay, to follow Jesus whole-heartedly, and to call other believers to do the same. While I agree with Breakey's stance, I'm afraid the language of "infiltration" may be a barrier for some as it seems to set up an "us vs. them" mentality. I would hate for that to cause some difficulties between older and younger generations.
At the same time, Breakey does speak of humility, child-like faith, and right motives. And he does encourage potential infiltrators to intentionally and prayerfully "dig deep" by:
- honestly assessing how their lives reflects the commands of Jesus,
- allowing their hearts to break where it needs breaking, and
- praying for restoration (p. 63).
Perhaps one of the best parts of the book was the "Follower Manifesto" on pages 67-71, reminding believers what's true of them in Christ--to really meditate on their identity in Christ.
Not only does Breakey call Millennials to stay, but he gives them practical ways to do just that in chapters seven and eight. He also leaves room for those exceptional situations where it may not be good to "stay," outlining some principles to help Millennials evaluate such situations. I can't say enough about how he encourages leavers to speak well of the church instead of tear her down. He also encourages leavers to look for a new church that loves God despite her faults, not a church that meets their needs. I like that perspective, because to often leavers look for new churches based on what it offers "me" rather than how "I" can use my gifts to serve God in the body of Christ.
True to his identity as a Millenial, Breakey offers opportunities for readers to engage with the text, other readers and himself through chapter videos, free downloads, Facebook conversations, and even "Tweetables." I applaud these opportunities for readers to join the conversation, to interact with each other, and to process what the principles mean for them in their own context. My only disappointment was that I was unable to locate the downloadable "Follower Manifesto" touted at the end of chapter 4. That could simply be because www.calledtostay.com is best viewed on a computer rather than a tablet.
If you're considering leaving the church, read Breakey's "Called to Stay" and enter the conversation. Check out additional resources at www.calledtostay.com and enter the conversation through Twitter and Facebook. You might be surprised what God calls you to do.
Get a copy of this 2013 Harvest House released through the books website above, at Amazon, or any other online or storefront book store. You won't be disappointed.
February 1, 2014
Back when this book was in the works, the author ran a Kickstarter campaign to get the funds he needed to publish the book. I was out of work, but was intrigued, and gave the minimum amount, which assured me a copy of the book and DVD when they were published.
After I received the book, I didn't read it for a while, as I had so many books in my review pile, but after hearing my best friend rave about it, I decided it was time to read it.
The book is geared for a younger age group than I am part of, but after reading it, I would have to say it is for anyone. It is especially for people who are dissatisfied with their church and are eying the door, thinking about leaving and going elsewhere. Even if you're happy with your church, it would be a good book to read and get some ideas of what you can do to help your church be better and more than it is.
The book is an enjoyable read. This is Caleb's first book, and he did an excellent job on it. It is easy to read, interesting, he makes some great points without belaboring them, and he writes with what comes across as humility. Some authors approach ideas like this with almost an arrogance, but he does not.
In the book, Caleb talks about his own experiences of being unhappy with his church and as he prayed about leaving, he felt God wanted him to stay. So he started thinking and praying about what he could do to help the church instead of criticize. Not everything he says will work for everyone in every church, but there is some really good advice given and points made in the book for staying in a church.
Each chapter is accompanied by some video you can watch online.
This is a book I cannot say enough good about. I highly recommend it.
After I received the book, I didn't read it for a while, as I had so many books in my review pile, but after hearing my best friend rave about it, I decided it was time to read it.
The book is geared for a younger age group than I am part of, but after reading it, I would have to say it is for anyone. It is especially for people who are dissatisfied with their church and are eying the door, thinking about leaving and going elsewhere. Even if you're happy with your church, it would be a good book to read and get some ideas of what you can do to help your church be better and more than it is.
The book is an enjoyable read. This is Caleb's first book, and he did an excellent job on it. It is easy to read, interesting, he makes some great points without belaboring them, and he writes with what comes across as humility. Some authors approach ideas like this with almost an arrogance, but he does not.
In the book, Caleb talks about his own experiences of being unhappy with his church and as he prayed about leaving, he felt God wanted him to stay. So he started thinking and praying about what he could do to help the church instead of criticize. Not everything he says will work for everyone in every church, but there is some really good advice given and points made in the book for staying in a church.
Each chapter is accompanied by some video you can watch online.
This is a book I cannot say enough good about. I highly recommend it.
July 11, 2013
First, I must say, I am not the target audience for this book. I'm a bit older than a 'millennial.' Also, I have never left the church, nor do I plan to leave the church. I love my church and the people that are my church family.
That being said, I see the problem of young people leaving the church as very real and one that needs to be addressed. I am not a believer in church as entertainment or diversion or church attendance to earn your way into heaven. I am a believer in church being a place that demonstrates real, sacrificial, Christ-like love that flows out of Biblical teaching.
I believe Called To Stay shows those who feel their church is lacking in those areas how to set about showing these things first in their own lives and then directing others in their church to love as Christ loved. To love within the church, then to those outside the church.
My one criticism for the book is the use of the term "Infiltrate" for those who want to show Christlike love in the church. Infiltrate has negative connotations, it is something false teachers do, and I wish Caleb had used a different term for infusing Christ's love in the church.
I plan to pass this book along, and I would recommend it to any young person disillusioned with their local church.
That being said, I see the problem of young people leaving the church as very real and one that needs to be addressed. I am not a believer in church as entertainment or diversion or church attendance to earn your way into heaven. I am a believer in church being a place that demonstrates real, sacrificial, Christ-like love that flows out of Biblical teaching.
I believe Called To Stay shows those who feel their church is lacking in those areas how to set about showing these things first in their own lives and then directing others in their church to love as Christ loved. To love within the church, then to those outside the church.
My one criticism for the book is the use of the term "Infiltrate" for those who want to show Christlike love in the church. Infiltrate has negative connotations, it is something false teachers do, and I wish Caleb had used a different term for infusing Christ's love in the church.
I plan to pass this book along, and I would recommend it to any young person disillusioned with their local church.
September 30, 2013
I received a copy of Caleb Breakey’s new book “Called To Stay” in something of an unconventional way. He asked for people to read and review his book, offering to mail copies out by giving him an address in a Facebook message. I didn’t know what to expect, but I knew he believed in the message of the book if he was going to personally mail me a copy of the book!
If you have ever been tempted to leave the local church because of hypocrisy, backbiting, lack of love for one another, or any other reason, this book has a simple question for you: what if Jesus is calling you to infiltrate your church and start loving it from the inside out, becoming the change agent yourself? This is not just another “how to” book on what steps to take to make the church more Christ-like or how to get people to act right. What this book does do is provide the reader with how to first be a changed believer, and then harness that fire towards encouraging others in their faith in the church.
There are a lot of good things I could quote from the book and things I could say about it, but the best thing I can do is tell you to go out and read it! Go buy Called To Stay on Amazon. For more information, check out calledtostay.com.
If you have ever been tempted to leave the local church because of hypocrisy, backbiting, lack of love for one another, or any other reason, this book has a simple question for you: what if Jesus is calling you to infiltrate your church and start loving it from the inside out, becoming the change agent yourself? This is not just another “how to” book on what steps to take to make the church more Christ-like or how to get people to act right. What this book does do is provide the reader with how to first be a changed believer, and then harness that fire towards encouraging others in their faith in the church.
There are a lot of good things I could quote from the book and things I could say about it, but the best thing I can do is tell you to go out and read it! Go buy Called To Stay on Amazon. For more information, check out calledtostay.com.
October 2, 2013
This is the first book I've read written specifically for people who are planning to leave their church and go hunting for another...or not. Or who have already left.
If you buy this book, fast forward to Part 3, Chapter 9, When to Leave. There you will find a what I think would have been well placed in Chapter 1; but then, I'm not the writer or the publisher. I like this chapter because it contains a checklist of when it might be actually needed for you to continue with plans to leave.
If your church passes the test, though, return to Chapter 1 and find out what do do to be a help, not a hindrance. Ever thought about being an infiltrator? Being one who helps the Lord breathe life into this ailing body? Benchwarmers--would you like to actually get into the game and help your church be a winner?
This book contains suggestions and challenges that won't be for the faint at heart or those who would rather sit back and let George do it. Frankly, that's why your church might be ailing. Too many let-Georges and too few go-get-'ems.
If you buy this book, fast forward to Part 3, Chapter 9, When to Leave. There you will find a what I think would have been well placed in Chapter 1; but then, I'm not the writer or the publisher. I like this chapter because it contains a checklist of when it might be actually needed for you to continue with plans to leave.
If your church passes the test, though, return to Chapter 1 and find out what do do to be a help, not a hindrance. Ever thought about being an infiltrator? Being one who helps the Lord breathe life into this ailing body? Benchwarmers--would you like to actually get into the game and help your church be a winner?
This book contains suggestions and challenges that won't be for the faint at heart or those who would rather sit back and let George do it. Frankly, that's why your church might be ailing. Too many let-Georges and too few go-get-'ems.
December 31, 2013
This book should be in every church library, every pastor should read this, and every believer who wants to reach others for Christ (which should be all of us) should have this book in their hands.
Called to Stay is not for those people who are upset about the color the walls, or the type of carpet in the church. This book is for those that are frustrated with that type of thinking, who long for more in their church, who are considering leaving their church because people around them seem content with surface level Christianity.
Caleb encourages believers to become infiltrators in their churches, to be examples of what we know Christ has called us to be.
This book is really so much more than calling believers to stay, it really is a book on deeper faith.
I highly recommend this book to any believer how wants more for their church, who is tired of surface level Sunday mornings. We can make a difference, we can do this together through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Let’s stay :)
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Called to Stay is not for those people who are upset about the color the walls, or the type of carpet in the church. This book is for those that are frustrated with that type of thinking, who long for more in their church, who are considering leaving their church because people around them seem content with surface level Christianity.
Caleb encourages believers to become infiltrators in their churches, to be examples of what we know Christ has called us to be.
This book is really so much more than calling believers to stay, it really is a book on deeper faith.
I highly recommend this book to any believer how wants more for their church, who is tired of surface level Sunday mornings. We can make a difference, we can do this together through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Let’s stay :)
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2013
Called to Stay is excellent. Caleb has written an engaging and practical book on a very important subject. Caleb's challenges to love Jesus more and intentionally stir up love and good works are spot on whether you're fed up or happy with your church. Read and pray through it!
October 11, 2013
Best book I've read recently. Promotes Church infiltration and seeing the Lord's church as the bride it really is. Much needed practical insight on how to support your church to make it what God has called it to be. A must read for the discouraged disciple.
October 4, 2013
A good book with a clear call to Christians to work within their local congregation to do God's work. Very well done!
May 15, 2017
I love the premise of the book. Going to church to have your needs met instead of going to church to join together in Christ's work has been an epidemic.
A lot of the information and thoughts are good, but the author focuses a little too much on technological trends to wrap up chapters which seemed to distract from the content.
A lot of the information and thoughts are good, but the author focuses a little too much on technological trends to wrap up chapters which seemed to distract from the content.
November 16, 2018
Excellent book for Millenial believers. Tackles a major issues present on the church today: leaving the church, being hurt by the church etc. But most importantly it's a powerful exploration of what is necessary in such a case: persons willing to stay and work.
November 6, 2020
2.5 stars.
December 7, 2020
Chapter 2: "Any time balance and perspective increases, the body of Christ wins."
Chapter 7: "Avoid those who come across as hostile or arrogant. Their ideas are not worth their poisonous attitudes."
Chapter 7: "Avoid those who come across as hostile or arrogant. Their ideas are not worth their poisonous attitudes."
March 11, 2013
Called to Stay, written by Caleb Jennings Breakey and published by Harvest House Publishers (due out in October 2013) aims to encourage young people to do two things: to remain faithful to their local church even when they feel like leaving so that they can then spur on the "body of Christ to love and good works."
This call to faithfulness and ministry sounds noble. No, it is noble, particularly when statistics tell us that this present generation of Millennials constantly leave churches out of frustration and dissatisfaction.
As aside, I would say that I suspect that this exodus has much more to do with a lack of desire to be a part of Mom and Dad's church. That, and the great disconnect between modern youth ministries (whose focus largely on music and emotional responses) and more traditional adult worship services.
That said, Breakey states there are two groups of people who must read this book. He calls them the frustrated and the sieged. People either thinking about leaving the church or people who have already left the church.
I fall into neither one of those categories which is why the following quote disturbs me:
This book isn't just about changing church culture, or making Christianity look more attractive to the world. It's about thrusting yourself into the grand campaign God has for building his church.
There it is. The book isn't just about changing church culture or trying to make our faith more attractive to the world. It's about that, and more.
So, from there, my skeptic antennae slowly started to rise, until I realized that this "breakout new author" and I don't share the same vision of the church, at all.
He believes that church culture needs to be transformed so that the church looks good to the world. I believe that lives need to be transformed so that believers look different to the world (different...not just weird).
Serving the target audience well, he plows "the radical for Jesus" row more than once. The book is long and risky and edgy and, frankly made this 38-year-old feel like 85 at times. And then, There is the next generational social media element with links to videos and Facebook status suggestions at the close of each chapter.
Lest you think I'm being overly harsh, let me point out some things that Called to Stay does right.
It is full of scripture references, thus giving the reader proof texts for each point being made. This serves a dual purpose of showing that the author studied the material and handles the Word carefully.
At times he writes with wisdom beyond his "millennial" years. A good example is when he writes, "Baptizing believers is a one-time event. Teaching them to obey all that Jesus has commanded is a lifetime event." Absolutely.
The book leaves no doubt about the author's sincerity, nor his love for the Lord Jesus, His church or His children. Breakey's desire is obviously to see believers discipled and growing in healthy churches.
He tries to find the delicate balance between boldness and humility. He doesn't advocate rebellion or a pastoral regime change, but if taken improperly, some of his words could be misconstrued as subversion, especially when he calls people to "infiltrate" the church.
Honestly, I'm torn. I found some material very profitable and edifying, other portions worrisome and still more simply strange. His use of the Holy Spirit represented as a giant ball that suddenly appeared in someone's house make me scratch my head.
But, if you're out of church or thinking about getting out and are somewhere between the ages of 15 and 30, try Called to Stay. It just might be what you are looking for.
Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for this review.
This call to faithfulness and ministry sounds noble. No, it is noble, particularly when statistics tell us that this present generation of Millennials constantly leave churches out of frustration and dissatisfaction.
As aside, I would say that I suspect that this exodus has much more to do with a lack of desire to be a part of Mom and Dad's church. That, and the great disconnect between modern youth ministries (whose focus largely on music and emotional responses) and more traditional adult worship services.
That said, Breakey states there are two groups of people who must read this book. He calls them the frustrated and the sieged. People either thinking about leaving the church or people who have already left the church.
I fall into neither one of those categories which is why the following quote disturbs me:
This book isn't just about changing church culture, or making Christianity look more attractive to the world. It's about thrusting yourself into the grand campaign God has for building his church.
There it is. The book isn't just about changing church culture or trying to make our faith more attractive to the world. It's about that, and more.
So, from there, my skeptic antennae slowly started to rise, until I realized that this "breakout new author" and I don't share the same vision of the church, at all.
He believes that church culture needs to be transformed so that the church looks good to the world. I believe that lives need to be transformed so that believers look different to the world (different...not just weird).
Serving the target audience well, he plows "the radical for Jesus" row more than once. The book is long and risky and edgy and, frankly made this 38-year-old feel like 85 at times. And then, There is the next generational social media element with links to videos and Facebook status suggestions at the close of each chapter.
Lest you think I'm being overly harsh, let me point out some things that Called to Stay does right.
It is full of scripture references, thus giving the reader proof texts for each point being made. This serves a dual purpose of showing that the author studied the material and handles the Word carefully.
At times he writes with wisdom beyond his "millennial" years. A good example is when he writes, "Baptizing believers is a one-time event. Teaching them to obey all that Jesus has commanded is a lifetime event." Absolutely.
The book leaves no doubt about the author's sincerity, nor his love for the Lord Jesus, His church or His children. Breakey's desire is obviously to see believers discipled and growing in healthy churches.
He tries to find the delicate balance between boldness and humility. He doesn't advocate rebellion or a pastoral regime change, but if taken improperly, some of his words could be misconstrued as subversion, especially when he calls people to "infiltrate" the church.
Honestly, I'm torn. I found some material very profitable and edifying, other portions worrisome and still more simply strange. His use of the Holy Spirit represented as a giant ball that suddenly appeared in someone's house make me scratch my head.
But, if you're out of church or thinking about getting out and are somewhere between the ages of 15 and 30, try Called to Stay. It just might be what you are looking for.
Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for this review.
December 11, 2013
Had a few really good chapters and a few so-so ones.
The website calledtostay.com has man video and printable resources related to the book
p. 32 Right now, the world is amused by the church's self-destruction. It likes poking fun at her and exposing her warts. What's worse is that more and more believers are joining in the jeering, as if Christ has finally given up on his bride and now wants to stone her.
...somewhere along the line, passionate followers of Christ decided that they were only going to tell some people about Jesus, and only teach some people about his ways. They'd restrict the message to people outside the church, because the ones inside were just too sick.
I understand the reasoning behind the decision. Ask any contractor and you'll discover that it's far easier to build new houses than it is to fix up crooked ones. But when the contractors refuse to take on jobs of shoring up weak houses, they immediately neglect half of the people who need their skills.
**He also includes several quotes from others
*He who loves his dream of a community more than the Christian community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter, even though his personal intentions may be ever so honest and earnest and sacrificial. Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Speaking of what happens after someone leaves the church...
p. 37 This loneliness eventually leads to a sort of nontraditional, solo way of following Jesus that doesn't adhere to what we see in the New Testament. Not only that, but solo followers tend to be pretty vocal about their disdain for the church, slandering her via the internet and social avenues, or quietly speaking bad of her--both of which are extremely harmful to God's people.
p. 38 Those who leave the church in order to be the church end up needing a church.
*Churches say they have the best and most important news in the world...yet churches are made up of people like you and me, people who are grumpy, irritable, unfaithful, and selfish...We talk of love, but we too often give ourselves over to hate. Mark Dever
*If my sinfulness appears to me to be in any way smaller of less detestable in comparison with the sins of others, I am still not recognizing my sinfulness at all Dietrich Bonhoeffer
p. 140 Too often we find out something about a person, such as their political affiliation or stance on a cultural hot topic, and we immediately grow cold to them. The usually leads to all kind of wrong assumptions and sinful behavior.
*Some of the most gifted and potentially powerful Christians I know are right now at a Starbucks or at a bar somewhere griping about the church, too tainted by grief and bitterness to be of any use to anyone. Stephen Mansfield
*Enduring the wounds of fellow Christians with mercy and grace seems to be the call of every true saint. We should not expect it to be any different in our own lives. Stephen Mansfield
The website calledtostay.com has man video and printable resources related to the book
p. 32 Right now, the world is amused by the church's self-destruction. It likes poking fun at her and exposing her warts. What's worse is that more and more believers are joining in the jeering, as if Christ has finally given up on his bride and now wants to stone her.
...somewhere along the line, passionate followers of Christ decided that they were only going to tell some people about Jesus, and only teach some people about his ways. They'd restrict the message to people outside the church, because the ones inside were just too sick.
I understand the reasoning behind the decision. Ask any contractor and you'll discover that it's far easier to build new houses than it is to fix up crooked ones. But when the contractors refuse to take on jobs of shoring up weak houses, they immediately neglect half of the people who need their skills.
**He also includes several quotes from others
*He who loves his dream of a community more than the Christian community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter, even though his personal intentions may be ever so honest and earnest and sacrificial. Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Speaking of what happens after someone leaves the church...
p. 37 This loneliness eventually leads to a sort of nontraditional, solo way of following Jesus that doesn't adhere to what we see in the New Testament. Not only that, but solo followers tend to be pretty vocal about their disdain for the church, slandering her via the internet and social avenues, or quietly speaking bad of her--both of which are extremely harmful to God's people.
p. 38 Those who leave the church in order to be the church end up needing a church.
*Churches say they have the best and most important news in the world...yet churches are made up of people like you and me, people who are grumpy, irritable, unfaithful, and selfish...We talk of love, but we too often give ourselves over to hate. Mark Dever
*If my sinfulness appears to me to be in any way smaller of less detestable in comparison with the sins of others, I am still not recognizing my sinfulness at all Dietrich Bonhoeffer
p. 140 Too often we find out something about a person, such as their political affiliation or stance on a cultural hot topic, and we immediately grow cold to them. The usually leads to all kind of wrong assumptions and sinful behavior.
*Some of the most gifted and potentially powerful Christians I know are right now at a Starbucks or at a bar somewhere griping about the church, too tainted by grief and bitterness to be of any use to anyone. Stephen Mansfield
*Enduring the wounds of fellow Christians with mercy and grace seems to be the call of every true saint. We should not expect it to be any different in our own lives. Stephen Mansfield
November 25, 2016
Caleb Breakey has a clear passion for the local church. He writes to Christians experiencing frustration with their churches who are tempted to abandon the Church altogether. Coining the idea of “infiltration,” Breakey charges Christians to stay with their local churches, working with the community to cultivate health and flourishing. Each chapter highlights an aspect of infiltration–such as building unity and relying on the Holy Spirit–that believers should embrace as they seek to contribute to the good of their local church.
I so wanted to love this book. As an associate campus pastor at a Christian university, I often work with young adults who struggle to fit into local church communities. I was hoping that Breakey would write clear and compelling material, so I could recommend this book to students. Unfortunately, I was sorely disappointed. Though Breakey has good starting points, he often launches off with explanations that lack depth and clarity. Not only do Breakey’s points fail to develop well, his poor writing style obfuscates the message he seeks to convey. This becomes especially apparent in obscure allegories that Breakey uses, acting as if they shed brilliant light on his subject, when in actuality, they create more confusion and… well, just overall oddness. Breakey also uses excessive numbering of points and lists in each chapter, which make his main ideas more complicated. Though he tries to make the book practical–and I admit, there are some helpful points–many of his ideas lack meaningful contextualization or maturity. Even the term “infiltration” seems too militaristic to me for what he’s challenging Christians to do.
As a side note: I was bothered by Breakey’s lack of gender-inclusive language. Not only does he always refer to pastors with male pronouns–which at least makes sense if he’s complementation–he also uses almost all male pronouns for generic examples of church-goers. With at least 50% of church members being female, he should have put more intentionality into including them.
After reading this book, I think Breakey seems genuine and his love for the Church is pure. He’s the kind of guy, I imagine would be fun to have coffee with. His book, however, I cannot recommend.
I so wanted to love this book. As an associate campus pastor at a Christian university, I often work with young adults who struggle to fit into local church communities. I was hoping that Breakey would write clear and compelling material, so I could recommend this book to students. Unfortunately, I was sorely disappointed. Though Breakey has good starting points, he often launches off with explanations that lack depth and clarity. Not only do Breakey’s points fail to develop well, his poor writing style obfuscates the message he seeks to convey. This becomes especially apparent in obscure allegories that Breakey uses, acting as if they shed brilliant light on his subject, when in actuality, they create more confusion and… well, just overall oddness. Breakey also uses excessive numbering of points and lists in each chapter, which make his main ideas more complicated. Though he tries to make the book practical–and I admit, there are some helpful points–many of his ideas lack meaningful contextualization or maturity. Even the term “infiltration” seems too militaristic to me for what he’s challenging Christians to do.
As a side note: I was bothered by Breakey’s lack of gender-inclusive language. Not only does he always refer to pastors with male pronouns–which at least makes sense if he’s complementation–he also uses almost all male pronouns for generic examples of church-goers. With at least 50% of church members being female, he should have put more intentionality into including them.
After reading this book, I think Breakey seems genuine and his love for the Church is pure. He’s the kind of guy, I imagine would be fun to have coffee with. His book, however, I cannot recommend.
December 25, 2013
I've read the books about why Millennials are leaving church. But, this is the first book I've read written to young adults encouraging them to stay, and not only to stay, but to stay for the purpose of making a difference. I applaud Caleb Breakey for not simply pointing out a problem, but crafting a creative solution, which he calls "infiltrating", and seeking to motivate his peers to get on board.
In the first chapter Breakey invites readers to remember the godly influences in their lives. "God used these believers to bring you to where you are today. They infiltrated your soul with passionate commitment to Jesus in spite of your immaturity, hardheadedness, or imbalance--and God caused you to grow" (page 28). Recognizing the blessing others have been in our lives becomes the springboard allowing God to use you to be a blessing to others.
The book is full of practical ways to make a difference in one's local church. I was pleased to see many, many references to scripture, particularly the New Testament letters. If you want to know why you should stay in church there is no better place to begin than with the documents written to the first churches. These letters teach us how to treat one another based on how God through Christ, has treated us.
Breakey's chapter on "When to Leave" gave some very useful information for evaluating one's church situation and deciding if one should look for another church or continue to serve where they are. I gave the book 4 stars simply because I found some of the illustrations difficult to understand and got a bit bored midway through the book. However, that may be because I am a 54 year old baby-boomer pastor and not a 20-something Millennial just getting started in adulthood.
The parts of the book I most enjoyed were the opening and closing chapters. The author's passion for Jesus and desire to see those of his generation meaningfully plugged into church refreshed my soul. In some of his closing words he wrote, "Many believe that abandoning the church is the progressive way to move toward Jesus. But from everything I see in Scripture, the progressive way to move toward Jesus is to be like him in your church." Amen.
In the first chapter Breakey invites readers to remember the godly influences in their lives. "God used these believers to bring you to where you are today. They infiltrated your soul with passionate commitment to Jesus in spite of your immaturity, hardheadedness, or imbalance--and God caused you to grow" (page 28). Recognizing the blessing others have been in our lives becomes the springboard allowing God to use you to be a blessing to others.
The book is full of practical ways to make a difference in one's local church. I was pleased to see many, many references to scripture, particularly the New Testament letters. If you want to know why you should stay in church there is no better place to begin than with the documents written to the first churches. These letters teach us how to treat one another based on how God through Christ, has treated us.
Breakey's chapter on "When to Leave" gave some very useful information for evaluating one's church situation and deciding if one should look for another church or continue to serve where they are. I gave the book 4 stars simply because I found some of the illustrations difficult to understand and got a bit bored midway through the book. However, that may be because I am a 54 year old baby-boomer pastor and not a 20-something Millennial just getting started in adulthood.
The parts of the book I most enjoyed were the opening and closing chapters. The author's passion for Jesus and desire to see those of his generation meaningfully plugged into church refreshed my soul. In some of his closing words he wrote, "Many believe that abandoning the church is the progressive way to move toward Jesus. But from everything I see in Scripture, the progressive way to move toward Jesus is to be like him in your church." Amen.
October 7, 2013
Called to Stay serves as Caleb Breakey's timely call to his fellow millennials to do the hard work of staying in a place that frustrates them more than possibly any other: the local church. Millennial attitudes toward fundamentalism and the Christian faith are no secret. A generation of youth whose core values are identity and passion have come to see gaps between theology and practice as not only unacceptable but repugnant. Breakey's message to his ever-authentic and integrity-obsessed peers is simple: the ethic of Christian love calls not for leaving the broken fellowship of believers but rather transforming churches through loving relationship and Christ-centered personal reflection.
Breakey shows his understanding of the current cultural mindset in more than just substance but also style. His background in journalism is on full display as he concisely expresses large ideas in a form that is brief but dense. Though the book reads at a breakneck pace, every page feels full of useful suggestions and valuable insights.
Of course, to some this may also make the book feel like a series of one-liners, bumper-sticker slogans, and other instances of fortune-cookie wisdom. Ironically, the book may seem to display the sort of pithy church culture against which millennials seem to react so harshly, but I think such a critique is dismissive. Breakey writes as he does with intentionality, because a staccato delivery is the most common way millennials absorb information. Though sections are brief, they are well written and succinct.
Called to Stay is wonderful, plain and simple. The book should prove an excellent, potent read for both those within a local church body and those who have left it.
Breakey shows his understanding of the current cultural mindset in more than just substance but also style. His background in journalism is on full display as he concisely expresses large ideas in a form that is brief but dense. Though the book reads at a breakneck pace, every page feels full of useful suggestions and valuable insights.
Of course, to some this may also make the book feel like a series of one-liners, bumper-sticker slogans, and other instances of fortune-cookie wisdom. Ironically, the book may seem to display the sort of pithy church culture against which millennials seem to react so harshly, but I think such a critique is dismissive. Breakey writes as he does with intentionality, because a staccato delivery is the most common way millennials absorb information. Though sections are brief, they are well written and succinct.
Called to Stay is wonderful, plain and simple. The book should prove an excellent, potent read for both those within a local church body and those who have left it.
October 2, 2013
Caleb Breakey's passion for "The Church" is incredibly evident in his book Called to Stay. When I say The Church, I mean the universal church as in all people from all times all around the world who love, worship and obey Jesus. This is where I see Caleb's passion.
He deeply and passionately wants us all to stay in The Church. He knows what it feels like to get disappointed with church people. People aren't perfect and even churches mess up. He doesn't ask anyone to stay in a damaging and dangerous place, but for all the rest he encourages us to STAY and infiltrate.
He's not complaining about his church or your church or my church or even The Church. Instead, he's come to the realization that moving on and going to some other building doesn't necessarily help The Church. It won't help any of us if we all leave.
For those of us, from any age group, who find ourselves frustrated or disappointed with the people or passion in our given building, we can help. We can infiltrate and help.
Caleb give practical guidance on how to be more loving and caring to people who don't do everything the way we wish they would. He encourages people who love Jesus to also be people who love God's people. When those types of people stay and help the church grow, amazing stuff happens.
He's seen the proof of this change. He's lived the proof and he's written about how to help The Church by staying with your church.
All I can say is, "I want to be an infiltrator."
He deeply and passionately wants us all to stay in The Church. He knows what it feels like to get disappointed with church people. People aren't perfect and even churches mess up. He doesn't ask anyone to stay in a damaging and dangerous place, but for all the rest he encourages us to STAY and infiltrate.
He's not complaining about his church or your church or my church or even The Church. Instead, he's come to the realization that moving on and going to some other building doesn't necessarily help The Church. It won't help any of us if we all leave.
For those of us, from any age group, who find ourselves frustrated or disappointed with the people or passion in our given building, we can help. We can infiltrate and help.
Caleb give practical guidance on how to be more loving and caring to people who don't do everything the way we wish they would. He encourages people who love Jesus to also be people who love God's people. When those types of people stay and help the church grow, amazing stuff happens.
He's seen the proof of this change. He's lived the proof and he's written about how to help The Church by staying with your church.
All I can say is, "I want to be an infiltrator."
October 21, 2013
I believe this book has helped me feel renewed hope for the church and it challenges me to stay in check with Jesus and allow Him to change my heart more and more towards Him and to help others see Him through how I live. I'm up for the challenge!
Caleb Breakey is so kind and loving in how he words things to help teach those who love Jesus to be infiltrators into the church in which He died for so that we can encourage, help bring growth, and see fellowship through how we live within the church.
While most people might feel pain and hurt and run from it, we are encouraged in this book to continue pressing on and persevering while making our church our mission field. Believe me, I've had my share of heartaches in the church, but this is to show us to allow the Holy Spirit to help us and to not give up! Definitely a great read.
I wrote a very large review on my site http://justicepirate.com/2013/10/26/c...
Caleb Breakey is so kind and loving in how he words things to help teach those who love Jesus to be infiltrators into the church in which He died for so that we can encourage, help bring growth, and see fellowship through how we live within the church.
While most people might feel pain and hurt and run from it, we are encouraged in this book to continue pressing on and persevering while making our church our mission field. Believe me, I've had my share of heartaches in the church, but this is to show us to allow the Holy Spirit to help us and to not give up! Definitely a great read.
I wrote a very large review on my site http://justicepirate.com/2013/10/26/c...
December 18, 2013
We've seen the statistics. Young people are leaving the church. Breakey calls them to stay. He has an extensive plan for infiltrating the church to bring to the place of loving Jesus. I was a bit overwhelmed with all of the suggestions. It seems way too much for one person to do. I suggest getting a group together and reading this book. There are no study questions but there are free resources that can be downloaded from the book's web site. I wanted more on being hurt because I know when one infiltrates a church, there will be hurt. There is also a section on how to determine if one should stay or go to a different church. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1fmJ7pJ.
March 18, 2014
According to George Barna, Millenials are leaving the church at an alarming rate. Caleb Breakey addresses this issue with humility and sensitivity to challenge those who are frustrated and tempted to quit. His call to be an infiltrator rather than another statistic is clear, compelling, and biblically founded. This book provides hope and purpose for Millenials wrestling with the question of staying, and helps them become agents of positive change within the church instead of abandoning her. Refreshing, convicting, and timely, Called to Stay is a must-read before you head for the church exit.
January 25, 2014
If you are questioning what you are doing in your church this book is for you.
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