Houses That Change the World: The Return of the House Churches

by Wolfgang Simson

Millions of Christians around the world are becoming aware of an imminent reformation of global proportions within the Church. God is changing this revered institution and is making a new collective awareness of an age-old revelation, a corporate spiritual echo that reflects God's desire for the Church. In this book, Wolfgang Simson brings to light what God is saying to Christians everywhere. Researched across the globe, he presents the case for the reformation of the Church's existence. In a world where the Church is being ignored, it is time to bring the Church to the people, and not the people to the Church. Whether it is what we know as 'Church' from the last five years or last five hundred year, no one has truly been able to break free from the structures of the past. Many may see this book as radical, many may see it as a reforming of old ideals, but all who read it will be challenged in their Churching and have their priorities refocused in a life-changing way.

Genres: Church, Christian, Ecclesiology

303 pages, Paperback

First published March 6, 2001

Reviews

[Jonathan Brooker · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Houses That Change the World" may have sentences where it is denied, but the bulk of the content of this nearly 300-page book is quite clearly an argument that there is a model of church that is more New Testament and God-ordained than others and it is the house church.

As expected, the arguments then become problematic. For instance, I found it strange early on that the book stressed as an argument for house churches that the the gospel should be displayed where we spend so much of our time, and yet nothing was mentioned of workplace gospel work even though many of us spend significant time there. In fact, many of the arguments that Simson makes for the superiority of house churches seem to cherry-pick strengths of that size and certain biblical passages which seem to validate it while ignoring some strong setbacks of that size and, yes, certain biblical passages that seem to indicate churches of a larger size.

Now, to be clear, this book did offer some strong argument for churches that meet in the homes of people, which is an entirely biblically appropriate and approved model of ministry. (I just struggle with the view that it is the ONLY approved model.) Since this book is written like a manifesto as well as handbook for house churches, there was some real quality material for better understanding, appreciating, and even tools for being part of a house church. For anyone feeling led by God to be involved in a house church I would say that this book is very useful and worth recommending with caution. However, I cannot strongly recommend any book no matter how well written that poses a certain model of church as the singular model which Christ so desires to see in direct comparison against others.

[Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Church growth strategist Wolfgang Simson sends an exciting flotilla of ideas downstream in this seminal (for some) work on God's primordial intent for the nature, function, and structure of the church. In short, he envisions and advocates nothing short of a complete redefinition and transformation of the church worldwide. Not everything he says strikes me as right-on, but the book is nonethless a worthwhile, undoutedly prophetic read. I recommend it to anyone, Christian and non-Christian, who suspects that church-as-we-know-it is not church-as-God-intends-it. An unedited draft of the book is available at www.livingtruth.com/PDF/housesthat%20....

[Stanley Jebb · Rating 4 out of 5]

The basic premise of this book is that the church should be home-based. House churches and discipleship are the key. That is biblical and very important. However the book is marred by an over-emphasis upon apostles and prophets together with a lack of discernment. For example he quotes with approval men who have been exposed as heretics. There are many other flaws such as illogical reasoning and self-contradiction.

[Samuel Xiong · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books of all time. It has the perfect mix of church history, biblical exposition and statistical analysis of current church trends that show the authors thorough research into the subject matter, as well as his burning heart for what is revealed about the church in the New Testament.

[Antonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s inspired one to really think of how our churches are. I was thinking of this before I got introduced to the book, now I feel the same thoughts but more resources to look at and support if embarking on this journey

[Ben Connelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best-written 300-pagers I've read. Compelling, thorough, & generally non-repetitive; good mix of story/example & info/principle. Good address of subject matter. Winner.

[M.A. Machacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

: I read this book at a snail's pace (5 years) because I mulled over every section I finished. This book is very close to my heart and spoke several truths into my spiritual life.

[Kristy Hetzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a book for everybody and not always the easiest to read, but worth my time. A bit repetitive at times, but thought-provoking.

[Milton Quintanilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall message is the need for fellowship, spiritual parenthood, discipleship, the 5 fold ministry, and more! Thought provoking, yet genuine in love for the church today to forsake mans ideals and trust in a supernatural God who ultimately builds and sustains His church.

However, I felt it was redundant . If the book was shorter, it would flow better. Overall, I think you should read it. You'll definitely get a lot out of it.

[Michael Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm partial because I was able to meet Wolfgang at a conference once and was enthralled by the energy and faith he displays, but this book is great. The easiest place to fake Christianity is in a sanctuary, the hardest place is in a living room. He makes a compelling logical, historical, and biblical argument that "church" should happen in the home. A great practical book for church planters or small group leaders. Superb stats and stories.

[Stan · Rating 4 out of 5]

My third time through Houses that Change the World. The book is still, in my opinion, one of the best on house church. Simson packs so many considerations into this book! The tone is that of a book written in post-Christian Europe, and the reader must understand that context.

Great book. Give it a read and enjoy!

[Derek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this over 10 years ago, and it fundamentally changed the way I view the church. I now am part of an amazing church that is home group based - and my journey here probably started with this book.

[Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done Wolfgang. Very important book.

[Jeff Noble]

Houses that Change the World by Wolfgang Simson (?)

[Krzysiek Troszczyński · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This is It!" I said finishing to read this book. For the first time I saw christianity as a resolved puzzle with every parts in it's proper place. Milestone for a new breed of christians.

[Mike]

A great look at how the structure of the church needs/is changing. Go organic baby!