Church Coup

by Jim Meyer

Conflict in churches has reached epidemic levels. With 1,500 pastors leaving ministry every month - many being forced out involuntarily - Jesus' church is increasingly losing trained, impactful leaders. Such clashes damage pastors, their families, and congregations alike. While many Christian leaders are aware of this issue, most have chosen to maintain silence rather than combat this problem. Church Coup is the firsthand account of a seasoned pastor who experienced a devastating conflict. He exposes why such struggles occur while suggesting biblical, concrete solutions for their resolution. "This book should be read by every pastor and church board member and every lay leader. The story is compelling, and the lessons are critical." Dave Rolph, senior pastor, Calvary Chapel Pacific Hills, Aliso Viejo, California and teacher on the nationally-syndicated radio program The Balanced Word "With candor and balance, Jim outlines a godly approach to handling the heartbreak of a ministry divided. A must read for anyone who is in the midst of considering letting a pastor go." Kathi Lipp, author and speaker "Jim has been willing to be transparent about his experience so that others in the work of the church will read this, learn from it, and act differently." Dale Frimodt, founder and director of Barnabas Ministries, Omaha, Nebraska "I encourage you to read the book carefully and to recommend it to other ministers as well as key church leaders who can make a difference." Charles H. Chandler, executive director, Ministering to Ministers Foundation, Inc., Richmond, Viriginia A pastor for more than 35 years, Jim is the founder of Restoring Kingdom Builders, a 501(c)(3) organization designed to prevent and resolve church conflict biblically. A graduate of Biola University (B.A.), Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.) and Fuller Seminary (D.Min.), Jim and his wife Kim live in Southern California.

290 pages, Paperback

First published March 28, 2013

Reviews

[Tara Figgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book accurately and devastatingly reveals the persecution and suffering that pastors and their families undergo in their congregations. The method that Satan uses is eerily true across the board, he is intent to destroy the church and he uses congregants and often elders/boards to take down pastors through lies, deceit and slander. But “What you meant for evil, God meant for good!”

[Jeremy Giesbrecht · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helps to read this if your church has gone through it.

[Audrey Webster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pastor side of clergy killers. Well done.

[Simon Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sadly, this is an all to familiar occurrence within churches, and was an eerily relatable situation to read about ... but incredibly insightful. Jim Meyer's openness is so helpful, as is his analysis of the church conflict that he had experienced. He is quite aware of his own shortcomings, and provides a healthy reflection on those involved in the conflict. But also he backs this up with solid research and examples. Definitely worth a read for anyone who's been through, or going through, conflict within their church. But also some worthwhile ideas for any pastor or church governance to put in place.