It: How Churches and Leaders Can Get It and Keep It

by Craig Groeschel

When Craig Groeschel founded LifeChurch.tv, the congregation met in a borrowed two-car garage, with ratty furnishings and faulty audiovisual equipment. But people were drawn there, sensing a powerful, life-changing force Groeschel calls “It.” What is It, and how can you and your ministry get—and keep—It? Combining in-your-face honesty with off-the-wall humor, this book tells how any believer can obtain It, get It back, and guard It. One of today’s most innovative church leaders, Groeschel provides profile interviews with Mark Driscoll, Perry Noble, Tim Stevens, Mark Batterson, Jud Wilhite, and Dino Rizzo. This lively book will challenge churches and their leaders to maintain the spiritual balance that results in experiencing It in their lives.

Genres: Leadership, Christian, Church, Nonfiction, Christianity, Faith, Christian Living

192 pages, Hardcover

First published July 18, 2008

About the author

Craig Groeschel is the founding and senior pastor of Life.Church, a multisite church with locations throughout the United States and globally at Life.Church Online.

Craig and his wife Amy started Life.Church in a two-car garage in Edmond, Oklahoma in January 1996. While Life.Church has grown over the years, its mission remains the same: to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. Today, the church is known for its innovative use of technology to spread the Gospel, launching the first fully digital church experience in 2006 and the most downloaded Bible app in history, YouVersion, in 2008.

As a widely respected leader in the Church, Craig speaks frequently at leadership events and conferences worldwide. He is a New York Times best-selling author with books about topics like dating and marriage, social media, purpose, direction, church leadership, and more. He also hosts the Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast, a practical tool to spark new ideas and prompt innovative thinking in leaders at every level within any organization.

Craig and Amy married in 1991 and have six children. They live in Oklahoma where Life.Church began.

Visit www.craiggroeschel.com to be the first to hear about new podcast episodes, books, leadership events, and more.

Reviews

[H.L. Hussmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I originally rated this as two stars and put it down after the first couple chapters. I just couldn't get past the frat-boy, fart joke, rah rah stuff that so many reviewers have posted about. That's fine when I'm golfing with my buddies, but it was difficult when trying to study about church development. I'd love to be friends with the author, I just couldn't focus on reading.

However, after reading several more reviews (this was my first experience with Groeschel and I wanted to know what all the buzz was about) I was persuaded to pick it up and give it another try. VERY glad I did. For one thing, the rah rah stuff mellowed out soon after. More importantly, there is a ton of great information, thought-provoking ideas, and personal challenges that have really made me take a good long look at myself and my motivations and heart for church planting. I would recommend it to everyone in ministry and will most likely, one day, sit down with my team and go through it chapter by chapter. It really is excellent and I'm looking forward to reading more from Craig Groeschel.

[Pete Potloff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I think it has some good and challenging questions for young and old pastors and leaders to consider.

[Michael · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lots helpful here. Some of his writing was very honest, exhorting, straight-talk to pastors, and I was challenged personally. Quite a bit of silliness and immaturity you have to get through, but overall, this was a good conversation with a brother in Christ from a different tradition.

[Phil Whittall · Rating 3 out of 5]

Craig Groeschel is the pastor of LifeChurch.tv (yes that is it's name) that has thousands of people in multiple places and has made a name for itself with its use of technology and live streaming of worship and preaches to its multiple campuses. His latest book is one on leadership, It: How Churches and Leaders can get IT and keep IT published by Zondervan.

This book irritated and inspired me in almost equal measure. Groeschel is funny and communicates well and he's on to something. Some churches and some leaders do have it. Some think Mark Driscoll has it. Others think he definitely doesn't. But there is an it that we're discussing, it's that X-factor in Church life and leadership. Leaders want to have it and they want their churches to have it. But nailing it down isn't easy. And yes all through the book the word 'it' is in italics and yes it gets a bit much.

At one point Groeschel writes, "The best explanation I can give you is this: it is what God does through a rare combination of these qualities found in his people: Passion for his presence; a deep craving to reach the lost; sincere integrity; spirit filled faith; down to earth humility and brokenness." (p31)

I thought 'yes - this is a book I want to read' so I was disappointed to discover that he doesn't write about those things, they are almost (but not entirely) absent from the rest of the book. Instead we get chapters on vision, focus, having fun with your team, being innovative, trying and failing until you succeed, and then mission and openness with other churches. (The last two chapters were especially good).

This isn't to say that what he writes on any of those things isn't helpful, interesting or potentially useful but it doesn't help me discover brokenness or passion or humility. So, this book did make me think about all of those things and I'm always looking for fresh leadership help (God, knows I need it) but it just didn't seem to satisfy.

I described the experience to a friend as asking for pasta and sauce and just getting sauce. The stories are great, the anecdotes punchy, the points poignant but somehow it lacked what was needed to provide sustenance. Not enough Bible, not enough on what he said makes it.

Then there were a few irritating cultural comments which can hardly be helped, he wasn't writing for the UK. Here's the one example that bugged me the most - scattered in the book are profiles of successful megachurch pastors in the US including the heart rending story of Perry Noble and NewSpring Church in Anderson, South Carolina a community with nearly 48% classified as unchurched. Oh how my heart breaks! Unless I'm very much mistaken that makes 52% are classified as churched. Here in North Shrewsbury the breakdown is more like 2% churched 98% unchurched. If 52% were churched I'd be leading a mega church because that would mean there were 10,000 Christians instead of about 250 spread across 6 churches. I don't know if you can tell, but that bugged me because there is a MASSIVE difference between the US and UK when it comes to faith.

Anyway overall it is worth a read if you're in leadership because it will make you think about the dynamics and culture of your church and your team, and I'm impressed by the way they place a value on serving other churches (if you want free resources from them go here) and their commitment to mission and more but this book could have been more. But this could have been a full meal of a book instead of a light snack.

[Jonathan McIntosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short & readable but immensely helpful book for church leaders on grabbing hold of that indefinable something that make thriving ministries tick.

The chapters on vision, focus, camaraderie, and risk are worth the price of the book. It wasn't until the last two chapters, however, that IT distinguishes itself from the vast number of church leadership books.

IT is more than just about learning techniques to get your church to grow... IT is about getting God.

In the chapter on losing your first love and giving into the demands of ministry success, I wanted to see more of a gospel-related cure from Groeschel. It's not just that my passion has waned, I have let something other than who I am in Christ replace my core identity... I have forgotten the gospel.

Overall, however, I was deeply stirred by Craig's honesty and forced to confront my own lack of passion and conviction.

This would be a great book for leadership teams to read and discuss together.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Groeschel is a very entertaining writer, and I honour him for that. The book was very enjoyable, and the reflection questions at the end of each chapter were very appropriate, a bonus as books of this genre often make the mistake of including review questions that lead us to conclude we aren't good enough (for anything) and we NEED their book to better ourselves. Groeschel was pleasantly humble and open about his opinions and experiences.

[Karen Rabbitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What kind of church we lead does not matter. What matters is if we have "it." Groeschel examines "it" from several different perspectives. The simplest way to think of "it" seems to be..."Have we maintained our 'first love' for Jesus?"

Featuring several case studies of denominationally diverse congregations.

[Yella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this book was quite a journey. At the beginning I enjoyed the funny, at times slightly goofy, writing style. I also loved the definition of "it," what it entails, and the author's clear passion for church building.
I struggled with the middle part of the book not necessarily so much because of the content but because it seemed like the author quoted more CEOs than the bible and for a Christian book writing about how God intended churches to be like this didn't sit well with me. When I was reading the book I had just finished listening to the podcast "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" and Mark Driscoll, the lead pastor of Mars Hill, was referenced in the book as a church leader with a great focus. Having just listened to how his story continues, this made me sad and for a while I didn't continue reading.
However, once I somehow made it to the chapter "Hearts Focused Outward" where the author talks about inviting new people into the church I realized why I even started reading this book. It made me realize what church is all about.
Finally, I am glad I kept reading and I would totally recommend!

[Dave Herman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was not scary at all.

Kidding aside, this book is motivating for leaders in church ministry. Groeschel has a way with words. While he doesn't explicitly define "it," he gets close enough with his explanation on page 31:
"It" is what God does through a rare combination of these qualities found in his people:
passion for his presence
a deep craving to reach the Lost
sincere integrity
Spirit-filled faith
down to earth humility
Brokenness

Groeschel then details the contributing factors to "It":
Vision
Focus
Cameraderie
Innovation
Willingness to Fail
Outward-Orientation
Kingdom-Mindedness

Groeschel's reputation continues well today. Since this book came out in 2008, his praise for many church leaders regrettably also includes Bill Hybels and Mark Driscoll, who have since fallen into disgrace. While the book's principles remain strong, it's ironic and disheartening for it to include some pastors who have missed "it."

[Chris Huff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book, but I'm really not sure how I feel about it.

There were several things about this book that I liked. The author encouraged important things such as prayer, believing God's promises, and taking a step of faith. But as much as he gave good advice in some places, he gave contradicting and confusing advice in other places. Although he fully admitted from the very beginning that "it" was not something that we could manufacture on our own, he seemingly went on to explain exactly how we might manufacture "it" on our own. The subtitle is even "how churches and leaders can get it and keep it."

So I think the thing that most annoyed me about this book was that I felt lied to. I certainly don't think it was intentional. I have a lot of respect for Craig Groeschel. I believe God is using him to reach a lot of people with the gospel. But I feel like this book is merely an interesting title that doesn't deliver.

Instead of pursuing some elusive and undefinable "it" quality, we ought to simply rest in Jesus, be thankful for grace, and rejoice in God. Let God take care of "it."

[Dave Rench · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very much a rendition of James MacDonald's Downpour. For some reason, Craig doesn't see "it" as being filled with the Holy Spirit. As Macdonald says, "one Spirit indwelling, many Spirit fillings."
That being said, it was all really good. More written for the church leader, which was a good perspective, as we in church leadership can assume we're close to God, because we're doing the work of God. In reality, though, we're more enamored with the bride of christ, than with christ himself.
Very good book.

[Hannah Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was just a great book for any pastor, ministry leader, ministry volunteer or member. Basically it will hold value for anyone involved in a church. He offered some great practical ways to restore your passion for Christ and the church’s, but it’s nothing that can be forced. He does have the corny writing habits and a few too many unnecessary jokes, but I can look past it because the meat of this book was inspiring, captivating, and challenging.

[Logan Streondj · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting glimpse into the mindset of a mega church leader. There are some surprising things in there. I must admit that some things like the promotion of ruin and emotional instability being touted as beneficial are quite shocking, though I can see how that may be appealing to a following strongly swayed by pathos.

[Evan Hoekzema · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book helpful from Groeschel. Rather than a church book focused on systems and growth, he writes primarily about 2 things: passion and focus. Passion for the lost as well as “pruning the ministry vine”, almost reminds me of a more compelling Simple Church in that regard. Worth the read.

[Caleb · Rating 5 out of 5]

You have to buy into Craig's humor if you're going to love his writings, but I bought in and love it. Regardless, the content is invaluable for helping church leaders and volunteers focus their minds and humble themselves. This is not a "how to book". This is a "why" book. And it ranks up there among the better church books to read.

[Zuzana Kollarova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Top 5? Definitely the best book on christian leadership I've read so far. Beyond recommendation! It certainly won't let you sit still, you'll have to get up, get on your knees, then get up again and do something about yourself and your church.

[Justin Boshoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book every leader should read at least once in their lives. Really practical guidelines. Needs more reflection with your team but I firmly believe if you practice these principles with your team success will follow.

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book on churches that have "it" and the 7 items that contribute to it:
1. Vision
2. Divine Focus
3. Unmistakable Camaraderie
4. Innovative Minds
5. Willingness to Fail
6. Hearts Focused Outward
7. Kingdom-Mindedness

[Alexander Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for all Christian leaders involved in ministries, outreaches, missions and discipleship.

[Slade Hogan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t think well of Groeschel and his methods before starting this book. It changed my mind. I’m very thankful for him and his ministry, and this is an inspiring book that leaders should read.

[Jonathan Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Read

Good read, well written, solid points. I highly recommend this book. Makes me want to read more from Craig Groeschel

[Noah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Basically a synopsis for every other Christian leadership book.

[Tiffany Ingram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good insights for church as well as other people in leadership roles

[Candy Shepard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although a great book for church leaders, it’s also a great book for any Christian leader. Don’t skip IT because it’s relative to church leadership. Insightful.

[Andy Febrico Bintoro · Rating 5 out of 5]

We know something there to be a successful. Some people said its x factor, but here we said "it" factor. Here you would embark on a journey to identify "it" to be successful on our area of work.

[Kavin Kramer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping to gain perspective on the author, the church he leads, and the topic at hand. I got all three. Not super deep, but practical. I'm thankful for this servant's heart.
3.5/5

[Michael Ponsler · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is good!

[Moriarty · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was very hard to read this book at the beginning; however, by the end, I couldn't be happier that I finished it.

[Aaron Loy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first thing that jumped out at me (literally and figuratively) about this book was the use of the word "it". Not only is it overemphasized, but it is italicized EVERY TIME IT'S SHOWN IN THE BOOK. It may simply be an aesthetic complaint, but one that hinders the flow of the book. Secondly, was the use of Craig Groeschel's "inner monologue" that often cuts into the middle of his words/thoughts. When making points, he will make jokes, or go on slight tangents, putting himself into the writing that I believe distracts from his message. Don't get me wrong, I think it's important to have your personality come out in your writing, but in this case, less is more and I believe it would be more effective if he let his words simply speak for themselves. Thirdly, Groeschel seems to recognize that "it" comes only from God, yet his writing often reflects the strategies and effort that comes from man, instead. (Not too mention that he highlights several church leaders, their churches, and their accomplishments; even one church leader who has since "fallen from grace". Finally, Groeschel puts a lot of emphasis on church attendance as a direct sign of a church's "success"; one that I can't say I fully agree with.

On the plus side, the book is an easy read, Groeschel is down to earth with his language, and I really appreciated the honesty about his own struggles and testimony. To that point, one of my favorite parts of the book is towards the end when he discusses his three prayers in his daily life: "Stretch Me", "Ruin Me", and "Heal Me".

Favorite Passage:

“Do you care about those who are without Christ? Before you give me the programmed Sunday-school answer most ministers give, let me help you answer this question honestly.

When was the last time you’ve had a lost person in your home? (The plumber who repaired your sink doesn’t count)

How many meaningful conversations did you have with non-Christians this week?

Who are the nonbelievers you prayed for today?

If you can’t answer those questions with several names, chances are you’re on the road to not caring. Or perhaps you’ve already arrived and have settled in at that dangerous destination. To be fair, most Christians don’t wake up one morning and declare, ‘I’ve decided not to care about the lost anymore.’ The attitude creeps in over time. After being a Christian for a few years, we don’t have a ton in common with non-Christians, so we don’t typically develop quality relationships. Over time, many Christ-followers realize they have almost no relationships with unbelievers.

If that’s you, ask God to increase your heart for those without Christ. He will. Before long, God will send you someone–maybe a bunch of someones–whom you’ll care about. Your love for them will increase.”

[Lyndon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have a love/hate relationship with these kinds of ministry books. First, I do enjoy the excitement and passion and enthusiasm for Christ and the Church that most of these resources exude. The authors are usually trying to urge us on to engage in ministry and outreach with holy abandon - glorifying God, maintaining a heart for the lost, serving others, etc. And invariably there will be some excellent principles to put into practice. So far so good.

On the other hand, most of these principles are generic and only tangentially biblical. Many of the authors I've read must have graduated from the Dale Carnegie, Zig Zigler, John Maxwell summer school for positive leadership. Or they attended the Peale, Schuller, Olsteen day camp for Christiany teaching. Instead of providing material that will preach, the best I can say is that the plethora of bullet points within the pages of books like these make for nice newsletter filler.

Don't get me wrong, Groeschel comes across as genuine. A bit crass and juvenile at first, he eventually matures up and provides some thought-provoking material on some common themes in churches that have "it." "It" being defined as that something special from God, where a ministry is blessed with health and vitality.

Unfortunately, "it-ness" is too often interpreted as cowabunga numerical growth and this book falls into that trap. I say unfortunate, because of the 7 mega-pastors the author highlights as doing something special in their ministry (this was written in 2008 and I'm reviewing it 8 years later), 3 of the 7 have flamed out.

When will we learn that we can't just baptize secular leadership principles and call them good for ministry? And when will we stop lifting up imperfect mega-stars as leaders to emulate? I would hope future Christian leadership books (from Groeschel and others) will avoid this temptation and simply urge us on to follow Christ. But then, without the branding and marketing that comes with a hot hot hot up and coming pastor that leads a church that's reaching tens of thousands, a book with that simple message probably wouldn't last very long on the shelves.

Three stars for the author's effort (as well as for my cynicism).