The Big Picture for Small Churches and Large Ones, Too!: How to Thrive and Survive as a Small Congregation

by John Benton

We live in a society that worships at the shrine of size. In the world's eyes if something is not big, it does not deserve attention. With such a cultural bias it is not easy to be upbeat about a church with just a few in the congregation. John Benton has written this sensitive and practical work out of a heartfelt concern for the many small groups of God's people who meet regularly and faithfully as a church, but who may sometimes feel weak or isolated. Highlighting the fact that it is the health of a church, not its size, that is important, he encourages small congregations (and large ones, too!) and shows how the few and seemingly powerless have been used by God throughout the history of the church. These little churches might just be the seeds from which God may yet give a mighty harvest, for his glory.

Genres: Christian

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

John Benton studied at the University of Sussex, where he earned a science doctorate. He serves as co-pastor in Guildford, Surrey at the Chertsey Street Baptist Church, and also works as the managing editor of Evangelicals Now, a monthly newspaper. He has co-authored multiple books with his wife, Ann. J. Benton books include Coming to Faith in Christ, written for people who are just considering the Christian faith. This book is written in a straightforward style, containing relevant Bible references for readers to explore further, and is really a booklet-style tract. Evangelistic Calvinism explores each of the five points of Calvinism, comparing each of these doctrines of grace to five beautiful diamonds through which the glories of Jesus can shine. This is also a booklet-style tract. In God’s Riches, Benton has created an introductory workbook to Christian doctrine, helping Christians to systematically study to grow their faith.

Reviews

[Jonathan Ginn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A terrific read that offers a wonderful mixture of encouraging scriptural meditations for those entrenched in difficult church situations, along with some highly practical ministry insights. Benton writes in a simple, accessible manner, and his pastoral heart really shines through in the pages of this book.

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a helpful and encouraging book. Will need to read it each year to remind me what it teaches. Shame it is out of print. If you can get hold of a copy, it is well worth reading even if you are in a large Church.