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What's Next?: The Journey to Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference
A deeper and more intimate relationship with God is closer than you think.
Have you ever felt as if something were missing from your life? Are you longing for a clearer sense of purpose? Do you feel stuck in a spiritual rut? In What’s Next?, bestselling author Chris Hodges offers a practical guide to all those looking for clarity and direction and reveals the four steps to spiritual maturity:
know God,
find freedom,
discover purpose, and
make a difference.
He demonstrates how each step is part of both a linear path and a cycle leading to deeper levels of faith. Accessible and clear, concise and profound, no matter where you are in your journey, What’s Next? is the guide you need to find your way and discover the joy that comes walking the road of richer faith.
Have you ever felt as if something were missing from your life? Are you longing for a clearer sense of purpose? Do you feel stuck in a spiritual rut? In What’s Next?, bestselling author Chris Hodges offers a practical guide to all those looking for clarity and direction and reveals the four steps to spiritual maturity:
know God,
find freedom,
discover purpose, and
make a difference.
He demonstrates how each step is part of both a linear path and a cycle leading to deeper levels of faith. Accessible and clear, concise and profound, no matter where you are in your journey, What’s Next? is the guide you need to find your way and discover the joy that comes walking the road of richer faith.
256 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2019
About the author
Chris Hodges
71 books253 followersChris Hodges is a pastor, mentor, and author who has dedicated his life to helping people grow in their faith, develop as leaders, and build life-giving communities. He is the Founder and Chancellor of Highlands College, Founding Pastor of Church of the Highlands, Founder of GrowLeader, and Co-Founder of the Association of Related Churches (ARC).
In 2025, after more than two decades of leadership, Chris transitioned the role of Lead Pastor to Mark Pettus, allowing him to focus more on mentoring leaders and investing in the next generation. He continues to serve Highlands as Founding Pastor.
Highlands College – America’s Ministry Leadership University
Chris has always had a heart for equipping young leaders for ministry. In 2011, he founded Highlands College, which has since grown into a fully accredited, academy-model ministry leadership college. Inspired by Luke 2:10, Highlands College is dedicated to developing leaders of competence and character to fulfill the Great Commission.
More than 1,300 graduates have been placed in more than 370 churches and ministries across 38 states and 21 countries.
GrowLeader – Coaching Leaders and Equipping Churches
Understanding the challenges that pastors and church leaders face, Chris created GrowLeader, a coaching network dedicated to training leaders and resourcing churches. Through conferences, roundtables, and leadership coaching, GrowLeader provides practical tools and biblical strategies to help churches grow in a healthy, sustainable way.
Association of Related Churches (ARC) – Church Planting
In 2001, Chris co-founded ARC (Association of Related Churches) with a group of pastors who shared a heart for starting life-giving churches in communities that need them. Through coaching, support, and relationships, ARC has helped plant over 1,150 churches across the U.S. and trains more than 1,000 church planters annually.
Writing and Teaching
Chris is a bestselling author who is passionate about making biblical truth practical and accessible, and he has written several books to encourage believers in their spiritual growth.
His works include:
• The Daniel Dilemma – standing firm while loving well in a culture of compromise
• Four Cups – understanding the promises of God for every believer
• Out of the Cave – finding hope in the midst of depression
• Pray First – living a life centered on prayer
• What’s Next? – following practical steps for growing in faith
• Fresh Air – experiencing spiritual renewal
• Jesus, The High Road Leader (co-authored with John C. Maxwell) – following leadership lessons from the life of Jesus
Global Leadership and Ministry
Chris has been honored to serve alongside mentors and leaders from around the world. He is involved with organizations such as:
• EQUIP – a leadership organization founded by John C. Maxwell, which has trained millions of leaders worldwide
• Global Teen Challenge – a ministry helping people find freedom from addiction
Personal Life
Chris holds a B.A. in Management from Colorado Christian University, a Masters of Ministry from Southwestern Christian University, and an Honorary Doctorate in Professional Leadership from High Point University.
Originally from Louisiana, Chris spent time pastoring in Colorado before moving to Birmingham, AL, in 2001. He and his wife, Tammy, have five kids and twelve grandchildren.
In 2025, after more than two decades of leadership, Chris transitioned the role of Lead Pastor to Mark Pettus, allowing him to focus more on mentoring leaders and investing in the next generation. He continues to serve Highlands as Founding Pastor.
Highlands College – America’s Ministry Leadership University
Chris has always had a heart for equipping young leaders for ministry. In 2011, he founded Highlands College, which has since grown into a fully accredited, academy-model ministry leadership college. Inspired by Luke 2:10, Highlands College is dedicated to developing leaders of competence and character to fulfill the Great Commission.
More than 1,300 graduates have been placed in more than 370 churches and ministries across 38 states and 21 countries.
GrowLeader – Coaching Leaders and Equipping Churches
Understanding the challenges that pastors and church leaders face, Chris created GrowLeader, a coaching network dedicated to training leaders and resourcing churches. Through conferences, roundtables, and leadership coaching, GrowLeader provides practical tools and biblical strategies to help churches grow in a healthy, sustainable way.
Association of Related Churches (ARC) – Church Planting
In 2001, Chris co-founded ARC (Association of Related Churches) with a group of pastors who shared a heart for starting life-giving churches in communities that need them. Through coaching, support, and relationships, ARC has helped plant over 1,150 churches across the U.S. and trains more than 1,000 church planters annually.
Writing and Teaching
Chris is a bestselling author who is passionate about making biblical truth practical and accessible, and he has written several books to encourage believers in their spiritual growth.
His works include:
• The Daniel Dilemma – standing firm while loving well in a culture of compromise
• Four Cups – understanding the promises of God for every believer
• Out of the Cave – finding hope in the midst of depression
• Pray First – living a life centered on prayer
• What’s Next? – following practical steps for growing in faith
• Fresh Air – experiencing spiritual renewal
• Jesus, The High Road Leader (co-authored with John C. Maxwell) – following leadership lessons from the life of Jesus
Global Leadership and Ministry
Chris has been honored to serve alongside mentors and leaders from around the world. He is involved with organizations such as:
• EQUIP – a leadership organization founded by John C. Maxwell, which has trained millions of leaders worldwide
• Global Teen Challenge – a ministry helping people find freedom from addiction
Personal Life
Chris holds a B.A. in Management from Colorado Christian University, a Masters of Ministry from Southwestern Christian University, and an Honorary Doctorate in Professional Leadership from High Point University.
Originally from Louisiana, Chris spent time pastoring in Colorado before moving to Birmingham, AL, in 2001. He and his wife, Tammy, have five kids and twelve grandchildren.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 2, 2019
This book is perfect for both the new Christian and the seasoned believer. It’s an easy read. Definitely took away some good nuggets to apply to my Christian walk.
June 3, 2019
This book is an extremely practical & helpful tool to place in the hands of someone who is just beginning their spiritual journey. It provides easy & clear next steps for them to take as well as the fuel behind the step to keep them engaged.
As a church leader in an ARC/GROW church, this book is a helpful reference on hand to help provide some of the in-betweens behind the Four Major Steps on someone's spiritual journey. While, we typically focus on the vehicles in which we help people take these steps, this book provides some of the mini-steps or why behind each of the steps. For most ministry leaders, I suggest this book for skimmed & most for reference. It could be a great give-away from my new believers.
As a church leader in an ARC/GROW church, this book is a helpful reference on hand to help provide some of the in-betweens behind the Four Major Steps on someone's spiritual journey. While, we typically focus on the vehicles in which we help people take these steps, this book provides some of the mini-steps or why behind each of the steps. For most ministry leaders, I suggest this book for skimmed & most for reference. It could be a great give-away from my new believers.
April 18, 2022
God heeft altijd meer. Zo lang je leeft en ademt op deze mooie wereld, wil God stappen met je zetten. In dit boek neemt Chris Hodges je mee op pad, om je aan te moedigen je voet weer een stukje verder te zetten.
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April 2, 2019Chris Hodges has a heart after God. His words are for everyone, wherever they find themselves on their journey with God. Practical and biblical direction for your next step! A must read!
April 2, 2019
Pastor Chris shares good stories of his own journey as he guides readers through the steps of finding God and growing in faith to find purpose.
August 21, 2025
This would be a good book for a new Christian to read. It answers a lot of questions for those new to the faith and gives clarification and useful analogies to the stories of the Bible.
July 18, 2020
This was one of those books where as soon as I finished reading it, I felt compelled to do something that would leave a lasting impact. This was not another repetitive Christian book. I learned so much from this book and one thing that stuck out to me was learning what is next for me in this journey. I love listening to Chris Hodges because he is such an amazing articulator of the Word and this book was fantastic.
March 21, 2020
I wasn't sure what to expect when I read this book. But I didn't want to put it down. It made me believe and have faith.
April 22, 2019
It is rare to run across a book that can virtually help anyone, no matter where they are in their spiritual journey. "What's Next?" does just that. From an unbeliever, to a new Christian, to a Christian for 60 years, to a pastor, "What's Next?" has the potential to ignite and propel your spiritual growth.
If you are looking for practical steps to help you grow in Christ, look no further! "What's Next?" helps you identify where you are, then shows you what step you need to take "Next." Too many people think that salvation is a destination or an end-point. Salvation is actually the beginning of a wonderful relationship with Jesus.
Pastors, this book is going to be a great book for your church, especially to give to new believers to help them grow. "What's Next?" is also structured to be used in a small group setting and would make an incredible sermon series! Go ahead and grab your copy now!
If you are looking for practical steps to help you grow in Christ, look no further! "What's Next?" helps you identify where you are, then shows you what step you need to take "Next." Too many people think that salvation is a destination or an end-point. Salvation is actually the beginning of a wonderful relationship with Jesus.
Pastors, this book is going to be a great book for your church, especially to give to new believers to help them grow. "What's Next?" is also structured to be used in a small group setting and would make an incredible sermon series! Go ahead and grab your copy now!
May 20, 2020
First off, having seen many sermons by Pastor Chris, he is the most inspirational, intelligent, down to minister I have ever witnessed. I truly take to heart everything he preaches and writes. I loved the book and is perfect for new believers and a nice refresher for seasoned believers. I originally had given it 4 stars because of it's simplistic content, but if you truly are a believer and are striving to be closer to the lord, then you know that simplicity is the key ingredient to it all. It's not rocket science to have a fulfilling/joyful relationship with the lord and life itself. So, knowing that, I felt like he said all that was needed for the topic of "What's Next?". If you want a more in depth analysis of the gospel then you could definitely look elsewhere, but that is not the message and intended audience with this one. I would love to hear a detailed memoir on Pastor Chris's life but in the mean time, this is exactly what I and others of similar goals need, nothing more.
April 18, 2019
This book is easy to read and hard to put down. The way Pastor Chris writes and expresses his thoughts and ideas based on Gods word - is just so clear and easy to follow. It’s amazing how it speaks to all people and can be applied in your life regardless of where you are in your walk in faith. I just encourage everyone to read it - from the one who is trying to find their way in the world, to the new Christian, to the seasoned believers. Often times you’ll hear that saying about a step by step process but then you’re left closing the book still wondering “where do I start” and “what’s next”. But not with this book - it literally does walk you through practical steps to navigate your way in life. We all come to a place where we say there’s got to be more or I really just want more out of life - this book gives the answers you’re looking for.
June 10, 2019
Chris Hodges is masterful at creating systems that allow for logical progression for anyone to grow in their faith without it feeling like a system or a process. This book is the result of that masterful way of thinking and communicating. He takes the tried-and-true 4-part process that they've developed at Highlands for encouraging spiritual growth and now puts it into book format that allows others from all over the world to gain insight for how they can take the next step of obedience on their journey of following Jesus.
For me this book was a sort of mix between a new believer's guidebook, a sort of Purpose-Driven Life spin-off, and a church membership handbook without any of the negative connotations that any of those descriptions could inspire. I found it incredibly easy to read, relate to, and believe in. Definitely a resource I'll be using at my church!
For me this book was a sort of mix between a new believer's guidebook, a sort of Purpose-Driven Life spin-off, and a church membership handbook without any of the negative connotations that any of those descriptions could inspire. I found it incredibly easy to read, relate to, and believe in. Definitely a resource I'll be using at my church!
April 13, 2019
I had the honor and privilege to be a part of Pastor Chris' launch team for this book. I am beyond excited! This book is literally for anyone who looks in the mirror and asks themselves "What's Next?".
Whether you are new in your faith or a veteran, there is much to learn in this book. I have found it so inspiring especially since I am in a new season of my life and felt unsure what direction I wanted my life to go. I am dreaming God size dreams for the first time in forever. This book has taught me about faith, purpose, and so much more. This book will not disappoint. I thank God for Pastor Chris and the message of this book. I will be reading it a few times more and sharing it with others. Praying especially for everyone who will read it that it will impact them at it has me.
Whether you are new in your faith or a veteran, there is much to learn in this book. I have found it so inspiring especially since I am in a new season of my life and felt unsure what direction I wanted my life to go. I am dreaming God size dreams for the first time in forever. This book has taught me about faith, purpose, and so much more. This book will not disappoint. I thank God for Pastor Chris and the message of this book. I will be reading it a few times more and sharing it with others. Praying especially for everyone who will read it that it will impact them at it has me.
January 7, 2021
This book will be helpful for anyone wanting to learn the basics of evangelicalism. The book contains popular theology, and I was hoping for more theological or historical depth.
One point that I disagree with is Hodges understanding of the significance of baptism, but I admittedly come from a different theological tradition (Nazarene/Wesleyan). Hodges understands baptism as a public declaration of a personal confession (which is the popular modern day evangelical understanding of baptism), but I would say that baptism is an outward sign of an inward grace. Baptism is a gift from God and available to everyone in the Church—including the young. There is no age or cognitive ability required for this gift.
One point that I disagree with is Hodges understanding of the significance of baptism, but I admittedly come from a different theological tradition (Nazarene/Wesleyan). Hodges understands baptism as a public declaration of a personal confession (which is the popular modern day evangelical understanding of baptism), but I would say that baptism is an outward sign of an inward grace. Baptism is a gift from God and available to everyone in the Church—including the young. There is no age or cognitive ability required for this gift.
April 6, 2019
What's Next? was a fun read for me because I love Pastor Chris and Church of the Highlands. both had a major impact on my life as a young professional and even now into my thirties. What's Next? is extremely practical. Hodges goes through many next steps to be taken after salvation in an effort to determine your purpose, thrive as a believer, grow closer to God and it's spot on. Helpful, encouraging, simple steps. Check it out!
**I'm grateful to be a part of the launch team for this book. Thank you, Thomas Nelson, for a digital copy of this book.**
April 9, 2019
This is the book version of the story Chris Hodges has been sharing since he launched his church. For anyone who wants to know how the whole Christian life fits together and extends beyond Sunday at church, this book tells that story. It’s for anyone (and I know this applies to everyone whether they admit it or not) who has ever wondered what real life, day to day application of a purpose driven life looks like. We are all wired to live for more and this book addresses that directly, offering the roadmap for walking that out.
November 4, 2025
Amazing!!!
I am part of a small group at the church I have recently joined. Together we have been reading this book, using the study guide, watching the videos, and sharing our thoughts and feelings about all that Chris has written about. I am in a place in my life where this book, my small group, and my church have been an inspiration and support for my faith in GOD has started to mend itself and to grow.
Ask your church or you do it to start a study of this book!
GOD bless you all
I am part of a small group at the church I have recently joined. Together we have been reading this book, using the study guide, watching the videos, and sharing our thoughts and feelings about all that Chris has written about. I am in a place in my life where this book, my small group, and my church have been an inspiration and support for my faith in GOD has started to mend itself and to grow.
Ask your church or you do it to start a study of this book!
GOD bless you all
April 3, 2019
Simply put a, “How To” on walking with Christ. Chris Hodges does a phenomenal job guiding new and/ or seasoned believers on a spiritual journey filled with much growth! The author gives advice on how to apply biblical principles and scriptures in our daily lives along with examples of how he has applied these in his own experiences. Thank You Lord for providing Pastor Chris with the knowledge and wisdom needed to complete this book, may it draw many close to you!
April 17, 2019
This book really have everything! It is so full of deep wisdom but still down to earth. I think every pastor or leader should read it. Actually every believer should read it. Every christian that want to take their next step with God should read What’s Next. And if you’re feeling down and confused and maybe don’t know if you believe or not. Read this book and it will help you in your struggle. If you’re not a reader this book is for you, cause it’s easy to read and understand.
May 18, 2023
I’m new to this whole relationship with Jesus concept! And it is so so beautiful ❤️. This books takes you through the BASICS of starting a relationship with Jesus Christ. Hodge’s makes this confusing and overwhelming journey so simple! And it should be! Hodge’s uses scripture and Gods words to point new Christians in the right direction. I highly recommend reading through this one, and taking the time to journal and self reflect . Repetitive, but in its simplicity and driving home a point.
July 6, 2023
A practical, easy to read book for anyone in any stage of life whether you are a Christian or not. This book could lead you to Christ and/or lead you deeper into your relationship with him. Pastor Chris Hodges’s books all have the same light and friendly feel to me while covering the Word of God and what’s it’s saying to us very well. It’s not a deep dive but a refreshing, uplifting, and encouraging read.
December 21, 2023
Chris Hodges is the Senior Pastor at Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, AL. This book, “What’s Next”, has something for everyone, whether they are new to their faith or have known Jesus all their life.
I fall into the second group and love how effortlessly he talks of discovering our purpose and doing good works with it. You see this on display every Sunday at his services.
This book would make a great gift to anyone new in their faith.
I fall into the second group and love how effortlessly he talks of discovering our purpose and doing good works with it. You see this on display every Sunday at his services.
This book would make a great gift to anyone new in their faith.
April 4, 2019
This book will captivate the hearts of those who are earnestly seeking practical ways to walk out living the Christian life. Chris Hodges has a gift for relaying his wisdom and insight in a way that everyone can understand and put to use immediately. I thoroughly enjoyed every page of it and highly recommend it to all!
April 10, 2019
This is one of the BEST books I’ve read in a very long time!!! Genuine, authethic and real! It’s very relatable and practical for real life situations. Pastor Chris does an excellent job of giving us practical next steps for our spiritual journey!!! A must read for anyone who wants to know, What’s Next!
July 26, 2019
Pastor Chris Hodges "puts the cookies on the bottom shelf." He explains in simple terms the steps we need to take on this walk with Jesus. Having been a Christian a lot of years AND having heard him preach for ten years, I didn't expect to hear anything I had not heard before - I was wrong! This book is FULL of ideas to help anyone step up their relationship with God.
April 3, 2019
This book is great for anyone looking to grow closer to God and learn what He has in store for you! Chris Hodges is an awesome author and does a great job of putting the cookies on the bottom shelf in this amazing book!
April 6, 2019
Yet another powerful book from Chris Hodges! He gives you step by step instructions for how to discover and fulfill your God given purpose. His passion for leading others to their best life spills out on every page!! A must read!!
April 8, 2019
Are you looking for what God's plan is for your life? Then this book is your answer. Pastor Chris walks you through God's process for your life and how to grow in your relationship with Him. This is an easy to read and understand book that I would encourage any follower of Jesus to read!
April 12, 2019
If you are a new Christian or have been a Christian for this years this book is for you! Chris Hodges has written a practical guide to assist you wherever you are on this journey called life. No fluff just practical and encouraging wisdom. I think this was my favorite book by Chris yet!
April 15, 2019
This book will challenge you, motivate you, and give you all the tools you need to determine and take your next step! If you need a book to encourage you and help you live out and walk out your faith journey, look no further! This book is amazing!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews