Book Review - The Irresistable Church by Wayne Cordeiro

As an elder in our congregation, the chance to review a book titled The Irresistable Church: 12 Traits of a Church Heaven Applauds really was an obvious "yes." And after reading the book, I'm ready to make sure our whole elders board reads this excellent book by pastor Wayne Cordeiro.

Three key points are made in the introductory chapter that hinted this was going to be an incredibly valuable book. First, "irresistable" was defined, not by numbers or programs or other external signs of success but by the "feel" of the church. I prefer a numerical/programmatic approach and yet know that this definition of a "successful" church are not what really matters. Secondly, in setting forth this description, pastor Cordeiro clearly says that this is not only a church that will be recognized as "irresistable" by earthly standards, but in fact by heavenly standards because it follows God's design for the Church and is based on biblical ideals. Finally, this book said it did/would provide principles to follow for any church, regardless of size, location, denomination, leadership style/polity, etc. The book did not need to say "modify these for your congregation" - something that many "church advice" books say - because they are biblical values and thus timeless and abiding.

The 12 traits that Cordeiro identifies (you'll have to read the book to get them) are indeed biblical and the way he identifies, describes, and illustrates each characteristic is both clear and challenging. Without being simplistic, the book is easy-to-read (nice size chapters) and well-written in an engaging style. Interestingly enough, the tone of the book does not convey a pride or arrogance about "how we do church" either.

The only possible drawback I can see in this book is that it does not contain a plethora of Scripture references in the actual text of the book. While I am convinced that its teaching is thoroughly biblical and reflects the "traits of a church that heaven applauds" you will not find a pile of Scripture references littering the pages. Again, I personally quite appreciate this, though for some, these references may be helpful for cross-referencing and studying each trait specifically. There is a useful study guide at the end of the book that includes a number of key Scripture references for each chapter.

I highly recommend this book and believe it could be a landscape-changer if the church in North America actually began again to live out these principles.

This book, published by BethanyHouse publishers, was provided free for review by Graf-Martin Canada.