Andrew Root and Blair Bertrand

When Church Stops Working
Brazos Press, 2023
By Andrew Root and Blair Bertrand

WHO: Andrew Root, an author and professor at Luther Seminary; and Blair Bertrand, a lecturer at Zomba Theological University and teaching consultant with Theological Education by Extension Malawi. 

THEY SAY: “To obey Jesus’ command—to be the body of the living Christ—the church will always be in tension.”

THE BIG IDEA: This book shows how actively watching and listening for God can bring life to churches in crisis.

THE PROGRESSION: In eight chapters, the authors show how getting mired in busyness and new programs can keep us from focusing on God. They also explain that while innovation can be great, waiting on the Lord is the solution a church in crisis needs.

“Your church is sick, but the problem is not decline. The problem is that this secular age has infected it.”

Gospel-Centered Parenting

The newness that comes as a result of new birth in Christ trickles down into every area of life, including our parenting.

Right Gear, Right Time

Keeping the gospel central is what keeps a church healthy and growing, not extravagant AVL productions.

It Takes Everyone

When every member shares the work, the whole body is better for it.