How’s this for a timely subject? Not only is the world writing off church, but more and more professing Christians are. This book by Mr. Crotts and published by Shepherd Press enters the fray to stop the bleeding. Christians ought to face his arguments head on. There is simply no doubt that the Lord meant for the local church to be part of every Christian’s life.

Mr. Crotts writes with a pastor’s sensitivity and persuasion. Having pastored since 1995, he likely has had plenty of time to consider these things. He wisely divides his manuscript into two halves: 1) What is God’s family?, and 2) How you fit into God’s family.

He uses a story of a group of people with varying attitudes about the church gathering at a coffee shop to discuss the topic. That’s a somewhat novel approach that some will like and some will not. Even if you don’t like it, it really doesn’t distract from the more theological discussion.

He hits upon the idea that deep down we all know we should go to church. I couldn’t agree more! He admits that many churches have given people a “bad church” experience and churches have such a variety of ways to fail. Whether it be theologically or either extreme of entertainment centered to reach people or extremely harsh on the other hand, there are many options. In some churches the people are off while in others the pastor might be. In a few, they might both be. In other words, church bashing is an easy sport to play.

From there Mr. Crotts lays out the Scriptural case for church. I agreed with his analysis on most every point. He even touches hot-button issues like church discipline, but writes with restraint and care.

He concludes with a plea for us to make church a priority in our lives and families. All in all, a worthy contribution.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.