Gene Williams, In the Shadow of the Steeple: The Vital Role of the Smaller Church in a Mega-Church World. Beacon Hill Press, 2005.
Referenced in: Small Church Leadership
LifeandLeadership.com Summary
Gene Williams has over 40 years of experience in ministry, including both small- and mega-sized churches, so he is uniquely qualified to offer a comparative view, and this especially adds credibility to his affirmation of small congregations as a meaningful ministry context. He believes small churches can do things larger churches cannot, reaching populations who steer away from mega-churches, and this should be their focus. This book is not strong on technique, but is a heavy dose of inspiration on overcoming obstacles and unleashing the potential of the small church. He uses stories such as Jim Cymbala and Brooklyn Tabernacle’s rise from humble beginnings to encourage small church leaders to believe in the possibilities God can unfold in their ministries.
From the Publisher
In a world of big, bigger, and biggest it can be difficult for pastors of small churches to keep from getting discouraged. In the Shadow of the Steeple offers pastors encouragement and hope, reminding them of their ultimate purpose – to share Christ’s love with the world. Gene Williams gives practical advice and uplifting insight for smaller church pastors, reminding them of the unique opportunities and advantages they have to reach the people who would never feel comfortable in a mega-church.
Editorial Reviews
“It is out of an understanding heart and long experience that [Gene Williams] writes In the Shadow of the Steeple . This is a book that is much needed. …It will be greatly appreciated by all of those who, having spent their days encouraging others, need to sit down at the end of the day and derive a little encouragement for themselves. This book will do it.” – Dr. Stuart Briscoe, Minister and Author
“Finally…a serious book that R-E-A-L-L-Y affirms the smaller church pastor while also affirming the validity of mega-churches as being real churches too. This book merits national praise and is required reading for both smaller churches and mega-church pastors. Every pastor knows other pastors who need this book now.” – John Vaughan, Founder and President Church Growth Today.
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