It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian
How the Community of God Transforms Lives
About
Christianity Today 2005 Book Award Winner
"It's not often that a writer combines in equal measure a practical theologian's expertise, a pastor's ministry experience, and a prophet's insight into contemporary culture. . . . In this book, however, Tod Bolsinger has done it, and on a topic that should be of interest to us all."--Robert Banks,
It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian challenges Christians to embrace trinitarian spirituality as the basis for exceptional Christian community. Focusing on daily living, the book engages the ideas of writers such as John Calvin and Henri Nouwen in a discussion of how living in light of the Trinity can transform communal life. Critiquing the myth of American individualism, Tod Bolsinger claims that a relationship-centered, sacramental life--receiving the presence of God revealed in the ordinary--will transform communal worship and witness.
Finally, Bolsinger observes that in a world full of spiritual seekers, Christianity is simply not as creditable as we might hope. To draw hungry seekers to Christian community, we must be conduits of divine love and ever-hospitable hosts. The author's message is clear: "the exceptional life is the very life the triune God enacted and made visible through the communal life of the people of God."
It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian is designed for pastors, clergy, worship leaders, evangelists, church leaders, vestry, and deacons. It is important reading for all Christians, those who are called to embrace the communitarian life of the triune God.
Endorsements
"This is an extraordinary book about exceptional living enabled by an authentic church. In a remarkable way, Tod Bolsinger explains, in fresh contemporary language, the majesty of the Triune God and the magnitude of his spectacular intention for our communion with him and one another. Here is a penetrating analysis of culture, a bracing confrontation with the most alarming failure of local congregations, and an impelling description of the open secret we are missing in the 21st century. I highly recommend this book."--Dr. Lloyd Ogilvie
"Bolsinger proves himself a reliable guide to living exceptional lives. His sustained reflection on the doctrine of the Trinity and its impact on our life together is persuasive and powerful. He makes it all sing."--Rev. Jack Roeda, Church of the Servant, Grand Rapids, Michigan
"It's not often that a writer combines in equal measure a practical theologian's expertise, a pastor's ministry experience, and a prophet's insight into contemporary culture. It's more unusual when he can blend all three with a style that is both absorbing and challenging. In this book, however, Tod Bolsinger has done it, and on a topic that should be of interest to us all--how, for the sake of the world, the church can more compellingly reflect the life, interrelationships, and energy of God in all his fullness."--Robert Banks, Macquarie University (Australia)
"Tod Bolsinger knows that if God is a trinitarian community in which three are finally one, then proclaiming this God requires churches that are likewise communities deeply united in Word and sacrament. Chock-full of vivid illustrations, this lively book reminds the contemporary church that nothing may eclipse the goal of being transparent to that zestful Trinity of Persons whose effervescent mutual love is the only hope we can offer to a world dying of loneliness."--Rev. Scott Hoezee, Calvin Christian Reformed Church, Grand Rapids, Michigan
"The Apostle Peter was talking to you. In specific, clear, easy-to-understand language that can be understood and acted upon two thousand years later. With good humor and wonderful illustrations, Tod Bolsinger unpacks the practical, life-changing directions Christ's rock laid out. Do yourself and your family and friends a great spiritual favor: Buy and read this book."--Hugh Hewitt
The Author
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Tod E. Bolsinger
Tod E. Bolsinger is senior pastor of San Clemente Presbyterian Church in San Clemente, California, where he lives with his wife and two children.
Continue reading about Tod E. Bolsinger
Reviews
Christianity Today 2005 Book Award Winner
"Challenges Christians to embrace trinitarian spirituality as the basis for exceptional Christian community. . . . It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian is designed for pastors, clergy, worship leaders, evangelists, church leaders, vestry, and deacons. It is important reading for all Christians-those who are called to embrace the communitarian life of the triune God."--ForMinistry.com
"This book is an antidote to a highly personalized religion. . . . The book illuminates Cavin's writings in new ways to this Episcopalian and relies on the Trinity as that illusive metaphor for the depth of relationship with the divine. For the author the purpose of church is 'to ensure that all people who come in . . . alienated from God find a relationship with God, take on the very character of God, and eventually look like God.' He has written this book to teach how this can happen in churches today."--Ann Fontaine, Living Church