IT.

Book Review

Groeschel, Craig. IT. How churches and leaders can get IT and keep IT. Zondervan. 2008

C.G.- founding and senior pastor of LifeChurch.tv., a multi-campus church.

Comment. Henry
When churches are being effective in their community it could be said of them that they have IT. IT is very recognizable and a joy to observe. Craig is giving us help in understanding what It is, how we can get IT, and if we lose IT how we can get IT back. The principles that are presented in this resource are sound and helpful to church leaders that are committed to God guided ministry.

“Without a doubt, IT is a gift from God, who makes IT available to anyone who wants IT.” (9) When churches that have IT are compared to churches that don’t have IT the comparison is radical. The results are very observable in a church that has IT. IT is characterized by a passion for God’s presence and the lost, a Spirit-filled faith, humility and brokenness.

A God-given, valid vision is fundamental to a church having IT. “An effective vision will always be memorable, portable, and motivational.” Sam Chand. People will give their lives to a really authentic vision. Along with the vision there needs to be a specific focus, i.e. find out what you do best and do it. “Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do it.” (63) When a church has IT there will be a high level of community (intimacy) and it begins at the leadership table. Competition kills community.

Churches that have IT encourage creativity and innovating. “Passion creates motivation. Limitations reveal opportunities.” (96) Experiences of failure are essential for having IT. Churches with IT are outward focused. They are “kingdom minded”. (144)

How do you get IT back when you have lost IT? First you have to admit that you lost IT. “Ask God to give IT back.” (172) We must allow God to ruin us for him in a good way. We need to learn to sincerely pray:
“Stretch me.
Ruin me.
Heal me.” (185)