Too many churches limp along with no clear sense of mission. In Mere Ecclesiology: Finding Your Place in the Church's Mission, Dr. Crofford clarifies the purpose of God's people through the metaphor of spiritual respiration. ""Breathing in"" (worship and discipleship) leads to ""breathing out"" (transformative service in the world). Newcomers and seasoned believers alike will be challenged to discover their calling as the Holy Spirit sends the church out on a challenging mission to heal families, communities, and creation itself.
""In promoting a healthy church, Dr. Crofford emphasizes the need for 'spiritual respiration.' His conception of church health first requires a 'breathing in' of personal growth that is spiritual, knowledgeable, and communal. Second, spiritual respiration requires a 'breathing out' that is missional, ministering practically to others for their holistic salvation, societal well-being, and ecological care-giving. . . . Crofford identifies step-by-step strategies that help Christians to implement 'spiritual respiration' in finding their place in the church's mission.""
--Don Thorsen, Professor of Theology, Azusa Pacific University Seminary
""Crofford invites us into a discussion regarding the theology of church and the practical implications for ministry. This thoughtful overview of the formational and missional characteristics of the church mirrors Jesus' command to love God and love others. Here, the corporate body of Christ can live in authenticity to the doctrine handed down through the ages. This work will prove useful for the church engaged in the formation of Christlike disciples.""
--Carla Sunberg, President, Professor of Historical Theology, Nazarene Theological Seminary
""In this helpful and easy-to-read book, Crofford draws wonderfully from Scripture, the Christian faith community, and his own faith journey. He offers wisdom and understanding to all pilgrims, wherever they are on their journey. If ever the church needed a grassroots understanding to fulfill its mission in the world in this significant time, then this is the 'back to the basics' guide so desperately needed.""
--Gabriel J. Benjamin, Church of the Nazarene, Africa Region Education and Clergy Development Coordinator
""Written from his experience as a minister, a clergy educator, and a missionary, the book covers a broad range of topics that relate to the work of the church. Easy to read and challenging to your preconceptions, the book will profit every pastor and every layperson. This is an excellent overview of the work of the church. Refreshing!""
--Jesse C. Middendorf, General Superintendent Emeritus, Church of the Nazarene
J. Gregory Crofford (PhD, University of Manchester) is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Religion at Africa Nazarene University (Nairobi, Kenya). He is the author of The Dark Side of Destiny: Hell Re-Examined (2013) and Streams of Mercy: Prevenient Grace in the Theology of John and Charles Wesley (2010).
