The Strategically Small Church
- Church Leadership & Ministry
- World Religions
- Publisher: Baker Academic (Baker Publishing Group)
- Published: 2025
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Publisher's Description
Small churches are the norm in America: 90 percent of churches see fewer than 200 weekly attendees. In this revised and expanded edition, Brandon O'Brien reveals how small churches aren't just surviving--they're thriving by leveraging their unique strengths. O'Brien explains that the smaller church is not a problem to solve or a liability to neutralize but a strategic advantage that can be leveraged for effective ministry in a variety of contexts. Smaller congregations offer powerful ministry opportunities in an era craving authentic community. In this transformative book, you will● learn from real-world case studies of successful small churches making significant impact;● unlock methods for higher lay involvement and commitment in smaller settings;● discover why small churches encourage bridge building across age and lifestyle barriers;● find help for implementing flexible strategies that larger churches struggle to adopt; and● explore how to meet the growing desire for services that are personal, local, and intimate. O'Brien shows how small churches can take full advantage of their size and analyzes how other churches can learn from their strategies. This new edition includes 20 percent new material and incorporates insights from O'Brien's thinking on local church ministry after nearly two decades serving pastors worldwide. It is perfect for church leaders, students, and ministry teams seeking to maximize their impact regardless of size and includes discussion questions for pastors.
Endorsements (6)
“Emerging from the shadow of the megachurch comes the good news of The Strategically Small Church. With insightful cultural analysis, compelling storytelling, and perceptive theological reflection, O’Brien’s book gives us new eyes for what God can do uniquely in the small church. With every page turned, the small church becomes less a burden to bear and more a compelling way of life. I highly recommend it.”
“This book is a celebration of the strategic, missional potential of small churches, which are often underreported and underappreciated in our bigger-is-better society. O’Brien’s winsome and informed reimagining of church success provides a hopeful path forward in a cultural landscape marked by isolation, church scandal, and the seemingly inescapable allure of celebrity culture. Small churches aren’t mistakes or relics of a bygone age. They are uniquely equipped participants in God’s mission.”
“Much of the focus in evangelical circles has centered on the growth of large churches and the current struggle of smaller churches, but O’Brien brings refreshing and empowering perspectives that help smaller churches reframe their questions and see their strengths rather than only their challenges. Keenly aware that small does not define a uniform category of churches, O’Brien deftly identifies common realities that are true strategic advantages for faithful kingdom work. One of the great gifts of the book is that it avoids the common mistake of suggesting specific ways simply to ‘do better.’ Rather, O’Brien provides a helpful framework through which to reenvision fruitful ministry in a smaller-church setting.”
“Some books are meant to be read more than once. Add The Strategically Small Church to that list! O’Brien challenges the typical perception of small churches and affirms their unique place in the kingdom of God. Pastors and church leaders, read this book together.”
“Kudos to Brandon O'Brien for reshaping the small-church brand. Using real-life examples of 'small' as an intentional ministry strategy, O'Brien gives hope to small churches everywhere. A must-read for church leaders!”
“Every page paints a picture of the strategic potential for kingdom ministry that flows from smaller churches.”
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