The Way of Jesus

Description:Countless books have been written about the impending death of the institutional church, but this one both celebrates the resurrection that will follow and lights the way toward a new kind of spiritual community. The Way of Jesus identifies seven principles upon which authentic and vibrant Christian communities can be built in todays diverse and ever shrinking world. Toby Jones traveled across the country, from San Franciscos Glide Memorial Church to New Yorks Church of the Holy Apostles, and from Chicagos Wicker Park Grace to Minneapoliss Solomons Porch. He sojourned with seven communities in all and conducted in-depth interviews with their leaders and participants to reveal what distinguishes resurrection communities from those in precipitous decline. In The Way of Jesus, Jones draws both from the scriptures and from such fresh thinkers as Brian McLaren, Dallas Willard, Doug Pagitt, and Shane Claiborne, offering genuine hope and practical direction to the millions of spiritually homeless. But just as importantly, The Way of Jesus offers a clear path to struggling, shrinking congregations who desire to re-form themselves in a way that is both more faithful to the Gospel and compelling to post-modern generations, who have long since abandoned the institutional church. Endorsements:As a documentary filmmaker and a writer, much of my work has focused on spiritual places and practices around the world. As much passion as I have for the journey, Ive never been drawn to participate in any organized, institutional religion. But Toby Jones vision for a new kind of spiritual community based on generosity, compassion, inclusion, and social action is among the most compelling expressions of Christian faith Ive come across.--Chip Duncanauthor of Enough To Go Around: Searching for Hope in Afghanistan, Pakistan, & DarfurThe Way of Jesus offers important principles and practical advice for lay Christians to develop and lead altern