Released October 2007, unChristian is a book based on groundbreaking research from the Barna Groupdone over a period of 4 years that delves into the perceptions of 16 to 29 year olds – both Christian and Non-Christian. Authors Gabe Lyonsand David Kinnaman uncover the hidden views and overlooked issues dividing today’s church and young adults. They unpack interviews with Christians and Non-Christians, and present up-to-date statistics on the relevant issues that exist between the two.

Since its release, this book has spearheaded conversations in church services, staff meetings, pastoral conferences, and coffee shops. unChristian is confrontational, transparent, and direct in its attempt to open the eyes of today’s American Christian to the reality of the perceptions of those who are non-Christian.

I personally consider this book a must-read for every person who calls themselves a Christian. Not only has my perspective dramatically changed, but my faith has been impacted as well. The insight has been life-changing!

Here are a few snippets from the book…

I recently finished this book and I must say that Andy Stanley has won the trophy for one of the best writers on leadership in my book. I love his style of writing and his ability to deliver on important aspects of leadership. He touched on key aspects of leadership that any next generation leader would be insane to overlook. He opens the hatch on the importance of character, competence and clarity and gives precise direction for the next generation leader. This book inspired me and a group of friends to begin meeting and casting vision for our lives and our future as next generation leaders. Whether you’re in training to lead, a novice to leadership, or an expert on leadership, this book will be an asset to your development as a leader.

Here are a few snippets from the book…

This book was absolutely remarkable. After sifting through most of the key points throughout the book, I took away lot of insight on the importance of the BIG IDEA. Dave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson delivered key insight on several topics such as the importance of small groups and community, how to build a team in ministry, how to map out message series, teaching techniques, and the significance of innovation and creativity in church. All of these components are built around presenting one BIG IDEA at a time.

One thing that stood out to me was the realization that the average American deals with information overload on a daily basis, from TV ads, radio ads, magazines, conversations, etc. Even church services on any given Sunday can be nothing more than added information soon to be forgotten into the obis of information overload.Creating the type of church service experience that transcends just being added info is what this book addresses on a very informative, practical, and applicable scale.

Here are a few snippets from the book…

Outreach Magazine has just given word on its upcoming issue which will list – in detail – America’s Most Innovative Churches of 2008. This magazine issue is already getting a little buzz in the blog world by pastors, staff, and critics of these and other churches. I’m stoked about reading the article. I have been keeping up with not only the list throughout 2007, but some of the churches as well.

I’ve been studying at least 10 of the 25 top churches listed in the article – especially LifeChurch.tv, North Point Community Church, NewSpring Church, and Willow Creek Community Church. From the looks of it, Outreach didn’t fall short in their ratings of these phenomenal churches; these churches are measuring up to the hype.