Kingdom Disciples-a book review

Knowing about some of Tony Evans' public presence, I wasn't sure what to expect from this book.  Would his message be political in nature or written from a pastor's heart to the church?  The answer is both, although it's first a plea to Christians to become Godly disciples, and then, out of that commitment, he calls churches to become involved in community action, effecting God's kingdom here on this earth.

The text is divided into three parts.  Part one explains our call as Christians to become true disciples of Christ. Too many serve Christ as long as he doesn't start messing with their comfort. This section of four chapters lays a great foundation for the rest of the book, but it seemed long and sometimes redundant.  I kept waiting for specifics on how this growth comes about and what the process might look like.  Tony writes very passionately.  What sometimes felt judgmental or condemning, I attributed to the urgency in his message.

Part two began to satisfy my questions of "how".  True disciples pursue intimacy with Christ.  The power to live victoriously comes through that relationship. This involves abiding, soaking in God's Word, depending on the Holy Spirit, and identifying with Christ even through suffering. It's consistent growth in living with the mind of Christ. True followers dig deeper into spiritual things on their own and work hard at spiritual exercise. "Spiritual maturity demands spiritual responsibility." There is heavenly incentive for any sacrifices Christ followers make.  Because rewards may not be immediate many aren't willing to pay the cost of kingdom living.

Part three speaks to:
-the individual; the Kingdom disciple has learned to rest, trusting that God will do the work in him
-the family; established to be God's framework in society to carry out his plan in history
-the church; "God's officially designated university of discipleship" to bring believers to spiritual maturity
-the community- "In national times of racial crisis, the church should have a greater collective voice in addressing responses to the chaos.  Protests take place and anger is often displaced, and yet we need more than a protest, we need a plan." Tony believes a national plan of restoration involves a community-wide solemn assembly, unified community impact, and a shared public voice. Personal agendas need to be set aside.  Real impact requires unity in the Body of Christ.

The last chapter on community includes some examples from the community outreach strategy the author has created in his church.  Appendix B in the back of the book offers more resources about Tony's ministry called "The Urban Alternative".

The message of the book is confronting and challenging.  As an individual I can focus on my commitment to discipleship and pray for a willing and eager heart to continue to pursue spiritual maturity. I can influence my family to be Kingdom centered rather than focused on self satisfaction.   I think it will take pastors and church leaders to implement the strategies for community involvement. It might not be Tony's model, but some kind of unified goodness into communities to benefit the broader society is needed. We are called to go, to share the good news. Thank you, Tony for being a voice urging us to be about the Father's business.  What could be a greater calling?

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.