Book Reviews

Reviews by Dan W. Cozart

 

"This Little Church Went To Market," by Dr. Gary Gilley

Published by Evangelical Press

Dr. Gilley has done an outstanding job in showing how the modern church is fast selling out while reaching out. Many churches have gone to market with an approach and selling technique which is enticing and exciting to the world. Entertainment, a market-driven philosophy, and psychology have replaced the true Gospel, the importance of Bible exposition, and the New Testament Church. Fun and programs have been tailored to make people feel good about themselves.

Gilley points out the guiding principle of the emergent church is: "Big is good….Small is bad". The theme that the end justifies the means has become commonly accepted. To be successful, a pastor must give the people what they want to hear. This includes changing up the music, the worship, and the preaching. Many churches have fallen victim to this rationalization. There is a call for churches to wake up before it is too late.

I highly recommend this book to any and all who are willing to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints.

Review by Dan W. Cozart, Grace Baptist Church, Tyler, Texas

 

"This Little Church Stayed Home," by Dr. Gary Gilley

Published by Evangelical Press

This is a sequel to another book by Gary Gilley entitled: This Little Church Went to Market. This follow-up book speaks to the faithful church in deceptive times. Not all churches have sold out by "going to market". Some have faithfully stayed home; however, even these churches will be faced with many pressures and temptations to remain faithful.

Gilley goes into great detail on the authority and sufficiency of the Scriptures, and points out the dangers of looking to other sources, programs, and modern trends. This book is filled with information and instruction which would be most helpful to pastors and teachers. I recommend both books without reservation.

Review by Dan W. Cozart, Grace Baptist Church, Tyler, Texas