Church Bibles(649)
Church Leadership(1,938)
Administration(82)
Church Growth(686)
Elders & Deacons(34)
Emerging Church(190)
General(74)
Outreach(360)
Pastoral Resources(300)
Church Supplies(655)
Counseling(196)
General(428)
Kid's Ministry(408)
Media Ministry(15)
Men's Ministry(221)
Music Ministry(197)
Pastoral Ministry(143)
Preaching(321)
Small Group Resources(4,183)
Sunday School(67)
VBS(113)
Women's Ministry(785)
Worship(197)
Youth Ministry(316)
Shop Now At Christianbook.com
Shop Church Growth or
Choose a Category
- Academic
- Accompaniment Tracks
- Advent
- Adventures in Odyssey ™
- Audiobooks
- Bible Accessories
- Bible Covers
- Bible Studies & Curriculum
- Bibles
- Blooming Bargains
- Books
- Catholic
- Children
- Christian Living
- Christmas
- Church & Pastoral
- Church Supplies
- Closeouts
- Clothing & Accessories
- Crafts & Recreation
- DVDs
- Download
- Easter
- Education
- Fall
- Family
- Father's Day
- Fiction
- Focus Magazines
- Focus Resource
- Focus Reviewed
- Focus on the Family
- Gift & Home
- Graduation
- Homeschool
- MP3 Music Downloads
- Mother's Day
- Music
- New Release
- Patriotic
- Pre-Order
- Radio Theatre
- Slightly Imperfect
- Software
- Spanish
- Spring
- Subscriptions
- Sunday School
- Teens
- Thanksgiving
- VBS
- Videos
- Winter
- eBooks
Top-Rated Products
Customer Reviews for Thomas Nelson Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Thomas Nelson Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Revisiting the fictional congregation of his best-selling Who Stole My Church? Pastor Gordon faces a new dilemma! His church knows how to get people to visit and even make a personal commitment to Jesus---but it doesn't know how to cultivate spiritually deep disciples. Is the future of their community at risk? 272 pages, softcover from Nelson.
Average Customer Rating:
(28 Reviews) 28
Rating Snapshot (28 reviews)
5 stars
9
4 stars
9
3 stars
4
2 stars
4
1 star
2
19 out of 2868%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Review 1 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
leaders read this!
Date:September 28, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
A book that focuses on how to become a influential Christian leaders. Going Deep by: GordonMcDonald. I would have been a more motivated reader, "We seem to know how to get unchurched people to visit our buildings. We even seem to know how to draw them across the line into a declaration of personal faith in Jesus. But what we do not seem to know is how to cultivate spiritually deep people. Tomorrow's church could be headed for trouble." I love this line... I appreciate that because of the ability to learn by example--albeit a fictional example--but other readers might prefer a more straightforward read. I can relate to almost every story, person, thought, and implication in the book. I'd recommend Going Deep to pastors or church leaders who are looking to intentionally disciple people for God's glory.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 2 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
a must read
Date:August 27, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Every individual character in the book you can relate to and picture that person in your life. This book can change the way we think, it certainly has changed mine. This book really does give you the opportunity to become a person of influence, and I really think that I am on my way to learning. It will encourage you to grow and become more mature in your Christian walk. I think this would be an awesome idea starter for pastors and their fellowships, but as a mere sheep in the flock of millions, this was a bit too much for me.I think that this is a great book and follows in a great line of other books by Gordon MacDonald. I deeply appreciate that he tells stories, and is incredibly open about his own life and experience. I recommend anything he has published.
Gordon has has written a masterpiece, written with pure love and talent! If you missed this book, then you miss 25% of your christian maturity. A must read!
Gordon has has written a masterpiece, written with pure love and talent! If you missed this book, then you miss 25% of your christian maturity. A must read!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 3 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Great idea, hard to read
Date:May 1, 2012
thecoverbybritt
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
When I was looking through books to read this one immediately caught my eye. I loved not only the cover, but the concept behind the book. However, once I got into the book, it was hard to read. The author takes the time to carry on full conversations about ideas discussed throughout the entirety of the book, which makes it a little slow moving. I really enjoyed the message portrayed in the storyline, but could not read more than a chapter at a time without becoming distracted by something else. It might just be that I have been reading a lot of fiction lately, and this non-fiction type book just couldn't capture my attention to draw me in. I have set the book aside to try to re-read at another date. I know I can get more out of it that I did :) I learned some great concepts and have taken on some of the "tasks" of becoming a deeper person, but would definitely like a twice-over for this one. I think this would be an awesome idea starter for pastors and their fellowships, but as a mere sheep in the flock of millions, this was a bit too much for me.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 4 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Richly Inspiring
Date:April 19, 2012
Intentional Parenting
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Richly inspiring!
Going Deep is the fictional story of Pastor MacDonald and his wife, Gail answering a leading from God to step out in faith and intentionally disciple people into a deeper relationship with Jesus. This discipleship effort, called "CDP - Cultivating Deep People," would not only equip its members to turn around and disciple others, but expect it.
I absolutely LOVED this book! I felt as if I knew the characters intimately. I was anxious to get back to the story each night. Going Deep is encouraging, inspiring, and challenging on so many levels. Personally, I love how it lines up with biblical discipleship the way Jesus did it. Is there anything better?
From an Intentional Parenting perspective, we can use this same model to disciple our kids. Teach them about Christian character, spiritual gifts, effective communication, leadership... I could go on but I'll let you read the book and experience it yourself.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 5 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Excellent leadership book for Pastors
Date:March 20, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
There are a few leadership books that I highly recommend should be on every leaders shelf and this is one of them. Going Deep is kind of a follow-up book to ‘Who Stole My Church’, also written by MacDonald. This book explores what it means to truly be a ‘deep person’ and ultimately become more like Jesus in all you do.
MacDonald writes from his perspective as the pastor in New Hampshire and his journey to helping cultivate and grow ‘deep people’ in his church. It starts out as a ‘great idea’ and you journey along with MacDonald and those in his congregation to exploring, implementing and seeing this ‘great idea’ become reality. I thoroughly enjoyed reading through the journey of the CDP (Cultivating Deep People) group. I cried and was overjoyed as I saw their growth taking place on paper as if I was truly a part of their lives.
I seriously recommend this book to those in leadership. Who doesn’t want ‘deep people’ in their church? On their team? In their ministry? This book gives a lot of helpful ideas and an amazing strategy of how to make this happen.
MacDonald totally kept my attention, I could hardly put the book down. I was inspired to do this with my own leadership teams and look forward to exploring this in the near future. The biblical content is excellent and give a lot of wonderful resources.
A Must Read!!
By the way I received this as an ebook from Booksneeze.com to preview and am not required to give positive reviews.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 6 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
good points but slow
Date:March 20, 2012
GAJulie
Location:GA
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Going Deep was an account of a real pastor's real experiences...just fictionalized if that makes any sense. All the specific characters and details of events were basically made up to present his ideas. Now...I hadn't read the author's first book, Who Stole My Church? and that might have been to my detriment in regards to enjoying the book. I think I'd rather hear the accounts of what actually happened when he was going through all this. So sometimes it came across as unrealistic. It was a little slow for me, and not engrossing where I couldn't put it down like I usually do. (Which, where I do love to read fiction and it's easy for me to get lost in the narrative, I also find a lot of nonfiction hard to put down. I thought this would fall in between but it was easy for me to put down when reading it). It does present a good message though just be prepared for it. It think it's a good book for church leaders.
Disclaimer: I received this book as a part of Thomas Nelson's Booksneeze program. I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for the book.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 7 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Do Church like Jesus
Date:March 14, 2012
Chaplain Steve
Age:45-54
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I just finished reading the book Going Deep Becoming a Person of Influence by Gordon MacDonald. If found this book moved me deeply. As I read I realized that the American Church has been so focused on quaintly rather than quality when it comes to the spiritual issues. For example how big is your Sunday service running, pastors have been in many cases reduced to CEOs rather than shepherds. I found it refreshing that a pastor and congregation was willing to step out of the “normal” church model and return to the model that Jesus gave in the New Testament. I also found the longing in my heart to see this kind of model being repeated over and over again so that we once again begin to grow spiritually deep people, who will be able to change our world for the better. I would recommend this book to every pastor or church leader with the Challenge to grow deep people who will change their city one deep person at a time, for the Kingdom of God.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 8 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
A must read for Pastors - Life changer!
Date:March 6, 2012
Fulfilled By Christ
Location:Spartanburg, SC
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
After finishing this book by Gordon Macdonald, I saw "wow". The book is a bit lengthy and no doubt the point could have been made with fewer words (probably just leaving out some sections). However, the information delivered is still very much worth the read. The book addresses through a fictional story the epidemic of surface level Christians and the inability of church programs to make a difference. It address the importance of discipling and a radical way to approach it. The ideas presented could wholly change the church of today and the responsibilities of pastors today. As a lay person, there were several times I thought this book is meant for pastors. At the same time, as a Bible Study leader it was very motivating and I am so thankful that I took the time to read it. I would strongly suggest that any Christian who desires a "deeper" relationship with Christ or needs information on discipling others take advantage of this resource. There is no reason why any Christian could not apply many of the principles here to their personal journey and their ability to serve God in an effective manner. I do believe that while the story is fiction, the ideas are very real and applicable. I would highly recommend reading this book.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 9 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Going Deep-------
Date:February 13, 2012
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
2
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
Going Deep - Gordon MacDonald
This book is about a fictional town New England town church and the pastor who wants his congregation to "get deep into their faith and the relationship with Jesus." This book was quite boring for me, it had a good meaning and idea, but I just couldn't seem to get through it. I enjoyed reading Who stole my church and thought I would enjoy this book the same way.
This book is about a fictional town New England town church and the pastor who wants his congregation to "get deep into their faith and the relationship with Jesus." This book was quite boring for me, it had a good meaning and idea, but I just couldn't seem to get through it. I enjoyed reading Who stole my church and thought I would enjoy this book the same way.
I would only recommend this book to those who are not looking to a deep message book and those that can handle the same repitious meaning in each chapter. This book was a let down for me.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 10 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Not inspiring
Date:February 2, 2012
Quality:
1
out of
5
Value:
1
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
Going Deep: becoming a person of influence by Gordon MacDonald
183 pages
183 pages
I was inspired to read this book, because I think it is vital that Christians become deep people, strongly rooted in God’s Word, eager to become more like Him, and willing to constantly share with others what He has been teaching them. But sadly, this book, in contrast to the seemingly strong title, is actually quite shallow.
The story runs as follows: A pastor is praying for a "great idea" to train future leaders and to grow some influential Christians in the church. The end result is "CDP: Cultivating Deep People." A few people from the church are selected to be a part of the CDP group, and they spend a year of discipleship with the pastor and his wife (meeting every Monday night for 40 weeks). The book follows the formulating of the plan and the first CDP group's experience.
As I began reading, my first disappointment came when I realized the book was written in entirely fictional form with the pastor Gordon MacDonald and his wife being the only ‘real’ characters in the book. I consoled myself with the thought that maybe it was still a very inspirational book, like Charles Sheldon’s In His Steps, which is also a fictional work! So I continued reading, an activity which, quite frankly, became more and more tedious. When I say tedious, I don’t mean I that was intimidated by the length of the book. Usually three hundred and eighty-three pages is nothing to me, since I love reading. But I found that this book was too simply written, tedious, and very repetitive. The constant use of modern language, phrases and technology exasperated me. It is already obvious that Americans as a whole are losing their rate of literacy and intelligence. Why encourage that by writing and reading books written in the style of conversations and thoughts of the 21st century- badly constructed, with poor vocabulary?
Still, I could have forgiven the writing style if the book had taught me some valuable lessons; if it had inspired to become a deeper person in the Lord. Which I have to admit, it did not.
I feel that the author is coming from a totally wrong angle. Instead of cultivating deep people for God’s glory, he tries to train deep people for further use in the church, as if it were a business. Maybe I am misunderstanding the book and the author himself, as I come from a different background. I never had to deal with a large church organization. But even for those in charge of large Christian organizations, or churches, I don’t see how this book could teach, help or inspire!
I suggest you stick to the Bible, or the fabulous authors and preachers of past centuries: A.W.Pink, C. Spurgeon, J.Edwards, J. Calvin, etc!
If you are looking for a simple fictional book to inspire you to live more for Jesus, read In His Steps by Charles Sheldon.
I feel that the author is coming from a totally wrong angle. Instead of cultivating deep people for God’s glory, he tries to train deep people for further use in the church, as if it were a business. Maybe I am misunderstanding the book and the author himself, as I come from a different background. I never had to deal with a large church organization. But even for those in charge of large Christian organizations, or churches, I don’t see how this book could teach, help or inspire!
I suggest you stick to the Bible, or the fabulous authors and preachers of past centuries: A.W.Pink, C. Spurgeon, J.Edwards, J. Calvin, etc!
If you are looking for a simple fictional book to inspire you to live more for Jesus, read In His Steps by Charles Sheldon.
Lastly, I do not agree with the rôles women play in the fictitious church in this book. The pastor ‘’Mac’’ finds himself subject to learning from several wise women in the church, women who were either deacons in the church or members. That wasn’t right.
And one phrase bothered me: ‘there are wonderful younger people, but they have a whole different take on church and faith. They resist highly structured organizations. They say they follow Jesus, but they don’t like to subscribe to doctrinal statements. They love community, but they dislike authority. They say they believe in the importance of personal salvation, but sometimes they’re not sure how salvation happens.’
This is true, and those poor young people need to change! But the pastor ‘’Mac’’ goes on to state that the older people can learn something from these young people, as well as teach them. Hmm…in the above sentence about the young people, I don’t see anything good they can impart to their elders. Just a thought.
This is true, and those poor young people need to change! But the pastor ‘’Mac’’ goes on to state that the older people can learn something from these young people, as well as teach them. Hmm…in the above sentence about the young people, I don’t see anything good they can impart to their elders. Just a thought.
There ARE true points in this book:
-The future of the Christian faith will not be determined by the number of people who fill the pews but by the spiritual depth of those people.
-“There are plenty of good people, well-meaning people, sincere people — but not enough deep people.”
-It is TRUE that Christians need to be DEEP, spiritually-minded, and strive for the BEST.
-The future of the Christian faith will not be determined by the number of people who fill the pews but by the spiritual depth of those people.
-“There are plenty of good people, well-meaning people, sincere people — but not enough deep people.”
-It is TRUE that Christians need to be DEEP, spiritually-minded, and strive for the BEST.
I just wish the book had emphasized that MORE!
By the way, I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review, instead encouraged to write what I think. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thanks for reading!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 11 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Not so great...
Date:February 1, 2012
My hopes for this book were fairly high, even though this is the first Gordon MacDonald book that I've read. And, to be fair, it wasn't a bad book. It just wasn't a terribly good book, either. Before I get too far, here's the main plot: a pastor is praying for a "great idea" to train future leaders and to grow some influential Christians in the church. The end result is "CDP: Cultivating Deep People." A few people from the church are selected to be a part of the CDP group, and they spend a year of discipleship with the pastor and his wife (meeting every Monday night for 40 weeks). The book follows the formulating of the plan and the first CDP group's experience.
Let me start with my criticisms so we can end on a positive note. To begin with, there were times when the conversations in the book seemed a little shallow and.... well, "cheesy" is about the best way to say it. This is merely a personal opinion and reflects my assessment of the author's writing style, so others may disagree. My second criticism involves the time frame. The book covers two years in 383 pages. Obviously, there are some pretty big gaps and jumps in time.
Third, and I hate to say this, but the characters seemed a little wooden (except for the pastor and his wife, Gordon and Gail MacDonald!). The characters are what either makes or breaks a book for me. This book was lacking in the character department.
Fourth...it was just too good to be true. There were no major conflicts (there were a couple of weak crisis points, but they were resolved). It's very hard to remain interested in a book with no climax. If you aren't building up to something, then you have the feeling that it's downhill all the way.
Fifth - and this was the biggie for me - you will read the words "CDP", "great idea", "this thing", or "deep" on average about 5 times on each page FOR ALMOST THE WHOLE BOOK. It got pretty annoying. I guess it was a necessary thing to do, but it made the book very monotonous to me.
Okay, now I can say some good things about the book! Any pastor would love to have an experience like this in his own church. I truly pray that our church will have disciples that are on fire like these disciples were.
Probably the best thing about the book was the information about Jesus as a Rabbi (from a Jewish perspective). It really opened my eyes to what Jesus was trying to accomplish with the 12 disciples. If you don't know what I'm talking about, you need to research how ancient Jewish rabbis selected and trained their followers. It will change the way you look at Jesus.
The "great idea" that Pastor Mac had in the book isn't a NEW idea at all. It's what Christians should have been doing for 2,000 years. But I'm glad there are 21st century pastors putting new emphasis on the Great Commission: "Go and make disciples of all nations" (Matt. 28:19) We need more disciples of Christ. In all, I'd probably give the book 2 out of 5 stars.
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson publishers as part of the BookSneeze bloggers program. I was not required to make a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 12 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
One of the best I've ever read!!!
Date:January 6, 2012
graingerreader
Location:Rutledge, Tennessee
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
This book is a life-changing experience. I have already purchased several as gifts and to loan. If you want to be inspired to make disciples...this is the book for you. A great follow-up to "Who Stole My Church?"
Share this review:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Review 13 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Great Read
Date:January 5, 2012
Don Peake
Location:SC
Age:45-54
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Another great story with great impact by Gordon MacDonald!!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 14 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Please, make it stop!
Date:December 31, 2011
Have you ever encountered a book and given it more than once chance, hoping that it would get better with the passage of time?
I’ve given this book my on-and-off attention for over a month, and I’m crying “Uncle.” I made it to page 155 of 902 tiny pages on my iPhone.
If you’d like to listen in on intimate conversations among perfect strangers and experience dozens of pages of stream-of-consciousness rambling, then you’ll enjoy this book.
Unfortunately, Mr. MacDonald struggles to get to his point and loses me along the way.
What makes this experience even worse is that the author expects us to acknowledge the importance of going deep in our spiritual lives. Richard Foster is right, “The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people.”
The author may be deep, but I’m unwilling to watch him dig any more to get there.
Disclaimer: The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for writing this unbiased and forthright review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 15 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Lengthy, but There's Wheat to Be Gleaned
Date:December 20, 2011
FVmomentum
Age:25-34
Gender:male
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
A few years ago I hopped onto an elevator with Gordon MacDonald. Many floors later, I’d heard his pitch for a “great idea” at least twenty times. While his words flowed like a preacher hitting his stride, his unquenchable desire to see his flock grow deeper (and not just wider) was contagious. I could understand, from the gleam in his eye, the hop in his step, and the quickness of his speech, just how important he thought this “great idea” was to the continued vitality of his church.
But significant changes would have to be made in his church, and he was wary of the unknown implications. Upon his exit, I gave him my email address and told him to keep me updated as to how his “great idea” played out. Over the course of a year, he sent me email updates that eventually became Going Deep.
Like the fictional church, characters, and psuedo-plot of Going Deep, none of my opening story is true.
I have never met Gordon MacDonald, though I may know a little about him since “Pastor Mac” and his wife Gail, the two central characters of the book, are modeled after their real-life equivalents. My major concern with Going Deep rests in its fictional nature. Had this story been birthed from the real-life cocoon of experience, I would have been more engaged. Instead, I kept thinking that the answers were too pat, the conversations too staid, and the conflict too contrived.
However.
In the 383 pages of Going Deep, there is wheat to be gleaned from the chaff. The “great idea” expounded by MacDonald is that he and his wife should start a small group called Cultivating Deep People. In other words, the Senior Pastor should lessen his responsibilities in the church in order to focus more on the individual spiritual growth of a few chosen candidates. Just as Jesus chose The Twelve (when hundreds likely would have wanted to be in that group), so too will Pastor Mac choose a small group of men and women who will grow deep together so that they can then help others to do the same.
As pastors know, “There is nothing new under the sun,” but in Going Deep there is a challenge to the status quo with regards to Senior Pastors taking on such an intrinsic role in the spiritual development of a select few. A central question in the book could be phrased, “What should be the major responsibility of a Senior Pastor in a modern American church?” MacDonald gets to the heart of the issue that can plague pastors: “They pay lip service to the importance of training a younger generation but end up complaining that there are too many other things to do.” When coupled with the findings and stories related in David Kinnaman’s You Lost Me, where mentoring relationships are extolled as the way to engage the next generation, MacDonald’s insights into investing in the lives of younger leaders is timely and necessary.
MacDonald sprinkles invaluable resources for developing spiritual leaders throughout the text, which isn’t surprising given that he is an editor-at-large for Leadership Journal. For instance, this gem from Spiritual Leadership by Oswald Chambers: Spiritual leadership “is the power to change the atmosphere by one’s presence, the unconscious influence that makes Christ and spiritual things real to others.” And this, spoken by Pastor Mac, on the importance of a lead pastor’s humility and honesty: “People want to know where we’ve struggled . . . . They profit from knowing what the struggle taught.”
While the book is long, the writing is quick. I became more engaged in the book after the halfway mark. MacDonald spends the first half espousing the greatness of the “great idea” before unleashing it on his fictional church members. It’s in the second half of the book, when the members start meeting, that further insights into a “deep” spiritual group can be found.
For instance, MacDonald’s group incorporates the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Test so that members can learn more about themselves, others in their group, and how they relate to people in all walks of life. The life story questions on page 317 are a great starting point for getting small group members to share significant moments in their lives, which can lead to knowing each other on a much more intimate level, allowing space and safety for the group to grow deep together.
On a personal level, my favorite part occurred toward the beginning, when Pastor Mac meets with Rabbi Michael Cohen. Through pages 77-87, the rabbi reminds MacDonald of the tenets of the rabbinical contract that existed in Jesus’ time, and how Jesus bucked tradition by choosing disciples instead of waiting for a disciple to choose him. Rabbis taught through instruction (teaching), imitation (living together), and examination (testing, and allowing the student to fail). Additionally, rabbis had to leave their students at some point in order to allow them to become rabbis in their own right (the Great Commission). This brief meeting sets the ground work for MacDonald’s “great idea,” which, while not new, has certainly worked well over the last 2,000 years.
As one who has served on a large church staff, I have no envy for the oftentimes heavy and numerous hats that a Senior Pastor must wear on a daily basis. It would be interesting to know the long-term implications of a pastor dedicating significant time toward the deepening development of only a few church members.
If I ever do meet Pastor Mac on an elevator, I’ll ask him if he incorporated the “great idea” at his own church. I’ll buy him lunch as well, as his elevator pitch will likely surpass more than a few floors.
[Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”]
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 16 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Inspiring yet lacking
Date:December 14, 2011
crystal steimling
Location:PA
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Gordon McDonald's Book, Going Deep was written in a rather slow moving, unique and fictional style. Although his concepts and ideas of cultivating spiritual maturity and exhibiting a life-altering faith leave the reader extremely inspired, he doesn't leave the reader with tangible how-to's, that work in the real live "nitty-gritty" world. One thing that was evident in the fictional CDP (cultivating deep people) initiative in the book, was, to go deep you have got to be hungry! To go deep you have got to be committed! It is one thing to take a fictional group of characters and portray hunger and commitment in order to achieve an end result/desire of Going Deep. It is something that proves much more difficult when dealing with true humanity in the 21st century. Until a second edition comes out that is "real life" tried and true, (I think we call it revival) , I will remain inspired to get more hungry....to get more committed....then and only then....are we GOING DEEP!
To comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Booksneeze in exchange for an unbiased review.
Posted by Crystal at 4:41 PM
To comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Booksneeze in exchange for an unbiased review.
Posted by Crystal at 4:41 PM
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 17 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Roadmap for Going Deep Discipleship
Date:December 2, 2011
Laura
Location:Denver
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
I have read Gordon MacDonald's books since his "Ordering Your Private World" was published back in 1985. MacDonald's latest book, "Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence," continues his passion for maturity in the Christian ranks. Frankly I was attracted to the title.
He writes in narrative, about a fictional (but real) church, as a vehicle to communicate his points and recommendations. The subtitle of this book is a bit deceiving since it's really written for church leadership versus the individual who wants to go deep and become a person of influence. MacDonald prescribes a rigorous discipleship/leadership program that he and his wife have developed. It's a program I'd love to lead in our church.
In the Preface, MacDonald reveals his inspiration: "My visit to West Point provoked me with a nagging question. What would happen if the church I served became committed to a high-priority leadership training effort that took its inspiration from the mission of West Point?"
He goes on to say,"In the course of this book I will try to express the idea that leadership is first about character, then about a disciplined charisma and competence. In other words, reshape the spiritual parts of a person, as Jesus did, and a forceful but humble kind of leadership begins to emerge from within."
"What might happen if a church made the development of deep people its highest priority? Let me take that question a step further. What if a church decided that its pastor's greatest responsibility was to lead the effort to produce a continuous flow of deep people?"
MacDonald challenges the reader with great questions, challenging questions (feel free to replace your name for the word church) :
What is your church doing today that would cause anyone to be attracted to it?
How can our church enlarge its core congregation with deep people who are prepared to take us into tomorrow exemplifying the Christ-following life and inspiring us to fulfill the mission God has given us?
The interesting approach he's taken in writing Going Deep, is that it is both memoir, journal, roadmap and instruction. He's done a good bit of the legwork in mapping out a program for the pastor or church leader interested in growing deep people.
How can our church enlarge its core congregation with deep people who are prepared to take us into tomorrow exemplifying the Christ-following life and inspiring us to fulfill the mission God has given us?
The interesting approach he's taken in writing Going Deep, is that it is both memoir, journal, roadmap and instruction. He's done a good bit of the legwork in mapping out a program for the pastor or church leader interested in growing deep people.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 18 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
'going deep' shows how to train the future church
Date:November 25, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Several years ago Gordon MacDonald wrote a book, about a church and the people who didn’t realize just how much they needed to and wanted to change the way they were doing things. Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence picks up where that book left off.
This is the story of a church that has transitioned over time, and become a relevant entity in its community. But now it’s time for the next step. Dr MacDonald, pastor, author, educator, in his role as pastor of this transforming church has a conversation with a neighbor, a neighbor who doesn’t go to church, but who has some good ideas. He asks “GMAC” for an elevator story of the church, and the process begins.
Many churches have it down pat when it comes to doing what they need to be doing to further the kingdom today, but MacDonald and his leadership team, the people that are committed to going deep, take it a step further. They become intentional about finding deep people and training them. These people are being trained to train others and to be future leaders.
It’s not all easy, and we get a glimpse of the conflicts that arise when certain people aren’t chosen. We see the heartbreak when someone drops out, the joy when people are transformed, and we get to experience grace in many different ways.
Seminary still has its place for training church leaders, but this book shows that much of the ‘nuts and bolts’ training can and should be done at the level of the local church.
This book is an enjoyable read, but it lacks some of the enthusiasm of Who Stole My Church.
4.5/5
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
This is the story of a church that has transitioned over time, and become a relevant entity in its community. But now it’s time for the next step. Dr MacDonald, pastor, author, educator, in his role as pastor of this transforming church has a conversation with a neighbor, a neighbor who doesn’t go to church, but who has some good ideas. He asks “GMAC” for an elevator story of the church, and the process begins.
Many churches have it down pat when it comes to doing what they need to be doing to further the kingdom today, but MacDonald and his leadership team, the people that are committed to going deep, take it a step further. They become intentional about finding deep people and training them. These people are being trained to train others and to be future leaders.
It’s not all easy, and we get a glimpse of the conflicts that arise when certain people aren’t chosen. We see the heartbreak when someone drops out, the joy when people are transformed, and we get to experience grace in many different ways.
Seminary still has its place for training church leaders, but this book shows that much of the ‘nuts and bolts’ training can and should be done at the level of the local church.
This book is an enjoyable read, but it lacks some of the enthusiasm of Who Stole My Church.
4.5/5
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 19 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Thought Proking, Great Ideas
Date:November 17, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I absolutely LOVED the book, “Going Deep,” by Gordon MacDonald! The principles and concepts that MacDonald promotes through this fictional story of a church and the new focus that it takes are very thought provoking.
MacDonald, along with his wife, are the main characters of this book. He is the pastor of a fictional church. As you read this book, you ”listen in” on the many emails, notes, and conversations that take place as he and his wife embark on a “great idea” to transform their church by developing “deep” (more like Christ) spiritual leaders. This program is all about finding “growable” people, and cultivating them to become deeper through an intense small group training process.
I love the insight and Biblical wisdom that is promoted throughout this book. Sometimes the writing is a little unrealistic, as I think this new “idea” for a church went over too smoothly to be true; however, when a book makes me think and grow as much as this one does, I can overlook a few lapses in good writing.
My wheels are turning after reading this book. MacDonald’s concepts about how to become a “deeper” person could be fleshed out in various programs, relationships, conversations, and ministries. I am challenged by this book to become a deeper Christian, and to seek intentional ways to make that happen. I highly recommend this book to anyway who desires to grow in Christ!
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Review 20 for Going Deep: Becoming a Person of Influence
Overall Rating:
Sincere, well-written book.
Date:November 8, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
"There are plenty of good people, well-meaning people, sincere people - but not enough deep people."
Dr. Gordon MacDonald wants his church to have deeper leaders with a sense of Christ-like purpose. Using the platform of his previous book, Who Stole My Church?, Dr. MacDonald uses a realistic, yet fictionalized congregation in New England to tell the story of a church seeking to grow into a portion of the Body of Christ that thrives in a world in need of a Savior.
One of the first myths that Dr. MacDonald fights against is the idea that excellent leadership requires excellent numbers. Rather than focusing on a large group of individuals in order to cause change, MacDonald's Deep highlights the importance of the power of a few, dedicated and deep people. Citing an Korean woman that prays fervently for her church family or the elder with a specific gift, MacDonald weaves a story that allows all believers of the risen Lord to be a catalyst for change.
Though MacDonald uses the form of a fictionalized congregation to tell the story of change and growth, perhaps the most powerful advice that he gives is in the preface. Here, MacDonald paints the picture of what a "deep" person looks like. Simply, a deep Christian is one that loves Jesus without restraint, cares for others, and works to extend the Kingdom. Through the rest of his text, MacDonald shows how the points in his preface can be made real in the lives of all Christians. Without a doubt, Going Deep is a creative book that allows one to make his or her life for Christ into one of leadership and servanthood.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Share this review:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.