* How can your church effectively "do justice" and form disciples? Jim Martin and the International Justice Mission offer a practical action plan! Drawing wisdom from the ministry's front-lines experience in the world's most dangerous places, Martin shows how your congregation can plead for widows and orphans and rescue the oppressed---whether in far-off places or your own community. 272 pages, softcover from Tyndale.

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Customer Reviews for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Review 1 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Hope blends with Challenge and Praciticality

Date:October 18, 2012

Kathi Hanson

Location:Michigan

From the beginning chapters where Jim calls us to step out of our insulated worlds and to get ourselves “into trouble” by stepping out into God’s call for Justice, through the clear steps to accomplish that in the second half of the book; I was engaged, encouraged and inspired to dig deeper in the fight against injustice. I walked away with an even deeper conviction that we must take up the call to “Seek Justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow” (Is. 1:17) And best of all, I came away with a plan and a way to actually accomplish that, not just inspiration that will fuel for a while and then die away.

I’ve been on a journey… Jim Martin just wrote this book about it. Ok, Jim didn’t write this book about me of course. But he takes the reader on a journey that has been mirrored in my life over the past several years. I was called into the fight for justice through a process of Encountering the truth, Exploring how I could help and then Engaging where God called me.

In The Just Church, Jim Martin lays out a foundation for doing this in the local church. He shows how individual congregations can go through these phases of Encountering the truth of the realities of injustice in our world; Exploring a church’s resources, your communities needs and the Global opportunities that exist; and finally how to Engage in the areas you have discovered.

Throughout the process Jim highlights the many pitfalls and dangers this road can bring along and gives solid, practical, godly advice for countering then.

For instance, in the Encounter phase it is so easy to become quickly angered at the horrible evil in the world. Our safe view of reality is shattered as we discover the evidence of atrocity around the world and we have a natural desire to rise up, run out and fight back. We are fueled by anger, frustration and outrage. Jim cautions and instructs how to build a more solid foundation than just our “visceral” feelings so we are able withstand the fears, problems and setbacks we are sure to encounter along the way.
I have seen this personally as I present information about trafficking to groups of women every week. Often someone approaches me with fire in her eyes after I’m done, ready to throw her whole self into the fight, only to fall off the radar quickly afterward. She didn’t take the time to research, count the cost and build a resolve to continue no matter what. Jim shows how to keep this from happening to your church.

In the Exploration phase he reminds us to stay humble and move from just belief to trust as we take steps in to unknown territory. Jim encourages us as churches to look to what is already out there that we can join in on, and for needs not yet being met. We must take a humble and yet courageous approach as we seek to uplift and support those already in the fight but then take the bold steps in areas still in need.

In the Engage Phase Jim wrestles with the very real sense of fear we each encounter as we step so far beyond our own capacities and capabilities and move into the realm where God uses us for great things. We must confront fear and come up with actions steps to take so we are not overcome by it. He also illuminates that we must be willing to step out in faith and fail… “…when faith is tested and pushed –especially to the failure point- it can recover stronger and more ready for the next challenge.” (p.9)

I highly recommend this book not only for pastors and church leaders, but also for anyone seeking to find God’s deeper call on their lives, and to connect with God in a real and deep way they may never have before.

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Review 2 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

This is the kind of book I've been looking for!

Date:October 12, 2012

AspiringAshley

Age:25-34

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

This is exactly the kind of book I've been looking for! While most books on justice present the issue in varying depths and ways, then call for action, they usually lack any practical steps to move from knowledge to application. This book is not like that. Jim Martin, Vice President of Church Mobilization at International Justice Mission, basically assumes you have a foundation of what injustice/justice are, gives a brief refresher course on the issues, and dives in to show you what to do with all that information.

One thing I was not expecting, and really enjoyed, was that this "how-to" didn't even start until more than 100 pages into the book. Instead, Martin starts the book by preparing and encouraging those who desire to engage in the work of justice. He prepares you for the difficulties that are certain to arise when working against such evil forces. Once he ensures that individuals are on solid footing, only then does he move on to teach how to engage a body of believers in the monumental task of restoring justice.

While he cannot give specific action steps, since every church will need to respond in a unique way, with their unique blend of talents and resources, Martin does a beautiful job of outlining the process of making justice a key value and action in your church. This book is truly an amazing handbook for justice ministries, the first of it's kind, to my knowledge! It's written in an easy-to-understand, quick-paced way that gets you excited and seeing the possibilities. I am leaving this book with a renewed passion for justice, and a compass (as Martin calls it) to lead others towards a better world.

A must read for any church leader, but especially those with a passion for justice.

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Review 3 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Faith, Risk, Discipleship, Justice and Joy

Date:October 10, 2012

Kevin Daum

Location:Mount Pleasant, MI

Age:25-34

Gender:male

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

"My faith, my theology, my life experience, simply could not accomodate Marta's story. I wanted to unlearn what I'd just heard--to purge it from my mind. But that was impossible. I racked my brain for some comforting thought, some idea, some theological construct, some passage of Scripture that would quench the fire of emotion raging in my chest. I was uncomfortable with the level of anger I was feeling--rage, even--toward anyone who would destroy the lives of children like the ones in the pictures before me. But at the failure point, there is no such help, no easy answer. The faith I had brought with me to Peru simply failed" (The Just Church, p. 39).

So Jim Martin describes his first up-close encounter with violent injustice. What he describes is remarkably similar to the first time I heard the stories: Stories that begin with someone's dignity being ripped away by someone more powerful and end with the hopeful response of God's people resulting in rescue and rehabilitation.

This book is for gatherings of Christians at any stage of a justice journey who want fuel, wise guidance and even a map to help them along the way. You might be a church member who is simply wondering how issues of injustice relate to your faith. You might be the "social justice" person who is seeking a biblical basis for your concern. You might be a church leader who wants to explore issues of injustice together with others at your church. Or perhaps you've been leading your church to engage injustice for years and are wondering where to go next.

Allow me to briefly describe my background so that you have some idea of the perspective I brought to this book. I've been a supporter of IJM since hearing Gary Haugen, IJM President, speak in 2008. Since then I've attended annual Global Prayer Gatherings and have also participated in many advocacy activities. I've also read most of the books produced by IJM staff. At the same time, I've struggled to appreciate certain aspects of IJM's work and culture. Thus I came to this book assuming that I've heard most of it already, that I'd agree with most of it and feel ambiguous about some of it.

This was not my experience. One of my concerns from early on in my involvement with IJM has been, "isn't this justice stuff something churches should be doing? Why do people have to leave their church and go work for an NGO to do justice in Jesus' name?" After reading The Just Church, I have a new answer: they don't! The book infused me with hope as I realized there is so much more possibility for a church to get involved in the work of justice than I had imagined.

The first half of the book revolves around the interesection of faith, discipleship and justice. Jim describes two character attributes that rarely exist simultaneously but that are both necessary for sustainable justice ministry: courage and humility. We learn how faith grows most readily when we are willing to take risks together. We also learn that engaging in justice work as a church does not require neglecting discipleship; in fact, the work of helping victims and survivors of violent oppression happens to also be fertile ground for discipleship. My own experience agrees with Jim's realization that we have at least as much to gain when we move towards folks much more vulnerable than ourselves as they do.

The second half of the book is devoted to providing a clear path for churches wishing to embark on sustainable, meaningful service to the most vulnerable among us, whether on the other side of the world, within that church's local community, or even within the church itself. A wealth of practical, helpful material is provided along with wise advice informed by years of helping many churches along this journey. Each chapter in the book concludes with questions for reflection that I found very helpful in processing the material and teasing out its relevance for me.

I appreciated the connection Jim drew between justice and discipleship. The fact that justice work just happens to be fertile ground for discipleship is good news both to those who care about discipleship and to those who care about justice. The news should relieve a major hesitation church leaders could have when considering getting involved in bringing justice to the vulnerable.

Having come from a church that had more than its fair share of struggles with our own pride, I also appreciate Jim's challenge early in the book to demonstrate both courage and humility. The two attributes rarely coexist, he says, but both are crucial when embarking on a justice journey. Victims and survivors of violent abuses deserve helpers who are both willing to take risks but also well-prepared, cooperative and open to learning from others.

Finally, anyone interested in making steps towards doing justice work will find the second half of the book and the appendices incredibly practical and helpful. These chapters are filled with wise and practical advice gleaned from years of helping churches through a process of encountering, exploring, and engaging in justice work. Far from a rigid, linear prescription, Jim acknowledges that each church's journey will look different. He is clear, however, about some crucial things he believes need to take place before making important transitions. He also provides concrete examples for those who need help getting started. I will personally benefit from the reading lists and surveys of scripture found in the appendices.

If you're interested in the connections between risk, faith, justice, discipleship and joy, I recommend this book to you. Likewise, if you're wanting to build a biblical foundation for doing justice in Jesus' name, I recommend it to you. If you're part of a church curious about or looking to do something about the great injustice you see abroad or in your own community, I especially recommend it to you.

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Review 4 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Great Justice Framework for Churches

Date:October 10, 2012

Larry

Location:Massachusetts

Age:35-44

Gender:male

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

This book is separated into two sections in my view. The first is about the problem of injustice. The second is about how churches can get organized to do something about it. I found the first section to be both a gripping and gut-wrenching read at the same time. But, it's an important read to get grounded in what injustice looks like in the world. The folks at IJM are on the fore-front of the work against injustice and I appreciate that they paint the picture the picture starkly, without embellishment. The second section gets into the nuts and bolts of how to organize a church to get engaged in the work of justice (and why every church should). It's one of those sections that you hope every church leader reads. There was some commentary about how the pursuit of our Christian faith has become so internally focused - which completely rang true.

For those who want practical steps to take, this book has it. For those who need to be inspired, this book has a strong message of hope. For those who need to have their heart broken, this book will do that as well. Definitely a worthwhile read.

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Review 5 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A roadmap for starting a Justice ministry in your

Date:October 9, 2012

Dwimblemom

Location:Texas

Age:35-44

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

Do we as Christians really believe we are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14)? And what about Luke 12:48: “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” Is this how we live and relate to the world around us?

Jim Martin’s book, “The Just Church” starts out by asking a lot of hard questions about the state of the church in America and how very comfortable we are in our safe, insulated world. This book is great on many levels. If you have never thought about the vast amount of injustice and evil in our world, or heard of organizations like the International Justice Mission, this book is for you. If you know about this topic, but are paralyzed by the thought that you can’t “do” anything about it, this book is for you. If you are a pastor, in church leadership or member of a church and wondering how you could move your church forward in the area of Justice Ministry, this book is for you. Each chapter ends with questions to get you thinking deeper about the content of the book. Additionally the resources at the end of the book are very helpful.

Martin speaks to the fact that as we (as individuals or as a church) grow more affluent we do all we can to make ourselves more and more insulated. This causes us to look at the world and relate to it with a view of keeping our family and ourselves safe. When you inject the stark reality of violent oppression into the mix he says, “It’s about deciding to peel back some of the layers of our insulation so that we begin to experience the world as it really is.” He then offers some stark stories about horrible injustice in the world while also offering hope that we as the church can make a difference. He helps the reader see how they can “find their voice” in the fight against injustice. He offers great analogies and a basic step-by-step overview on how to take your church from thought process to actual ministry.

He shows that loving our neighbor includes those near and far from us, and that the church is God’s plan to stop injustice. He also shows that fighting injustice is going to take churches into a place many have not gone before, but that will lead to a much deeper relationship with God as we see the world through His eyes. He says, “Responding to violent oppression will lead into direct and often shocking confrontation with real evil and complex need.”

There is so much good contained in this book, especially this quote that has stuck with me and caused me to pray differently about injustice since reading it: “…subsequent experiences have left no doubt that many of the psalms (and many of David’s in particular) are not abstractions; they are describing real life – the life lived by billions, indeed, the majority in our world today.”

The horror of injustice and violent oppression around the globe is real, but YOU can make a difference.

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Review 6 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A Much Needed Guide

Date:October 8, 2012

decart

Location:Riverside, CA

Age:45-54

Gender:female

Quality:

4 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

4 out of 5

With the recent resurgence within Evangelical churches towards social justice issues, Jim Martin's The Just Church comes as the guide we've needed. He resists sensationalizing horrific issues like bonded slavery, sexual abuse of minors and human trafficking while providing specific, Biblical rationale for engaging such modern-day evils.

Martin's book provides a wonderful blend of personal anecdotes, hard-worn wisdom from mobilizing his own congregation towards justice issues and action steps gleaned from years as International Justice Mission's lead in Church Mobilization. He's been there, seen the results of well-intentioned but short-lived or misguided emotional responses to combating evil, and explains a better way to do justice work.

With the heart of a discipler, he encourages fellow justice champions to embrace "faith failure points" as opportunities to lean hard into God's strength. As we proceed wisely into the pain-wrecked world of human injustice, Martin guides us into practical steps that have helped him weather those faith-testing times with grace.

The last half of his book provides a specific methodology for assessing engagement opportunities for one's local congregation, within one's community, and in finding a place to partner with those doing excellent work globally.

Thank you, Jim Martin, for sharing such a needed guidebook for churches to express God's heart for the oppressed.

(Reviewed by Dawn Carter, @decart)

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Review 7 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Becoming A Just Church

Date:October 8, 2012

Jason C Joyner

Location:In The Gem State

Age:35-44

Gender:male

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
---
The words of the prophet Micah are spoken in churches all over the world. Believers love this simple declarations of what Jesus asks of His people.

Christians try hard to walk humbly with the Lord. We strive to show mercy to people. However, we often ignore or struggle with the clause of "acting justly." Especially for Western Christians, the command for justice is flat-out missed or simply misunderstood.

There is a new move of the Spirit, awakening His people to the need to provide justice for those who cannot speak up for themselves, to proclaim freedom to the captives, to minister to the widow and orphan. It is a slow burn, but it is exciting to see the embers leaping into flame in various places of the body.

A new spark is being provided by the new book The Just Church by Jim Martin of the organization International Justice Mission (IJM).

IJM has been fighting for justice for many years now and is one of the leading organizations battling injustices like forced labor, human trafficking, sexual exploitation of women and children, and modern-day slavery in all its forms.

Jim Martin has been working with them after transitioning out of the pastoral role in his church, becoming a church liason with IJM. This experience made him especially qualified to write The Just Church.

This book is a challenge to the body of Christ to reclaim the lost aspect of Micah 6:8 and to actively act justly in the world. There are other books that try to awaken Christians to the need of justice and to expose the problems of modern slavery and other forms of bondage towards vulnerable peoples that is easy to overlook in our daily lives. The Just Church is a book that takes the church on journey to forming a viable justice ministry to compliment evangelism and mercy ministry.

The book is laid out in three sections. The first section establishes a theory that faith doesn't really grow without significant risk and suggests that justice ministry is a needed part of the church and can help develop a healthier discipleship in His people. The second section takes the reader through a practical journey on establishing a justice ministry in the local church. It isn't a step by step approach, allowing for the individual characteristics of any body guide the process. The last part of the book is a series of appendices with Scriptures on justice, resources for following through, and study materials. Each chapter ends with a QR code that can be scanned by a smart phone or tablet, leading to a video with Jim summarizing each chapter's main point.

It is well-written with an easy conversational style. Jim lays out the challenges inherit in this type of ministry and doesn't sugar-coat it. It won't be easy. But he recognizes the hope that is out there for people if Christians will rise up and stand in this gap, so the book is infused with this balance of challenge and hope.

Overall I am thrilled to have had a chance to read this book and see the new horizons coming in the fight against injustice. The need is starting to become known in the western Church. The Just Church takes the movement to the next step and provides a practical tool to those churches looking into how they can join in the justice ministry sphere. It isn't for special people. The Bible speaks very clearly about God's love of justice and it is every Christian's responsibility to see the threefold thrust of Micah 6:8 walked out in the world today.

The Just Church is a powerful tool in the battle against modern injustice. I highly recommend it.

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Review 8 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

after the outrage subsides, an actual guide

Date:October 8, 2012

katherine

Location:California

Age:45-54

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

4 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

If you've read about the widow's heartbreak when all she has left is taken by thieves, or listened to harrowing accounts of families forced into labor for their entire lives, or watched horrendous footage of very young girls working in brothels, you've likely experienced that spark of outrage igniting your protest at the injustice meted out to the helpless. Jim Martin's new book, "The Just Church" takes you after that emotional moment has passed, providing realistic steps for you, and your church, to answer God's call for biblical justice.

Beginning with his time as a pastor helping young girls in Peru, to his current role as Vice President of Church Mobilization for International Justice Mission, Jim Martin takes us along on his personal journey engaging the church to fight injustice, specifically when it manifests as violent oppression of the most vulnerable.

The Just Church is a timely guide for any church contemplating involvement in the fight against modern day slavery. Appealing to any and all, from larger churches with ministry resources, to those with smaller, more intimate congregations, The Just Church draws upon the experience of International Justice Mission. Working with hundreds of churches for many years, IJM has compiled the best practices of those who are successfully building, (and sustaining) biblical justice ministries, both locally and internationally.

In addition to providing the scriptural basis for God's mandate "to seek justice" Martin's book equips you and your church with a roadmap to navigate the phases of Encounter, Explore, and Engage. His strategic approach to "Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation" leaves little doubt that you will encounter "trouble." Stepping past the insulation of our everyday lives, and seeing people suffering in horrendous circumstance, could push our faith to a failure point. He shows us how the deliberate act of trusting God beyond that failure, which brings us closer to him, will ultimately deepen our faith.

The Just Church gives us insight into how heartfelt conviction for justice is not so much about the mission. It is truly about creating our discipleship. The link between justice and discipleship can deeply transform our lives. From any viewpoint, be it church leader, small group study, or the single individual who wants their church to dive into an active justice ministry, The Just Church gives you a solid strategy to answer God's call to fight injustice.

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Review 9 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

You’ll be wrecked

Date:October 7, 2012

Trina

Location:Salem, OR

Age:25-34

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

I've never written a book review before, but I am compelled to write this one.

If you have a heart for biblical justice, this book is for you. If you feel something is missing in the church, this book is for you. If you are a pastor or any type of ministry leader, this book is for you. And I will go as far as to say, even if you are not a person of faith, but are curious to understand why the church cares about justice, this book is for you.

Like a seasoned coach, Jim Martin shares the principles and truth of a just church, from his own experience in leading others as they "looked for trouble" to his role today coaching churches through International Justice Mission. The Just Church is a successful football playbook with notes and tips written in every margin. Each team's justice game will look differently, but Martin shares the fundamentals necessary for building a justice legacy.

Be forewarned, this book will likely wreck you. And you too will be compelled to get into the game with courage and humility.

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Review 10 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

MUST READ for all justice seekers!!

Date:October 7, 2012

gcknight

Location:Staunton, VA

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

You know that a book is going to be a good one when your pen comes out in the foreword and keeps marking chapter by chapter! As I read this book so many things pierce my heart and cause me to want to share with my fellow justice seekers!

The one thing I loved right off is this quote:

"Through the pursuit of justice we find our way to deep intimacy with a God who loves us and calls us into His work not only for the good of others, but for our own good as well. The work of justice, therefore, is as much about discipleship as it is about mission"

This book is a terrific blend of real stories, thought provoking ideas, God's word, and practical ways to carry out the work of justice within the church. I also love the questions and video link at the end of each chapter to carry on discussion and to connect with Jim Martin via video.

I wish this book was out years ago!

In the fight for justice it is easy to become weary and feel alone. This book has put fuel into my zeal and passion.

I encourage everyone to read it! You won't regret it buying it!

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Review 11 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A practical, humble call to work against injustice

Date:October 7, 2012

arbuckle

Location:Denver, CO

Age:25-34

Gender:male

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

“Once a community or culture finds itself a affluent enough to insulate itself from the uncertainty of the world around it, it usually does.” –Jim Martin, The Just Church

The Just Church is a much-needed call to commit to the humble (and humbling) work of justice. It is a call to see faith, not as a system of beliefs, but as rigorous trust in the living God that calls and empowers His Church to do the difficult work of embodying the gospel in all of the earth, even and especially, the dark corners of it.

This book is clearly birthed out of experience because it is not like many of the helpful books that have been written on trafficking and slavery over the past several years. It is not the gripping account of a journalist traveling around the world to see first-hand what trafficking and slavery looks like. Nor is it focused on providing a biblical exposition of God’s heart for justice and a historical look at the courageous Christians who have fought the battles of their day against injustice.

This book is a mix of those things and something more.

Jim Martin wants to see the Church aroused to the injustices of today, but he’s not interested in presenting a dramatic account of it in order to make readers feel guilted into ‘doing something.’ He believes that the work of justice is part of what it means to be a mature disciple of Jesus and therefore wants to see the Church grow into a more living and robust faith—not only because the victims of injustice need our commitment, but because we risk atrophy and lethargy if we don’t heed the call.

He has also worked with enough churches to know that getting people ‘fired up’ to go save the world is counter-productive. And this is one of the main things that distinguish this book. Patience, humility, wisdom, and discernment are the main themes of this book. Therefore, it is also practical. He is careful to repeat that this is not a how-to manual, but he does provide several concrete ways for churches to begin creating a proper foundation on which to build an effective justice ministry.

Any Christian or church that reads this book should understand better the relationship between pursuing justice and discipleship, the very real need to get involved in the fight against injustice at home and abroad, and how to pursue a path forward that will not be fueled merely by temporary emotion, but will rather be built upon a vibrant faith in the living God that will inevitably lead to a deeper walk with Jesus and the ability to be a real and lasting blessing to others.

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Review 12 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Seeking Justice

Date:October 7, 2012

Joseph

Location:New Orleans

Age:55-65

Gender:male

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

Hallejuah, The Jutice generation has their manifesto .Jim Martin's "The Just Church" answers the oft asked question, "What can I do to help stem the tide of overwhelming injustice? From encountering the forms of injustice to exploring the entire landscape of community and global support to actual engagement, each step is clearly delineated. This is the curricular piece the justice generation has been waiting for. Churches and community advocates now have the roadmap to weave the response to God's cry for justice into the fabric of their advocacy.. Martin clearly , succinctly and with passion makes the just church reality in our times.

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Review 13 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A book everyone needs to read

Date:October 7, 2012

Christina Martoni

Location:U.S.A.

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

"The Just Church," by Jim Martin is a book that teaches God's people on seeking justice. Jim is a man of God that continues to pursue after His heart to fight against human trafficking. This book has the tools that the church and the people of the church need in order to fight against injustice. If you have a heart for God and want to see hope in this world, then this book is for you!

‎"We grow faith not by sitting alone and trying to flex our faith muscles. We grow faith by putting ourselves in situations that will require faith of us." pg. 49-50 (Jim Martin)

If we want to grow our faith, we need to be in situations that will make us uncomfortable and require our faith to be stretched. This book shows us how to build our faith, gives us direction on stepping out in action and responding to God's call to seek justice for His people. Jim is a great leader as well as an author. I encourage all to purchase this book.

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Review 14 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A Must Read

Date:October 6, 2012

Danielle H

Age:25-34

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

The Just Church is the book that everyone with a heart for justice has been waiting for...whether they know it or not. This great resource begins with proving from the Scriptures that the work of justice is not just for a small, radical group or even only as a missional effort but rather as a call and a necessity of being a disciple of Jesus. Martin provides not just truth, encouragement and real challenge but also deeply practical steps to take. So often books written on justice efforts will "wreck" you but you leave feeling overwhelmed and without practical application. The Just Church is both hopeful and helpful. Simply put, this book is a must read for anyone who has a heart to heal or is facing injustice.

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Review 15 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A Must-Read for Christians and Church Leaders!

Date:October 6, 2012

K Merida

Location:NC

Age:35-44

Gender:female

The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation by Jim Martin is the book many church leaders and Christ followers have been looking for. In fact, the title alone had me at “hello.”

Scripture teaches that God is a God of justice who calls His people to walk in His ways. But what does that look like for the church today? How can churches engage the issue of injustice in a biblical, relevant, effective and sustainable way? Author Jim Martin prescribes two necessary character traits in order to do so: courage and humility. Martin also provides a biblical foundation, practical tools, life experience as a pastor, testimonies to encourage, as well as insight into the work of the International Justice Mission. Interwoven throughout are stories of others following Jesus by taking risks and seeking justice for the good of others who are made in the image of God. I highly recommend this book for every Christian in general and church leaders in particular.

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Review 16 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

MUST READ for ANY Justice Seeking Church!

Date:October 5, 2012

Sara Pomeroy

Location:Richmond, VA

Age:25-34

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

I, admittedly, am not much of a reader. It takes a book that is practical, readable, and truly engaging to get me to continue reading. I was SOLD starting with page one. I have been looking for a book like this! As the Founder of an anti-trafficking organization, we are have partnered with area Churches, encouraging them to engage in the work of Justice. After reading Jim Martins book, The Just Church, I am delighted to have the perfect road map that lays out the steps that ANY church can take.

They are accessible strategies that will help any Church respond to God's call to seek Justice in their own communities. Jim also hits the nail on the head in regards to what ANYONE engaging in the work of Justice MUST do in order to engage safely. So many times it is not what we do but what we DON"T do that creates burn out. He explains the importance of supporters, spotters and "The miracle of rest." He states that "To neglect rest in physical exercise is to invite injury and threaten the sustainability of the exercise program. No neglect rest in our life of faith is a far more serious matter"

I believe this book will be the catalyst that will move churches from well meaning intent to seek justice, to becoming " risk-taking, justice-seeking, disciple-making congregations"!!

So..what are you waiting for???

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Review 17 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Challenging and Equipping the Church For Justice

Date:October 5, 2012

April McCallum

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

In The Just Church, International Justice Mission’s (IJM) V.P. of Church Mobilization, Jim Martin, asks (and answers): “Why is it that the glaring global justice issues of our day—issues such as sex trafficking, modern slavery, illegal property seizure and sexual assault—are so seldom addressed in our churches? Why is it that the widows, orphans, aliens, and strangers so often mentioned in the Scriptures are so seldom mentioned (or present) in our churches?”

Martin clearly articulates what it looks like to become a “just church” by underscoring the interrelatedness of justice and discipleship, risk-taking and faith; and, telling how and why the church must engage in the fight against injustice.

Readers are transported to the frontlines through stories of justice system roadblocks, dramatic rescues, church campaigns, and lessons learned. Martin describes a "missional purpose" that produces courageous love, and lays out a three-step strategy to jumpstart any church on their justice journey. The book is filled with creative ideas to spark action, a community assessment tool, diagrams and guidelines, along with provocative questions.

Martin and IJM became experts by embedding themselves on the frontlines. Firsthand experience rescuing victims of violence and oppression takes them to the most dangerous places in the world. But Martin goes beyond the emotional and intellectual knowledge to a deeper level. He presents readers with the cause and effect of injustice to bring understanding of what breaks the heart of God and why we should care.

We see the complexity of sexual exploitation, genocide, forced labor, debt bondage, poverty, and a bevy of other human sufferings. The world’s justice systems creak and moan like overburdened battleships. As individuals and societies, we find ourselves in a counterintuitive state of self-absorption and apathy that only fuels the brokenness, adding insult to injury. And, where’s the church? The church is right in the middle, yet many argue, not fully awake.

Although the call for justice rings louder than ever, it is in large part, missing a crucial voice: The Church. In our westernized mentality, many have become distracted, dulled, and satisfied with the lesser things. We seek change, but not literal transformation. The church must be awakened and made whole so it can minister that wholeness to a world in desperate need. Its goal must be: “authentic love, holistic rescue and restorative compassion.”

We are challenged to “move outside our small worlds,” and “actually see and experience the world as it really is—inclusive of the suffering and pain that we could easily avoid noticing. In so doing, we will experience the invitation of God to engage the world at its point of need and to be transformed in the process.” It’s key to move from the “ministry of justice” as a program within a church, to the church ministering justice to the oppressed as part of its spiritual DNA.

Martin says, “As churches, we must approach justice (the attribute of God) and justice ministry (the activity in which we engage) in the same way.” The battle is already raging. It’s time for the church to effectively engage. The Just Church will challenge and equip any individual or church committed to fighting oppression and injustice!

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Review 18 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

4 out of 5

A wonderful roadmap to seeking justice

Date:October 5, 2012

James Linton

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

Three years ago, I was a leader of a home group through a college ministry in Dallas, Texas. We studied to book of Micah, felt very compelled that we were called to engage in the work of justice, found a cause we were passionate about (human trafficking), and tried to get started. What we quickly found is that outrage and indignation would not sustain a justice ministry. Eventually, our efforts fizzled out without any noticeable impact.

I know those members of the small group. They are dear friends of mine. I know their hearts. I know they really desired to engage human trafficking. The reason that project fizzled out had nothing to do with hardened, calloused hearts. It was because we lacked a plan to really engage in the work of justice.

This experience makes Jim Martin’s book, The Just Church really exciting for me. In his book, he lays out a plan for the beginnings of a justice ministry in the local church. This plan, if followed, could help put teeth to the tiger of indignation that wells up in any compassionate heart that hears of the injustice people suffer all over the world.

In the first part of the book, Martin lays out the beginnings of what is necessary to engage justice. He lays out principles that would be useful to a believer dealing with any area of discipleship. Perhaps the greatest challenge he issues is to believers is to be willing to ‘get into trouble.’ So much of our lives can be consumed by small, insignificant problems. In order to grow in our faith, Christians must intentionally seek out situations where they must cry out to God, knowing it is only Him that can save them. These situations bring about ‘failure points’ in our faith. Just as muscles must be pushed to the place where they cannot continue to grow, Christians must be brought to places where their faith fails, only to cry out to God, reflect, and experience growth.

Encountering the dark world associated with a justice ministry will inevitably bring about these situations. As we read the countless psalms that show us people surrounded by enemies, crying out to God for deliverance, we should realize that this is the actual lifestyle of countless people in the world. Martin calls on Christians to make their suffering our suffering and then call out to God for deliverance. As we do this, we will find ways to engage and to do so with both courage and humility.

After laying out principles that are required for a church that wishes to engage justice, Martin goes on to display his plan for beginning a justice ministry in a local church. This is a three-fold process: Encounter, Explore and Engage. These three phases are laid out in detail in his book, and Martin wonderfully balances giving enough detail to be helpful to churches and holding back enough to allow the Holy Spirit to guide particular churches to engage justice ministry according to their unique call.

The book closes with several examples of churches that have done extraordinary work in justice ministry. These churches have responded to the call of God in incredible ways, with one church deciding to take the funds from their building campaign and direct them toward an aftercare program. These churches take the book beyond the theoretical to the practical.

This book is a gift to the church. As a pastor, I believe that anyone in church leadership should take the time to deal with the ideas introduced here. If pastors are willing to walk their congregations through this process, I know that the God of justice would respond in powerful ways. May we all have the courage and humility to allow the creator and savior of the world, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to work through us to rid his creation of oppression. To God be the glory.

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Review 19 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Every church needs to read this!

Date:October 5, 2012

Andrea

Age:25-34

Gender:female

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

I would love to say that I couldn't put this book down. That would be a lie. I had to put it down regularly because it challenged me. I had to stop to think about what it said and what that meant for me in my walk as well as for my church. The phrases he uses and examples he gives will not only stick with me, but have changed the way I look at my faith, justice, my church, the Church, and God. (Yes, it really is that good.)

It may seem hard to believe that one book could affect that many areas, but it is true. The process that a church would follow to grow into an impact player in justice is clearly delineated, but not narrowly defined. I truly believe any church of any size in any location can read this book and find a way to move forward on the road to justice ministry.

Jim Martin is very realistic in his timeline and goals along the way. He does not put any unrealistic expectations into the book. He also gives great examples of what a justice ministry will look like at the end of the process. I have already recommended this book to two churches. I plan on buying a copy for my pastor to read.

Every church needs to read this!

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Review 20 for The Just Church: Becoming a Risk-Taking, Justice-Seeking, Disciple-Making Congregation

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

A blueprint for putting faith into action

Date:October 5, 2012

Frances E

Location:Greenville, SC

Age:25-34

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

Jim Martin lays out an invitation to engage in securing justice with both courage and humility. He illustrates how doing so is an integral part of our faith in Jesus Christ—not simply because of the magnitude of suffering and sin in our world but because God has invited us to join Him in this fight.

The fight for justice and righteousness is not an easy one, but Martin reminds us that “love proves itself most profoundly in adversity” (56). It is in these difficult times that fellowship, rest, and the nourishment of scripture become indispensable.

In the latter half of the book, Martin lays out a framework by which churches can effectively participate in bringing God’s kingdom to Earth. It is not a formulaic, step-by-step instructional manual but rather a blueprint by which fellowships of believers may recognize how doing justice is essential to their faith

The discussion questions at the end of each chapter are thought-provoking and challenging and make “The Just Church” a wonderful tool for anyone who desires to effectively join in the fight for justice.

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