Overall, a good resource for bringing cultural change.
In this book, Dr. Chand lays out a very practical and useful roadmap for any leader within a church organization who wishes to bring about positive change. Chand writes from the perspective that culture is the most important factor in determining an organization’s success, and thus the key to breaking out of a lack of inspiration or growth is to change the culture of institution. Cultural change can occur at any level, Chand frequently states, but he also consistently writes as if he is speaking to those with the highest levels of authority in the organization. So while the book is certainly a valuable resource for anyone within the offices and leadership of a church, senior pastors, elders, and department heads will find Chand’s book most helpful.
The strength of the book is in Chand’s experience and the practicality of his advice to leaders at how to best go about changing the culture of a church organization. Chand has spent years in leadership positions, and he balances stories of his personal experience with lessons learned throughout the book. If you are looking for a practical, in-the-trenches guide to navigating your ministry through major change, this book is a great resource. Chand thoroughly covers every step along the way of changing a culture, giving leaders a helpful resource to navigate the often-treacherous waters of change.
This is certainly not a theological work on the nature of the church, nor is it a book on church growth (although church growth is discussed). Chand does not give much room for the spiritual aspects of church culture and leadership. In many ways, by merely replacing every instance of the word “church” with “company” in the book, the principles and advice Chand provides would be just as applicable. With how much emphasis Chand places on the leader as impetus for cultural change, I would have hoped to see more discussion and application of biblical models of leadership and culture.
Overall, this book would be a helpful resource for any church leader or pastor seeking a practical guide to bringing about change at the leadership level of the church.
Jon Ashley 