Book review: Mend the Gap by Jason Gardner
Reviewed by Fiona Taylor
In this book, Jason tackles one of the most contentious issues of the church today: the generation gap. Split into three sections, he looks at its causes (including the role of the church), the current tensions being experienced in church as a result, and the way forward.
Throughout, Jason shows a real understanding of the problems faced by the church, and the effects society and culture have on the church. Despite the difficulties he describes, he passionately believes in the need to bring the generations together, which is convincing and infectious.
Jason provides much food for thought which is stimulating, challenging and worthy of consideration, for example, is youth work part of the problem or part of the answer? What does it mean to be an adult? What should we expect in a 21st century sermon? It is clearly laid out, easy to follow and thought-provoking to read.
I found it a breath of fresh air, describing what I have observed and experienced as a youth worker, parent and adult. It provides helpful ideas and suggestions, without making the problem sound simplistic. Written from a UK perspective is also a refreshing change.
This is not a "How to" book nor one that claims to have all the answers but it is a good place to start. Definitely one of the best Christian books published in the 21st Century which I have read.
Mend the Gap is published by IVP.
Throughout, Jason shows a real understanding of the problems faced by the church, and the effects society and culture have on the church. Despite the difficulties he describes, he passionately believes in the need to bring the generations together, which is convincing and infectious.
Jason provides much food for thought which is stimulating, challenging and worthy of consideration, for example, is youth work part of the problem or part of the answer? What does it mean to be an adult? What should we expect in a 21st century sermon? It is clearly laid out, easy to follow and thought-provoking to read.
I found it a breath of fresh air, describing what I have observed and experienced as a youth worker, parent and adult. It provides helpful ideas and suggestions, without making the problem sound simplistic. Written from a UK perspective is also a refreshing change.
This is not a "How to" book nor one that claims to have all the answers but it is a good place to start. Definitely one of the best Christian books published in the 21st Century which I have read.
Mend the Gap is published by IVP.