Second Edition. Let's be honest - the Christian community today isn't a mirror image of the early church. Institution and tradition have taken over ministry in the church. It's the reality, but does it need to be that way? This book focuses on what it means to be a real follower of Jesus in the midst of the corrupted church, what it means to really connect with God, what real generosity looks like, how to be real with God, how to touch real lives in the world, and what we need to do to give the church relevance again. "Reality" is a good dose of reality much needed in evangelical youth work. Scott's book is a good dose of Bible-based reality-thinking on what it means to obey Jesus' word to "make disciples" instead of "making converts." - Al Siebert, Executive Director, Southern California Youth for Christ A bold, honest reflection of the institutional Church and ministry. A must read for anyone passionate about serving God, yet frustrated and disheartened by the conditions of the Church we've inherited. - Rev. Leighton Seys, Brookings, SD "Ouch " Scott's book is a real dose of reality It is a prophetic work of great hope and direction for the 21st century church. This book has within its pages a call to be transformed as the church of Jesus Christ in this world and to become once again everything that Jesus intends for us to be. - Rev. Dr. Leon Fikse, Bethany Church, Redlands, CA Scott challenges us to look at our real selves, our real relationship with God, and at the real heart of today's Church. His passion comes through as he calls us to live in the reality of God's love for a broken world. - Mike DeVito, Southwest Regional Coordinator, National Network of Youth Ministries Scott Kooiman's book will peel away layers of "church-ianity" and "me-ism Christianity" to reveal the essence or core of a radical love for and following of Jesus. - Rev. Dr. Leon D. Draayer (retired)