By Mark Dever

This was a short, easy, interesting read that I highly recommend to Christian churchgoers everywhere. Whether you are a happy member of your local church, frustrated and searching for a new church, or a new or transplanted Believer looking for a congregation to join, this book is a handy and necessary resource.

Pastor Mark Dever outlines nine essential marks of a healthy church and encourages pastors and members to encourage each other to increasingly reflect God’s character. On a solid basis on expositional preaching and gospel doctrine, the other marks of leadership, discipline, missions, prayer, etc. are built. Scripture, parables, and examples from the early church fill the pages of this easy read. No seminary degree required! 

Pros: Short, sweet, and practical! I also enjoyed how the material was presented in an encouraging manner. Churches are populated by saved sinners. We’re going to mess up. These nine marks are something we should strive for and try to grow in, regardless if we are in the pulpit or the pew, but we shouldn’t be discouraged if we don’t have them all… yet.

Cons: I really didn’t find much for cons. There were some things I would have liked to be a bit more in depth, but, as this book is part of the 9Marks series, I’m sure those areas are covered in more detail later on in the series.

Bottom Line: An essential, Bible-based book for pastors and congregants alike.