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Book Review: Introverts in the Church

Introverts in the Church

Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture

By Adam S. McHugh (reviewed by Peter DeHaan)

Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture confirms that slightly more than half the population is introverted. However, the typical church experience is geared towards extroverts.

We should expect this, given that most pastors and worship leaders are extroverts. In addition many of the innately introverted leaders try to act like extroverts.

The result is that half of the laity does not connect—or only partially connects—with what is happening at their church.

Additionally, for the leaders who fit into the introvert category, there is much confusion, frustration, and self-doubt.

Introverts in the Church is written by self-proclaimed introvert Adam S. McHugh, who because of his inborn introverted nature had misgivings about his call to be a minister and subsequent struggles to function as one.

Adam communicates the results of his extensive research on introverts through the lens of his own story and personal experience. This adds a compelling exclamation point to each lesson shared.

Introverts in the Church offers helpful insights for both introvert and extrovert on how the other half of the population functions.

While the content of the book is of great benefit to the frustrated introvert sitting in the pew, its primary focus is on the introvert in the pulpit.

Even so, extroverted or introverted, leader or follower, Introverts in the Church offers valuable insight and practical advice for understanding each other and working together.

[Introverts in the Church: Finding Our Place in an Extroverted Culture, by Adam S. McHugh. Published by InterVarsity Press, 2009, ISBN: 978-0-8308-3702-1, 222 pages.]

Read more book reviews by Peter DeHaan.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.

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