The Cross-Cultured Church

Learning the familiar tune “Jesus Loves the Little Children” is a rite of passage for many children growing up in the American church today. Yet, even as our children sing of all races being precious in His sight, church demographics often chant a different chorus—one of racial homogeneity and cultural predisposition. In The Cross-Cultured Church, pastor Sanjay Purushotham reflects on the lack of racial and cultural diversity in U.S. churches. He asserts that the culture of individualistic preferences runs contrary to the culture of Christ, Who desires unity—not separation—among believers. Sanjay explains how our consumer-driven culture has permeated the church and results in churches catering to and even “marketing” toward specific segments of the population. Rejecting a popular church-growth strategy that is based on the belief that growth occurs when membership is composed basically of one kind of people, Sanjay instead argues that true growth of the church hinges on being yoked with Christ and learning from Him. He provides strong theological support and practical guidelines for congregations desiring to transition to a multiracial model.