Book Review - Why the Body of Christ is Essential

Why the Body of Christ is Essential
by Collin Hansen & Jonathan Leeman

Rediscover Church reflects on the church in the midst of a technological age. During the Covid-19 pandemic, quarantine mandates tested our ability to stay together at a distance. The need for in-person gatherings was seriously
questioned as livestreams and “virtual churches” began to thrive. Many were left scratching their heads, wondering, “Do we lose anything by not physically meeting together every week?”

Authors Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman argue that online solutions should not result in believers abandoning in-person gatherings. They highlight an unfortunate pattern of decreasing interest in church involvement during the pandemic, with lack of accountability and complacency being key factors. It has become easier to skip small groups, worship services, and prayer meetings with the onset of accessible, low-commitment approaches. Additionally, the rise of intense political strife further convinced people to change their view on Christian communities, seeing it as a place of division rather than unity.

The book’s thesis is simple: the church is an essential part of God’s mission in the
world. The corporate gathering of the body of Christ strengthens our ability to
faithfully follow the Lord and trust His leadership. Rediscover Church helped me
better understand the importance of committing ourselves to fellowship, even
when the circumstances are unfavorable or difficult. If you want to explore the
purpose of the church more deeply, I recommend giving this one a read.

 

Book Review by Minister Mark Kwong

June 2025

Rediscover Church