The Other Half of Church:
Christian Community, Brain Science,
and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation
by Jim Wilder and Michel Hendricks
Reading requirement in Theology of Story I: Your Story Matters course.
The Other Half of Church by Jim Wilder and Michel Hendricks offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of spiritual growth through the lens of brain science and Christian community. This book is particularly valuable for leaders, counselors, and people-helpers who are committed to fostering genuine transformation in those they support, especially women in crisis situations such as abuse or post-trauma processing.
Wilder and Hendricks bring together insights from neuroscience and scriptural truths, illustrating how the brain’s development directly impacts spiritual maturity. They argue that traditional discipleship methods often neglect the emotional and relational aspects of spiritual growth, leading to stagnation. This perspective is crucial for those ministering to women in crisis, as it highlights the importance of holistic care—addressing not only the spiritual but also the emotional and relational dimensions of healing.
Integrating Faith and Science The authors emphasize that true transformation occurs in the context of relationships, particularly within a loving, Christ-centered community. They explore how God’s design for the brain aligns with His design for the church, suggesting that spiritual growth is deeply connected to our ability to form strong, joy-filled relationships. This concept resonates with trauma-informed care, as it underscores the healing power of safe, supportive communities for women recovering from trauma.
Practical Strategies for Overcoming Stagnation The Other Half of Church provides practical strategies for overcoming spiritual stagnation by focusing on what the authors call the “right-brain” aspects of faith—emotions, identity, and community. These strategies are particularly relevant for those working with individuals who have experienced deep pain or trauma, as they offer a pathway to healing that honors both the psychological and spiritual aspects of their journey.
God’s Precepts and Brain Science Wilder and Hendricks skillfully integrate God’s precepts with cutting-edge brain science, showing how biblical principles like joy, attachment, and identity are crucial for spiritual growth. For those in ministry, this integration offers a fresh perspective on discipleship and care, one that can be especially effective in helping women reclaim their sense of self and purpose after trauma.
Conclusion The Other Half of Church is a groundbreaking resource that bridges the gap between brain science and Christian discipleship. For leaders, counselors, and people-helpers working with women in crisis, this book provides invaluable insights into how to foster true spiritual transformation. By highlighting the importance of community, relationship, and emotional health, Wilder and Hendricks offer a holistic approach to spiritual growth that is both biblically sound and scientifically informed.
This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the deeper connections between the brain, faith, and community, and how these elements can be leveraged to overcome spiritual stagnation and promote healing.
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