Jacksongol

This is a very informative, inspiring book about vision. Each chapter starts with chapter highlights which give the reader valuable insight into what is ahead. Material is broken down into digest-able chunks. There are a lot of basic definitions. Clear information on what vision is and isn't, difference between Godly vision and worldly/business/human vision, as well as many myths people have regarding vision (and the corresponding realities) are presented. The book begins by breaking down the difference between mission and vision and moves on to developing a vision and implementation. The major focus of the book is pastor vision but the last chapter focuses on individual vision development and implementation. I found even the material meant for pastors can easily be applied to lay people and development of personal Godly vision. Barna uses examples from the greats of the Bible: David, Nehemiah, Paul etc to prove his points and encourage the reader. There is also extensive helpful information about how to seek God's vision as opposed to a vision we individually create for ourselves. The reader is encouraged through extensive encouragement and benefits for keeping vision and further challenged with vision killers. Finally, the appendix is an invaluable study guide to further help readers develop and implement vision in their lives personally and in their churches.
Overall this book was encouraging to me personally as a lay person. I have a lot to think on and ponder as I seek God's vision for my life as a result of reading this book. It was an encouraging motivating book that I would recommend to new pastors who are just starting or in seminary and more seasoned pastors who seek vision improvement (or first time creation even) as well as lay people within the church.
I received a copy of this book from Baker Publishing. This has in no way influenced my review. I was under no compulsion to write a review. All thoughts are my own. ( )