The Sending Church Defined
By Bradley Bell
With countless models of church identity—missional, radical, gospel-centered, transformational—it’s fair to ask: Do we really need another? The Sending Church Defined answers with a resounding yes, not to introduce a new trend, but to bring much-needed clarity to an existing and essential identity. Though the term “sending church” has gained popularity, its meaning is often misunderstood or inconsistently applied. Many churches use the label without embodying its true function.
Born out of a collaboration among churches committed to global missions, this resource seeks to define and articulate what it truly means to be a sending church. Through nearly a year of theological reflection and scriptural study, Bradley Bell offers a robust definition and unpacks it word by word, aiming to reestablish the local church’s rightful role at the forefront of the Great Commission.
A Sending Church Defined is both a theological anchor and a prophetic call—challenging churches to embrace their responsibility not merely to support missions, but to lead in developing, commissioning, sending, and sustaining their own members in cross-cultural gospel work. For any church seeking to move from passive participation to intentional missional leadership, this book provides both clarity and conviction.
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Must have for any sending body.
“Really love this book. It's not only for the big church, but also for small ones. Well written, concise, to the point. Author is great at making big concepts understandable. We gave this book to all the leaders in our church.” —Suzanne Groce
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Another Must Read
“Zach has done an excellent job of stating a clear case for why the Church must reenter the work of sending. This book offers many practical insights on how to step forward. This is a no nonsense look at the why and how of churches sending well. This book is a must read for people searching for wisdom on sending.” —William A. Burdock
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars
“Great framework for a local church to think through their part in sending the Good News to all nations.” —Erixgang