First, Kimball encourages his reader to be present in spaces where they can meet non-church people–to be in a position outside the church office where they can befriend non-Christians, develop relationships with them, and know what is going on in their lives so that they can be prayed for.

Good point. It seems like sometimes we think people who don’t go to church will magically be drawn (through marketing, “coolness,” whatever) to going to a church service or event without first being invited by someone that they know and like. And how else can that happen if we don’t genuinely relate to and interact with people outside of the church?

Kimball has reasons for hope in the future of the church. I tend to agree with him. He sees the emerging generation’s interest in Jesus as a great opportunity for Christian people to engage, share the gospel about Jesus, and invite people into a life of discipleship.

From what you wrote here, I like that it sounds like he recognizes the reality of the negative perceptions people have, yet also doesn’t cave into major cynicism about the future of the church. It’s good to recognize that there are problems and not ignore such things, but also to balance that with hope and a positive vision. I respect that.