Allow me to introduce the new Church Health Today -- now a free newsletter delivered via e-mail every week. In each issue, Thom Rainer will deliver his research and church health insight free of charge to church leaders, laypersons and consultants who want to grow healthy ministries. Dr. Rainer says only 20 percent of his research typically makes it into print -- now he's got a way to get "the rest of the story" published for the benefit of the church.

This issue's "Examining the unchurched: the world of the U4s" is the first of a two-part feature on what Dr. Rainer's research team encountered in discussions with the "Unchurched 4" group -- those that are only marginally receptive to the gospel and raise strong objections without wishing to offend their Christian friends.

When you read these fascinating interview excerpts, you'll shake your head at the worldly spirituality of the interviewees. Unfortunately, you've heard this type of theism before, and will encounter it again…maybe even in your own church.

Part Two (coming next week) will encourage you in your conversations with this unchurched group. You'll learn the simple question you can ask that may mean their salvation. And the surprise kicker: the U4s themselves revealed this incredible information to Dr. Rainer's researchers.

So print out the articles every week that interest you, and read them over lunch or coffee. Pass the Rainer Report on to your staff, colleagues and friends. And take advantage of this incredible new resource for the benefit of your church and the Kingdom.

God's blessings on your ministry!

Tom Harper

Publisher, Church Central Associates