Beyond the Kingdom

Restorationist "house churches" and the many affiliated or independent churches that make up this section of the British Church have continued to divide and change direction since 1985 when the author wrote "Restoring the Kingdom: The Radical Christianity of the House Church Movement". This book charts these changes and plots the future of Restorationism. It demonstrates that this radical "kingdom faith" has influenced other charismatic movements and is itself now being influenced by new doctrines and visions. This book has been written after interviews with Restorationist leaders and ordinary church members, and with some of those who have left the movement. The author shows that some of the old charges of hierarchical control, heavy-handed disciplining methods and financial manipulation have not gone away. But he finds that many Restorationists are their own fiercest critics: if there is still ground for serious concern, there is also ground for hope and positive growth.