New Book Explores the Effectiveness of Online Churches

Lynchburg, VA

Innovative ministry leaders Elmer Towns and Todd Mullins tackle the controversial question, "Can online churches fulfill the same role as physical churches?" in their new book, "Online Churches," from Liberty University Press.

"Online Churches" focuses on the evangelistic potential of utilizing the Internet for online ministry, exploring what it takes to build a viable online church and examining the elements necessary to create a faith community in a virtual neighborhood.

The authors address the most common objections to virtual fellowship and investigate firsthand how some of the biggest online churches in the world create and maintain authentic Christian community. In asking questions like "Is there a biblical justification for online churches?" "How should they function?" and "How can sacraments such as baptism and communion be administered?" they argue that online churches are a valid option for today's believer.

Online churches examined in the book include Glory of Zion International Ministries (based in Texas), Christ Fellowship (based in Florida), and Yoido Full Gospel Church (based in South Korea).

According to Drs. Towns and Mullins, online churches are reaching people through all forms of media, and online resources are allowing Christians to advance the Great Commission in formerly unreachable regions where missionaries may not have access. The book also features interviews with leaders in the online church movement, providing insight into how to connect with members and expand outreach while maintaining an evangelistic focus.

"Online Churches" is available in e-book format online through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

About the Authors

Dr. Elmer L. Towns is co-founder, with the late Dr. Jerry Falwell, of Liberty University. He has been a college and seminary professor, dean of the School of Religion, and dean of Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an authority on the topics of Sunday school, Church Growth, spirituality, and fasting, and has developed over 20 resource packets for leadership education.

Todd Mullins has been serving in leadership roles at Christ Fellowship for more than 20 years. He serves on the Pastor Advisory Board for First Care, as well as the Board of Directors for Palm Beach Atlantic University and Place of Hope Children's Home. Todd has earned a Doctor of Ministry from Liberty University.

About Liberty University Press
Liberty University Press remains at the forefront of helping Christian authors achieve their personal publishing goals. Visit Liberty University Press online for more news and information.

About Liberty University
Liberty University, founded in 1971, is the largest private, nonprofit university in the nation, the largest university in Virginia, and the largest Christian university in the world. Located near the Blue Ridge Mountains on more than 7,000 acres in Lynchburg, VA, Liberty offers more than 450 unique programs of study from the associate to the doctoral level. More than 200 programs are offered online. Liberty's mission is to train Champions for Christ with the values, knowledge, and skills essential for impacting tomorrow's world.