Reclaiming Faith: A Review of Breaking Free From Churchianity by Scott Cook

Scott Cook’s Breaking Free From Churchianity is a passionate call to rediscover the essence of Christian faith, stripping away the layers of tradition and institution that can sometimes obscure the heart of the gospel. For congregations and members of the ELCA, this book provides an opportunity to reflect deeply on what it means to live out faith in an authentic and transformative way.
Cook begins by examining what he calls "churchianity"—a version of Christianity more concerned with maintaining systems and appearances than with embodying the radical love and grace of Christ. He critiques the tendency to prioritize rituals, programs, and cultural expectations over the personal and communal pursuit of God’s mission. For Lutherans, who are steeped in a theology of grace and the ongoing call to reformation, Cook’s message may feel both challenging and affirming. It echoes Martin Luther’s own insistence on returning to the gospel's core, free from the trappings of legalism or empty traditions.
One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its focus on relational faith. Cook urges believers to reimagine the church not as a building or an institution but as a living community united by love, service, and discipleship. For Lutheran congregations, where strong emphasis is placed on the priesthood of all believers and community outreach, this vision aligns with existing values while pushing for deeper engagement. The call to shift from passive participation to active discipleship resonates with our commitment to justice, inclusion, and the mission of accompaniment.
Cook also offers practical insights for individuals and communities seeking to break free from what he describes as the “shackles of churchianity.” He encourages readers to cultivate authentic spiritual practices, engage meaningfully with scripture, and focus on relationships over rigid structures. As Lutherans, who are already engaged in practices of Word and Sacrament, this book invites a reexamination of how these sacred elements shape daily life beyond Sunday worship.
What makes Breaking Free From Churchianity especially relevant is its hopeful tone. Cook doesn’t seek to dismantle the church but to renew it, calling for a faith that is vibrant, responsive, and deeply rooted in Christ. This vision aligns with the ELCA’s ongoing efforts to adapt to a changing world while staying true to the gospel. Cook challenges congregations to let go of fear and embrace a spirit of experimentation and renewal, trusting that God’s grace will guide them through periods of change.
In a time when many feel disconnected or disillusioned with traditional expressions of faith, Cook’s book offers a powerful reminder of the gospel’s transformative potential. Breaking Free From Churchianity is both a mirror and a roadmap, inspiring believers to reflect on their faith journeys and recommit to a life of grace, service, and authentic community. This is a book that speaks not just to the frustrations of institutional Christianity but to the enduring hope of a faith that can, and must, be continually reformed.

#BreakingFreeFromChurchianity