Succinctly put. This is a little known work by a much published author, concerning a subject of critical importance, the retention of those in the Christian fellowship.

Further comments. The author observes: "It seemed if only we were to spend proportionately more time in keeping people from getting out the back door than continuing to wave them in the front, we would be much further ahead."

His discussion proceeds with the conviction that prevention provides the best cure.

It is moreover based on original research into why persons report to have left the church.

Study questions at the end of each chapter facilitate individual and group study.

The author admonishes in conclusion: "Have you good reason for disillusionment? Others have more and yet have not given up on meeting together. Has (return) become increasingly difficult over the years? Others have stayed away longer and yet found their way back into fellowship. Take heart!"

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The author. Morris Inch is professor emeritus of Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois, and past president of the formerly designated Institute of Holy Land Studies, Jerusalem, Israel. He is retired for the third time, and along with his wife Joan live in Russellville, Arkansas. Recent publications have pushed his book titles to eighteen, in addition to co-editing three additional volumes, and authoring numerous articles.

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