What if much of what we now consider "a successful church" no longer reflects the priorities of Jesus?

If Jesus Built the Church is a searching, pastoral examination of how modern church life has drifted-often subtly, often sincerely-from the priorities and practices of Jesus. Written from years of lived ministry rather than abstract theory, this book invites church leaders to slow down, take an honest look, and ask a confronting question: If your church were to close tomorrow, would your community even notice?

Rather than offering new programs or quick fixes, this book presses deeper. It explores Jesus' consistent attention to the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed, and asks why these priorities so often sit at the fringe of contemporary church life. It challenges the unexamined assumptions we carry about growth, discipleship, busyness, and responsibility-and the quiet pressure these place on both leaders and congregations.

With theological clarity and pastoral compassion, Dermot Cottuli draws from Scripture, experience, and careful reflection to question systems that reward activity over obedience and outcomes over faithfulness. He offers space for reflection without condemnation, and hope without na