Churches rarely fail because of what is visible. More often, the cracks appear because of what lies unseen beneath the surface. In Laying Firm Foundations, Chris Staples draws on over three decades of church leadership to explore the foundations in building churches that are too often neglected until it is too late. Using the biblical story of the rebuilding of the Temple in Ezra, this book offers wisdom for building churches that are not only spiritually alive, but structurally sound and resilient. This is not a book about quick growth or outward success. It is a call to take time to dig deep, strengthen and build with care in God’s way – so that what is built can endure storms, seasons, and time itself.
Establishing a Strong Base for a Healthy Church
This book examines the church foundations in the areas that do not get attention until they go wrong. These are the hidden structures and housekeeping necessities. No one goes into a building and compliments the solid floor, straight walls and waterproof roofing … that is until a storm-force wind shakes the building or an earthquake tremor is felt!
Copyright © 2026 Chris Staples. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise – without prior written permission of the publisher, except for brief quotations in reviews.
Chris serves on Four12 (F12) leadership and is an elder within Living Hope, on the Isle of Man.
He is married to Carole and they have two daughters. Before joining the church staff full time, he spent 26 years in the business world. Chris is passionate about helping leaders build healthy, well-governed churches and continues to shepherd people with great care and humility.
Reviews
“Chris has written a vital and timely book for the church around the world. He addresses issues that are immensely integral yet often hidden or neglected within church life and leadership. I’ve known him for years as a man of integrity and wisdom, and I lean heavily on him as a trusted partner in Christ. I’m deeply grateful for what he has produced here and pray that it will serve leaders, churches, and the saints - helping bring greater health, biblical faithfulness, accountability, and New Testament structure to the body of Christ.” - Andrew Selley | Apostolic Leader of Four12
