There has been much ink spilled in the evangelical community about "claiming our cities for Christ" and plenty of lip service paid to the need to address urban concerns. But according to author and pastor Eric Jacobsen, this discussion has remained far too abstract. His Sidewalks in the Kingdom challenges Christians to gain a practical, informed vision for the city that includes a broad understanding of the needs and rewards of a vital urban community. Building on the principles of New Urbanism, Jacobsen emphasizes the need to preserve the nourishing characteristics of traditional city life, such as shared public spaces, mixed-use neighborhoods, a well-supported local economy, and aesthetic diversity and beauty.

Sidewalks in the Kingdom includes three appendices: a glossary of urban vocabulary, an annotated bibliography of related sources, and a detailed description of the principles and goals of New Urbanism. A companion website with posted discussion questions, www.sidewalksinthekingdom.com, makes it ideal for study groups. Pastors, city-dwellers, and those interested in urban ministry, politics, and development will be both encouraged and informed by Sidewalks in the Kingdom.