Sacred Challenge honors the tradition of Sunday school even as it focuses on models of teaching and learning to bring it into a new era. Ratliff is gentle, pastoral and creative in his approach.

“Mike Ratliff presents the 'sacred challenge' of teaching and learning in an engaging story form," writes one reviewer. "You'll see yourself in the story and gain new insights to evaluate your own teaching ministry. You'll be equipped to move faithfully toward creative models and effective planning for an exciting future of Christian formation.”

With many obstacles facing churches of all sizes, it's little wonder that Sunday school is often declared dead in the water. Overall, church attendance is down, and that trickles down to Sunday school as well.

"Providing meaningful ministry that allows people to grow throughout their lifespan is necessary if we're to turn the tide on this trend," writes Ratliff. "The biggest challenge is whether we're ready to give up … and rely on God rather than our history. Will we step out in faith, knowing it's possible to revive this giant we call Sunday school?"