Bacher and Inskeep believe that mainline denominations serve as caretakers of the important American expressions of Christianity, and if they are weak or lost, society and the universal church will be the worse for it. They argue that a fundamentally American form of mainline denominationalism can and will endure, despite the rumor of its decline.

The authors examine six "rumors" of the decline. Using historical trends and current statistical information, they analyze the current situation and point to vital lessons, potential problems, and key challenges. They also offer helpful strategies and provide examples of what denominations are doing that show potential.