Panel: What's the Most Pressing Theological Issue Facing Your Church?
January 1, 2006
Beyond Consumerism
How can we live our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ in the 21st century? Pastors have been overwhelmed with models and programs designed to make local churches bigger. Each, however, seems only a temporary fix until something new comes along. These models come from mega-churches, and the programs are downsized to fit smaller churches. Unfortunately, it hasn't really worked. That is why we're committed to discipleship. It works in the smallest churches (and the largest) that desire a deep relationship with God. Quite frankly, most of my church is tired of "consumer Christianity." They want to be true disciples (followers) of Jesus. Adversity or Adjustment?
We are wrestling with how to discern the will of God when facing adversity. The renovation and expansion of our building has been difficult, with numerous delays. For two years we have worshiped at another site due to negotiations with the city, neighbors who are reluctant to sign off on easements, and problems with contractor, bankers, and others. Like many urban areas, property values in our neighborhood are escalating, and the demographics are rapidly changing. Our outreach ministries have been focused on poor African Americans; what responsibility do we have to minister to our new neighbors who are affluent and white? Is God trying to tell us that we are not ready to return to our building until we adjust our ministry? Are we having so many problems because we are doing the wrong thing, or because we are doing precisely the right thing? Should our focus be on perseverance in the face of persecution, or on introspection, repentance, and re-imagining our ministries as we prepare to return to our neighborhood? Voluntary Displacement
Reading Compassion ...
Please complete one of the following:
If you're a Leadership journal subscriber...
...but have not yet registered for online access to CTLibrary.com, you can receive a full-year's access for just $29.95!
Register Here | | If you're NOT a Leadership journal print subscriber...
You're entitled to a special, introductory offer for new subscribers only! Subscribe now and receive a one-year Leadership journal print subscription and one-year access to all Leadership archives for just $39.95!
Subscribe now!
When you log in as a Leadership Journal subscriber, you'll see additional articles noted as premium content only available to CTLibrary.com members. To access the entire CTLibrary requires a CTLibrary subscription. If you would prefer this option, select the offer below that best fits your needs.
|
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
