As the elders met this evening, we talked about reaching into our community. We are a church. From that perspective, we have Christians who make up the core of the group. In biblical terms, these are the ecclesia — the “church”.
Of course, in our society we have another definition of church. This definition allows in all sorts of people, beliefs, understandings, and variety. So, you might ask the person on the street if they are part of a local church. Drunkard, upstanding business person, mayor or waitress — the answer would be “yes!” I’ve had someone talk to me at the church door. They explain that they have attended another church in town once or twice, but they have decided that this is their church. I’ve seen them once or twice in the last year. I’m not even sure what they believe. But they are part of our church!
Then, one of those concepts that I’m still working on! Can we consider everyone living in an area to be part of our parish? They are part of the church, just currently not active, committed or aware of being a member of the church! So, we provide our service (ministry) as a church to the whole community.
Each of these definitions provide a different approach.
In the end, I’m after seeking out (going into the whole world) those who need God. Some need to enter into knowing God through Jesus, others know Jesus and need to grow in their understanding, others need to get out there and bring others in.
Right now, I think we as a local church need to get out there. I’m not sure I like the term “missional” as it is being thrown around these days, but I guess it serves as well as any term.
My current picture is driving the main street of my town. On either side I see someone. Someone I’m pretty sure doesn’t attend a gathering of God’s people at any time during a week. Wouldn’t it be great to see them added to a gathering in this town. What about having them added to the gathering I’m part of?
Imagine if every month two people joined each gathering in the community. Pretty soon we’d see a change in the heart of the community, as well as in the heart of the individuals.
Want a challenge? I’m calling this the “2+” challenge. What would your community look like if this happened?