Kingdom people seek first the kingdom of God and it's justice; church people often put the church work above concerns of justice, mercy and truth. Church people think about how to get people into the church; kingdom people think about how to get the church into the world. Church people worry that the world might change the the church; kingdom people work to see the church change the world.Howard Snyder via Michael Frost (The Road to Missional)
This quote is challenging. Jesus said seek first his Kingdom! Simple.
Sometimes in our pursuits to build a healthy, active, missional church we end up seeking the church first.
I believe the church is the hope of the world and God's kingdom is reflected through the church. I don't believe the church and kingdom are separated. God doesn't have 2 divisions.
However, I believe there's the temptation to stunt how much we can impact the world by making sure the church stays full and healthy.
We are God's living and local presence. Let's be a church that is God's active presence in the world - in our communities and cities. Sometimes that means building the church in corporate worship and teaching, sometimes it means releasing the church into the world.
Really, there's no tension. We're always meant to be a gathering and scattering church!
6 comments:
gathering and scattering... "but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind..." 1 Corinthians 10
I pray as the church grows in unity (worship and faith) we grow in effectiveness (mission and justice. Seems like they are part for of the same gospel purpose or fruit.
?For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst" Matt. 18:20. I am reminded how we are united in the one body of Christ, in His presence, that heavenly place, as we prepare to remember and worship Him this morning.
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst" Matt. 18:20. I am reminded how we are united in the one body of Christ, in His presence, that heavenly place, as we prepare to remember and worship Him this morning.
Great quote, David!
I love that perspective of kingdom vs. church.
The reality is that the Church is the great expression of God's kingdom. But our small "c" churches often cloud the potential and power that is derived from unity and self-sacrifice.
So thankful to be in Montreal with you, bro!
your comment now in light of the NYC conference is important
glad you're in the city too.
thanks for commenting
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