It's not that I am opposed to the church growing, and I think the best way for it to grow is by forming new communities of people; but I think it's time we put the words "church planting" to rest.
For one thing, I don't think we need new "churches." As Shane Claiborne said in 'Irresistible Revolution'... "I'm not sure we need more churches. What we really need is A CHURCH. We've got to unite ourselves as one body. Because Jesus is coming back, and he's coming back for a bride, not a harem."
Instead of planting "churches," I much prefer the wording Dave Fitch (and others) use of planting "missional communities." THE church has a mission, and we need a variety of types of communities to carry that out.
I also don't like the term "planting"... It sounds too forced. But I think that is secondary to the idea of separate churches. "Seeding missional communities" seems to be a good way of saying it, but, you know, I doubt anybody really cares. So... whatever.
2 comments:
Actually, I'm surprised you feel that way, but I think I agree, although I'm not sure I like "seeding missional communities" any better.
I may blog about this next (after I finish one more paper, a mid-term exam, and a power-point).
You blog??? ;)
Actually, I'm not sure about "seeding missional communities" either (yes, I know, I have written many times about my dislike for the word 'missional'). But I think that is overshadowed by the idea of "A" church, instead of "churches." So... what do you do?
Nice to see you out and about in the blogosphere again. :)
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