I hear the busy-ness one, and being a layman I see my own need to repent. Often I do too much and don't come to church anticipating to hear from the Lord. But yes, we over-programming creates tired, inwardly-focused people.
And, I also hear the first one: when there is a lot to do there is less time for each one. Quality takes time, and quickly built houses crumble.
So, I suppose the question could go something like this... "If you will choose to have two weekly programs in your church, what would they be? Why? Why those two over the third one in your mind?"
Yes and no. I think there is incredible danger to over programming. Primarily, most programs are run by the 'professional' staff. In my mind one of the greatest hindrances to gospel-growth is the idea that ministry is done by the paid staff. This kills community and ministry all at once.
Also, I think the vision of the NT church is pretty simple. Preach the Bible, radical community-based discipleship, and mission. If the program fits into this mission and it isn't bleeding the people dry so that they are no good for their families or their mission field at work, then, great! I have a feeling, however, that over programming does not necessarily serve the mission.
Let me also say that I am not opposed to programs. I am simply more optimistic about programs that are more organic and less staff/church driven. In other words, I prefer to see a clothes-closet ministry that springs up out of the heart of church members than one that is created and staffed by the church employees.
Also, home-groups are another name of community groups or small groups. I think these are crucial for growing depth in community, especially as a church grows. This is a place where people study the Word by focusing on what is being preached on during the Sunday sermon. It is a place for prayer, shared meals, counseling and ministries of mercy and relief. It is like a church within a church.
6 comments:
I hear the busy-ness one, and being a layman I see my own need to repent. Often I do too much and don't come to church anticipating to hear from the Lord. But yes, we over-programming creates tired, inwardly-focused people.
And, I also hear the first one: when there is a lot to do there is less time for each one. Quality takes time, and quickly built houses crumble.
So, I suppose the question could go something like this... "If you will choose to have two weekly programs in your church, what would they be? Why? Why those two over the third one in your mind?"
1. Sunday Worship
2. Home groups.
What are home groups? What does Sunday worship look like? Is minimal programing something you feel strongly about?
Yes and no. I think there is incredible danger to over programming. Primarily, most programs are run by the 'professional' staff. In my mind one of the greatest hindrances to gospel-growth is the idea that ministry is done by the paid staff. This kills community and ministry all at once.
Also, I think the vision of the NT church is pretty simple. Preach the Bible, radical community-based discipleship, and mission. If the program fits into this mission and it isn't bleeding the people dry so that they are no good for their families or their mission field at work, then, great! I have a feeling, however, that over programming does not necessarily serve the mission.
What do you think?
Let me also say that I am not opposed to programs. I am simply more optimistic about programs that are more organic and less staff/church driven. In other words, I prefer to see a clothes-closet ministry that springs up out of the heart of church members than one that is created and staffed by the church employees.
Also, home-groups are another name of community groups or small groups. I think these are crucial for growing depth in community, especially as a church grows. This is a place where people study the Word by focusing on what is being preached on during the Sunday sermon. It is a place for prayer, shared meals, counseling and ministries of mercy and relief. It is like a church within a church.
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