The document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith by exploring 10 questions that are transforming Christianity. It begins by providing context that something old is passing away while something new is being born. It then lists the 10 questions, which cover topics like the biblical narrative, God's nature, Jesus, the gospel, the church, sexuality, the future, and pluralism. The final question asks how to have conversations about these questions without dividing. It suggests insights from organizational change theorists could help have constructive discussions.
The document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith through asking new questions rather than making statements. It presents 10 questions that are transforming Christianity, including questions about the biblical narrative, the nature and authority of the Bible, God's apparent violence, who Jesus is and what the gospel means. It argues that questions can create conversations to launch people on new quests, unlike statements that create debates with a fixed outcome. The document explores some of these questions in more depth, like considering alternative understandings to the shape of the biblical narrative and different views of what the Bible is and how it has authority.
This document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith by rethinking foundational questions in less combative ways. It presents 10 questions transforming Christianity, including the biblical narrative, God's nature, Jesus' identity, and the church's purpose. The goal is not winning arguments but finding inclusive answers through humility, love, and peace to build a hopeful future where one age succeeds another with new possibilities.
The document poses 10 questions that are transforming Christian faith, moving away from statements and debates toward conversations that launch new quests. The questions include: What is the shape of the biblical narrative? How does the Bible have authority? Is God violent? Who is Jesus and why does he matter? What is the gospel message - exclusion or inclusion? How can the church be transformed? How can issues of sexuality be addressed without division? Can a more hopeful vision of the future be found? How should Christians relate to other faiths? How can this quest be pursued with love, humility and peace?
The document discusses the relationship between faith and reason, and argues that Christianity has historically been compatible with science and reason. It addresses several common myths, including that Christianity suppressed scientific advancement during the Middle Ages. While some Christian individuals and groups have held anti-intellectual views, the Church itself has generally supported scientific inquiry. The document also examines factors that prevented the development of modern science in other cultures like China and Islam, and argues Christianity provided a foundation for its growth in the West.
Lesson 2 of a multipart series. Approaches to Apologetics. Covers different styles of apologetics including evidential, presuppostional, missional, integrative, and combinational.
Tyler Geffeney of Illustra Media presents arguments in support of the integrity and authority of the Christian Scriptures. This powerpoint was given in conjunction with his talk, Understanding Inerrancy & Inspiration, given at the Tactics Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on September 6 & 7, 2013.
The document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith through asking new questions rather than making statements. It presents 10 questions that are transforming Christianity, including questions about the biblical narrative, the nature and authority of the Bible, God's apparent violence, who Jesus is and what the gospel means. It argues that questions can create conversations to launch people on new quests, unlike statements that create debates with a fixed outcome. The document explores some of these questions in more depth, like considering alternative understandings to the shape of the biblical narrative and different views of what the Bible is and how it has authority.
This document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith by rethinking foundational questions in less combative ways. It presents 10 questions transforming Christianity, including the biblical narrative, God's nature, Jesus' identity, and the church's purpose. The goal is not winning arguments but finding inclusive answers through humility, love, and peace to build a hopeful future where one age succeeds another with new possibilities.
The document poses 10 questions that are transforming Christian faith, moving away from statements and debates toward conversations that launch new quests. The questions include: What is the shape of the biblical narrative? How does the Bible have authority? Is God violent? Who is Jesus and why does he matter? What is the gospel message - exclusion or inclusion? How can the church be transformed? How can issues of sexuality be addressed without division? Can a more hopeful vision of the future be found? How should Christians relate to other faiths? How can this quest be pursued with love, humility and peace?
The document discusses the relationship between faith and reason, and argues that Christianity has historically been compatible with science and reason. It addresses several common myths, including that Christianity suppressed scientific advancement during the Middle Ages. While some Christian individuals and groups have held anti-intellectual views, the Church itself has generally supported scientific inquiry. The document also examines factors that prevented the development of modern science in other cultures like China and Islam, and argues Christianity provided a foundation for its growth in the West.
Lesson 2 of a multipart series. Approaches to Apologetics. Covers different styles of apologetics including evidential, presuppostional, missional, integrative, and combinational.
Tyler Geffeney of Illustra Media presents arguments in support of the integrity and authority of the Christian Scriptures. This powerpoint was given in conjunction with his talk, Understanding Inerrancy & Inspiration, given at the Tactics Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on September 6 & 7, 2013.
This document discusses several topics related to defending Christianity through apologetics in an honest and sound way. It begins by defining key terms like integrity, apologetics, worldview and paradigm. It then examines questions around whether we follow evidence objectively or are influenced by assumptions. It also discusses how to reconcile scripture with scientific understandings from nature. There is debate around interpreting Genesis and whether the earth is young or old. While young earth creationism is popular among some, many Christian scholars and leaders believe an old earth view can also be compatible with Christianity.
The document discusses various perspectives on theology and the gospel. It addresses shifting understandings of theology from being a systematic outline of truth to being a creative model-making enterprise. It also discusses different views of the gospel, including emphasizing the kingdom of God narrative over theories of atonement or moralistic messages. The document advocates for theology that is coherent, contextual, conversational, and comprehensive.
Dr. Robert Kurka gave a class at the 2015 ICEC designed to help us gain perspective on how to deal with a world in which there is a plurality of religions. He argues that we should strongly approach the philosophy of religious pluralism (no religion has absolute truth) but that we should not be overly discouraged to live in a society in which many religions exist. This has been normal in much of Christian history and we should think of it as an opportunity, not a disaster. How, then, should we behave in a world in which we cannot assume that the Christian Worldview is not the predominant one? We should be respectful, find common ground, and present with boldness the distinctiveness and advantage of the Christian explanation. The audio will be available in about a week at www.ipibooks.com. I am attaching the power point for the presentation.
John Oakes and Robert Carrillo are team teaching a class on the history of Christianity for the staff of the San Diego Church of Christ over the next couple of months. The notes and power point for the class are available here. John Oakes has a book on the topic “The Christian Story: Finding the Church in Church History” available at www.ipibooks.com
Christian Science and Scientology both claim to be religions but are rejected by most mainstream faiths and scientists. Christian Science was founded by Mary Baker Eddy and teaches that disease is an illusion that can be cured through spiritual means alone. Scientology was created by science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard and is based on concepts like past lives, immortal spirits called Thetans, and using an e-meter device during auditing sessions to eliminate engrams from past traumatic experiences. Neither faith is grounded in science and both have faced criticism for discouraging medical treatment and being more akin to pseudoscience than religion.
Apologetics 1 Lesson 9 Arguments for Christianity, The Resurrection and the P...Third Column Ministries
The document discusses several objections to and explanations for the problem of evil. It presents arguments that evil exists due to free will and human sin, and that God allows evil for purposes like soul-making and spiritual growth. It also suggests evil is the absence of good and moral evils result from human actions. Overall, the document explores theological responses to the question of why an omnipotent and good God permits the existence of evil.
This document outlines an apologetics course defending Christian theology. It covers topics like the existence of God, Jesus, prophecies about Jesus, miracles, the resurrection, the Bible's inspiration and reliability, science and Christianity, and responses to difficult questions. It also compares the Christian worldview to other perspectives like Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and naturalism/materialism. The course aims to demonstrate Christianity provides compelling answers to life's big questions and that the Christian worldview is a "good" one that is true, answers important human questions, and leads people to live better lives.
Christianity and faith have a long history of integrating reason. While anti-intellectualism emerged in some American Christian circles in the 1800s, prominent Christian thinkers like Augustine, Aquinas, and Edwards viewed faith and reason as complementary. The document discusses how Galileo's issues with the church were more about politics and lack of evidence than a conflict between science and religion. It emphasizes that Christians should engage intellectually with their faith and confront ideas in culture through thoughtful apologetics rather than withdrawing from intellectual life.
The document summarizes the origins and teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses. It describes how Charles Taze Russell founded the movement in the late 19th century based on his own interpretations of the Bible despite having little formal theological education. It notes that Russell's teachings deviated from mainstream Christianity and were controversial. The movement continued developing new doctrines under subsequent leaders like Joseph Rutherford. The document argues that Jehovah's Witnesses' teachings stem from misinterpretations of scripture and lack understanding of key biblical concepts like the relationship between God and Jesus.
Dr. John Oakes taught a class on Presuppositional Apologetics at the 2015 International Christan Evidence Conference at York College in York, Nebraska, June 19-21. He gave a brief overview of the types of apologetics, followed by an analysis of the strong and weak points of presuppositional apologetics, followed by a discussion of world view apologetics. Here are the notes and power point for the class.
Notes to accompany: JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
Background and History.
Founded by Charles Russel
Russel was influenced by the Adventist movement (let to the 7th DayAdventistChurch)
The Adventist/Millerite movement began in the 1830?s
William Miller used Daniel 8:14and Daniel 9:25(a very odd connection) to calculate
that the millennial reign would come in October, 1844...
Dr. John Oakes taught a class titled Christianity in a Postmodern World at the 2013 ICEC at San Diego State University. He proposes a rational Christian response to both the good and the bad which comes with postmodern thinking. The class covers the history of modernism and why it was replaced by postmodernism, as well as a brief bio of the major influences in the movement as well as suggesting both the strengths and weaknesses of the postmodern mood.
Notes to Accompany "A History of Science and Christianity"
The ancient world: Chaos vs Cosmos
1. Thales (585 BC) Predicted a Solar Eclipse: Nature is predictable. Cosmos
and the human mind.
Melvin Calvin (atheist expert on the chemical origin of life): ?The fundamental conviction
that the universe is ordered [cosmos] is the first and strongest tenet [of scientists].
As I try to discern the origin of that conviction, I seem to find it in a
basic notion discovered 2000 or 3000 years ago, and enunciated first in the
Western world by the ancient Hebrews: namely that the universe is governed by
a single God, and is not the product of the whims of many gods, each governing
his own province, according to his own laws. This monotheistic view seems to be
the historical foundation of modern science.?...
Dr. John Oakes taught on Calvinism–its history, basic theology and reasons to reject its basic tenets–in Manila Jan 23, 2016. The notes and power point are included.
http://evidenceforchristianity.org/answering-calvinism/
The Essentials of Apologetics - Why Apologetics?Robin Schumacher
This document discusses the importance and purposes of Christian apologetics. It begins by defining apologetics as providing rational arguments and evidence for why Christianity is true. The main purposes are to 1) validate the truth of Christianity, 2) save unbelievers, 3) strengthen believers, and 4) refute errors. It emphasizes that, while apologetics can influence people, only God saves. The overall goal is to present Christianity as reasonable and guide people to the truth of God.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Christian apologetics. It discusses defending the Christian faith through rational discourse. The ultimate goal of apologetics is to introduce people to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It covers various apologetics topics and methods. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared to give reasons for believing in Christianity and addressing common objections, while doing so with gentleness and respect.
Christian and Other World Views: A Power Point. A lesson on world views, including the Christian world view, and the world views of naturalism, postmodernism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jaina, Sikkhism, Confucianism and Islam. First taught by John Oakes in Manila 1/16/2010.
This document provides 10 suggestions for thriving in one's career or ministry. It advises to 1) understand the context and requirements of one's job, 2) distinguish between one's job, ministry, and personal life, and 3) renegotiate one's job to be at least 70% enjoyable. It also recommends 4) finding soul friends for support, 5) discovering one's power through empowering actions, 6) fully embodying what one preaches, 7) changing through positive additions, 8) being creative like God, 9) expecting criticism but improvements after people leave, and 10) remembering one's mission is for the lost, not just the found.
This document discusses spiral dynamics, a theory that human societies and cultures progress through different value systems represented by colors from red to coral. It provides descriptions of each value system and suggests that individuals and groups can have a "center of gravity" in one while also incorporating aspects of others. The document explores how to understand organizational and societal change through this framework and avoid conflict by recognizing the partial truths in each perspective.
This document discusses several topics related to defending Christianity through apologetics in an honest and sound way. It begins by defining key terms like integrity, apologetics, worldview and paradigm. It then examines questions around whether we follow evidence objectively or are influenced by assumptions. It also discusses how to reconcile scripture with scientific understandings from nature. There is debate around interpreting Genesis and whether the earth is young or old. While young earth creationism is popular among some, many Christian scholars and leaders believe an old earth view can also be compatible with Christianity.
The document discusses various perspectives on theology and the gospel. It addresses shifting understandings of theology from being a systematic outline of truth to being a creative model-making enterprise. It also discusses different views of the gospel, including emphasizing the kingdom of God narrative over theories of atonement or moralistic messages. The document advocates for theology that is coherent, contextual, conversational, and comprehensive.
Dr. Robert Kurka gave a class at the 2015 ICEC designed to help us gain perspective on how to deal with a world in which there is a plurality of religions. He argues that we should strongly approach the philosophy of religious pluralism (no religion has absolute truth) but that we should not be overly discouraged to live in a society in which many religions exist. This has been normal in much of Christian history and we should think of it as an opportunity, not a disaster. How, then, should we behave in a world in which we cannot assume that the Christian Worldview is not the predominant one? We should be respectful, find common ground, and present with boldness the distinctiveness and advantage of the Christian explanation. The audio will be available in about a week at www.ipibooks.com. I am attaching the power point for the presentation.
John Oakes and Robert Carrillo are team teaching a class on the history of Christianity for the staff of the San Diego Church of Christ over the next couple of months. The notes and power point for the class are available here. John Oakes has a book on the topic “The Christian Story: Finding the Church in Church History” available at www.ipibooks.com
Christian Science and Scientology both claim to be religions but are rejected by most mainstream faiths and scientists. Christian Science was founded by Mary Baker Eddy and teaches that disease is an illusion that can be cured through spiritual means alone. Scientology was created by science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard and is based on concepts like past lives, immortal spirits called Thetans, and using an e-meter device during auditing sessions to eliminate engrams from past traumatic experiences. Neither faith is grounded in science and both have faced criticism for discouraging medical treatment and being more akin to pseudoscience than religion.
Apologetics 1 Lesson 9 Arguments for Christianity, The Resurrection and the P...Third Column Ministries
The document discusses several objections to and explanations for the problem of evil. It presents arguments that evil exists due to free will and human sin, and that God allows evil for purposes like soul-making and spiritual growth. It also suggests evil is the absence of good and moral evils result from human actions. Overall, the document explores theological responses to the question of why an omnipotent and good God permits the existence of evil.
This document outlines an apologetics course defending Christian theology. It covers topics like the existence of God, Jesus, prophecies about Jesus, miracles, the resurrection, the Bible's inspiration and reliability, science and Christianity, and responses to difficult questions. It also compares the Christian worldview to other perspectives like Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and naturalism/materialism. The course aims to demonstrate Christianity provides compelling answers to life's big questions and that the Christian worldview is a "good" one that is true, answers important human questions, and leads people to live better lives.
Christianity and faith have a long history of integrating reason. While anti-intellectualism emerged in some American Christian circles in the 1800s, prominent Christian thinkers like Augustine, Aquinas, and Edwards viewed faith and reason as complementary. The document discusses how Galileo's issues with the church were more about politics and lack of evidence than a conflict between science and religion. It emphasizes that Christians should engage intellectually with their faith and confront ideas in culture through thoughtful apologetics rather than withdrawing from intellectual life.
The document summarizes the origins and teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses. It describes how Charles Taze Russell founded the movement in the late 19th century based on his own interpretations of the Bible despite having little formal theological education. It notes that Russell's teachings deviated from mainstream Christianity and were controversial. The movement continued developing new doctrines under subsequent leaders like Joseph Rutherford. The document argues that Jehovah's Witnesses' teachings stem from misinterpretations of scripture and lack understanding of key biblical concepts like the relationship between God and Jesus.
Dr. John Oakes taught a class on Presuppositional Apologetics at the 2015 International Christan Evidence Conference at York College in York, Nebraska, June 19-21. He gave a brief overview of the types of apologetics, followed by an analysis of the strong and weak points of presuppositional apologetics, followed by a discussion of world view apologetics. Here are the notes and power point for the class.
Notes to accompany: JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES
Background and History.
Founded by Charles Russel
Russel was influenced by the Adventist movement (let to the 7th DayAdventistChurch)
The Adventist/Millerite movement began in the 1830?s
William Miller used Daniel 8:14and Daniel 9:25(a very odd connection) to calculate
that the millennial reign would come in October, 1844...
Dr. John Oakes taught a class titled Christianity in a Postmodern World at the 2013 ICEC at San Diego State University. He proposes a rational Christian response to both the good and the bad which comes with postmodern thinking. The class covers the history of modernism and why it was replaced by postmodernism, as well as a brief bio of the major influences in the movement as well as suggesting both the strengths and weaknesses of the postmodern mood.
Notes to Accompany "A History of Science and Christianity"
The ancient world: Chaos vs Cosmos
1. Thales (585 BC) Predicted a Solar Eclipse: Nature is predictable. Cosmos
and the human mind.
Melvin Calvin (atheist expert on the chemical origin of life): ?The fundamental conviction
that the universe is ordered [cosmos] is the first and strongest tenet [of scientists].
As I try to discern the origin of that conviction, I seem to find it in a
basic notion discovered 2000 or 3000 years ago, and enunciated first in the
Western world by the ancient Hebrews: namely that the universe is governed by
a single God, and is not the product of the whims of many gods, each governing
his own province, according to his own laws. This monotheistic view seems to be
the historical foundation of modern science.?...
Dr. John Oakes taught on Calvinism–its history, basic theology and reasons to reject its basic tenets–in Manila Jan 23, 2016. The notes and power point are included.
http://evidenceforchristianity.org/answering-calvinism/
The Essentials of Apologetics - Why Apologetics?Robin Schumacher
This document discusses the importance and purposes of Christian apologetics. It begins by defining apologetics as providing rational arguments and evidence for why Christianity is true. The main purposes are to 1) validate the truth of Christianity, 2) save unbelievers, 3) strengthen believers, and 4) refute errors. It emphasizes that, while apologetics can influence people, only God saves. The overall goal is to present Christianity as reasonable and guide people to the truth of God.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Christian apologetics. It discusses defending the Christian faith through rational discourse. The ultimate goal of apologetics is to introduce people to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It covers various apologetics topics and methods. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared to give reasons for believing in Christianity and addressing common objections, while doing so with gentleness and respect.
Christian and Other World Views: A Power Point. A lesson on world views, including the Christian world view, and the world views of naturalism, postmodernism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jaina, Sikkhism, Confucianism and Islam. First taught by John Oakes in Manila 1/16/2010.
This document provides 10 suggestions for thriving in one's career or ministry. It advises to 1) understand the context and requirements of one's job, 2) distinguish between one's job, ministry, and personal life, and 3) renegotiate one's job to be at least 70% enjoyable. It also recommends 4) finding soul friends for support, 5) discovering one's power through empowering actions, 6) fully embodying what one preaches, 7) changing through positive additions, 8) being creative like God, 9) expecting criticism but improvements after people leave, and 10) remembering one's mission is for the lost, not just the found.
This document discusses spiral dynamics, a theory that human societies and cultures progress through different value systems represented by colors from red to coral. It provides descriptions of each value system and suggests that individuals and groups can have a "center of gravity" in one while also incorporating aspects of others. The document explores how to understand organizational and societal change through this framework and avoid conflict by recognizing the partial truths in each perspective.
The document discusses how the Bible has been used both to support and oppose slavery, the Copernican theory of astronomy, and views on poverty. It notes that passages from both the Old and New Testaments were cited by proponents of slavery to argue it was sanctioned by God. It also discusses how Christian leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin rejected Copernicus' findings because they contradicted literal interpretations of certain Bible passages. The document questions whether the Bible should be seen as a rule book or library open to different interpretations, and suggests seeing it through the lens of Jesus' life and teachings rather than taking every passage literally.
This document explores stages of spiritual development beyond fundamentalism and anti-fundamentalism. It discusses 4 stages: simplicity/innocence, complexity/perplexity, harmony/intimacy, and presents practices that can aid spiritual growth at each stage, such as gratitude, wonder, compassion, and seeing.
The documents discuss the past, present, and future of mainline Protestant churches. In the past, mainline churches were privileged and powerful but became marginalized after the 1970s. Another narrative is that mainline churches were courageous in addressing issues like science, race, poverty, and human sexuality. The documents explore potential for reinvention and rebirth through a new, emerging, missional form of Christian faith. Emerging churches may help mainline churches transition from a sideline to a mainstream role by embracing flexibility, diversity, and new forms of leadership and identity.
This document discusses the history of faith and the church, examining where the current time period fits within that history. It explores perspectives that see the current era as an "Age of the Spirit" or a "Great Emergence," marking a shift to a new paradigm. The document considers what forms the "emerging church" may take, either as new types of churches or as existing churches adapting. It notes trends of convergence between formerly opposed positions and the potential diversity and flexibility this could bring to mission.
The document discusses the use of the Bible to justify slavery in the antebellum American South. It provides 5 main arguments that pro-slavery advocates used: 1) the inferiority of blacks, 2) that slavery created a Southern paradise, 3) that slavery has always existed throughout history, 4) that abolitionists were evil and fanatical, and 5) extensive Biblical justification citing passages from both the Old and New Testaments. It examines how the Bible was interpreted in sermons to tell slaves to obey their masters, and quotes former slaves who refused to hear such passages. It questions how the Bible has been used for evil ends and how interpretations can perpetuate injustice today.
- The document discusses the preaching of Paul and others about the kingdom of God in Acts. It describes several key events: Lydia becoming a follower of God, a slave girl who predicted the future being exorcised by Paul, and Paul and Silas being arrested after the slave owners lost their profitable slave.
- It notes that women were central to the early movement, a woman was freed from exploitation, slavery was challenged, economic and political systems were confronted, and a jailer and his family were liberated. It asks what similar impacts could happen today from preaching about the kingdom of God.
The document discusses three possible futures for Christianity: continuing contraction, conservative resurgence, and pregnancy (theological reformation and missional reorientation). It then examines the roles of movements and institutions in Christian traditions, noting that both are needed but can also frustrate each other. The final sections discuss the relationship between denominations and emerging Christian identities and priorities around mission.
The document discusses envisioning a new kind of Christian faith through asking new questions rather than making statements. It presents 10 questions that are transforming the Christian faith, including questions about the biblical narrative, God's nature, Jesus, the gospel message, the church, sexuality, the future, and pluralism. The final question asks how this quest for a new understanding can be pursued with humility, love, and peace to avoid fighting and division. It suggests new questions can create conversations and launch new quests, rather than debates that result in a new static understanding.
1. The document contrasts two gospels - one that focuses on saving individual souls from hell and abandoning earth, and another that focuses on saving earth through transforming it beginning with ourselves.
2. It argues that Jesus proclaimed the gospel of the kingdom of God, which was a radical message about a different reign and way of life centered around a God who forgives, includes, notices, serves, heals, and sides with the poor.
3. True disciples learn this radical way of life and are formed into the image of Christ through communities like the church, not just becoming "Christians" but apprentices who obey Jesus' teachings.
The document discusses the emergence of new forms of church and Christianity. It argues that diversity, not uniformity or division, may be God's goal. Various levels and types of church are learning from one another, and people now inhabit different levels at once. Both existing and emerging churches will continue changing and relating in new ways. The future remains open-ended.
The document discusses the concept of unity beyond duality. It notes that pre-dual unity results in monotony, while duality without unity results in cacophony. True unity exists beyond duality, represented as harmony through love. The early church exemplified unity beyond duality by bringing together people from different backgrounds. However, struggles emerged over Christian identity. The document argues for a biblical narrative of creation, fall, and redemption as an alternative to other understandings, and explores concepts like the social Trinity and the gospel of the kingdom. It advocates moving from "us vs. them" mentalities to an inclusive "us for them" unity beyond duality.
- The document discusses the preaching of Paul and others about the kingdom of God in Acts. It describes several key events: Lydia becoming a follower of God, a slave girl who predicted the future being exorcised by Paul, and Paul and Silas being arrested after the slave-owners lost their profitable slave. The kingdom of God challenged social structures around slavery, economics, and politics. It also liberated individuals and families. The document questions how the kingdom of God can challenge society today.
This document discusses three possible futures for Christian congregations and denominations: continuing contraction, conservative resurgence, and death and resurrection. It then examines the roles of denominations, what they do well and could improve, and scenarios of denominational leaders pushing boundaries. The document considers the relationships between traditions, movements, and institutions, and questions about how Jesus and Paul balanced these.
- Church leaders are addressing how to transition churches from being internally focused to being missionally focused on reaching out to their communities. This involves helping congregations overcome fears about loss of traditions and embrace a more outward orientation.
- Effective strategies discussed include describing what it means to live missionally in everyday life, creating safe spaces for questions, and working across denominations. Leaders emphasize the importance of communicating the gospel in a way that is both culturally relevant and countercultural.
- Transitioning churches sustainably to a missional focus requires managing expectations, moving beyond talk to concrete action in the community, and viewing those outside the church as part of the same community.
The document discusses the Bible and Christianity in three concise points:
1. It presents the Lord's Prayer and suggests it promotes ideals of God's kingdom coming on earth through justice and liberation.
2. It discusses how Christianity, through figures like Paul and Silas in Acts, engages with political powers through nonviolent resistance, preaching, and caring for the vulnerable.
3. It argues that true spiritual formation involves participating with the Holy Spirit in liberating oppressed groups and confronting injustice, starting with the marginalized.
The document discusses different ways of understanding the Bible, including as a legal constitution, a community library, and as inspired. It explores the purposes of constitutions in preserving order and agreement but questions the problems that can arise from this approach. It contrasts this with seeing the Bible as a cultural library that preserves diversity through argument and encouragement of new stories and practices. The document ponders what an inspired constitution or community library might look like.
This document discusses saving the world by addressing four global emergencies: the environment, poverty, peace, and religion. It suggests we need a new framing story and highlights Jesus' message of the kingdom of God, which presents an ultimate non-dual reality beyond divisions. It then summarizes passages from Acts that depict Paul and Silas spreading this message and encountering people like Lydia and a slave girl who could predict the future, culminating in their imprisonment and an earthquake leading to the jailer's salvation.
The document discusses reframing religious beliefs for the new millennium by asking new questions rather than making statements. It presents 10 questions that are transforming Christianity, including questions about the biblical narrative, the nature of God, Jesus, the gospel, and how to have hopeful yet inclusive discussions about theology without dividing. The questions are intended to create conversations that lead to new understandings rather than static positions.
The document presents questions about how to understand the shape of the biblical narrative and what the Bible is or is for. It considers the Bible as a constitution, as a cultural library, and as inspired works. It also raises the question of whether God seems violent based on some passages and explores biblical references to
This document discusses transforming Christianity and questions that are reshaping the faith. It addresses the biblical narrative, God, Jesus, the gospel, the church, sexuality, the future, pluralism, and how to pursue these questions with humility, love and peace. It argues for a multi-narrative understanding of the Bible that creates space for good stories to emerge, rather than a totalizing metanarrative that legitimates domination. It also discusses moving beyond atonement theories focused on sacrifice or substitution to one centered on reconciliation and self-giving love.
The document discusses the idea that there is no single definitive interpretation of the Bible, but that meaning emerges through ongoing discussion and examination of tensions within the text. It presents four options for reading the Bible - innocently literal, critically literal, innocently literary, and critically literary - and argues that a faithful critical literary approach best allows for serious consideration of the text while acknowledging its human origins. The overall shape of the biblical narrative is presented as one of creation, liberation, and reconciliation.
The document discusses different perspectives on how to understand the Bible, including as a legal constitution, a community library, and as inspired. It contrasts viewing the Bible as a uniform legal document meant to preserve order through enforcement and agreement, versus as a diverse cultural library meant to preserve diversity through argument and encouragement. It also considers what an inspired constitution or community library might look like.
The document discusses the concept of the "Kingdom of God" that Jesus proclaimed and argues that it referred to an alternative understanding rather than a new religion or evacuation plan. It was a radical message at the time that could get one killed, as kingdoms were contemporary political realities. The document examines different interpretations of the "Kingdom of God" and argues it meant a transformation and new creation on earth, not just heaven after death, based on details from the Gospels and Lord's Prayer.
The document discusses a new approach to Christianity that seeks to thoughtfully engage with 10 fundamental questions transforming the faith. Question 3 addresses the troubling issue of God's apparent violence and genocidal acts portrayed in some Bible passages. It notes how Paul selectively quotes from Psalms and Deuteronomy in Romans, omitting the more violent parts, suggesting an evolving understanding of God away from violence. The question of reconciling a loving God with violent biblical depictions remains an important issue for this new Christianity.
The document discusses the core message of the Bible. It identifies the key elements as God, Jesus Christ, sin, grace, love, promise and fulfillment, and redemption. It also discusses key insights of history, salvation, and justice. The Bible is described as a library of books written over 2000 years by different authors for different readers. The core message is about human history seen through biblical faith, from creation to the new heaven/earth, with Jesus at the center. Salvation in the Bible refers to the fullness of life for all of creation in a new world with a new history of justice, joy and seeing God.
The document discusses 4 major global challenges: 1) problems facing the planet like climate change, 2) poverty, 3) lack of peace, and 4) tensions between different religions. It argues that humanity has strayed from God and caused injustice in the world. However, God wants to heal humanity and invites people to reject what they've been told and follow Jesus instead, which can begin transforming the world for the better.
The document discusses 4 major global issues facing humanity: 1) threats to the planet like climate change, 2) poverty, 3) lack of peace due to conflicts, and 4) tensions between different religions. It frames these issues as symptoms of humanity rebelling against God and becoming lost, confused and spiraling downward without divine intervention. The document suggests Jesus came to answer the crisis by inviting people to reject what they've been told and follow a new path of transformation through discipleship, which could begin addressing the mess of the human condition and building a better world.
Integration of themes in TUL500 A Biblical Theology of Urban Mission, from Genesis to Revelations. A video and note of this is available on https://vimeo.com/vivgrigg/integration .
This document provides an overview of the key to interpreting prophecies in the Bible. It discusses how the New Testament writers interpreted and applied Old Testament prophecies about Jesus, establishing their method as the divinely inspired key. Specifically, it examines how the angel Gabriel and Zechariah interpreted prophecies about Jesus, applying passages from Isaiah, Malachi, and Daniel to refer to him. It argues that by studying how the New Testament writers interpreted prophecies, readers can safely understand their meaning and resolve conflicts around interpretation.
Article Assignment Roots of Cultural Marxism and the Targeting of the Fabric ...Wayne Williams
Students will start by reading what Romans 1:20 says as we will discuss how this applies to this topic. Understand terms used by the author (One-ism and Two-ism).
Read the article, answer the questions in complete sentences.
This document provides the contents and introductions to the book "Theology and Sanity" by Frank J. Sheed. The book contains theology aimed at providing readers with the essential minimum information needed to live mentally in the real world. The foreword discusses the author's goal of teaching those who know less theology than himself. The preface to the revised edition, written 33 years later, discusses how the book was shaped by feedback from audiences and discusses important developments in theology and the Church since the original publication.
The End of Christianity ( PDFDrive ).pdfOliver Ramos
This document contains reviews and endorsements of the book "The End of Christianity" edited by John Loftus. The reviewers praise the anthology for providing a compelling case against Christian faith through fresh perspectives and substantive arguments. One reviewer indicates the book will be the second they provide to those wanting to understand why they are no longer Christian. Overall, the reviews suggest the book annihilates the Christian position with disputatious arguments and shows that when it comes to God and Christianity, questions far outnumber certainties.
This document discusses the complex relationship between Christianity, race, and sexuality throughout history. It describes how Christianity has been used to justify the oppression and harm of racial and ethnic groups, including the genocide of Native Americans, transatlantic slavery, and colonialism. It also discusses how Christian doctrines and leaders have promoted anti-Semitism, homophobia, and the subjugation of women. However, the document argues that Jesus taught a radical message of inclusion and justice for the marginalized that has often been undermined or ignored.
The document discusses three possible futures for Christianity: continuing contraction, conservative resurgence, or pregnancy. It argues that pregnancy, characterized by theological and liturgical renewal, missional reorientation, and new ecumenical alliances, is the best future. For Christianity to experience pregnancy, it will require convergence between progressive Catholics, evangelicals, mainline Protestants, and other groups. Pregnancy will convert, cost, and change Christians, and will require a romance between social movements and institutions.
New Zealand: Christian Identity in a Multi-Faith Worldbrianmclaren
This document discusses building strong Christian identity in a multi-faith world in a benevolent rather than hostile way. It argues that religious differences alone do not divide people, but rather the tendency to build identity through hostility towards others. It suggests moving beyond seeing doctrines as dividing "centering idols" and instead viewing them as "healing teachings" that can bind people together. The document advocates for specifically teaching one's own religious traditions to children to promote spiritual literacy and understanding of other faiths, rather than taking a vague non-religious approach.
New Zealand: The Bible, We Make the Road by Walkingbrianmclaren
This document discusses different approaches to reading and interpreting the Bible. It begins by outlining a spectrum from reading the Bible literally to reading it literally, and explores options such as reading it critically or post-critically. It then discusses metaphors for understanding the Bible as a constitution/contract or as a library/conversation. The document suggests that Jesus and Paul both read the Bible in dynamic ways, fulfilling or recontextualizing passages, and encourages reading it in the spirit of Jesus and Paul rather than taking an overly literal or innocent approach.
This document discusses 10 questions that are transforming Christian faith. The questions include: 1) What is the shape of the biblical narrative? 2) What is the Bible and how does it have authority? 3) Is God violent based on some biblical passages? 4) Who is Jesus and why does he matter? 5) Is the gospel a message of evacuation or transformation? 6) What do we do about the church? 7) Can issues of sexuality be addressed without division? 8) Can a more hopeful vision of the future be found? 9) How should other faiths be related to? 10) How can this quest be pursued in humility, love and peace? The document argues these questions can create new conversations and lead to transforming
This document discusses how pro-slavery advocates in the antebellum American South used selective readings of the Bible to argue that slavery was justified and ordained by God. It provides examples from the 1864 book "Nellie Norton" which made extensive biblical arguments in defense of slavery. The document examines specific passages that were cited from the Old and New Testaments to claim the Bible supported slavery. It also discusses the broader theological justifications and rhetorical strategies used by pro-slavery advocates to assert the institution of slavery aligned with scripture.
This document discusses compassionate economics and whether its vision can spread widely. It begins with some preliminary thoughts and an apology for the current state of the modern extractive, industrial, colonial and consumerist economy. It then discusses views of the economy, society and environment. Several quotes note issues with treating the earth and resources as things to exploit without limits. The document discusses postmodern economic models that are regenerative, focused on services/recycling, promote local and fair trade, and aim for steady state economies. It also includes comparisons of conventional and emerging views on theological and economic issues. Overall, the document critically examines the current economic system and explores more compassionate and sustainable alternatives.
This document discusses the book of Hosea from the Bible. It begins by providing context about the prophet Hosea and his marriage to Gomer, which was meant as an object lesson about Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Several key points are made:
- Hosea names his children Jezreel, Lo-ruhamah, and Lo-ammi to symbolize God's punishment and rejection of Israel.
- However, God also promises to someday restore the people and give them new names and identities, showing his willingness to forgive and redeem.
- Hosea's marriage to Gomer, though difficult, represents how God loves and pursues even unfaithful people in
The document discusses how the Gospel writer John uses the Greek word "logos" to describe Jesus. Rather than conforming to Greek philosophical assumptions about logos, John presents Jesus as an alternative logos that confronts those assumptions. It goes on to say that according to John, the logos is not strife but love, not war but friendship. The document then examines how the Word became flesh through Jesus living among and ministering to people.
The document discusses lessons learned from parenting and hopes for a new faith curriculum called Faith Forward. It shares that daily prayer, connecting faith to life experiences, acts of service, sharing struggles, and surrounding children with community helped. It also notes that unexplained exposure to fundamentalism and not preparing for Christian diversity did not work. The author hopes Faith Forward will develop curriculums around love, God, contemplation, justice, and involving children in the Christian community from an early age.
The document compares a conventional view of Christianity with an emerging view. Under the conventional view, humanity is doomed because of Adam and Eve's sin, and Jesus' message is about how individuals can be saved from hell. The emerging view sees humanity as sick and lost, and Jesus' message as offering a new path of transformation by following him and participating in world change. The document goes on to discuss two questions from Brian McLaren's book about the top global problems and what Jesus' message says to address them.
This document discusses the relationship between social movements, institutions, and communities. It notes that both movements and institutions are needed, as movements inject new values and ideas but risk fading without institutions to conserve gains. Movements challenge institutions to progress, while institutions can stagnate without movements. The document also discusses the biblical concept of communities and examines how movements and institutions can both benefit and harm communities. It calls for a theology that considers the interdependence and tensions between these three spheres.
The document discusses bringing together different religious groups to encourage one another, plan collaborative efforts, and discuss important issues. It emphasizes building relationships, mutual inspiration, rest and fun, and targeted conversations. The groups mentioned include progressive Catholics, socially engaged and ethnic churches, missional mainline Protestants, and progressive evangelicals. It encourages sharing stories without judgment and being open to the Spirit. A bible passage on humility and unity is included. The overall message is about fostering understanding and cooperation across religious differences.
Proslavery advocates in the antebellum American South developed elaborate arguments attempting to justify slavery using the Bible. The primary biblical argument was that slavery was sanctioned and regulated in both the Old and New Testaments. Proslavery writers cited passages such as those in Leviticus and Ephesians to argue that God ordained slavery. Abolitionists also used the Bible but interpreted its teachings as condemning slavery and upholding the equality of all people. How the Bible is interpreted and applied is important, as interpreting it in a way that claims absolute certainty can contribute to violence.
The document outlines four stages of faith development:
1) Simplicity - characterized by dualistic thinking and dependence on authority figures
2) Complexity - focused on effectiveness and success, with authorities seen as coaches
3) Perplexity - a relativistic stage where little is seen as certain and authorities are distrusted
4) Harmony - an integrated stage seeking wisdom through service and mutual relationships
It notes strengths and weaknesses at each stage and observes that leaders often guide others within their own stage of development. The goal is not to rush through stages but learn from each one.
barrington presbyterian christian identity in a multi faith worldbrianmclaren
This document discusses Christian identity in a multi-faith world. It begins by posing the question of whether peace can exist among people of different faiths who are passionately committed to their beliefs. It then examines how Christians have traditionally formed strong identities based on hostility toward other religions rather than hospitality. The document advocates for Christians developing an identity characterized by benevolence toward other religions through embracing doctrines as healing teachings rather than dividing centering idols. It explores four challenges - historical, doctrinal, liturgical, and missional - and how Christians can reimagine practices and approaches to build understanding across faiths.
The document outlines a biblical narrative framework consisting of Creation, Crisis, Calling, Captivity, Conquest, Conversation, Christ, Community, and Consummation/Celebration. It discusses these stages as an alternative to traditional understandings and explores their implications. Key figures and events are situated within this framework to provide context for understanding God's unfolding story throughout history.
The document discusses the shifts that churches must make to remain credible and relevant in a postmodern world. It argues that churches need to transition from exclusivity to inclusivity and solidarity; from claims of inerrancy to humility; from rigid doctrine to consistent methodology focused on community building, healing, rituals, and spiritual formation; and from hierarchical structures to networks that promote accountability, collaboration, and influence from the margins. The goal of these postmodern shifts is to transform identity and behavior through mission and practices that work for the common good.
The document discusses the transition from the modern to the postmodern world. Some key aspects of this transition include moving from exclusivity to inclusivity, from claims of inerrancy to allowing for correction, and viewing changes in conclusions similar to how science updates models over time based on new evidence. It also addresses the challenges of developing a Christian identity in a postmodern, multi-faith world.
The document discusses the concept of "the hyphen" in relation to churches and pastors. It explores how churches have transitioned from premodern to modern to postmodern eras and how pastors navigate their roles as employees of institutions, members of communities, and participants in movements for change. It emphasizes that both institutions and movements are needed for progress, as institutions conserve past gains and movements propose new ways forward. A key challenge is how pastors can live within this tension of the hyphen.
2. From the place where But doubts and loves
we are right
Dig up the world
Flowers will never
grow Like a mole, a plow.
In the spring.
And a whisper will be
The place where we heard in the place
are right Where the ruined
Is hard and trampled House once stood.
Like a yard. Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai
3. a new kind of
christianity:
ten questions that
are transforming the
faith
4. Something is on the way out and something
else is painfully being born.
It is as if something were crumbling,
decaying, and exhausting itself,
while something else, still indistinct, were
arising from the rubble....
We are in a phase when one age is
succeeding another, when everything is
possible.
Vaclav Havel, “The New Measure of Man”
5. Fr. Vincent Donovan:
Do not leave them where they are.
Do not bring them to where you are, as
beautiful as that place might be.
Instead, go with them to a new place
neither of you has ever been before.
6. 500 years ago: Luther’s 95 theses.
Theses are statements intended for
debate, to bring us to a new state.
Needed today: not statements, debate,
or a new state (static location)
Rather ...
9. Statements (or theses) create
debates that bring us to new a
state (or status).
! ?
Questions create conversations
that launch us on new quests.
10. What are the questions?
1. The narrative question: What is the shape of the
biblical narrative? Storyline, plotline?
2. The authority question: What is the Bible, and
what is it for? How does it have authority?
3. The God question: Is God violent? Why does
God seem so violent and genocidal in so many
bible passages?
11. 4. The Jesus Question: Who is Jesus, and
why does he matter?
5. The Gospel Question: What is the gospel
- a message of evacuation or
transformation? Exclusion or inclusion?
12. 6. The church question: What do we
do about the church?
7. The sex question: Can we deal
with issues of sexuality without
fighting and dividing?
8. The future question: Can we find a
more hopeful vision of the future?
13. 9. The pluralism question: How
should we relate to people of other
faiths?
10. The next step question: How can
we pursue this quest in humility,
love, and peace?
22. sdrawkcab gnidaer
Rick Warren, Billy Graham, Charles Finney, John Wesley (or Calvin), Luther,
Aquinas, Augustine, Paul, Jesus
reading forwards
Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, John the Baptist, Jesus
34. Neither revolution nor reformation
can ultimately change a society,
rather you must tell a new powerful
tale, one so persuasive that it sweeps
away the old myths and becomes the
preferred story …
35. … one so inclusive that it gathers all the
bits of our past and our present into a
coherent whole, one that even shines
some light into the future so that we can
take the next step…. If you want to
change a society, then you have to tell an
alternative story.
- attributed to Ivan Illich (Austrian former priest,
philosopher, social critic, 1926-2002)
38. Barna Group: New Research Explores How Different Generations View and Use the Bible
... However, despite these similarities, the Barna studies show that the youngest generations are charting
a new, unique course related to the Bible. Here are the types of changes being forged by young adults:
• Less Sacred – While most Americans of all ages identify the Bible as sacred, the drop-off among
the youngest adults is striking: 9 out of 10 Boomers and Elders described the Bible as sacred,
which compares to 8 out of 10 Busters (81%) and just 2 out of 3 Mosaics (67%).
• Less Accurate – Young adults are significantly less likely than older adults to strongly agree that the
Bible is totally accurate in all of the principles it teaches. Just 30% of Mosaics and 39% of Busters
firmly embraced this view, compared with 46% of Boomers and 58% of Elders.
• More Universalism – Among Mosaics, a majority (56%) believes the Bible teaches the same
spiritual truths as other sacred texts, which compares with 4 out of 10 Busters and Boomers, and
one-third of Elders.
• Skepticism of Origins – Another generational difference is that young adults are more likely to
express skepticism about the original manuscripts of the Bible than is true of older adults.
• Less Engagement – While many young adults are active users of the Bible, the pattern shows a
clear generational drop-off – the younger the person, the less likely then are to read the Bible. In
particular, Busters and Mosaics are less likely than average to have spent time alone in the last
week praying and reading the Bible for at least 15 minutes. Interestingly, none of the four
generations were particularly likely to say they aspired to read the Bible more as a means of
improving their spiritual lives.
• Bible Appetite – Despite the generational decline in many Bible metrics, one departure from the
typical pattern is the fact that younger adults, especially Mosaics (19%), express a slightly above-
average interest in gaining additional Bible knowledge. This compares with 12% of Boomers and
9% of Elders. ...
39. What do we mean
when we say the Bible
is authoritative?
What do we mean by
authority?
40. The Bible as
Constitution
• What purposes do constitutions (or social
contracts) fulfill?
• What problems arise with this approach?
41. Bible as Conversation
• The Bible as a cultural library
• Artifacts from stories within stories
42. LEGAL CONSTITUTION COMMUNITY LIBRARY
Uniformity Diversity
Preserve order Preserve diversity
agreement argument
enforcement encouragement
43. LEGAL CONSTITUTION COMMUNITY LIBRARY
Rules to live by Stories to live by
Conformity Creativity
Analyze, interpret, argue Enter, inhabit, practice
amendments? new acquisitions
44. Inspiration
• what would an inspired constitution look
like?
• what would an inspired community library
look like?
45.
46. What are the questions?
1. The narrative question: What is the shape of the
biblical narrative? Storyline, plotline?
2. The authority question: What is the Bible, and
what is it for? How does it have authority?
3. The God question: Is God violent? Why does
God seem so violent and genocidal in so many
bible passages?
47. 4. The Jesus Question: Who is Jesus, and
why does he matter?
5. The Gospel Question: What is the gospel
- a message of evacuation or
transformation? Exclusion or inclusion?
48. 6. The church question: What do we
do about the church?
7. The sex question: Can we deal
with issues of sexuality without
fighting and dividing?
8. The future question: Can we find a
more hopeful vision of the future?
49. 9. The pluralism question: How
should we relate to people of other
faiths?
10. The next step question: How can
we pursue this quest in humility,
love, and peace?
50. Question 10: How
can we engage
with these
questions without
fighting and
dividing?
51. A way of thinking
about
organizational
change:
insights from
macrohistorians
52. Coral: holy people
__________
Ultraviolet: compassionate communities
Violet: globally-networked individuals
__________
Indigo: “citizens of the world”
Blue: nation-states/democracies
Green: kingdoms/empires
Yellow: warlords
Orange: agricultural chiefdoms
Red: hunter/gatherer band
54. Coral: Quest for theosis
__________
Ultraviolet: Quest for sacredness
Violet: Quest for ubuntu (otherliness)
__________
Indigo: Quest for honesty
Blue: Quest for Individuality
Green: Quest for Independence
Yellow: Quest for power
Orange: Quest for security
Red: Quest for survival
55. Coral: Quest for theosis
__________
Ultraviolet: Quest for sacredness
Violet: Quest for ubuntu (otherliness)
__________
Indigo: Quest for honesty
Blue: Quest for Individuality
Green: Quest for Independence
Yellow: Quest for power
Orange: Quest for security
Red: Quest for survival
56.
57. Cultures may include two
or more zones, but will
have a center of gravity in
one.
They may regress.
59. If we don’t differentiate or
transcend, we experience
stagnation, fixation and
stuckness.
If we don’t integrate and include,
we experience disassociation
and a backward attack-focus.
60. Coral: Quest for theosis
__________
Ultraviolet: Quest for sacredness
Violet: Quest for ubuntu (otherliness)
__________
Indigo: Quest for honesty
Blue: Quest for Individuality
Green: Quest for Independence
Yellow: Quest for power
Orange: Quest for security
Red: Quest for survival
61. First tier zones think in terms
of right/wrong and good/evil.
Other zones are evil/wrong:
our zone is good/right.
62. Second tier zones think in terms of
appropriate and adequate.
Other zones are adequate for
their times and situations; we seek
the zone that is appropriate for us
here and now.
63. Think of climbing a ladder.
You gain a new and wider view from each
rung.
Your earlier view was not wrong - only
partial.
Early zones truly describe the way the
world looks to people at that vantage point.
You couldn’t get to the higher rungs if it
weren’t for the lower rungs.
64. This approach is not absolutist.
It doesn’t claim one view is right and
previous (or later) ones are wrong.
Nor is it relativist.
It doesn’t say that no views are truly
right, but only think they are.
It says all views are partial and that
greater wholeness is better than lesser
wholeness.
65. St. Paul seems to agree:
When I was a child, I spoke and thought
and reasoned like a child,
But when I became an adult,
I gave up childish ways.
For now we see in a mirror dimly,
But then face to face.
Now I know in part; then I shall
understand fully,
Even as I have been fully
understood.
66. So faith, hope, and love abide, these
three;
But the greatest of these is
love.
I will show you the most excellent
way.
Follow the way of love.
Amen.
67. Exercise:
Consider the following in light of the spiral
dynamics schema: Coral: one with God
__________
Your life Ultraviolet: holistic, unifying
Violet: integral, systemic, otherly
Your church __________
Indigo: pluralist, relativist, globalist
Your denomination Blue: individualist, rationalist, ideologue
Green: nationalist, rules, codes
Your nation Yellow: feudal, power-oriented
Orange: tribal, magical, animist
The world Red: survival, instinctual, “reptilian”
Where is the center of gravity?
Where are the points of tension?
Where are breakthroughs happening?
68.
69. How can we help our communities move
forward?
What will cause people to entrench?
What cost will we pay for stimulating
forward movement?
How can we make our churches safe for
people at each zone?
How can we not get stuck?