The document discusses the need for community according to biblical teachings. It notes that while people come to faith individually, life as a Christian is meant to be shared and collective rather than solitary. However, Western culture has seen a deterioration of community due to factors like independence, avoidance of accountability, and superficial relationships. The document argues that recapturing a biblical vision of commitment to community can help address these issues while acknowledging certain challenges to community.

1. Dr. Ken Boa & Bill Ibsen
corporate spirituality ©2006 All Rights Reserved

2. Overview

3. the need for
community
Overview

4. the need for the nature and
community purpose of the
Overview church

5. the need for the nature and soul care, leadership,
community purpose of the accountability, and
Overview church renewal

6. part I the need for community

8. because God has created us in his image,

9. because God has created us in his image,
we are relational beings who thrive best in COMMUNITY

10. the problem of
RELATIONAL ISOLATION

11. deterioration of community
in the western world

12. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence

13. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation

14. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation
• control

15. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation
• control
• privatization

16. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation
• control
• privatization
• avoidance of accountability

17. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation
• control
• privatization
• avoidance of accountability
• superficial relationships

18. deterioration of community
in the western world
• independence
• self-preservation
• control
• privatization
• avoidance of accountability
• superficial relationships
• alienation

19. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever

20. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology

21. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility

22. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media

23. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media
• entertainment

24. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media
• entertainment
• distractions

25. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media
• entertainment
• distractions
• travel

26. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media
• entertainment
• distractions
• travel
• information overload

27. we are busier than ever and lonelier than ever
• technology
• mobility
• media
• entertainment
• distractions
• travel
• information overload
• transience

29. “time-saving” inventions and our addictions to urgency and performance
make us externally driven

30. our overemphasis on individualism is aggravated by our distrust in:

31. our overemphasis on individualism is aggravated by our distrust in:
institutions

32. our overemphasis on individualism is aggravated by our distrust in:
institutions
tradition

33. our overemphasis on individualism is aggravated by our distrust in:
institutions authority
tradition

34. recapturing a biblical vision of commitment and community

35. recapturing a biblical vision of commitment and community
• can’t return to the past

36. recapturing a biblical vision of commitment and community
• can’t return to the past
• can learn how to treasure relationships

37. recapturing a biblical vision of commitment and community
• can’t return to the past
• can learn how to treasure relationships
• can recapture a transcending biblical
vision

38. recapturing a biblical vision of commitment and community
• can’t return to the past
• can learn how to treasure relationships
• can recapture a transcending biblical
vision
• make us more human and less
controlled by our culture

39. overview of part I:
the need for community

40. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate

41. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate
2. biblical foundations for community

42. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate
2. biblical foundations for community
3. accepting the polarities

43. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate
2. biblical foundations for community
3. accepting the polarities
4. solitude, community, and ministry

44. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate
2. biblical foundations for community
3. accepting the polarities
4. solitude, community, and ministry
5. challenges to community

45. overview of part I:
the need for community
1. personal and corporate
2. biblical foundations for community
3. accepting the polarities
4. solitude, community, and ministry
5. challenges to community
6. creators of community

46. 1. personal and corporate

47. 1. personal and corporate
• we come to faith as individuals, but we grow in community

48. 1. personal and corporate
• we come to faith as individuals, but we grow in community
• life in Jesus isn’t meant to be solitary and individualistic, but shared and collective

49. 1. personal and corporate
• we come to faith as individuals, but we grow in community
• life in Jesus isn’t meant to be solitary and individualistic, but shared and collective
• we will be judged individually (Romans 14:12), but the community of faith is designed to
prepare us for eternity

50. 1. personal and corporate
• we come to faith as individuals, but we grow in community
• life in Jesus isn’t meant to be solitary and individualistic, but shared and collective
• we will be judged individually (Romans 14:12), but the community of faith is designed to
prepare us for eternity
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,
that each one may be recompensed for his deeds done in the
body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad”
2 Corinthians 5:10

51. emphasizing the corporate extreme

52. emphasizing the corporate extreme
corporate

53. emphasizing the corporate extreme
personal
corporate

54. emphasizing the corporate extreme
personal
corporate
liberals
(theological left)

55. emphasizing the corporate extreme
personal
corporate
liberals
(theological left)
focus: social justice &
cultural relevance

56. emphasizing the corporate extreme
personal
corporate
liberals
(theological left)
focus: social justice &
cultural relevance
danger: Gospel reduced to
social ethics, inclusivism, and
pluralism

57. emphasizing the personal extreme
corporate
personal
liberals
(theological left)
focus: social justice &
cultural relevance
danger: Gospel reduced to
social ethics, inclusivism, and
pluralism

58. emphasizing the personal extreme
corporate
personal
liberals evangelicals
(theological left) (theological right)
focus: social justice &
cultural relevance
danger: Gospel reduced to
social ethics, inclusivism, and
pluralism

59. emphasizing the personal extreme
corporate
personal
liberals evangelicals
(theological left) (theological right)
focus: social justice &
focus: justification & afterlife
cultural relevance
danger: Gospel reduced to
social ethics, inclusivism, and
pluralism

60. emphasizing the personal extreme
corporate
personal
liberals evangelicals
(theological left) (theological right)
focus: social justice &
focus: justification & afterlife
cultural relevance
danger: Gospel reduced to danger: Gospel becomes
social ethics, inclusivism, and privatized and socially
pluralism irrelevant

61. biblical balance of corporate and personal
corporate personal

62. biblical balance of corporate and personal
corporate personal
social personal

63. biblical balance of corporate and personal
corporate personal
social personal
active in the World dependent upon God
(immanent) (transcendent)

64. biblical balance of corporate and personal
corporate personal
social personal
active in the World dependent upon God
(immanent) (transcendent)
social holiness personal holiness

65. biblical balance of corporate and personal
corporate personal
social personal
active in the World dependent upon God
(immanent) (transcendent)
social holiness personal holiness
service to others devotion to Jesus

66. 2. biblical foundations for community
God is a community of Being

67. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father
God is a community of Being

68. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
God is a community of Being

69. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Holy Spirit
God is a community of Being

70. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover
Holy Spirit
God is a community of Being

71. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
Holy Spirit
God is a community of Being

72. 2. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
Holy Spirit
Love
God is a community of Being

73. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
Holy Spirit
Love

74. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
One and
the Many
Holy Spirit
Love

75. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
One and Unity in
the Many diversity
Holy Spirit
Love

76. biblical foundations for community
Father Son
Lover Beloved
One and Unity in
the Many diversity
Holy Spirit
Love Three
in One

77. OT pointers to NT mystery of God as one essence, and three persons

78. OT pointers to NT mystery of God as one essence, and three persons
“Let Us make man in Our image,
according to Our likeness” Genesis 1:26

79. OT pointers to NT mystery of God as one essence, and three persons
“Let Us make man in Our image,
according to Our likeness” Genesis 1:26
“Come, let Us go down and there confuse their language...” Genesis 11:7

81. Made in God’s image and likeness, we have been created for community with Him
and with one another. God is a covenant maker and keeper.

82. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation

83. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation
• from God

84. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation
• from God
• from ourselves

85. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation
• from God
• from ourselves
• from others

86. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation
• from God
• from ourselves
• from others
• from nature

87. consequence of the fall: fourfold alienation
• from God
• from ourselves
• from others
• from nature
God’s redemptive plan is
to restore relationships on every level - shalom

88. 3. accepting the polarities

89. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships

90. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships
• spirituality does not flourish in isolation

91. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships
• spirituality does not flourish in isolation
• corporate discipleship should inform
and supplement personal discipleship

92. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships
• spirituality does not flourish in isolation
• corporate discipleship should inform
and supplement personal discipleship
• a natural tendency to be pulled to the
extremes:

93. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships
• spirituality does not flourish in isolation
• corporate discipleship should inform
and supplement personal discipleship
• a natural tendency to be pulled to the
extremes:
• institutionalism/community

94. 3. accepting the polarities
• personal salvation is intended to
reconcile and renew all our relationships
• spirituality does not flourish in isolation
• corporate discipleship should inform
and supplement personal discipleship
• a natural tendency to be pulled to the
extremes:
• institutionalism/community
• individualism/isolation

95. embracing the tension between solitude and community

96. embracing the tension between solitude and community
• let him who cannot be alone beware of community

97. embracing the tension between solitude and community
• let him who cannot be alone beware of community
• let him who is not in community beware of being alone

98. embracing the tension between solitude and community
• let him who cannot be alone beware of community
• let him who is not in community beware of being alone
• our personal walk with God is nourished in communion with others

99. embracing the tension between solitude and community
• let him who cannot be alone beware of community
• let him who is not in community beware of being alone
• our personal walk with God is nourished in communion with others
• a life of unity in diversity, oneness in plurality is a reflection of trinitarian life

100. 4. solitude, community, and ministry

101. 4. solitude, community, and ministry
• inside-out process:

102. 4. solitude, community, and ministry
• inside-out process:
• devotion to Christ (solitude)

103. 4. solitude, community, and ministry
• inside-out process:
• devotion to Christ (solitude)
• devotion to the community (community)

104. 4. solitude, community, and ministry
• inside-out process:
• devotion to Christ (solitude)
• devotion to the community (community)
• devotion to the gospel (ministry)

105. community is the bridge connecting solitude and ministry
community

106. community is the bridge connecting solitude and ministry
community
solitude ministry

107. 4a. commitment to Christ and to the cross (solitude)

108. 4a. commitment to Christ and to the cross (solitude)
as we know Him more

109. 4a. commitment to Christ and to the cross (solitude)
as we know Him more
as we embrace the cross by
losing our lives to find His

110. 4a. commitment to Christ and to the cross (solitude)
as we know Him more
as we embrace the cross by
losing our lives to find His
we learn to treasure the Godhead

111. 4a. commitment to Christ and to the cross (solitude)
as we know Him more
as we embrace the cross by
losing our lives to find His
we learn to treasure the Godhead
Through personal encounter, through growing trust, wonder, and awe, and through God’s love
and acceptance of us in Christ, we learn to let God love Himself in us through His indwelling
Spirit.

112. 4b. commitment to community

113. 4b. commitment to community
• as growth in the solitude of intimacy occurs,
so also capacity for life in community grows

114. 4b. commitment to community
• as growth in the solitude of intimacy occurs,
so also capacity for life in community grows
• true community isn’t a collection of lonely/
isolated individuals

115. 4b. commitment to community
• as growth in the solitude of intimacy occurs,
so also capacity for life in community grows
• true community isn’t a collection of lonely/
isolated individuals
• true community is a dynamic interaction of
people who know they are accepted and
beloved in Christ

116. 4b. commitment to community
• as growth in the solitude of intimacy occurs,
so also capacity for life in community grows
• true community isn’t a collection of lonely/
isolated individuals
• true community is a dynamic interaction of
people who know they are accepted and
beloved in Christ
• true community isn’t Christians at large or a
colony of hermits

117. 4b. commitment to community
• as growth in the solitude of intimacy occurs,
so also capacity for life in community grows
• true community isn’t a collection of lonely/
isolated individuals
• true community is a dynamic interaction of
people who know they are accepted and
beloved in Christ
• true community isn’t Christians at large or a
colony of hermits
• true community is a vital organism of others-
centered believers led by Christ

118. community is never easy, but we are impoverished without it

119. community is never easy, but we are impoverished without it
yet the corporate life of the body of Christ is not optional

120. benefits of community

121. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:

122. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• trust, love, acceptance

123. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• trust, love, acceptance
• relational enrichment and commitment

124. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• trust, love, acceptance
• relational enrichment and commitment
• forgiveness and reciprocal confession
under the cross

125. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• trust, love, acceptance
• relational enrichment and commitment
• forgiveness and reciprocal confession
under the cross
• mutual submission out of reverence
for Christ

126. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• trust, love, acceptance
• relational enrichment and commitment
• forgiveness and reciprocal confession
under the cross
• mutual submission out of reverence
for Christ
• physical, psychological, and spiritual
healing

127. benefits of community

128. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:

129. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• encouragement and accountability

130. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• encouragement and accountability
• an environment of growth and
transformation

131. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• encouragement and accountability
• an environment of growth and
transformation
• love for neighbor as an essential
expression of the spiritual life

132. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• encouragement and accountability
• an environment of growth and
transformation
• love for neighbor as an essential
expression of the spiritual life
• participation in corporate calling
and purpose

133. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• encouragement and accountability
• an environment of growth and
transformation
• love for neighbor as an essential
expression of the spiritual life
• participation in corporate calling
and purpose
• nourishment in the life of Scripture,
meditation, and prayer

134. benefits of community

135. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:

136. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity

137. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity
• celebration of one another’s gifts

138. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity
• celebration of one another’s gifts
• ministry and service

139. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity
• celebration of one another’s gifts
• ministry and service
• guidance and sustenance in
spiritual disciplines

140. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity
• celebration of one another’s gifts
• ministry and service
• guidance and sustenance in
spiritual disciplines
• support for those in physical,
emotional, and financial need

141. benefits of community
• community provides a context for:
• expression of unity in diversity
• celebration of one another’s gifts
• ministry and service
• guidance and sustenance in
spiritual disciplines
• support for those in physical,
emotional, and financial need
• existence for others

142. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
<Rhythm>

143. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
Solitude <Rhythm> Community
withdrawal and engagement
intimacy and activity
being served by others and serving others
personal growth and corporate growth

144. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
Solitude <Rhythm> Community
withdrawal and engagement
intimacy and activity
being served by others and serving others
personal growth and corporate growth

145. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
Solitude <Rhythm> Community
withdrawal and engagement
intimacy and activity
being served by others and serving others
personal growth and corporate growth

146. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
Solitude <Rhythm> Community
withdrawal and engagement
intimacy and activity
being served by others and serving others
personal growth and corporate growth

147. each of us needs a rhythm of solitude and community
Solitude <Rhythm> Community
withdrawal and engagement
intimacy and activity
being served by others and serving others
personal growth and corporate growth

148. 4c. commitment to ministry

149. 4c. commitment to ministry
life of the Believer

150. 4c. commitment to ministry
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)

151. 4c. commitment to ministry
not called to be prominent in ministry
but to be devoted to Christ
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)

152. 4c. commitment to ministry
not called to be prominent in ministry
but to be devoted to Christ
solit
ude
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)

153. 4c. commitment to ministry
intim not called to be prominent in ministry
a
(con cy with but to be devoted to Christ
nect
ed t Jesus
o Go
soli
tude
d)
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)

154. 4c. commitment to ministry
intim not called to be prominent in ministry
a
(con cy with but to be devoted to Christ
nect
ed t Jesus
o Go
soli
tude
d)
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)
mu nity
com

155. 4c. commitment to ministry
intim not called to be prominent in ministry
a
(con cy with but to be devoted to Christ
nect
ed t Jesus
o Go
solitude
d)
ministry
life of the Believer (evangelism and edification)
(E²)
mu nity
com thers
ting O ther)
ppor ch o
n g/su to ea
servi cted
(c onne

156. commitment to God naturally leads to commitment to people

157. commitment to God naturally leads to commitment to people
commitment to the person of God - Romans 12:1-2

158. commitment to God naturally leads to commitment to people
commitment to the purposes of God - Romans 12:3-8
commitment to the person of God - Romans 12:1-2

159. commitment to God naturally leads to commitment to people
commitment to the people of God- Romans 12:9-21
commitment to the purposes of God - Romans 12:3-8
commitment to the person of God - Romans 12:1-2

160. preparation for bearing fruit in ministry

161. preparation for bearing fruit in ministry
• brokenness

162. preparation for bearing fruit in ministry
• brokenness
• contrition

163. preparation for bearing fruit in ministry
• brokenness
• contrition
• surrender to Jesus

164. preparation for bearing fruit in ministry
• brokenness
• contrition
• surrender to Jesus
• nurture of the
community of faith

165. 5. challenges to community

166. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:

167. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators

168. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators
• controllers

169. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators
• controllers
• dissenters

170. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators
• controllers
• dissenters
• faction builders

171. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators
• controllers
• dissenters
• faction builders
• all believers are capable of practicing
these fleshly patterns

172. 5. challenges to community
• the church has never been without its:
• manipulators
• controllers
• dissenters
• faction builders
• all believers are capable of practicing
these fleshly patterns
• these are community killers

173. killers to community: 4 “C’s”

174. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:

175. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:
• compete

176. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:
• compete
• compare

177. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:
• compete
• compare
• control

178. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:
• compete
• compare
• control
• count

179. killers to community: 4 “C’s”
• 4 “C’s”:
• compete
• compare
• control
• count
• striving to justify ourselves and
our interests rather than the
interest of Christ and others

181. “do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit,
but with humility of mind
regard one another as more important than yourselves;
do not merely look out for your own personal interests,
but also for the interest of others”
philippians 2:3-4

183. when we are liberated from bondage to the expectations and opinions of
people, the ironic result is that we become capable of serving them far better.

185. churchmen
focus on
building the
institution

186. churchmen Christ-followers
focus on focus on
building the building the
institution body of believers

187. churchmen Christ-followers
focus on focus on
building the building the
institution body of believers
“ABC’s”

188. churchmen Christ-followers
focus on focus on
building the building the
institution body of believers
“ABC’s”
attendance
buildings
cash

190. the fundamental threat to community is self-centeredness

191. the fundamental threat to community is self-centeredness
hell is self-centered and isolational

192. the fundamental threat to community is self-centeredness
hell is self-centered and isolational
the vital builder of community is others-centeredness

193. the fundamental threat to community is self-centeredness
hell is self-centered and isolational
the vital builder of community is others-centeredness
heaven is others-centered and relational

194. corporate spirituality cost

195. corporate spirituality cost
• carries a high price because it goes against the grain of our fallen instinct for privatization
and control

196. corporate spirituality cost
• carries a high price because it goes against the grain of our fallen instinct for privatization
and control
• the spiritual life is not simply a matter between an individual and God

197. corporate spirituality cost
• carries a high price because it goes against the grain of our fallen instinct for privatization
and control
• the spiritual life is not simply a matter between an individual and God
• never meant to be individualistic but to be shared in community

198. corporate spirituality cost
• carries a high price because it goes against the grain of our fallen instinct for privatization
and control
• the spiritual life is not simply a matter between an individual and God
• never meant to be individualistic but to be shared in community
• revealed and expressed in the ways we relate to others

199. 6. creators of community

200. 6. creators of community
• “it will appear in the end that we
have no problems in our lives but
social problems; and those
problems can be solved only if
we are interested in others”
- Alfred Alder

201. 6. creators of community
• “it will appear in the end that we
have no problems in our lives but
social problems; and those
problems can be solved only if
we are interested in others”
- Alfred Alder
• give yourself to “the higher vision
of the inner significance of
people”- William James

202. 6. creators of community

203. 6. creators of community
• “we are not at peace with each
other because we are not at peace
with ourselves. And we are not at
peace with ourselves because we
are not at peace with God.”
- Thomas Merton

204. 6. creators of community
• “we are not at peace with each
other because we are not at peace
with ourselves. And we are not at
peace with ourselves because we
are not at peace with God.”
- Thomas Merton
• “...having been justified by faith, we
have peace with God through our
Lord Jesus Christ” - Romans 5:1

205. losing our lives in Christ

206. losing our lives in Christ
• sweet surrender and self-denial in Christ
is the key to biblical community

207. losing our lives in Christ
• sweet surrender and self-denial in Christ
is the key to biblical community
• when we lose our lives in Christ, we are
gradually transformed from being self-
absorbed to being “ex-centrics” who
reach out to others

208. losing our lives in Christ
• sweet surrender and self-denial in Christ
is the key to biblical community
• when we lose our lives in Christ, we are
gradually transformed from being self-
absorbed to being “ex-centrics” who
reach out to others
• true community cannot be manufactured;
it is a by-product of others-centeredness

209. losing our lives in Christ
• sweet surrender and self-denial in Christ
is the key to biblical community
• when we lose our lives in Christ, we are
gradually transformed from being self-
absorbed to being “ex-centrics” who
reach out to others
• true community cannot be manufactured;
it is a by-product of others-centeredness
• others-centeredness is a by-product of
finding our lives by losing them for Jesus’
sake

211. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

212. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

213. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

214. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

215. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

216. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

217. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

218. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

219. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

220. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

221. modern worldview biblical worldview
(individualistic) (communal)
basis contractual covenantal
view of self autonomous (self-reflective) interdependent (social, relational)
view of relationships exchange (contractual) communal (covenantal)
source of moral authority relativistic (self-constructed) transcendent (established by God)
reason for church involvement needs-related relational give and take
highest virtue self-esteem love
approach to conflict resolution communication (negotiation) moral approach (reintegration or reconciliation)
life purpose self-fulfillment self-transcendence (love)
foundation of forgiveness generating self-forgiveness receiving forgiveness
glory to God and communal
primary motivation to forgive personal health (functional coping)
harmony

223. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

224. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

225. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

226. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

227. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

228. the old heart or the flesh
where bad urges come from
personal problems
disconnection from basic life strategy:
do what works for self; my final value is me!
others avoid what doesn’t
disconnection from self-preserving dynamics am i enough?
others as we encounter life Will you cooperate?
denied justified
disconnection from self i’ll get what i can!
longings selfishness
unbelief: independence from God/
disconnection from God He can’t be that good! dependence on self

230. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

231. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

232. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

233. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

234. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

235. the new heart or the spirit
where good urges come from
faithfulness through trials
basic life strategy: my final value is God!
connection with others yield to the good; resist the bad. He’s the point.
spiritual (self-denying) my adequacy is in
connection with others dynamics
as we meet life Christ. i’m here to give.
embraced godly
connection with self i want to live for Him.
longings conscience
belief:
connection with God dependent on God for life
He is that good!

236. part II the nature and purpose
of the church

237. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church

238. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the spiritual life was never meant to be lived
alone but in a context of community

239. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the spiritual life was never meant to be lived
alone but in a context of community
• not a compartmentalized, private matter

240. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the spiritual life was never meant to be lived
alone but in a context of community
• not a compartmentalized, private matter
• maturity does not spring out of isolation but
is nourished through involvement

241. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church

242. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson

243. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson
• riddled with human qualities from delightful
to dreadful

244. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson
• riddled with human qualities from delightful
to dreadful
• expectations inflate

245. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson
• riddled with human qualities from delightful
to dreadful
• expectations inflate
• controllers rise

246. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson
• riddled with human qualities from delightful
to dreadful
• expectations inflate
• controllers rise
• critical and/or weirdness

247. 1. the nature and purpose of
the church
• the church is “a messy grace” - Luke Timothy
Johnson
• riddled with human qualities from delightful
to dreadful
• expectations inflate
• controllers rise
• critical and/or weirdness
• rife with faults and corporate idiosyncrasies -
but a necessary discipline and grace

248. 1. the nature of the church

249. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:

250. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)

251. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2)

252. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2)
• temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)

253. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2)
• temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
• members of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19)

254. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2)
• temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
• members of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19)
• people for God’s possession (1 Peter 2:9)

255. 1. the nature of the church
• NT metaphors for the church:
• body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2)
• temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
• members of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19)
• people for God’s possession (1 Peter 2:9)
• a living organism, not an organization

256. the organic nature of church

257. the organic nature of church
• NT speaks of the church as an
ekklesia, an assembly, congregation,
or community

258. the organic nature of church
• NT speaks of the church as an
ekklesia, an assembly, congregation,
or community
• people in relationship;
not an edifice or an organization

259. the organic nature of church

260. the organic nature of church
• organic image of the church in
Ephesians 4:16 of a body that is
“being fitted and held together by
what every joint supplies, according
to the proper working of each
individual part”

261. the organic nature of church
• organic image of the church in
Ephesians 4:16 of a body that is
“being fitted and held together by
what every joint supplies, according
to the proper working of each
individual part”
• analogous to the cells of our body
working together

262. the organic nature of church
• organic image of the church in
Ephesians 4:16 of a body that is
“being fitted and held together by
what every joint supplies, according
to the proper working of each
individual part”
• analogous to the cells of our body
working together
• a colony of resident aliens; citizens of
an unearthly polis (Hebrews 11:10)

263. 2. the purpose of the church

264. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:

265. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
1. human agendas of grasping for power,
control, and wealth

266. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
1. human agendas of grasping for power,
control, and wealth
2. disease of institutionalism ossifying the
organism more like buildings than a body

267. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:

268. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
3. pastors whose churches are extensions of
their egos

269. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
3. pastors whose churches are extensions of
their egos
these three distortions lead to the
organism serving the organization
rather than the
organization serving the organism

271. when community is reduced to places

272. when community is reduced to places
programs and

273. when community is reduced to places
programs and
performances,

274. when community is reduced to places
programs and
performances,
corporate vitality becomes a thin veneer...

275. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:

276. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
4. rise of postmodernism (repacking cultural
agendas in spiritual language)

277. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
4. rise of postmodernism (repacking cultural
agendas in spiritual language)
5. greater mobility

278. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
4. rise of postmodernism (repacking cultural
agendas in spiritual language)
5. greater mobility
6. imposing marketing, management,
psychological, and entertainment models
on church growth, leadership, soul care,
and programs

279. 2. the purpose of the church
• six distortions of the Church as an organism:
4. rise of postmodernism (repacking cultural
agendas in spiritual language)
5. greater mobility
6. imposing marketing, management,
psychological, and entertainment models
on church growth, leadership, soul care,
and programs
• uncritical use of these techniques leads
to manipulation rather than ministry

280. Manipulation ≠ Ministry

281. Manipulation ≠ Ministry
“You cannot use people

282. Manipulation ≠ Ministry
“You cannot use people
and serve them at the same time.”
-Walter Henrichsen

283. Manipulation ≠ Ministry
“You cannot use people
and serve them at the same time.”
-Walter Henrichsen
The institution exists to serve individuals, not vice versa.

284. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church

285. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:

286. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ

287. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ
• the bride of Christ

288. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ
• the bride of Christ
• the temple of the Holy Spirit

289. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ
• the bride of Christ
• the temple of the Holy Spirit
• members of God’s family

290. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ
• the bride of Christ
• the temple of the Holy Spirit
• members of God’s family
• people for God’s own possession

291. 2b. seven purposes of an organic, interdependent, NT church
• NT vision of the church as:
• the body of Christ
• the bride of Christ
• the temple of the Holy Spirit
• members of God’s family
• people for God’s own possession
• above are organic, and cannot
be defined in terms of
independence or self-reliance

292. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion

293. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• it’s easier to talk about the importance
of loving people than it is to get along
with those we see on a daily basis

294. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• it’s easier to talk about the importance
of loving people than it is to get along
with those we see on a daily basis
• God has called us to a unity in diversity
by exhibiting the only kind of love that
makes this possible

295. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion

296. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of
compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another,
and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord
forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the
perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:12-14

297. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion

298. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:

299. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:
• selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

300. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:
• selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
• servant-heartedness (Galatians 5:13-14)

301. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:
• selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
• servant-heartedness (Galatians 5:13-14)
• biblical love covers a multitude of sins (James 5:20)

302. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:
• selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
• servant-heartedness (Galatians 5:13-14)
• biblical love covers a multitude of sins (James 5:20)
• biblical love fosters an atmosphere of acceptance,
trust, and transparency

303. purpose 1: corporate love and compassion
• biblical love is a God-empowered volitional
commitment to the best interests of others. It is
expressed through:
• selflessness (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
• servant-heartedness (Galatians 5:13-14)
• biblical love covers a multitude of sins (James 5:20)
• biblical love fosters an atmosphere of acceptance,
trust, and transparency
• biblical love treasures the rainbow of personalities
and giftedness of the body of Christ

304. purpose 2: corporate identity and purpose

305. purpose 2: corporate identity and purpose
• we do not discover our identities in
isolation; we are connected through a
common story.

306. purpose 2: corporate identity and purpose
• we do not discover our identities in
isolation; we are connected through a
common story.
• communal identity flows from the
realization that we are alive not for
ourselves but for the Lord and one
another. (1 Peter 2:9)

307. purpose 2: corporate identity and purpose
• we do not discover our identities in
isolation; we are connected through a
common story.
• communal identity flows from the
realization that we are alive not for
ourselves but for the Lord and one
another. (1 Peter 2:9)
• the more we give ourselves to Jesus, the
greater our capacity to seek the interests
of others above our own (Philippians 2:4)

308. purpose 2: corporate identity and purpose
• we do not discover our identities in
isolation; we are connected through a
common story.
• communal identity flows from the
realization that we are alive not for
ourselves but for the Lord and one
another. (1 Peter 2:9)
• the more we give ourselves to Jesus, the
greater our capacity to seek the interests
of others above our own (Philippians 2:4)
• our gifts become a corporate possession
when expressed within the body

309. purpose 3: corporate nurture and service

310. purpose 3: corporate nurture and service
• corporate assembly provides a meaningful
context for the exercise of spiritual gifts and
mutual encouragement/edification

311. purpose 3: corporate nurture and service
• corporate assembly provides a meaningful
context for the exercise of spiritual gifts and
mutual encouragement/edification
• spiritual gifts are others-centered graces “for
the equipping of the saints for the work of
service, to the building up of the body of
Christ” (Ephesians 4:12)

312. purpose 3: corporate nurture and service
• corporate assembly provides a meaningful
context for the exercise of spiritual gifts and
mutual encouragement/edification
• spiritual gifts are others-centered graces “for
the equipping of the saints for the work of
service, to the building up of the body of
Christ” (Ephesians 4:12)
• the more we realize that we are allies on the
journey rather than independent agents, the
more clearly we will see that personal
spiritual growth doesn’t take place in a
relational vacuum.

313. 32 “one another” commands

314. 32 “one another” commands
• wash one another’s feet
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14

315. 32 “one another” commands
• wash one another’s feet
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14
• love one another
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one
another.” John 13:34

316. 32 “one another” commands
• wash one another’s feet
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14
• love one another
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one
another.” John 13:34
• be devoted to one another in brotherly love
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give
preference to one another in honor....” Romans 12:10a

317. 32 “one another” commands
• wash one another’s feet
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14
• love one another
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one
another.” John 13:34
• be devoted to one another in brotherly love
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give
preference to one another in honor....” Romans 12:10a

318. 32 “one another” commands
• wash one another’s feet
“If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,
you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” John 13:14
• love one another
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one
another.” John 13:34
• be devoted to one another in brotherly love
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give
preference to one another in honor....” Romans 12:10a
• give preference to one another in honor
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give
preference to one another in honor....” Romans 12:10b

319. 32 “one another” commands

320. 32 “one another” commands
• be of the same mind toward one another
“Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be
haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be
wise in your own estimation.” Romans 12:16: 15:5

321. 32 “one another” commands
• be of the same mind toward one another
“Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be
haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be
wise in your own estimation.” Romans 12:16: 15:5
• build up one another
“So then we pursue the things which make for peace
and the building up of one another.” Romans 14:19