And because this book is about missional dynamics, it is appropriate to make a comment about the a significant characteristic of Jesus movements at this point. In the study of the history of missions, one can even be formulaic about asserting that all great missionary movements begin at the fringes of the chruch, among the poor and the marginalized, and seldom, if ever, at the center. It is vital that in pursuing missional modes of church, we get out of the stifling equilibrium of the center of our movements and denominations, move to the fringes, and engage in real mission there. But there's more to it than just mission; most great movements of mission have inspired significant and related movements of renewal in the life of the chruch. It seems that when the chruch engages at the fringes, it almost always brings life to the center. This says a whole lot about God and gospel, and the church will do well to heed it.
-Alan Hirsch, 'The Forgotten Ways'
2 comments:
I started reading 'The Forgotten Ways' last week and it has been both enjoyable and challenging.
But when I read this I thought it adds to the recent discussion about what it means to be missional and where that happens.
I think you could define missional as living in a way to stay outside the 'stifling equilibrium' of our traditions, denominations and doctrines. Never abandoning them, never abolishing them, but as Jesus did - fulfilling them - renewing them and their meaning in our lives.
It is simply recognizing the tendencies of our human condition to seek comfort and predictability and finding a way to live continually outside of that. Finding ways to live outside of our own might or ability and instead, engaged in the adventure of depending on God and following his design for your life.
Kevin, awesome to hear you are reading 'The Forgotten Ways'. GREAT book. Lots to chew on. I read it in my Missional Class last year. You have inspired me to go through it again, as it is not really just a one time read.
I like the quote you chose. Definitely presents us with an "outside in" mentality. How many churches are willing to start at the fringes and reach out to the marginalized? People like tradition. We like the comfort of familiarity. However, as a church we have to be willing to step out of the old molds if the Lord is calling us to something new.
I like what you said about missional being a way to "stay outside the 'stifling equilibrium' of our traditions, denominations, and doctrines. Never abandoning them...but fulfilling them, renewing them, and their meaning in our lives". good stuff kevin.
I look forward to future conversations sparked by this book.
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