One of the things that came out of the Ottawa church Planting Congress was an opportunity to connect in some of the local church planting hubs. They offered a course where we get together for a day a month (for 6 months) and dialogue about what some of this looks like and share practical experience in trying to get the job done. (like my vagueness? – ya, I think it is the blind leading the blind, but at least when we get hit by the car crossing the street we’ll all be together) Anyway, we had our first day this past Friday and we were asked to take a look at a comment made a while ago regarding the church. The comment was, “The church has to decide how it will serve the congregation.” I found that interesting on a couple of different levels. First off there it was interesting that the “church” and “congregation” where thought of as separate. Secondly, from that separation we see a consumer mentality driving it. The church is an institution that exists to serve its congregation, like a health or country club. If we pointed people to Ephesians 4 we could clear most of the fog. The church is the congregation and within that there are people set apart to equip the church for the Mission of God. Anyway, my buddy Nick had a great comment immediately when we were asked to look at this. He answered “on a platter to the world.” I have to admit I found that extremely fun and profound. It carries right along with what Wright says about the church, “Just as Jesus was to Israel so the church is to the world.” The church begins to be a picture of Jesus selflessly and sacrificially calling people to come out of the darkness of exile and oppression. Incarnating (as Frost says video below) the presence, proximity, powerlessness, and proclamation. And yes part of that includes the church being an example of unity and love, serving and taking care of each other,but it’s existence and purpose is found in the Missio Dei which is Gods heart for the world. How are you being served up today?
