I don’t listen to news very much. It feeds my tendency to fear and worry about the wrong things. It seems that even without following the news, I hear enough of what’s happening to stay somewhat current.
In the gloom-and-doom, sky-is-falling landscape of today, what is the future of the church?
Mark VanSteenwyk has compiled a thorough summary of a conversation about this topic, with links to the full conversation.
If the industry of church collapses, what will become of the church? Will the bride be declared dead, or will she perhaps recover her identity and purpose?
There is a major shift already occurring within church systems. I don’t believe the economy is the direct cause of the changes we will see. If anything, I believe the economy will simply be a factor in hastening the shift.
Mark says, “we have inherited Christendom tools for doing a post-Christendom job.” The pastors of today already feel the tension that occurs with changing paradigms.
As these changes continue, I believe that those who respond by circling the wagons in an attempt to protect what is theirs will ultimately seal their demise. If there is any prospering to be had at this time, it will be in giving away and investing outside the circle of our own territory.
Church can exist without all of the bells and whistles. People can grow and be discipled in relationship with non-professionals. It is possible to serve in the kingdom without being legitimized by the stamp of institutional approval.
If McDonalds shut down, people would realize (or remember) that they too can make a sandwich.
