When it comes to systemic change [in the church], all that matters is the Gospel. Either the system helps people experience the transforming power of God and walk daily with Jesus, or it does not. If it does not, then no matter how daring, fun, intriguing, or socially beneficial it might be, it does not fulfill the New Testament purpose of the church. If it does, then congregations can flourish and bear fruit (spiritual, social, and economic) to benefit all humankind.
...The real issue before the church is not merely theological. It is christological. The key question... for church transformation [is]: What is it about our experience with Jesus that this community cannot live without?... No enduring change can happen in the church... without it being linked to continuing spiritual growth in one's relationship with Jesus.
-- Thomas G. Bandy in Moving Off the Map
#2299
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