When I heard the expression that a church was missional, I used to think that meant it had a vibrant missions program. I thought it meant there were lots of pictures up on the missionary bulletin board, a yearly missions conference, and an active missions committe.
I was a little off. ;-)
What missional is not ... a missional church is not a church with a "good missions program." The people are the missions program and includes going to "Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
I have heard the motto in at least two churches ... "where every member is a missionary." A missional church is one where that is truly the mindset and not a catchy slogan.
A missional church is one where people are exploring and rediscovering what it means to be Jesus' sent people as their identity and vocation. In my case, what does it mean to be sent into the workforce as an I.T. professional and follower of Christ? What does it mean to live in my neighborhood as a follower of King Jesus? How will I live intentionally as a follower of Christ in each of the communities in which I find myself?
A missional church will be made up of individuals willing and ready to be Christ’s people in their own situation and place.
(HT: Friends of Missional )
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