In the church as in society (it is found in bad politicians as well as good leaders!), a focus on a common purpose often makes it easier to put differences into perspective.
Sometimes the purpose of the church is itself a point of contention. A balance of commitment between worship, community life, and mission is one way of attending to the essential dimensions of Christian life and ministry without being overwhelmed by conflict, or so concerned about mission that we neglect worship and vice versa.
This is the last week of new material and it is an opportunity to identify people who may continue to be helpful to us because of the way in which they help clarify our understanding of God, and of God's purposes for us. People who have been important in the last few decades include Lesslie Newbigin and David Bosch. Stanley Grenz and Miroslav Volf are contemporary theologians who are widely appreciated, though it is impossible to write theology without somebody disagreeing with you. Those who want to get their heads around meaty stuff may appreciate Michael Welkers' solid Reformed theology. Rick Warren's accessible writings have clarified for many some important basic directions in Christian life and mission.
This weeks discussion question:
What could churches in New Zealand learn from the post-communist experience of the Reformed Church in Hungary (see article in the reader by Laslo Medgyessy)?
Thank you for being part of the course, and best wishes as you complete the exercises that remain. There will be an opportunity to provide feedback.
Please keep in touch!
John
John Roxborogh
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