How the church reacts...part 1

I read an article a few weeks back that has got me thinking. In the article the author points out several difference streams of the emerging church. After reading these I opened up the question a little more and asked, “ How do churches address the issues of cultural change?” The first answer to this question is easy: they deny or ignore it. From there I think it is safe to make a few classifications.

Methodological Changes: “Change the method, but not the message!”

· Change the name of the church
o Remove denominational distinction- Brookhurst Baptist Church
o Remove words those outside the church don’t understand- Anointed King Community Church
o Make it sound upbeat or hopeful- Miracle Hills Church

· Change the worship music
o Make it sound for upbeat and like the music people hear on the radio.

· Change the atmosphere of the sanctuary.
o Paint it.
o Move it.
o Light it.
o Remove the BIG pulpit and any other religious symbols.
o Make it casual

· Change the preaching style
o More topical
o More felt needs
o More “how-to” messages
o Less talk of money, sex and suffering

· Change the language used
o Like the church name, don’t use word people don’t understand. E.g. atonement, washed in the blood, tribulation.

· Emphasize “excellence” in planning, worship and programs

· Attractional

This approach follows ministry trend, is pragmatic and changes only on the surface.