Discussion - Serge's Answers

Discussion Questions Chapter 1: (Serge’s responses)

1. How does Trinitarian theology inform your concept of mission?

While it is not a newly revealed concept, Trinitarian theology decisively serves to focus me on the fact that Christ’s redemptive work for humankind is not specific but rather entirely general. No individual or people group is excluded – all are included. This understanding fuels and excites my personal worldview (which is not really my own but His in me) as having the complete authorization of enlightened Biblical Christian theology.

4. How does Trinitarian theology inform and affect your goals and plans for church planting?

Goals and plans when informed by Trinitarian theology not only allow for but demand that primary emphasis is placed on sharing Jesus with the proposed church-plant constituency. This focus is completely different than one which seeks to impose a specific “church” culture on an un/under-churched/pre-Christian people group. Whatever culture(s) will compose the new church will not be required or encouraged (overtly of subtly) to abandon cultural distinctive that are compatible with Christian theology.

5. Review the following passages and discuss their implications for church planting:

Matthew 16:13-20 The implication here is that the Church (Christ’s body) will be built on Him, the cornerstone, and as head of His church, nothing can destroy its existence. And while the apostles (perhaps beginning with Peter) had authority to structure and build upon what Jesus began, He would continue to serve as its ultimate head.

Mathew 28:18-20 Our mission with Christ is to actively share His message with others within our sphere of influence or opportunity. Additionally, teaching (discipling) is mandated as a means of reproducing others who will understand the missional thrust of serving in a community. A church planted on another premise would not conform to model Jesus mandated.

Acts 1:8 The implication of reaching the ends of the earth has not realized to its fullest extent. It only will by the power of the Holy Spirit as it directs mission oriented individuals and groups to go to those who are either unaware of Jesus’ saving message or that it applys to them specifically.

1 Corinthians 3:5-15 The mission of the Church is not a competition amongst individuals or groups. When the goal is rightly understood then in concert can the goal be cooperatively advanced. Men and women actively serve by participating with the trinity according to the gifting of the Holy Spirit, but God grants successful conversion.

Ephesians 4:1-16 Again, the message here is that the goal of reaching others is accomplished through an understanding in the unity of the body of Christ. Each person is equipped to serve in a certain capacity as per their gifting. Not all have the same gifting. The key to effective cooperation for the purpose of advancing the kingdom goal is in humility. It truly is all about Him. We share with Him (Father, Son, and Spirit) and each other in co-union, and all for the purpose sharing Jesus’ love.

7. How is God already at work in your ministry context?

Half of our tiny congregation consists of folks without WCG history. I have shared Trinitarian-based theology with them in word and deed. I recently became bi-vocation senior co-pastor (three months ago) and have continued at in home Bible studies and worship services to prepare our attendees for fuller understanding of the missional thrust of our existence. Those folks with WCG history who have decided to remain are moving very nicely in the direction of understanding and readiness to participate in outreach with a very different perspective.

8. What changes need to occur in your current congregation in order for it to become more aligned with God’s mission to the world?

Our membership and ministry infrastructure needs solidifying. Concrete steps have been taken towards this end, and I am currently counseling four people for baptism and full membership in GCI. Once this is accomplished (by next month) plans are for intentional and dedicated discipleship and gift determination. Outreach into our city is of primary focus.