Re: What makes a disciple MISSIONAL?

I'm not sure either, but would hope all diciples are Missional. Beth and I have been part of Churches all over this country and to me, all churches we have been fortunate to be part of, was missional - focus being on the Meeting Needs and SHARING Christ!! You know me Jack, I'll write a book!! Thanks for the opportunity to share on your blog -- Hope you are having a Great Vacation. Mike did a Great job yesterday, and we both really liked what he had to say. His testimony was very interesting. Would like to hear more from him again.

Re: What makes a disciple MISSIONAL?

The term "missional" is not just "mission" with an -al added on. Missional is a relatively new term that defines a movement, an awareness, first articulated by Leslie Newbiggin in the 1970s. Being missional involves recognizing that we live in a post-Christendom age. In other words, being a Christian is no longer the expected or accepted norm. Being missional also means understanding that the 'missio dei' -- the mission of God -- is to call all of creation back to Himself. Jesus says, "Behold, I am making all things new." Being missional also means inviting others into the mission of God, the story of God's making all things new. Being missional is, finally, living in a community of faith, called the church, as a contrast society reflecting the "new thing" that God is doing. For an excellent resource on the meaning of missional, see my blog, Amicus Dei, and look at free missional resources from Allelon at http://amicusdei.typepad.com/amicus_dei/2007/03/allelons_free_m.html. -- Chuck

Re: What makes a disciple MISSIONAL?

I suppose all disciples are about sharing Jesus Christ, perhaps the missional part is how each person is chosen to serve--just within my own family we are all called to serve in very different ways. I can tell you guys are having a great time! Blessings, Tracey