What Is Christian Community? To Unity Through Humility and Respect by Daniel Keeran, MSW, Victoria, Canada
Definition: All who want to learn more about Jesus are part of the multitudes following Him. It is rare for two followers to agree. All views are welcome within a framework of respectful conversation and critical thinking following the example of the noble Bereans of Acts 17:10-11. The Parable of the Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30) 24 Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26 When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. 27 “The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ 28 “‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ 29 “‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.’” Principles: 1. The scriptures are divinely inspired, preserved, and given to humanity by God through people writing down what was made known to them by the Holy Spirit. 2. Everyone is sincerely wanting to believe and do what is right and true. 3. No one alive today is inspired by God to speak only what is true from God. 4. Unity can best be achieved within a framework of respectful conversation in which all respectful views are enthusiastically welcomed. No two followers agree on everything. 5. Mutual understanding and encouragement to find truth, are the goals of the Christian Community model rather than agreement, division, and judgment. 6. All who desire to learn more or who are even curious about Jesus, are part of the multitudes following Him and should be regarded and respected as those who are doing their best to do what God wants. 7. No two followers of Jesus understand Him and His teaching in exactly the same way. Format: In the Christian Community Model a speaker may be invited from any faith perspective or denomination that accepts the above principles. The short sermon or lesson is then followed by small group discussions in which members are encouraged to express agreement or disagreement, while using scripture to support their views. A moderator in each small group facilitates discussion and reminds members of discussion guidelines as needed. Discussion Guidelines: 1. No dominating. Keep comments brief. Over-talking can be interpreted as aggression or a need to control and dominate. 2. No name-calling, negative innuendo, sarcastic put-down’s or threats of any kind. 3. Before responding to passionate views, try sincerely reflecting others views with whom you disagree. 4. Keep your voice volume normal and avoid shouting, yelling, pointing, or pounding your fist. 5. Ask others what they are saying rather than tell them what they are saying. Don’t put words in others mouths. 6. Avoid directing anger toward others, especially those with whom you disagree. 7. Try to sincerely defend the viewpoint of one who differs from your understanding of what is true.
A POINT OF VIEW WWW.BOX.COM/LOVEGOD