Next-Wave has been covering "the emerging church" scene for as long as I think the conversation has been going in the USA. As it hits it's 10 year anniversary they did a cover story on a retrospective look at the emerging church.
What a difficult task it would be to try and summarize things, but I thought Stephen Shields did a really good job in providing a ten year retrospective. Thank you Stephen!
In this issue you will hear from Scot McKnight, Tony Jones, Brian McLaren, Andrew Jones, Jordon Cooper and myself. I can't believe it's been over ten years now since we all met and how things have developed and emerged over the years.
For those who are interested in this whole topic, it is a good read. If you have any specific comments or observations or questions I would love to hear them and I will respond to any questions as I can.
It is written in 3 parts I have linked to below:
Ten Years Out - an introduction and basic summary
A Retrospective on The Emerging Church - Part 1
A Retrospective on The Emerging Church - Part 2
I wonder if there will be a "missional church retrospective" issue in a few years from now... ..Titles are kind of funny. But we understandably use them. The church may morph and change and look different throughout time as it always has. So names and titles will change. But the one thing for sure, is that whatever it is called in various time periods and in cultural changes whether large or small - may the church be a people of love, hope and grace while proclaiming the gospel of Jesus and new disciples being made until He returns, whenever and however that shall be.
"Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20
"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" - Romans 10:14-15
