Tuesday 23 October 2012

What is 'Church'?

When you hear the word ‘church’ is this what you picture?
Do you imagine a building, ancient architecture, a place to gather, a holy or sacred space? Or could it be going to a Sunday gathering, or if you are an active memberof the church – setting up the chairs or making the tea?

Or do you think of the preacher / pastor / minister as being the only person who has got 'the anointing' or the ability to hear from God? If the minister hasn't done this or that, does this mean that the church hasn't done it? Or because they are the minister do you think it is their job to do all the work: run every event; preach every sermon etc?

Or do you imagine the church as a group of people who are all on a journey moving towards God together? A community of Christian believers who share life togeter and help each other along the way? A body where every part recognises its role to play and does so to contribute towards the success of the whole? Where if one member of the church goes on a mission to India - they are a representative of the whole church, so the church has gone on a mission to India? Where all are ministers!


Clive preached about the shifting perception / definition of 'what church is' on Sunday. The Elders and leaders are hoping to move the church to a place where we are ready and able to continue being salt and light to our community in Wisbech not only for this generation, but long into the next generation and beyond. The current ministry in the church will not be replaced, but will be added to by what each member can bring to it.

The Elders have put together a disucssion document on the proposed changes and feedback and comments on it are encouraged. You can read the document on our website here: http://www.kingswisbech.org.uk/membership.htm

Or you can enter the discussion by adding your comments to the 'comment' section below this blog.
 

 

2 comments:

Bob Blake said...

Hi Matt i have read the leaflet given out last Sunday,i have been making notes as i go along,but yes there is a future for TKC in Wisbech, and yes we do have members that could take on certain rolls if they are willing,perhaps we will have time to discuss at our next study night,Sunday morning not the best time,it goes to quick,very exciting times ahead.

Becky said...

I absolutely agree that the church is not about the elders or just what's done on a Sunday and I hope more and more people feel they are able to contribute in any way they can during the week.

Thinking about the 2 models for church plans (a and b) I am assuming that it is thought that concentrating on b will lead to a being fulfilled. Maybe by giving people the courage to recognise their talents and (as Clive preached last Sunday) helping them to build up gifts of the spirit? Or even by encouraging new members to the church. Does this make sense and do people agree?