The Rebirth of the Church by Eddie Gibbs

Author:Eddie Gibbs
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: REL045000, REL030000, REL067050
ISBN: 9781441241351
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Published: 2013-06-27T00:00:00+00:00

Summary

In order for a movement to retain momentum and cohesion, each unit must be integrated into a network of many strands. The apostle Paul responded to the challenges in establishing connections between churches throughout the Eastern Mediterranean by using several methods. First, he strengthened his personal connection to each faith community through return visits and by making time for extended stays in strategic centers. Second, he established a pattern of team leadership both by his personal example and in the appointing of leaders in each faith community. Third, he wrote letters to churches in the principal cities, to provide encouragement, clear up misunderstandings, admonish them regarding issues and individuals that compromised the witness of the church, and commend them for the impact of their witness in their local communities and beyond.

Despite the greater ease and speed of communication today, too many congregations live for and by themselves. Shrinking and aging congregations need the stimulus of frequent contact with appropriate leaders who can provide much-needed insights and vision, together with the support of a network of churches facing similar challenges. New churches established by young leaders and consisting largely of first-generation Christians likewise need the support of mature leadership. There are some encouraging signs that such networks are being established as part of the church-planting initiatives of new networks and historic denominations. Today’s churches need one another just as much as first-century churches did.

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