Beyond Denominations - The Networked Church
An Exploration Of The Future Of Denominations
Hi, I'm John
Edmiston a bible teacher and careers counselor and
occasional management consultant from Townsville
Australia.
I think there is a better way of being a Christian than denominationalism - in fact I'm sure of it.
I think there is a better way of doing Christian ministry than denominationalism - in fact I'm sure of it.
So I have written a brief e-book that you can read quickly and pass around to others who may be having similar thoughts. In this second edition I have included some bible studies and additional material especially relating to C. Peter Wagners "new Apostolic Reformation".
Beyond
Denominations basically says that denominations can be
replaced by two structures:
1) Local
area networks of churches doing the pastoral
functions such as worship, the sacraments, counseling
and preaching and teaching.
2) Task-focused Christian organizations doing the specialized ministry tasks such as hospitals,
schools, missions, evangelism, aged care and bible
translation.
The book has six short chapters and a one page introduction. The chapters outline the problem then discuss local area networks and task focused Christian ministries then go on to look at how we can devolve the work that denominations are doing over to these two structures and close the door at denominational HQ.
The book is in a concise question and answer format. It is a plea for unity and sanity. Its provocative I hope but also moderate, balanced and as wise as I can make it. It is written from an Australian perspective but with appropriate changes should apply to the majority of Western denominational situations.
New: A chapter on 2 Corinthians and the new Apostolic Reformation. Also an example of a network philosophy..
NEW: A set of 6 free Bible studies for your church or home group. Gives the biblical basis for the stance the book takes. Studies are solidly biblical and do not contain any management theory or push any particular denominational distinctives. This is so they can be used by all churches. The topics are:
- What's Wrong With Disunity?
- A Brother Offended
- How To Trust Other People Without Being Burned
- In One Accord
- The Gospel Gang
- Blessed Are The Peacemakers
The studies are now part of the ebook to be used in conjunction with it.
They should take around 45 minutes each including the warm-up activity.
Email: John Edmiston at johned@aibi.ph.