The following summary of a new book appeared on another discussion list in which I participate. The book is called “The Present Future” by Reggie McNeal. I’d be interested in thoughts related to the questions, as well as responses you might make…

McNeal addresses a number of issues by outlining the new realities that are facing the church. He contends that the church is asking the wrong questions and then encourages churches to ask the tough questions. The chapters are outlined here:

1. The collapse of the church culture Wrong question: How do we do church better? Tough question: How do we deconvert from churchianity to Christianity?

2. The shift from church growth to kingdom growth Wrong question: How do we grow this church? (How do we get them to come to us?)

Tough question: How do we transform our community? (How do we hit the streets with the gospel?)

3. The new reformation: releasing God’s people Wrong question: How do we turn church members into ministers? Tough question: How do we turn church members into missionaries?

4. The return to spiritual formation Wrong question: How do we develop church members? Tough question: How do we develop followers of Jesus?

5. The shift from planning to preparation Wrong question: How do we plan for the future? Tough question: How do we prepare spiritually for the future?

6. The rise of apostolic leadership Wrong question: How do we develop leaders for church work? Tough question: How do we develop leaders for a Christian movement?

Blessings

Gary