This is an experiment... first let me set the premise for the experiment, then I'll explain what I want to try.
THE PREMISE:
For Centuries reading the bible alone was practically unheard of. Ancient peoples only heard the scriptures read aloud in groups of people. Sometimes there was only one copy of the bible (or portion of the bible) in an entire village/town. It was unheard of to study the scriptures in isolation.
Because of the oral nature of the scriptures, the ancient/near east mindset saw themselves as part of a discussion that has gone on for thousands of years. Community, community, community. TOGETHER wrestling and searching and engaging the scriptures as a people hungry to know God in order to follow God.
The printing press changed everything.
Now, pastors study the bible alone, stand on stage and deliver the message alone, then they received e-mails and phone calls from individuals who agree or don't agree.
THE EXPERIMENT:
I want to provide places (this is just one place) that people can contribute to the conversation about the scriptures. Someone once said. "God has spoken, the rest is conversation".
1. Right here on this site I will post general thoughts and ideas about messages that I'd like to present during our sunday gatherings. I will include the scriptures. Ideally, I'll tell you what each Sunday's topic is 6 weeks in advance.
2. YOU will come here and read my posts... then you will comment on them.
2a. YOU have many, many options. you may give your opinion about the topic or scripture. You may make a suggestion to me. You may tell me that you don't agree. You may tell me that something I said frustrates you. You may tell me that you've been convicted and moved to change something in your life. You may tell me about a past experience with the topic... (i.e. ANGER - you can tell us how God has helped you deal with your anger).
3. I will read all the comments and choose a comment or two to present at the gathering where WE will present the topic you've commented on.
3a. I will ASK YOU for permission first. So, be sure to leave your name (and contact info if I don't already have it)
3b. I prefer to have YOU present your story, point of view, disagrement, or inspiration at the Gathering... I will probably have you WRITE DOWN exactly what you want to say and READ it at the Gathering... or maybe we'll video tape you and SHOW you at the Gathering.
4. Poems, artwork, sculptures... what creative ways can you come up with to help us connect with the text? These things can enhance our gatherings.
Is it clear as mud?
Even if you're not part of Axis - would you just let me know what you think of the basic idea?
question? e-mail me at info@axiscommunitychurch.com
---Joe Green
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3 comments:
this is a test comment
I like the idea, but right now time is very slim and all. but i'll check in here every now and then and maybe down the road show up. Nigel
Joe sounds like a great idea!!! I will commment as often as I can. I will publish one later today with a comment on scripture. Peace!
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