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Greg Smith

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Implied Institutional Messages (#1386)

2014/04/14 By Greg

Jim PalmerJim Palmer, ordained minister turned activist  in the non-religious spirituality movement, offers several implied messages of the institutional church based on Marshall McLuhan’s frequently quoted premise that the medium is the message.  The first three are especially troubling as we begin Holy Week:

  • church is a place, a location, a building;
  • Christianity happens in services, classes, meetings, events, and programs; and
  • what people need most is good information about God.

So What?

In America, more people will experience an institutional expression of Christianity this week than any prior week this year.  As you prepare to welcome those who attend worship only once or twice a year, how might your congregational leaders be intentional about overcoming the troubling messages noted above?

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Greg Smith

Greg is a follower of the Way of Jesus who strives to make the world a better place for all people. Currently, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of White Rock Center of Hope and as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church. He has served ten congregations, taught religion to undergraduates for eight years, and helped three organizations provide quality healthcare to underserved populations. (Read More)

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