Wednesday, September 15, 2004

Defining Missionality

The following is a reply to M Haas posted under Oraci n de fuego. (Hammer, I’m putting this bit of “commentary” as a main post for you!)

Great thought, I concur! (Though not completely with Pipper, but that will have to wait for a later post).

I suppose it would have been helpful to define (for the blog) missionality. In the Edge we have been working on a definition of missionality for a few months. As a work in process here are some of the thoughts we have come up with:

  • We are used to the noun missionary that describes what one does. As a verb (I suppose an adverb) missionality describes a lifestyle.
  • Missionality is keeping our eyes on Jesus and pointing others to Him.
  • Thus missionality is to live in such a way that Jesus is intentionally shared.
  • For example, when asked about one’s day a missional answer might indicated, “great because in my devotions this morning I discovered…”

So the world recognizing that our adoration and affection is directed toward Jesus in our enjoying life comes through the act missionality! Therefore, I agree that we can say that, “the God of creation wants us to enjoy life in HIM and appreciate HIS beauty while participating deeply within the culture” as He flows through us or as we are depentant on flowing/cooperating with His lead (that’s the grace piece).

Edge people, anything I forot?

Thanks M Haas. I glad that you are participating in the discuussion! (By the way, how’s life?)

dustybutts