Lately I've been trying to ponder and circumvent the way (predominantly evangelical) church economics unintentionally hinder our effectiveness. Below are some observations. Would love any suggestions you may come up with.
I am on the board of an organization that works to start new churches in the city of Houston. I love the organization and believe it is one of the best things going in my city. Over the last five or so years, we have started several dozen churches. But, a problem arose.
We began to notice that it was very difficult to start new churches in economically depressed areas of the city. This is not because people didn't believe in the mission. Quite the opposite. It was because there was not enough funding in the neighborhood to support it.
Enjoyed this interview of Camille Paglia by @clairlemon. I've long appreciated Paglia's insight and wit. Money quote from Paglia: "As an atheist, I have argued that if religion is erased, something must be put in its place." quillette.com/2018/11/10/cam…
In the same question from @clairelemon, Paglia argues that "secular humanism has failed." The fascinating thing to someone like myself (clergy/semi-academic) is the thought that any form of humanism ever *could* replace religion.
Western culture is so formed by Judeo-Christian ethics and sensibilities that it literally could not imagine a way of being in the world the wouldn't import copious amounts of Christian assumptions. Simply put: humanism doesn't have the inherent goods to create such a framework.
"Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken."--Hebrews 12:28
Brief thoughts on "building the Kingdom," as it has appeared in a few headlines.
First: "The Kingdom" is not synonymous with where you go after you die.
If you read the New Testament, you'll see that Jesus is saying the Kingdom is "at hand." You'll see that the Kingdom is "good news for the poor." You'll see the term "Kingdom" is in the New Testament more than the term "gospel."
In short, the Kingdom is when those who choose to follow Jesus live their lives under the rule and reign of Jesus right now. They are not waiting for death. They are embracing the surprising and countercultural Way here and now.