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“Windows on Mission”
July 5, 2000
Canada, Toronto .... [Cherie Bowman]
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“The goal of Christian ministry is making disciples” was the theme of the “Windows on Mission” segment presented to the Adventist World Session on Tuesday, July 4. Leaders of the discussion emphasized throughout the presentation that ministry is not the domain of the church pastor alone. Rather, it is a “privilege and responsibility of the saints,” as demonstrated by the example Jesus gave through His appointment of laypersons--the disciples--for spreading the Christian message.
A variety of ministers and laypersons discussed the difficulty of implementing this methodology in the church. Divisions between church members--conservative/liberal, young/old–as well as church politics and a lack of trust between ministers and laypersons all add to the challenge.
While acknowledging that no simple solution exists to such difficulties, the group shared suggestions that had worked for them in their individual churches around the world. A common response was that church members and those in ministry need to listen to each other and work together. Other suggestions included: the provision of creative ways for laypersons to become active participants, including the use of multimedia and the Internet; an increase in home visitation and prayer; and a “hand in hand” partnership between ministers and their congregations based on a recognition of spiritual gifts. |
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