Create a “Global Village of Elders”                                                  

There is a spiritual war going on. The question is, “Are you in it doing battle or sitting on the sidelines? Going through the motions.” Some church groups today are on life-support. More than in previous generations, 20-and-30somethings are abandoning the faith. Among older adults there are signs of spiritual ennui and religious boredom. So what is happening? Still a natural optimist after over fifty years of ministry, it hurts me to paint less than a positive picture. But when the team is behind and it’s the second half, we have to honestly examine who and where we are. And right now, we’re not winning. Why? What is the breakdown that is finding its way into the “living water” of our faith?

It is a vital question that must be answered. It is time to seriously examine where we are in the Western Church. Has the Christian message lost its edge and meaning in today’s culture? As important as seeker-services and low commitment small groups may be, have we skated too long on the surface without going deeper to find the “soul of our faith.” Jesus’ final command was to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Mt. 28:19). How is the disciple-making business going in your church? Your city? Your nation?

Here in Seattle, Coach Pete Carroll has every Seahawks team member touch an “I’M IN!” sign on the wall as they go out to play the game. It is a sign of their commitment. Every player is important. Every player is committed to giving their best to each other and to the people who’ve gathered in the stadium. Every player touches the sign as he heads out onto the field. There is no holding back.

Be one in one hundred in the USA and Canada

This is my challenge. You are a respected individual. An Influencer. I am asking you to join me in making the “I’M IN!” commitment to God, to yourself and to those that Jesus loves in your family, your church, your city . . . and let’s change our world!

1)   Create a “Global Village of Elders” in your town or city; 2)   Say to God and to others, I will answer Christ’s call – Mt 28:19; I will listen to your story;  I will be the Church external! 3) Start a movement of men and women who, like you, want to make a difference in people’s lives.

We’re opening an “I’M IN!” page here on our website. Follow it. Participate in it. We’ll show you how and walk with you as you build your Global Village of Elders. Men and women who can Listen well, Share life, and Take action.  It is simple and so rewarding that you’ll wonder why you haven’t done this before. We’ll even help you do it.

So let me know you’re on the team. “I’M IN!” Are you “IN!” too?


 

Dr. Ward Tanneberg, CASA Network