The Cry Of The Emergent Soul

At first glance, it might seem that the emerging church movement is nothing more than a new ministry fad. Unorthodox worship styles filled with candles, couches and casual conversation. But I would encourage people to explore the driving force behind this desire to “do” church differently. What has prompted a large portion
of the body of Christ to depart from Sunday morning services once and for all?

Emerging practice stems from the heartfelt desire to return to the original teachings of Jesus. Jesus did not mandate us to build institutions and formal seminary schools to further the Kingdom of God. The mandate of Jesus was to learn to love God and one another in order to transform the world, one person at a time. I believe Jesus desired to see a reflection of Himself reigning in the daily lives of his disciples.

Our intention is not to bring division to the traditional church. It is to pioneer a new path that is rooted in the ancient traditions of becoming an authentic follower of Jesus Christ. It is a blatant attempt to stand in the face of thousands of years of modern tradition which has slowly diluted the raw, original gospel of Jesus. Simply put, many emerging leaders believe that a radical departure is necessary in order to get back to the basics. Is there really a difference between becoming a follower of Christ and being a believer in Christ? I think Jesus made his case clear on that issue.

For many, Sunday morning service has lost its meaning. Emergent’s desire to spend their time participating in the work of God in the world on a daily basis. Programs seem to be artificially manufactured to meet the needs of the congregation. The missional focus of the church is normally reserved for a few people who dare to venture to a foreign land while 90% of the membership defaults to a drive-thru, Sunday morning performance.

A return to simplicity. The desire to participate in the Kingdom of God in the here and now. A return to authentic relationships. A focus on holistic personal growth. Intentional community gatherings that foster peace and love. Emerging leaders are making people nervous because they are asking the tough questions that threaten the entire religious system as we know it.

I try to ask myself what an uneducated Jewish carpenter named Jesus would say to me if He showed up at my door. I always arrive at the same conclusion.

“Come, follow Me.”

RC