by Rob Campbell
A few days ago, Steve Cordle in his blog post entitled, “Simply Reproducible” got the waters stirring. Check out the blog comments before carrying on.
I got to thinking about this stirring. Here’s what I want to say– briefly. Cell churches should be careful not to make the cell paradigm a core value. Let me explain.
Built to Last authors Collins and Porras: “Core Values: a small set of guiding principles; the organism’s essential and enduring tenets; not to be confused with specific cultural or operating practices; not to be compromised for financial gain or short term expediency.” I like this definition of core values.
My church family adheres to the following three core values.
First, we adhere to the eternal authority and relevance of the scriptures.
Next, we are Christ centered because Christ is Lord.
Third, all members are equipped and engaged for the work of service.
As we lead our church family, these are the values that undergird our decisions, plans, and ministry initiatives. I’m sure these three core values are not perfect. Further, I understand that these values may not be who you are or who God has called you to be. I affirm and applaud the diversity of the body of Christ. Indeed, diversity is not the enemy of unity.
Please notice that a specific church structure (paradigm) is not one of our core values. Why do you think this is so?
Comments?