A little over a week ago I was able to attend a 1-day conference through an organization called Mission1618. At this conference I had the great pleasure of listening to an incredible speaker and researcher named Ed Stetzer. One of the most fascinating points that Stetzer made was in reference to what he calls the "squishy middle."
This is segment of society that claims to be Christian due to one reason or another but have no active faith life (worship, spiritual disciplines, etc.) In short, Stetzer claims that this "squishy middle," which once looked to the church as the cultural chaplain, is now looking elsewhere for guidance and answers. Likewise, this "squishy middle" is being squeezed out and many who once would identify themselves as Christian now simply identify themselves as "nones" - that is, they have no religious affiliation. The implications for this are many, but I want to emphasize two - 1) This is a VERY exciting time for the church because it is an incredible opportunity for us to make a clear confession of Scriptural faith through words and actions, and 2) In my humble opinion, every church ought to see itself as a mission outpost in a very pluralistic society. Perhaps such a mindset will allow the church in the West to fully embrace and live out Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9:22-23, "I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings"?
We are trying to live in such a way in S. Minneapolis and the Spirit is opening doors to our neighbors, human care organizations, Somalis, American Indians, ex-convicts, the poor, etc. If you would like to pray for us or financially invest in us and our mission in South Minneapolis, follow the links below.
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