Next-Wave Ezine > church & culture

The Methods Change... But the Message is the Same
By Jonathan Pedrone

The methods change, but the message is always the same.

I’ve used that phrase hundreds of time, usually in support of a new methodological ministry endeavor, or a new form or function to the “normal” way of doing church. At the time I considered the phrase as a full-proof statement of support for freedom in ministry to reach the lost.

What if I was wrong?

There is a strong impetus to focus on methodological change in our churches when endeavoring to reach the postmodern generation. We often times think that if we played David Crowder Band songs [often times badly], lit candles, sat informally at tables, and upgraded our PowerPoint presentations, we would be instantly successful in reaching this generation.

Behind every method is a theological basis for that method. Our methods reflect, and expose our theological biases. As our methods change so must our theological assumptions.

In our emerging culture it is important to begin to recognize that arriving at our theological assumptions is a sinuous process. Throughout the narrative of Scripture we find qualitative and quantitative changes in the message. Over time the locus of theology in Scripture changes.

In most ministry settings we are content with conversation about changing methodologies, but not about endeavoring to re-think the theological presuppositions that lie behind the methods.

We are content to remind ourselves that a few hundred years ago the reformers took care of any major theological and doctrinal errors that were in need of reforming. We rest assured that since they did all the thinking about the tough issues, all we are responsible for is to maintain a fully defensive position, and at any point that difficult questions are asked we are quick to retreat to our ancient fathers with answers that no longer apply, but which we hold on to with desperation.

Many church leaders great fears are beginning to be realized, questions are being asked, and our answers are simply not good enough any more. The emerging generation is asking questions, searching for stimulation, and conversation, and many times all we have to offer are stale rehearsed answers.

So how can we lead the way in our rapidly changing culture? How can we continue to stand firm on those truths of Scripture, which are so close to us, and yet learn to engage seekers?

First, seek to move away from win/lose conversations.

In church we are trained that once a conversation moves toward Spiritual ideas we move into monologue mode. The outcome of the conversation will end in a win or lose situation for the proselytizer. If they accept our propositional statements, and make a profession of faith, we have won. If they reject our strict presentation of morality, and truth statements we have failed, and hence lost the conversation.

What if we could move from a win/lose scenario to an environment of open communication? Our focus then moves from a conversion goal to a conversational goal. We need to re-learn the simple practice of engaging in good conversations, not focusing on acceptance of propositional truths, but rather on developing a relationship regardless of whether or not that person agrees with our stance.

Second, approach all theological discussions with humility.

When we have become convinced that our doctrinal statements are full proof, and without a doubt, we are in danger of becoming prideful in arguments. We assume that we have the perfect truth, and all other propositions are at best false, and at worst foolish. Humility should be our constant stance in all discussions of theology. We must constantly remind ourselves that we have not yet arrived, or ascended to perfection. We must be willing to admit our wrongs, and listen intently, and allow our presuppositions to be challenged by others.

Third, focus on the root of the problem, and not the symptom.

If all our methodologies are based on theological presuppositions, the place to start is not with form or function, but rather the theology behind the function. We must always be willing to evaluate our theological stance on certain issues. New times call for new and changing ideas. While we can certainly hold on to certain foundational truths, we must always be willing to evaluate the truths that we hold.

Fourth, learn to ask good questions.

For some of us, the answers are so engrained in our minds, that the process of thought that it took to come to those answers is sadly absent. We have become so convinced of the absolute answer to questions that we have ignored the ever important thought process of coming to the answer. At times we are better suited to leave a question unanswered spurring the questioner on to engaging with Scripture to find the answer.

If the methods change, should the message change?

Our message is the unfolding message of Jesus through time. In a sense the message of Scripture never changes, and at the same time as Jesus continues to work in and through us, new chapters are being written. The story grows in depth and breadth through each of our lives. It is our responsibility to be open to the author writing our story in new and distinct ways.

Jonathan Pedrone is the youth pastor at The Gathering Place in Miami Florida. He is the Emergent Cohort leader for the South Florida area. Jonathan has a Bachelors degree from Trinity International University [B.A.]; Masters Degrees from Liberty Theological Seminary [M.A.R.; MDiv]; and is working on a Doctoral degree from Biblical Theological Seminary. Jonathan lives in South Florida with two beautiful ladies, his wife Alice, and their daughter Mia.