The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st Century Church

Like taking nivaquine -- you know it's good for you but it sure is bitter going down!

A masterful summary of what has happened to the institutionalized church and what needs (and what is) to come as a response. Some highlights: "Boxlike thinking simply cannot solve the problems of the box." "Mission is not merely an activity of the church. It is the very heartbeat and work of God." Centered-set thinking: Very clear set of beliefs, rooted in Christ and his teaching. However,...more

A masterful summary of what has happened to the institutionalized church and what needs (and what is) to come as a response. Some highlights: "Boxlike thinking simply cannot solve the problems of the box." "Mission is not merely an activity of the church. It is the very heartbeat and work of God." Centered-set thinking: Very clear set of beliefs, rooted in Christ and his teaching. However, this centered-set approach is unconcerned with artificial boundaries (doctrine, types of sin, etc.) "We are not saved by our actions, but we are known by them." The shape of the Missional Incarnational Church will be set on: 1. Holiness 2. Prayer 3. Socializing 4. Support of Evangelists 5. Jesus-talk (Set apart) We must begin to provoke a sense of wonder and awe; be extraordinarily loving; focus on Jesus; and explore how God is working in the lives of people already.   hide

This has been a slow read just taking time to absorb the thoughts. The term "emerging church" has too many connotations. I prefer the direction Frost and Hirsch take in using the term "missional-incarnational" church.

it's a paradigm shift.

Fascinating look at church in a postmodern, primarily urban setting in multiple Western contexts. It is complex and takes some thought to process, but there is a lot of encouragement and exhortation to reach people who exist in communities where Christ is completely unknown. Definitely worth reading!

Awesome, not a "how to" but a "how should". Has definately shaped the things to come for me

Do not read this book, it is not that great!

Great book to give vocabulary to a movement!

Love the minds and ideas of Hirsch and Frost as they come together to rediscover the mission of Jesus and bringing it back to purpose of the Church.