You are right it is a false dichotomy, however, I think that there is much of a confusion over terminology, and our confessions even get at this as we distinguish the kirche from ecclesia (to muddle two languages into the vernacular). I think, when I hear people say this is a genuine frustration with the left hand kingdom, “institutional” church that to them has essentially become something of a country club or lodge. What they actually desire is the ecclesia when they say they want to “build up the kingdom of God.” In other words, they are wanting those who hold the faith to grow in their understanding, to learn more, to care about that in Christ they are a new creation. They also desire that the Church continue to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all.

Maybe this falls under people learning to incorrectly speak from pastors who should know better. In some cases, the right desire is there, but it is poorly articulated.

Very nicely put!!! Pastor McCain, you should put this quote somewhere permanently on your blog. She has just sumerized what it means to be “missional” and it didn’t cost a dime!

MM

I know what you mean Matthew. I grew up Lutheran in the St. Louis area, then moved to Springfield, MO where the majority of people I know are Assemblies of God or Baptist. I have been told I bring up Luther and Lutheranism way to much from my Baptist and AG friends. I have even been told, I may not be saved because I have not had a distinctive “born again experience.” Also, I have been told I need to get re-baptized, I could go on and on… but I am getting off topic.

My wife who grew up AG, did not like my constant Luther quotes, Lutheran books, and Luther the movie at first. However, once we sat down more and more and discussed topics in the Bible, she started seeing things some what differently. She does not have the same exact beliefs as I do, but she respects “Lutheranism” in a different way now. She told me she was worried at first that I put Luther to “high up” and the focus should be on Jesus. I agreed that Jesus is the focus and Lutherans compared to other denominations probably have the most focus on Jesus compared to others, but I told her that even AG got their doctrine from someone or some people. Maybe that wasn’t the best answer but its all I could think of at the time.

I think the point I am trying to make is, Lutheranism to me is encapsulated within Christianity. I am not putting Lutheranism above Christianity. A lot of people down here say I am to into “Religion.” That it’s all about following Christ and not a religion. Yet, I am simply stating my doctrinal beliefs. I don’t plan on hiding being Lutheran to appease the others around me. I want to make Christians Lutherans, so they have sound doctrine to follow.

-Patrick

My desire to do more outward ministry is not to the exclusion of taking care of the flock on the inside. I’m talking about a congregation who takes the attitude that “we have Jesus here, so people should come to us instead of us going to them” attitude.

The Church is part of God’s Kingdom.
The Church here on Earth is called the Militant Church.
The Church in Heaven (God’s Presence) is called Triumphant Church.

Being “missional” should mean having a desire to reach the lost. But unless we have solid church communities, what do we bring the lost to ? A relationship to Jesus without His Church ??

Jesus said … (only 2 places mention the word church – 3 times in the Gospels):

“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my CHURCH, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” – Matthew 16:18

“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the CHURCH; and if he refuses to listen even to the CHURCH, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” – Matthew 18:17

Hmmm. Solely exists so the members are “happy?” The New Testament tells us that the believers were of one heart and mind and steadfast in the breaking of bread and the prayers.

The Church, the “ekklesia” — “called out” of the world to be the Body of Christ in space and time. Called to preach the whole counsel of God, baptize and offer the body and blood of Christ to those who have been instructed.

The “Kingdom of God” sometimes becomes so ethereal it is lost in the clouds. Whether a congregation is made up of 50 or 2000, the mandate is the same. The Church is the outpost from which true mission flows.

As Martin Luther put it so well:

I believe that there is upon earth a little group and congregation of pure saints, under one head, even Christ, called together by the Holy Ghost in one faith, one mind and understanding, with manifold gifts, yet agreeing in love, without sects or schisms. I am also a part and member of the same: a sharer and joint owner of all the goods which it possesses, brought to it and incorporated into it by the Holy
Ghost by having heard and continuing to hear the Word of God.

This false dichotomy is something I struggle with in my ministry. Just recently I’ve been accused (by a lifelong Lutheran) of talking too much about Luther and “Lutherism.” As if somehow focusing on Lutheranism means NOT focusing on Christianity (i.e. the two are not synonymous… but are in fact somehow different)… Oh, and “Pastor, since the name Lutheran turns people off, shouldn’t we stop using it and just talk about Christianity?” Anyway, my point is: enough of this “coming soon” language… let’s hear it!