Growing & Revitalizing Churches in a Post-Christian Era with Nicky Gumbel and Archie Coates

[@123JWJWJW]

I found the Brighton congregation during covid when I moved to South Korea. It was a great respite Sunday evenings as I couldn't find English services near me. I am thankful for them also accepting me as an American into one of their groups as the time difference was much easier than the US. Archie's teaching was spot on as well as the others who shared at the time. I would move there just to be a part of these church networks. Amazing work in the Spirit.

[@daveschnitter]

Such a helpful conversation. Thank you!

[@CareyNieuwhof]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KJ-lb4tj]

"does it bother you that maybe people are searching for community and in the process find God?' i find that an interesting question and would query the dichotomy inherent in the question. Isn't God community in himself, three people in one, the father son and Holy spirit communing together? God it seems is never out of community and it's in community that we find God and in community that we grow as people and know who we and God are. The first command is love God AND others as yourself. He doesn't say love God then go out and look for others. Or love others and then love God. It's all in one.

[@davidsindana282]

Sorry to sound harsh but because of my knowledge of socio of religion most of the time I do tell people Europe and specifically the England will turn back to Christianity. My argument is based on the fact that people turn to religion due to despondency or insecurity hence I do say based on predictions that in the 21st century England's future is said to be uncertain if not dire I see many turning back to Christianity because of circumstances

[@RachelGrace21]

I don't think you sound harsh it's a good question. Some people have said Christianity is just a crutch for weak people. Is a crutch a bad thing? I've heard it questioned... If you break your leg it's what you need to get yourself up and walking again. Many people do come to the faith with broken legs and they find healing. What a tremendous thing. Not everyone comes with broken legs though. Nicky came to help his friends realise Christianity wasn't true and found in his own investigation as a law student that it was true. Everyone who comes to faith has a different story. There are so many amazing ones out there.... My friend was healed of cervical cancer in the process. After prayer she went in for surgery and it was gone....So many stories like this I've heard /experienced. Really recommend trying alpha and just having a look into it a little further it's an awesome one to ask these big questions. You can say what you want and won't be judged that's the whole idea....

[@JesusLeadershipTraining]

I agree come to me and I will give you rest...

[@funnythat9956]

For many decades, possibly centuries the church focused on theology. What is it that you need to believe to be "saved". I don't think that is what Jesus was about. Jesus established a community of outcast and downtrodden who followed his teachings and example of ethical living. The theological environment of his day rejected these people. If the church becomes that community of people following the ethical example of Jesus, it will thrive.