Die groot fokus, die groot gebod en die groot opdrag as sleutels in 'n model vir gemeentebou

Abstract

This study examines a proactive model to determine the calling of the congregation in the

edification process. In a postmodern and technocratic society such a model is essential. The

proposed model also serves as a frame of reference for evaluating existing models used in the

edification process and it is also useful for conflict management.

In this study the method for practical theology developed by Zerfass was used and applied as

follows:

* The study consists largely of base theory research of especially 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:16,

Philippians 1:9-11 and Matthew 28:18-20.

* The metatheoretical reality examined included an evaluation of two existing models,

namely the Willow Creek seeker service strategy and the purpose strategy of Purpose-

Driven Ministries. Empirical research was conducted by way of a questionnaire completed

by a section of ten South African congregations. The results received were analyzed by the

Statistical Consultation Service of the PU for CHE and then interpreted by the researcher.

* Based on the hermeneutical interaction between the base theory and the metatheory, an

adjusted practice theory was set up, which includes the proposed model as well as

suggestions on the implementation thereof.

The proposed model recommends three keys to the discovery of the congregation's calling,

namely the "great focus", the "great commandment" and the "great commission". Conflict

management was examined as the context in which these keys appear. By way of Scripture to

Scripture comparison it was shown that these keys recur as main themes throughout the Holy

Scripture.

The apostle Paul clearly explains his focus or point of departure for building the congregation in

1 Corinthians 2:2: "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and

him crucified". Analysis of research on the sociohistorical background of first century Corinth

indicates that 1 Corinthians 1:31 provides the key to understanding the threat of divisions (1

Cor. 1:lO) and adversaries (in 2 Cor.) for the Corinthian congregation. Paul contrasts a quest

for wisdom, miraculous signs, power and status (cf. 1 Cor 1:22-23) with his focus on preaching

Christ the crucified (1 Cor. 2:2), summarised in the expression "word of the cross"(1 Cor. 1:18;

cf. 1:23). The focus on Christ implies that the congregation has a calling to know Christ on a

personal level. The congregation that understands this calling is regarded as an alternative

faith community living in society under the cross as a sign of sin and weakness on the one

hand, and in the power of the Spirit and with the sense (mind) of Christ on the other.

Philippians 1:9-11 was studied as an example of the progressive revelation of the Spirit

concerning the great commandment (the second key of the model). A prayer strategy aimed at

increased and abundant love is necessary and effective in order to co-operate actively with the

disposition (mind/sense and Spirit) of Christ for the advancement of the gospel (cf. Phil. 15).

The congregation that discerns what is best (Phil. 1:lO) through the abundant love of Christ,

subsequently takes the mission set to the church by Christ himself, seriously, namely His great

commission (third key). Analysis of the idea of "making disciples" and of "disciple" showed that

a disciple is a follower and learner of Christ and can either be a redeemed or unredeemed

individual, or a dedicated Christian. Discipleship must be understood as a continuous process.

Each step in the process is set out in Matthew 28:18-20. In a study from the book of Acts it was

shown how the great commission was successfully implemented in the early church through

the power of the Holy Spirit.

In the light of the great focus, the great commandment and the great commission, it was found

that both the Willow Creek seeker service strategy and the purpose strategy of Purpose-Driven

Ministries have many advantages as models for the edification of the church. There are,

however, undeniable flaws that can be attributed to the fact that these models are respectively

seeker and purpose driven. Empirical research reveals various flaws in the reformed, the

independent and charismatic groupings in terms of understanding and putting into practice the

Biblical calling of the congregation.

Flaws in existing models and congregations can be addressed by being clear about the calling

of the congregation based on the proper focus and point of departure, the proper disposition

and active obedience to the Lord's commission.

In short, because of their affinity and progression, the great focus, the great commandment and

the great commission, can be united in a proactive model as keys to guiding congregations in

determining their calling and putting it into practice. A congregation that operates according to

this model focuses its attention on Christ as a hermeneutical point of departure in the

edification process. Equipped with a prayer strategy for ever-increasing and abundant love,

church members actively join hands in promoting the gospel. According to Matthew 28:18-20

the congregation perceives its task as primarily an outwardly orientated process of

comprehensive outreach to those outside of the church, incorporation into the congregational

community of love, and instruction to put the commands of Jesus into practice in every area of

the Kingdom.