Importance of Intentionality and Christian Practices

Diana Butler Bass has uncovered a significant issue for churches of all sizes and shapes -- programs don't shape you or form you, practices do. Programs lead to dependence, practices to growth. We know this, but so often we fail to practice it.

Diana notes that Bill Hybels, pastor of Willow Creek Community Church and guru of the Seeker-Oriented Church movement has recognized that they had missed the ball on this themselves. It isn't a slight on them, it's a recognition that we all falter. The fact that biblical illiteracy (Stephen Prothero) is so prevalent in this supposedly Christian nation is proof in the pudding.

As I look at my own ministry and where it may take me, I have to ask -- where is the intentionality? Where is the Practice? Where is the Vitality? Clergy themselves enjoy dependent relationships -- I do believe -- but the church isn't healthy as a result. Instead, if we teach folk to grow in faith and practice, good things will happen.