Church Model Analysis: Purpose Driven



Church Model Analysis: Purpose Driven



Introduction

“The Purpose Driven Church: Every Church Is Big in God's Eyes” is a bestseller written by mega-church pastor Rick Warren. It has been used across the nation in Sunday school classes, Bible studies, and through individual reading.

Discussion

Purpose Driven comes from a teaching of Warren, and became commonly used as a paradigm that taught leaders and pastors of Christianity in the world to be more effective in leading their churches. The concept is explained in the bestselling book by Warren, which was first published in 1995. More than 400,000 pastors and church leaders from around the world have participated in seminars or lectures by Warren and other pastors who seek to be more effective in meeting the mission left by Jesus. Purpose Driven refers to the attempt to these pastors to balance the five "purposes": work, fellowship, discipleship, ministry and evangelism in their churches. Christian leaders from 162 countries have used material derived from this movement. Warren says his organizations have drilled 400,000 pastors worldwide.

Others expressed concern for what is described in the techniques of Warren on how nature is divisive. Wrote, "Warren acknowledges that the congregations that adopt his ideas are increasing in number, even though he says he strongly opposes expulsion of members of the church."

Some Evangelicals teachers question the practices promoted by Warren's books, arguing that they distort the gospel, or, when it does not, use questionable tactics, including teaching New Age. Other common criticisms include objections pertaining to the accuracy of the exegesis of Biblical teachings and various regard them as not biblical. However, Warren has agreed to a significant majority of teachers evangelicals.

Warren claims to be inclusive, beyond its roots linked to the Southern Baptists, and welcomes pastors and leaders of all denominations in its training programs. Warren says stick to the "core" of the faith, and focus on "a love that brings many people into the kingdom" of God (loving people into the Kingdom) provided an attractive way and without compromising the essential faith.

Warren has certainly correctly identified some important elements of having at least the potential for a healthy church: A pastor with a long tenure; emphasis on responsibilities as a believer, not just benefits; tailoring services to different kinds of audiences (seekers, believers, etc.), using multiple services, if possible; avoiding jargon; be welcoming to visitors, and do nothing to make them feel uncomfortable; place signs around so that people know where the restrooms and such are; have an information booth outside; teach messages that are practical as well as doctrinal; get some good lighting and keep your facilities clean and neat; look for and use talented people in your congregation, and give them the trust and the power to start ministries on their own .

The chapters of the book has been summarised into four of the following major points:

1. It's Not About 'Me', But Instead All About God

The world is anxious to encourage people to do what makes them feel good, and promotes ...