Keller on Church Growth and Shalom
First of all, I was recently reminded of a page at DJ Chuang’s site cataloging a massive amount of resources by or about Tim Keller. I think there are few in N. America today that are as clear in their thinking as Keller is regarding the communication of the gospel in today’s contexts. Similarly, his heart and vision for church planting for the purpose of transforming cities is incredibly helpful. In marveling at the material at DJ’s site, I happened upon a quote that Keller made from the Redeemer Church Planting Manual.
“We believe that, paradoxically, churches grow best not when they aim at church growth as much as when they serve the peace/shalom of the whole city. Saint Augustine believed that citizenship in the City of God made us the very best citizens of the human city.”
If we were to talk about keeping our “eye on the ball,” this seems so timely. It really captures well the captures the reason the church exists. Our purpose is not primarily to grow in size or numbers. It is to participate in missio dei and his kingdom agenda of bringing/restoring His peace/justice or, namely shalom.