INTRODUCTION
Complexity and diversity are two terms that express the world as it exists today. These same two terms, complex and diverse, also are true of the local church and ministry organizations in our day. There are cultural changes and ministry opportunities facing the church today.
The result is that the local church needs to clearly understand the purpose of the church. First, there must be an understanding of the Biblical purpose. Most church constitutions have a statement of purpose that usually reflects at least a basic idea of the Biblical purpose. This purpose is often summed up with "Evangelize the lost" and to "Edify the redeemed."
A general statement in a constitution often becomes a hidden treasure completely buried or forgotten. Thus it is essential for the church identify its local and worldwide mission beginning with its purpose.
THE CHURCH IN THE WORLD
Jesus in His High Priestly prayer said "I pray not that thou shalt take them out of the world . . . even so have I also sent them into the
world" (John 17:15,18). Jesus also said "Ye are the salt of the salt of the earth" and "Ye are the light of the
world" (Mt. 5:13,14). Thus believers and the Church must recognize the responsibility God has given to us "in the world."
The Local Church does exist "in the world" and as a result it will be affected by both the secular and religious environment. The church must face the question, "How can the Church Accomplish its Mission?". However before the church can begin to ask "How" there must be a clearly defined statement of mission.
Generally the Great Commission expresses our purpose, "To Go and make disciples of all nations . . .
" The church in Acts recognized this and moved with specific objectives that considered the world environment.
Thus if a Local Church or ministry is to be an effective part in God's Great Commission it must consider the world environment.
A fear or caution is not becoming
"of the world." The other side is that our environment does present us with opportunities. A "Mission Statement" should take into consideration both the concerns about the world environment and the opportunities presented us.
THE CHURCH DISTINCTIVES
Every church has distinctives that are both written and unwritten. When considering a "Mission Statement" these distinctive such as doctrine, values, facilities, location, and special gifts or talents should be considered. A church also may have limitations such as facilities, location, neglected areas of ministry, or even specific problems.
A MISSIONS STATEMENT
A "Mission Statement" is a statement of purpose expressing why the particular local church exists. It defines the general purpose in terms of direct ministry with specific objectives. Scriptural authority and principles should be the foundation. A mission statement integrates biblical teaching into a localized context of ministry.
The values of a "Mission Statement" are numerous because it helps to set a definite direction for the local church. Once a direction has been established, the total ministry can work toward common goals. Thus, resulting in a unity of focus for the ministry. The individual ministries function as "Cells" for the growth and development of the "Body."
Other effects relate to a more clearly directed stewardship of personnel, resources, and funds.
A MISSION STATEMENT WORKSHOP
The Workshop is designed for church leaders to interact together in an effort to see the Biblical purpose of the church in light of the particulars of a given church. The "World" environment, individual church characteristics, ministry opportunities and needs are considered in relation to the Biblical purposes of the church.
A Mission Statement Workshop helps a church to begin to define a direction that can give a basis for future planning and decision making. While the workshop may not reach a final conclusion it at least begins the process of setting some direction.
A VISION STATEMENT
The "Vision Statement" builds on the "Mission Statement" looking to where the church or ministry would see itself going. A vision statement is in some sense the "Dream."
Based on the purpose, expectations and desires the "Vision" gives a specific focus for future planning It looks at where the ministry should be going and what it should be its priority. A strategy is developed based on the mission and vision. Consideration is given to the how and when of future ministry development.
THE SCHEDULE
The Mission and Vision workshops are planned for approximately six hours each. The scheduling can be arranged with flexibility to meet the needs of the church.
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