Books I am Reading and a HUGE vision
September 27th, 2007 Posted in Church, Church at the Grove, Jesus, Missional 
I just finished reading How the Irish Saved Civilization by Thomas Cahill. It helped that I am a history nerd, but I think anyone would enjoy the perspective that Cahill offers on the Irish’s influence in preserving much of the literature and cultural beauty the world almost lost as a result of the fall of Rome.
The highlight of the book was becoming more familiar with Saint Patrick’s missional pursuit of taking the gospel of Christ to Ireland. Patrick was born in the Roman Empire and was taken as a slave to Ireland. He left after hearing God speak to him and returned to the Roman Empire for the purpose of preparing (educationally and theologically) to return to Ireland for the sole purpose of sharing Christ with an uncivilized people. As a result, many Irish monks were equipped and ready to leave Ireland and travel east to Europe where they would share the hope found in Christ. The message of Christ spread throughout Europe and filled a huge vacuum left as a result of the Barbarian Invasions.
Next on the list: The Multi-site Church Revolution. I am convinced that launching another Church at the Grove location in the Social Circle area is in our future. With the area rapidly growing and the absence of a church that is positioned to reach disconnected and unconvinced people, this is where we sense God leading us. So many people need Christ! I am convicted that our vision should be “out of this world” and “crazy” to the point that if God is not leading us, there is no way it can be accomplished. What do you think?
