Embracing an Outside-the-Box Church Approach
Summary
### Summary
Today marks the beginning of our new series, "The Outside the Box Church." This series will explore how Jesus' ministry was unconventional and radical, and how we, as His church, are called to continue that legacy. Jesus' ministry was not confined to the synagogues or traditional settings; it was dynamic, transformative, and often took place in unexpected places. The church He envisioned is one that breaks free from conventional norms and embraces innovative ways of living out our faith.
We must understand that the church is not just a Sunday morning gathering. Jesus' life and ministry serve as a blueprint for us. He healed the sick, performed miracles, and preached the gospel in ways that defied the norms of His time. Similarly, we are called to be an "outside-the-box" church, reaching out to our communities in creative and impactful ways. This generation, more than any other, needs to hear the gospel, but they are also the least likely to be reached by traditional means. Therefore, we must adapt and find new ways to share the message of Jesus.
Throughout this series, we will discuss various aspects of living out our faith, including evangelism, compassion, friendship, grace, and being filled with the Holy Spirit. We will also explore how to break free from the constraints of tradition and comfort zones that often keep us from fully experiencing and sharing God's love. Traditions and rules have their place, but they should not control us or limit our ability to follow God's leading.
The early church in the book of Acts serves as a powerful example of an "outside-the-box" church. They were effective because they were willing to do whatever it took to reach their communities, even if it meant breaking away from established norms. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, and their ministry was marked by miracles, bold preaching, and a deep sense of community.
As we embark on this journey, we must be prepared to face challenges and opposition. Being an "outside-the-box" church may not be popular with the world, but it is essential for reaching people with the gospel. We must be willing to step out of our comfort zones, embrace new methods, and trust God to lead us. Our goal is not just to fill seats but to transform lives and bring people into a deeper relationship with Jesus.
### Key Takeaways
1. Jesus' Ministry as a Blueprint: Jesus' life and ministry serve as a blueprint for the church. He healed the sick, performed miracles, and preached the gospel in unconventional ways. We are called to continue this legacy by breaking free from traditional norms and embracing innovative ways to live out our faith. [02:54]
2. The Need for a Non-Traditional Approach: This generation is less likely to be reached by traditional means of evangelism. We must find new, creative ways to share the gospel that resonate with today's culture. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones and being willing to adapt. [05:01]
3. The Role of Traditions and Rules: Traditions and rules have their place, but they should not control us. They are meant to guide us, not limit us. We must discern when traditions are helpful and when they hinder our ability to follow God's leading. [06:43]
4. The Effectiveness of the Early Church: The early church in the book of Acts was effective because they were willing to do whatever it took to reach their communities. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, and their ministry was marked by miracles, bold preaching, and a deep sense of community. [25:25]
5. Facing Challenges and Opposition: Being an "outside-the-box" church may not be popular with the world, but it is essential for reaching people with the gospel. We must be prepared to face challenges and opposition, trusting God to lead us and empower us with His Spirit. [26:05]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:24] - Introduction to the Series
[02:16] - Jesus' Blueprint for the Church
[02:54] - The True Meaning of Church
[03:24] - Breaking Free from Conventional Norms
[04:17] - The Urgency of Reaching This Generation
[05:01] - Adapting Evangelism for Today
[05:44] - The Role of Traditions and Rules
[06:43] - Understanding the Purpose of Traditions
[07:19] - Identifying the Box
[07:54] - Comfort Zones and Church History
[08:25] - Generational Boundaries
[09:29] - The "Never Been Done Before" Mentality
[10:02] - Paul's Radical Ministry in Ephesus
[11:06] - The Holy Spirit's Role
[13:44] - Opposition to Radical Ministry
[14:54] - The Dangers of Tradition
[16:14] - Breaking Free to See the Miraculous
[18:11] - Non-Traditional Church Vision
[19:12] - Living Out Faith Beyond Sunday
[20:08] - Reaching the Community
[23:11] - The Danger of Conforming
[24:41] - Effectiveness of an Outside-the-Box Church
[26:05] - Facing Opposition
[28:07] - The Box's Limitations
[29:05] - The Call to Be an Outside-the-Box Church
[32:01] - The Early Church's Effectiveness
[33:00] - Characteristics of an Outside-the-Box Church
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Acts 19:1-7 - Paul's encounter with the disciples in Ephesus and the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
2. Matthew 16:18 - Jesus' declaration to Peter about building His church.
3. Mark 2:27 - Jesus' teaching on the Sabbath being made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
### Observation Questions
1. What was Paul's initial question to the disciples he met in Ephesus, and what was their response? ([11:06])
2. How did Jesus describe the purpose of the Sabbath in Mark 2:27, and how does this relate to the sermon’s discussion on traditions? ([06:43])
3. According to the sermon, what are some unconventional ways Jesus demonstrated His ministry? ([02:54])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul emphasized the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit to the disciples in Ephesus? How does this relate to the concept of an "outside-the-box" church? ([11:06])
2. How does Jesus' statement in Matthew 16:18 about building His church on Peter relate to the idea of the church being dynamic and not confined to traditional settings? ([02:16])
3. In what ways can traditions be both beneficial and limiting to the church's mission, according to the sermon? ([06:43])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt confined by traditional norms in your faith practice. How can you break free from these constraints to live out your faith more dynamically? ([03:24])
2. The sermon emphasizes the need for creative and innovative evangelism. What is one new method you can try this week to share the gospel with someone in your community? ([05:01])
3. Consider the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. How can you seek a deeper infilling of the Holy Spirit to empower you for radical ministry? ([11:06])
4. Traditions can provide stability but also hinder progress. Identify one tradition in your church or personal life that may be limiting your ability to follow God's leading. How can you approach this tradition differently? ([06:43])
5. The early church was marked by bold preaching and a deep sense of community. How can you contribute to fostering a similar sense of community and boldness in your small group or church? ([25:25])
6. Facing opposition is part of being an "outside-the-box" church. How can you prepare yourself spiritually and emotionally to handle challenges and opposition in your faith journey? ([26:05])
7. Jesus' ministry often took place in unexpected places. Think of a non-traditional setting where you can minister this week. What steps will you take to make this happen? ([02:54])
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus' Ministry as a Blueprint
Jesus' life and ministry serve as a blueprint for the church. He healed the sick, performed miracles, and preached the gospel in unconventional ways. We are called to continue this legacy by breaking free from traditional norms and embracing innovative ways to live out our faith. Jesus' ministry was not confined to synagogues or traditional settings; it was dynamic, transformative, and often took place in unexpected places. This approach challenges us to think beyond the walls of our church buildings and to engage with our communities in meaningful and impactful ways.
Jesus' ministry was marked by a willingness to go where the people were, to meet them in their need, and to offer them the hope of the gospel. As His followers, we are called to do the same. This means being open to new methods and approaches, and being willing to step out of our comfort zones to reach those who may not be reached by traditional means. By following Jesus' example, we can become a church that truly reflects His heart and His mission. [02:54]
Matthew 9:35-36 (ESV): "And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
Reflection: Think of one unconventional way you can share the love of Jesus with someone in your community this week. How can you step out of your comfort zone to meet them where they are?
Day 2: The Need for a Non-Traditional Approach
This generation is less likely to be reached by traditional means of evangelism. We must find new, creative ways to share the gospel that resonate with today's culture. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones and being willing to adapt. The church is not just a Sunday morning gathering; it is a living, breathing community that exists to bring the hope of Jesus to a world in need.
In order to reach this generation, we must be willing to think outside the box and embrace new methods of evangelism. This might mean using technology, social media, or other innovative approaches to connect with people where they are. It also means being willing to listen to the needs and concerns of those around us and finding ways to address them with the love and truth of the gospel. By being open to new ideas and approaches, we can become a church that is relevant and impactful in today's world. [05:01]
1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (ESV): "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings."
Reflection: What is one new method or approach you can use to share the gospel with someone in your life? How can you adapt your message to better resonate with their needs and concerns?
Day 3: The Role of Traditions and Rules
Traditions and rules have their place, but they should not control us. They are meant to guide us, not limit us. We must discern when traditions are helpful and when they hinder our ability to follow God's leading. Traditions can provide a sense of stability and continuity, but they can also become a barrier to innovation and growth if we hold onto them too tightly.
It is important to recognize that traditions and rules are tools that can help us in our walk with God, but they are not the end goal. Our ultimate aim is to follow Jesus and to be led by His Spirit. This means being willing to let go of traditions that no longer serve their purpose and being open to new ways of experiencing and sharing God's love. By doing so, we can create a church that is both rooted in the wisdom of the past and open to the possibilities of the future. [06:43]
Mark 7:8-9 (ESV): "You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men. And he said to them, 'You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition!'"
Reflection: Are there any traditions or rules in your life that may be hindering your ability to follow God's leading? How can you discern when to hold onto a tradition and when to let it go?
Day 4: The Effectiveness of the Early Church
The early church in the book of Acts was effective because they were willing to do whatever it took to reach their communities. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, and their ministry was marked by miracles, bold preaching, and a deep sense of community. The early believers were not afraid to break away from established norms and to embrace new ways of living out their faith.
Their effectiveness came from their willingness to be led by the Holy Spirit and to take bold steps of faith. They were not content to simply maintain the status quo; they were driven by a passion to see lives transformed by the power of the gospel. This same spirit of boldness and innovation is needed in the church today. By looking to the example of the early church, we can find inspiration and guidance for how to be an "outside-the-box" church that makes a real impact in our world. [25:25]
Acts 4:31 (ESV): "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness."
Reflection: How can you be more open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your life? What bold step of faith can you take this week to reach out to someone in your community?
Day 5: Facing Challenges and Opposition
Being an "outside-the-box" church may not be popular with the world, but it is essential for reaching people with the gospel. We must be prepared to face challenges and opposition, trusting God to lead us and empower us with His Spirit. The call to be an innovative and impactful church is not without its difficulties, but it is a call that is worth answering.
As we step out in faith and embrace new ways of living out our mission, we may encounter resistance and criticism. However, we can take heart in knowing that we are following in the footsteps of Jesus and the early church. By trusting in God's guidance and relying on His strength, we can overcome the challenges we face and continue to make a difference in the world. Our goal is not just to fill seats but to transform lives and bring people into a deeper relationship with Jesus. [26:05]
2 Timothy 3:12-14 (ESV): "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it."
Reflection: What challenges or opposition are you currently facing in your walk with God? How can you trust in His guidance and strength to overcome these obstacles and continue to live out your faith boldly?
Quotes
1. "The outside-the-box church challenges us to break free from conventional norms. And to embrace radical, innovative ways of living out our faith. Come on. Mirroring the unconventional ways and methods of Jesus Himself. You want to know what we should do as a church? How the church should be? All we have to do is read the life of Jesus. That's the church. That's the outside-the-box church." [03:24] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If there's ever a generation that needed to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ, it's this generation. It doesn't exclude any other generations. I mean, when I was little, I heard about the 60s. Come on. They needed Jesus. I grew up in the 70s. They needed Jesus. Right? 80s. But if there's ever a generation that needs the gospel, it is this generation. But more than that, here's what I really want to tell you. If there's ever a generation that is not going to hear the gospel, it is this generation." [04:17] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We have to be able to discern when tradition is helping and when it's hurting. That's where the Holy Spirit comes in. That's what we have to be able to discern. The dangers of tradition are that tradition has a way of holding you in your past, which some people love. Come on. Has a way of holding you in your past. But it also has a way of hindering you from your future. Do you want to hang? Hang on to where you are. That's where you're going to be." [15:37] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We understand when we come here, we can come to the altar or we can pray together and yokes of bondage are broken. Strongholds are pulled down. We get healed. We get brought closer to God. And that's a wonderful thing. But we're only here a couple hours on Sunday. How can we live that out on Monday while we're on our job or while we're driving someplace on Tuesday? How can we live that out when we're at the grocery store on Wednesday or when we're taking the kids? Someplace on Thursday? How can we live that out when we're so tired on Friday of the week and people that have got on our nerves?" [19:12] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "An outside-the-box church is effective. The first churches in the book of Acts were outside the box churches. Why? Because the church in the book of Acts did things that no other religion would do. It reached out and healed people. It fed the hungry. It clothed the naked. It delivered the oppressed. It embraced baptism. It desired to be filled with the Holy Spirit. The outside-the-box church grew from zero to 3,120 people the first day it opened its doors. Legitimately. Come on, not just to fill seats. I'm talking about people who wanted an experience with Holy Spirit." [24:41] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "An outside-the-box church can reach its generation. An outside-the-box church goes places that other churches only dream of. An outside-the-box church can minister to people that other churches would judge and avoid. That's what an outside-the-box church does. Other churches would shun and put in the back. But an outside-the-box church says, come on, sit up front. Sit up front. Come on." [28:07] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "An outside-the-box church is a church that's willing to do whatever it takes, whatever God tells us to do, whatever it needs to do to reach its community. If God tells us to do it, Lord, then that's what we're doing. We're doing whatever you tell us to do. An outside-the-box church is not locked into traditional mindsets. That's why the book of Acts, this book of Acts church that Jesus started was so effective in reaching its world. Come on. It reached across boundaries that no other church would reach across. It reached across generations that other churches wouldn't reach across." [29:05] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We are people who want to be changed by the power of the gospel and who want to reach the world with the message of Jesus Christ. That's what we want to do. That's what we want to do. I won't go into it. But if you kept reading in the text that we read, there were some silversmiths and some people down in Acts chapter 19. They were so upset because they worshiped this God, Diana. And Paul was coming, messing it up, man. I mean, he was messing that thing up. He was saying, there's only one God. Lord, thy God is one God. He's the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. One God. Figure that out. He's only one God." [32:01] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Why was the early church so effective? Why was it an outside-the-box church? Because of these factors. It was an on-fire church. Come on. It was a worshiping church. You don't just come to church and say, well, I just want to hear what the preacher has to say. No. You're missing the biggest part of it. That's the only part of it. Worship. We were coming to worship and obey God. Praying church. Come on. We're a giving. We're a forgiving church. We're a loving church. We're a giving church and a forgiving church. Come on. And a loving church." [32:32] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We are Christians who live. We love each other. It doesn't matter what your title is because when we all go stand before the Lord, come on. My title's not going to get me any closer. He's not going to look and say, well, you're a pastor. Okay, you get three automatic steps forward. No. There's no big I's and little U's. We truly care about people. And you might look and say, well, we don't show it all. Well, that's true. But we don't always act like Christians. But you are. Okay? We just need to act like who we are. All right? We truly care about people. We love people. We want to help people. We want to minister to people. And by the way, minister, all that means, literally means help. You say, I want to be a minister. All of us are ministers. It just means help." [30:56] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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