Missiology of the Moment

The missiology necessary to advance the gospel in a post-Christianized context is not the same as the missiology that brought us to a Christianized context. Certainly, this does not mean a complete overhaul, but rather a building upon that which has gone before.Some things must change while we return to an apostolic paradigm. However, one challenge is that we lack the vision for such an approach in view of a mature Church in the United States and Canada. And lacking this vision, we often fail to change that which truly must shift. We end up failing to ask the right questions.A post-Christianized context is unlike a context where there is little to no gospel presence. A well-established Church exists with well-developed structures, organizations, and traditions. Yet, the multiplication of disciples, churches, and leaders requires an apostolic model. As it stands (and this coming from a pastor), we are attempting to reach a context with pastoral approaches when missionary activity is required.Even when we attempt such apostolic labors, we define them in pastoral terms and attempt to execute them through pastoral paradigms. This is not wise. For example, look at how we define church planting in North America, and compare that with the New Testament.What got us here is not sufficient for where we need to go. The wise Kingdom steward recognizes this and adjusts accordingly.But that adjustment is difficult. It's easier to stick with the missiology of the moment.