What Do You Think?
As we are wrestling with who we are as a body, we will be trying to put some of our thoughts in writing. Periodically I will post some thoughts here, giving you the opportunity to interact with them. Here is the first opportunity.
WHO WE ARE
We are a group of people who recognize that we are all needy. Our common need stems from the belief that we are sinful and disobedient to God. This means we don’t deserve anything good from God. In fact, we deserve only punishment. However, we believe that God has been so good and loving that He was willing to receive our punishment for us in Jesus’ death. Because Jesus is God he overpowered death. Through these beliefs, God changes us for the better, but does not take away our neediness. We remain a people who are happily needy.
So, what do you think?
January 21st, 2009 at 11:24 am
My first thought is that the second to last sentence should be changed a bit. The statement says, “Through these beliefs…” I think it should say, “Through the gospel…”
Another thought…
Should we use “needy” rather than “dependent”?
Michael
January 21st, 2009 at 10:07 pm
I like the descriptive phrase “Through these beliefs…” because it explains more than “Through the gospel…” This way ANYONE (believer or unbeliever) who wants to know who we are will be able to understand. Although, I do like the idea of pointing out that what changes us is more than just what we believe (e.g. the work of God).
Perhaps we should use both “needy” and “dependent.” The more descriptive we can be the better, I think. Although, I really like the description of us as “happily needy” because “needy” carries with it some negative connotations and the more thought-provoking we are the better.
January 22nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
JJ,
I agree with your desire to be understandable to anyone, but we must ask the question if God uses the beliefs to change people or the power of the gospel. Clarity is very important too. I’m just not sure the phrase is the most clear. Convince me.
I agree about needy and dependent. I agree with the negative connotations. That can be good and bad.
January 22nd, 2009 at 11:38 pm
Michael,
Perhaps we could have our cake and eat it, too. Maybe we keep the “Through these beliefs…” part, but we supplement it with additional language about God’s work. Not sure how to word it, so somebody GO FOR IT!!
JJ