Acts 26: 28 Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."I had a great conversation this morning with a downtown friend. He may or may not be a Christian - though spiritual and having a 'Christian' background, I think C. wrestles with Christianity. He is also intrigued by New City's relationship with downtown. So, in the conversation this came up:
C: So, explain to me you vision for the church and the city?
Me: Well, the short is city renewal - we describe it as transformation. In leadership, we often ask the question, 'If the Kingdom of God were present in the city today, what would it look like?' We believe that the church should be a glimpse of the Kingdom, therefore we should see tangible transformation because of the presence of the church.
C: Like what?
Me: Well, if the Kingdom of God were present in Macon, would there be homeless people?
C: No.
Me: We don't believe that our presence will eliminate homelessness in Macon, just as we can't usher in the true and final Kingdom. However, if the Kingdom is present in and through us, then we should make a positive difference in the homeless community.
If the Kingdom were fully present there would be no crime. So, as a church, we ask, 'How can our presence make a difference in downtown crime?'
If the Kingdom were fully present, would there be ugly, broken buildings?
C: No.
Me: So we desire to see a tangible change to the buildings downtown. We will - through volunteers - help the Facade Squad when they line up facades to be worked on.
We believe that the church, as a glimpse of the Kingdom should be an agent of transformation in our city.
C: Keith, that's why I love you guys. Hearing what you say makes me want to believe. I feel like the King that Paul pleaded his case to.
The conversation was soon interrupted and C was out the door. I was awed that such a Kingdom vision would carry such power.
29And Paul said, "I would wish to God, that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am, except for these chains."
