Whenever we think of a Revolution the words that probably come to mind are “uprising,” “overthrow,” “riot,” or some similar word. It might seem strange to some then to refer to a revolution when it comes to the church. But then again, it really shouldn’t. What Jesus has commissioned His followers to do is literally cause a revolution. The purpose of any revolution should be to change the way things are…hopefully for the good. Granted some revolutions, especially military, are not always beneficial. But when it comes to the church I would contend that there has been a need for good revolutions. The Protestant Reformation is one example. Overthrowing dead religion is one. Richard Stearns contends in Unfinished there is a need for a revolution- not one based on power, land, politics, and dominion over others- but a revolution to set up the kingdom of God. It is a revolution to make a difference.
He says it well:
You don’t have to go to the Congo or Uzbekistan to change the world. You don’t have to be brilliant to change the world-or wealthy or influential or a spiritual giant. But you do have to say yes to the invitation. You do have to be available and willing to be used, and you may have to pay the price that comes with following Jesus because changing the world and following Jesus isn’t easy, and it doesn’t come cheap. There will be some sacrifice involved. …The Christian faith is a call to leave everything else behind, follower our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and join in the great mission of Christ in our world. It is a call to forsake all else and follow Him.
A call to follow Jesus is not a call to complacency but a call to action. Our mission (should we choose to accept it) is to cause a revolution by establishing the kingdom of God wherever we are or go. Unfinished is about that revolution. It is about rediscovering our mission and purpose on this planet. It is about (and I am not fond of this statement) “blooming where we are planted.” This whole book is about that purpose and mission. I read The Hole in our Gospel and was blown away by its message. Richard has continued with his masterful challenge of followers of Jesus living up to the task of being Jesus to the world. I know you are encouraged to read certain books throughout a year. You could spend thousands of dollars on books you have been told to read. But I am encouraging you to read Unfinished as soon as you can.
Beginning next week, I will be leading/participating in a book discussion with several other bloggers about Unfinished. It is not too late to participate. If you would like to take part, please let me know in the comments. I would love to have you as part of the “team.”
Have you read Unfinished yet? Do you agree with Richard’s thoughts?
I think this is the first time I’ve heard of this one. Sounds like a good’un.
It is.
I am looking forward to the discussions on this book. I am still unfinished with the book, but have really enjoyed and been challenged by what I have read so far.
Looking forward to having this discussion with you Sele.
Wait, so are you saying that it is not enough to grumble my way through the Sunday service and be satisfied with throwing a few bucks into the offering every now and then?
By the way, I have never heard of Richard Stearns. I will check him out.
I’ll let you answer that question. I think you will like the books Daniel. They are “disturbing” reads.
I have not read this, but am pretty certain I would agree based on your synopsis.
“Changing the world and following Jesus isn’t easy, and it doesn’t come cheap.” I found this line interesting, as it’s the premise of a small group I’m a part of, based off the book “Not A Fan.” It’s like I’m supposed to be learning this or something… 🙂
If you are studying “not a fan” you will like this book Stephen. Guaranteed. But be careful, it might change your world. As for learning??? 😉
This is one of the many reasons why I love blogging/bloggers. Walking into a bookstore is like being hit with a shark-nado. It’s too big to know where to start. I’ve never heard of this guy or his book but I like what you posted. Thanks for the lead.
I’m honored you would trust me Rob. I was blown away by Gospel (my post tomorrow will be from something he wrote) and took your word for it. You didn’t steer me wrong. I honestly don’t think you will be disappointed with this book or “Hole.”
Loved the Hole in Our Gospel and this sounds awesome. I think people buck against the idea of revolution or God’s army or any of those terms because we think of them only in the natural, worldly sense. It’s not about shedding blood but appropriating the power of His shed blood. It’s not about forcing people to believe, but serving and loving people until they are forced to see something different. Good stuff, Bill. I look forward to reading your thoughts over the next weeks. Thank you.
you’re right jason. it is not about shedding blood. it is about service. Well said. Thanks. I look forward to hearing what you might have to say also.
I’ve finished the first chapter and Stearns gives a great appeal to common sense and the defense of the obvious truth. Pretty easy for those of us who’ve been taught “the mysteries of the universe,” I hope for those who are still using their gift of free will to be “willfully ignorant.”
I agree with him. For those who believe they are “as gods” and can make up the rules or pick the ones they want to believe; I say if you have that authority then go ahead and make yourself immortal… Good luck with that… Sorry for the sarcasm… It is a fallen world after all…
Sarcasm noted and accepted. 🙂 You are right though about “go ahead.” I will hit that first chapter next week. I look forward to the discussion. Thanks Floyd.
Bill, I’m going to be honest. I love books like these. I’ve read many of them. I come away with an excitement and a passion that can’t be contained. I tell people about it. But when I tell people in my church who have the ability to make things happen, I always get ho-hum at best and completely ignored at worst. I’ve been disappointed many times.
The church seems to be an impossible place for revolution in my experience. I am starting to wonder if I need to be active outside the church–join forces with like-minded people who aren’t necessarily members. Your thoughts?
I wish you had time to read and blog with us Melanie. You would be such an asset and addition to it. But I look forward to your contributions as a commenter. I understand your excitement but also disappointment. Every week i see that on faces. Some get it and some don’t. Oddly enough I can hardly blame you if you choose to go beyond the walls. I know you will do it with caution. Thanks for your heart Melanie.
I haven’t read it, but it sounds good. And I agree–the most important step is saying yes to the invitation.
I know you said you had too many irons (books) in the fire matt. But I will look forward to any comments you may make. Saying yes is so important. Thanks matt.
I’ve not read it yet, but it’s going on my book list.
I think a lot of the answer has to do with what we mean by changing the world. Are we concerned about altering the face of the entire globe – or making an impact on our little corner? Because I would say that the latter goal is what we should concentrate on. We can change things wherever we are, whenever we find ourselves there.