Three Challenges and Catalysts in Discipleship

Recently a fellow named Bud Caddell came up with a Venn diagram entitled “how to be happy in business.” It reminded me of a similar diagram from the class notes for my 'Biblical Foundations for Missions' class. As such I wanted to replicate and mash both concepts into a single form that would help me think and hopefully spur some discussion. I would consider what I have below a work-in-progress and would appreciate any feedback or discussion it generates.

If you are unfamiliar with this general setup, each circle represents an entry point by which we as humans enter under the tutelage of Christ. Hopefully as we progress in that process we are drawn into the center of all three disciplines, however that is not always the case. The conundrum we often face is how do continue the process of discipling in our new cultural contexts. I would argue that largely the core concepts remain the same, however the praxis of discipling often calls for new and varied tools of expression and instruction. Regardless of our cultural contexts the three struggles we most likely face in the discipling process are ones of vulnerability, accountability, and exploratory spaces. The primary catalysts for working through these struggles are cultivation, embracement, and encouragement.

Let me know your thoughts.

Reflections on the 2009 General Assembly

I had the great privilege to attend the 2009 General Assembly (simply as a visitor). I never really got all the fuss about General Assemblies before, but I absolutely loved this. I hope that I will be able to attend for more time next time around, especially for the many seminars and forums which are held during the pre-Assembly conventions.
I made three posts during the week sharing some of my reflections on the week. Instead of reposting them here, I'll just include the links with brief descriptions.
Impressed with NTS: NTS earned a large grant to revision and reorganize itself as a missional seminary serving a missional church. Very exciting stuff!
Impressed with NPH: NPH provided the seed money to start a small new publishing company called The House Studios. House hasn't labeled themselves this, but I think they are emergent/missional.
Impressed with our Leaders: We elected two international representatives to high offices and took significant steps on many major issues.

I hope you'll take the time to follow the links and to share your feedback in either place. It might be helpful to post general comments here and comments relating to the specific posts connected with those posts.

(By the way, the "Concerned Nazarenes" did make a showing at General Assembly. They gave out some fliers lambasting various leaders and movements, but as far as I could tell, they made a few waves but didn't have much influence.)
(Another short aside: I'm not sure what to make of all the pomp, circumstance, technology, hoopla, efficiency, and showmanship involved in a huge event like this. Several times during the worship services I just felt put off by it all. I'm not sure I could suggest a better solution for such a large gathering. In fact, I felt a mixture of respect for the art involved in crafting some of the digital backgrounds and doubt about the value and faithfulness of it all. My heart felt genuinely warmed when I saw my former D.S. wearing a simple polo shirt instead of the obligatory coat and tie. No kidding - it warmed my heart to see him resist the culture on that point.)