Shaw makes his case without a hint of criticism of other churches or models but does address some of the excuses used by pastors to stay away from the time-consuming process of building city-wide unity.
While not mentioned in the book, many pastors cite demanding schedules and local church programs and their pursuit of ‘souls’ to justify their isolation.
Shaw quotes the well-known writer Max Lucado who says: “The sin of disunity has probably caused more souls to be lost than all other sins committed.”
Shaw says, “clearly, if by our unity and love for one another ‘all men will know’, then our disunity prevents them from knowing’.
He details various real-life examples of city-wide ministries which don’t necessarily have ownership in a particular congregation thus releasing pastors and lay-people to a wider vision impacting not just the body of Christ but also the secular society.
The book’s title itself is enough to provoke thought – and hopefully serious prayer – about what it is that most denominations and mega churches are currently pursuing.
Perhaps there is a heavenly pattern that is quite different from our current paradigm of church.
If Shaw is right, the city-wide church could usher in the biggest reformation of church and society in 500 years.
Lyle Shelton is a former member of the Toowoomba Christian Leaders’ Network. He now lives in Canberra with his wife Wendy and four children. Copies of A House for His Glory can be obtained from Toowoomba City Church, 07 4638 2399.
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In search of the city-wide church
Most Christians and pastors agree with the idea of Christian unity. Sadly, few pursue it as if it were the key to unlocking our cities and nation.
By: Lyle Shelton
Posted: Tuesday, 19 February 2008, 8:32 (EST)
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