Their focus has moved from self to others; from problems to solutions; from failure to redemption; from brokenness to restoration. They recognize the broken, weak, fallen, and corrupt but can’t leave them in that condition–they are moved to change things. The next Christians are offering a new way forward–a way to act, live, and bring others along with them into the new reality of how things ought to be.
- Gabe Lyons
The Next Christians’ Focus Has Changed
August 7, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Running With Hope To The Broken
July 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
They (the next Christians) simply can’t help themselves’ they are intoxicated with the idea that God’s love extends to all people. They believe this kind of love is expressed best in tangible, physical acts of goodness. They show up. In fact, showing up is their defining practice. These Christians don’t run from areas that might typically offend a Separatist Christian–they run to them. They seek out brokenness and offer hope.
- Gabe Lyons, The Next Christians
Skepticism Isn’t To Be Feared
June 9, 2012 By Leave a Comment
For the next Christians, skepticism isn’t to be feared, it’s to be embraced. They know that for centuries God’s grace has been wide enough to meet entire cultures right where they sit. They know that today’s typical outsiders aren’t likely to be reached through persuasive argument but instead through first experiencing an authentic Christian: someone who’s willing to roll up his or her sleeves and restore alongside them.
- Gabe Lyons, The Next Christians
Shedding “Traditional” Evangelism
June 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In his book The Next Christians, Gabe Lyons talks about how the “next Christians” are treating evangelism:
The focus on savvy outreach methods and persuasive skills goes away. Outsiders aren’t seen as commodities to be recruited, reached, or proselytized. They are treated as valued creations of God, possessing His image and seeing their goodness affirmed wherever it shines through. By recovering the Gospel, the next Christians are befriending people through authentic relationships where love is the only agenda. They trust God to work in outsiders’ lives when He’s ready, using their unconditional love, grace, and acceptance as the basis.
- Gabe Lyons
