With discussion questions
This well presented book by Stuart Robinson is a timely contribution to the "mission-shaped' sector of ministry initiatives. It is a healthy blend of vital ingredients: well grounded theologically, drawing on genuine experience (mistakes as much as successes), and with the entrepreneurial energy that is the author's hallmark.
The book starts where it must"”the recognition that mission starts with God. The more theologically dignified terminology of missio dei underscores the essential premise that our task is to perceive and be drawn (in God's grace) into the saving purposes of God for this world. God is actively involved with this world, and is gathering a church as part of this mission. Too many books in this field leap into "how to' questions, without clarifying what we mean by mission, and on what basis we should be involved.
Stuart Robinson's own experience reflects developments in church planting initiatives over the past two decades. Starting as much by instinct as with training or mentoring, much wisdom has been gained (often painfully) and there is now substantial material to draw and learn from (see the listing in appendix II"”but all too few exploring Australian contexts). A more accessible network of like-minded leaders and communities now draw on learned experience and creativity. This book is a digest of such wisdom, with key mission-shaped principles matched with practical guides and resources. The art is as much in asking the right questions as anything.
Mission-shaped is the operative term. Such terminology is applied to all manner of enterprises, but to warrant genuine respect the sense of "shape' needs to be clearly focussed and pursued with discipline, as Robinson notes: "The "shape' (style, look, feel, character) of what we do is to be informed by the kinds of people we are seeking to reach and their situations; our "mission-field', rather than that which works best for us, or with which we are most comfortable' (11). It is an important point, to which Robinson returns in an appendix distinguishing "mission shaped' from "mission flavoured'.
Placed at regular intervals throughout the book are "Reality Check' stories " brief but well considered cameos that provide mission-shaped initiatives in various stages of progress. Combined with questions for groups or individuals, these help those wanting to visualise what mission-shaped churches might look like to explore actual instances and experiences.
There is much to work with in this book. It addresses the realities of leadership qualities, methods and models, key questions (target, task, team, timing, tools), recruiting a core team, and walks through the "Mission Action Plan' (MAP) process. This latter pattern comprises biblical values, a statement of mission, a compelling vision, key ministry areas and associated goals. (As an aside " why "biblical' values as such? why not "Christian values'? Our discipleship relates primarily to Christ, revealed through God's Word. The Bible is a means of grace, not the object. It is a pity the example offered (52-53) makes no reference to living and ministering through the Holy Spirit, while the important observation that "for his part Jesus will send the Counsellor to indwell, teach, nurture, instruct and comfort them' (62) warrants greater expression in the vision, key ministry, prayer and faith chapters" ).
This book is well presented"”clearly written, easy for follow, lots of space for notes, and with ready reference to further resources without cluttering the body of the text. It is especially pleasing to see growing Australian contributions in this area. Robinson's desire is that it will motivate and guide readers "to move forward in the eternally significant work of starting dynamic new communities of faith' (12), and it is indeed a book I commend for just that reason"”I'll be ordering bulk copies to pass on in all directions!
Tim Harris is senior minister of the Kensington-Norwood Anglican Team Ministry and Archdeacon for Mission, Evangelism and Church Growth in the diocese of Adelaide.
