Another angle on this potential impact is to
see how the Body of Christ can become more active in those broad areas
of the community that generally influence transformation. Traditionally,
church institutions have stayed within the bounds of religion. But
if our communities are to become healed and whole, we must pursue
genuine change in the other spheres of influence. We can begin by
seeking out and honoring God-placed leaders
in those fields. Second, we can connect with city leaders and humbly
ask how the Church can serve and co-labor with them for the good of
the community. Third, a church can act as a catalyst to unite congregation-based
ministries for a coordinated city impact. What if all of the youth
ministries worked together in your city? What about mercy ministries,
counseling, or disaster response? Think of the potential impact!
Community transformation can begin with neighborhood transformation.
It is there that you can take micro steps to build the macro vision,
and more easily and quickly see results that will model and motivate
more. Neighborhood withreach strategies have already been pioneered
and proven, and are ready for widescale use.