When the average church is told, ‘now we’re going to do some theology’, the odd keen bean will be on the edge of his pew, but the majority give their brains a rest in the sure knowledge that ‘this bit isn’t that important’.
Such is the place of ‘theology’ in the lives of many Christians in today’s church. Either that, or it’s seen as a danger to steer any would-be students well clear of. Certainly, if it’s a mission-focused church, theology is the last thing they want to spend their time on! Of course, it’s the experience of God and the simple gospel that a church with missional aspirations requires. Not theology. That’s for people who want to ‘go a bit deeper’, but far from essential for every would-be witnessing believer. Or is it?
Whip them or whip them up?
There are basically three ways to motivate people to mission. Option one is to whip them. The Pharisees understood this very well. If we continually remind people of their obligations and the consequences of non-compliance, they will most likely do what we ask, especially if we have a position of power over them. Or, we can whip them up. Many a CU leader (the author included!) has been guilty of this: ‘God’s going to do great things!’ is the promise. ‘If you come to the prayer meetings, if you bring your friends to the CU events, then God will transform this university!’ God may do great things! But, the desire for success in evangelism cannot be our primary motive.
