Based on your input (recorded here and here) and my own convictions, I have come up with my first attempt at a working title and thesis for my next book. The word ‘working’ means that it’s still being worked on and is, therefore, NOT in final form. This is why I bring it to you!
Working Title (as of today): Becoming & Making Irreligious Followers of Jesus
In short, you might say that this is a book on discipleship: the power and simplicity of being and making disciples. I do believe that this is the heart of the ‘simple church’ movement and church planting movements. More here from an earlier post. BUT, I also believe that the terms and practices of ‘discipleship’ and ‘making disciples’ are vastly misunderstood which is why so many miss out.
So, with that title in mind, here is my working thesis (at this point):
1. The love and grace that Jesus has for us is bigger than we realize.
My note: I don’t think any book should be written that does not, in the end, call all of us to a deeper walk and relationship with Jesus.
2. The life of a follower (one who follows and makes followers) is a life of adventure, joy, and freedom far greater than we realize.
My note: This point goes to the core of what’s on my heart as I hope to fully explore the dynamics of being and making disciples. We can discuss this further together and I attempt to clarify what I’m after and, again, get your input.
3. The religious traditions of our Christian culture continue to be a greater hindrance to the life God has for us than we realize.
My note: I know many of you share this ongoing concern that the life Jesus has for us must be engaged in without the religious encumbrances that so often dilute and/or distort His image in and through us.
Note that your input from the past couple of weeks here has greatly informed my outline! Look forward to more insights from ‘the gang.’
