Generous Engagement – Descriptive ❯ Prescriptive Discussion

April 13, 2023

In this thought-provoking episode of Anchored & Reaching, hosts Kevin Mannoia and Susanna Fleming discuss the challenges and opportunities of living in a pluralistic society as Christians. They differentiate between pluralism and universalism, encouraging Christians to approach people of different beliefs and values with generosity and a missional mindset. The conversation provides valuable insights on how to share the gospel and engage with others in a way that honors and reflects the love of Christ.

In this episode, you’ll learn:The differences between pluralism and universalism, and their implications for ChristiansHow to approach people of different beliefs and values with generosity and a missional mindsetThe importance of discerning where God is already at work in people’s lives and culturesThe need for finding commonality with others as created in God’s imageThe significance of being descriptive rather than prescriptive in sharing the gospelHow to approach others with a humble and curious disposition, seeking to understand God’s work in their livesThe value of building trust and relationships before sharing the gospelThe importance of allowing Christ to work through us in a natural, permeable way

Join Kevin and Susanna as they navigate the complexities of engaging in a pluralistic society as Christians, offering a different pattern of thinking that seeks out the telltale signs of God in each person and place. Tune in to this episode of Anchored & Reaching for a fresh and nuanced perspective on living out your faith in a diverse world.

Generous EngagementChristians are called to engagement with the world. That’s what we mean when we say we are “the hands and feet of Jesus,” bringing the Kingdom of God wherever we go. Unfortunately, we often choose to engage in ways that can feel more like a sales pitch than real concern for the world in which we live and participate.

Becoming generous in our engagement requires a mindset like that of Christ, where salvation isn’t giving up on the world but is instead redemption of God’s creation. “Your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven,” wasn’t a platitude – it was the goal. Let’s consider what that looks like as we prepare ourselves for generous engagement.

Fresh Oil, Fresh Anointing: Breaking Spiritual Bondage with Bishop Kenny Martin
Fresh Oil, Fresh Anointing: Breaking Spiritual Bondage with Bishop Kenny Martin

Bishop E. Kenneth Martin delivers a prophetic challenge to the Free Methodist Church, confronting deep-rooted issues of spiritual bondage, systemic oppression, and the church’s complacency. “Churches are dying in a cage,” he declares, calling for a radical shift in how the church addresses:

– Spiritual chains of sin and oppression
– Historical and ongoing impacts of slavery
– Diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges
– The church’s reluctance to engage difficult conversations
– Breaking free from “nasty” church politics and self-serving leadership

“This is a season of manifestation,” Martin says, urging a breakthrough from 2025 to 2035 that will transform the church locally and globally.

#ChurchTransformation #SpiritualFreedom #RacialReconciliation #ChurchReform #HolySpirit

Conexión Latina 2025: Supporting Latino/a Leadership in Ministry | Free Methodist Church
Conexión Latina 2025: Supporting Latino/a Leadership in Ministry | Free Methodist Church

Join us this March for Conexión Latina 2025, a transformative gathering on the West Coast celebrating and equipping Latino/a leaders in ministry. Fraser Venter shares how you can support this vital initiative that strengthens our multicultural Free Methodist family.

This event provides:
– Complete on-ground support for participating leaders
– Valuable community building and leadership development
– Essential ministry equipping and spiritual refreshment
– Opportunities to partner with Latino/a leaders across the country

Want to sponsor a leader or learn more? Contact Fraser Venter directly through the information below to help build God’s kingdom through multicultural ministry.

#FreeMethodistChurch #LatinoMinistry #ChurchLeadership #MinistryDevelopment #MulticulturalChurch

A Message of Thanks from Expressions Church | Pastor Christopher Spolar
A Message of Thanks from Expressions Church | Pastor Christopher Spolar

Pastor Christopher Spolar shares his gratitude for the overwhelming support from our Free Methodist family following the recent fires. Standing in front of their temporary new church home, he reflects on the power of community and the hope we find in supporting one another.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Expressions Church through prayer, encouragement, and practical assistance. Together, we continue sharing hope with our community.

For updates and ways to help: fmcsc.org/fire