DNA Roundtable

Leaders from 14 different Christian organizations came together for two days to explore what they feel God is saying at this time in history and if there is something that they should be doing together to advance the Gospel of the Kingdom. It was a special time to ask questions, hear different perspectives, cultivate relationships and explore points of convergence in their vision and mission. In the end, the group unanimously believes that they are to take steps to “Convene a regular brokering forum/space for forming, strengthening and multiplying collaborative initiatives and projects that advance church-based wholistic transformation that is rooted in a biblical worldview.”

During the lively and engaging discussions, there was acknowledgement that we are at a moment in history where both mission organizations and Relief and Development organizations are recognizing that the goals they have been pursuing (evangelism, church planting or development projects) still leave profoundly broken communities. For many reasons, the Church has been unable to impact deeply the ruin and malaise of society and communities. Yet, there is a growing hunger for something more fundamental, something bigger – the word “transformation” is used to describe this.

The group spent considerable time discussing this hunger and what it means to them.  “Real hope, real change, real partnership.” “Communities transformed with Kingdom values.” “Behold the glory of the Lord” (2Corinthians 3:17-18). “Transformation is a life-long process that takes place on a relational basis, both vertically and horizontally.  It is the work of the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit works from one life into another life.” “It is Biblical Shalom where there is balance, harmony, the restoration of all things – the return toward the pre-fall state.” “It is the process of moving towards the biblical Shalom which God brings as a result of His people doing His will.” “The process must include all sectors of life and all types of people including those of oral societies.”

Throughout the interaction, we sensed that God was stirring the group to form a working partnership that will create a meeting and repository of materials to help different expressions of the Church collaborate for seeking church-based wholistic transformation that is rooted in a biblical worldview. All of these organizations and church denominations reach throughout the world into diverse communities and nations. Together we are committed to serve with each other and to serve the broader Body of Christ.  During the next month, a steering committee will begin to make plans to design and convene the next Roundtable. In the end, we believe that if God is desirous of using such a forum to further His purposes, He will draw others to the meeting as He has drawn us together.