Why does the church exist? Let’s talk and listen.

I think a lot about the church as a whole — how it functions and operates. How it is organized. How communicates its message. And how it comes up short in these areas and others.

Something that I think doesn’t get much attention right now, at least in mainline circles of the church is communication. Far too often we’re so busy being exact about deep theological issues, that we lose sight of where so many people are — not in those deep theological circles. They are living their lives, paying their bills, and struggling for meaning in life.

I think it’s safe to say that the more fundamentalist and evangelical strains of Christianity are way out in front on the communications end of things. Fundamentalists and evangelicals have invested a great deal of time, money, and energy into their communications with people. They have created whole networks, radio stations, entertainment organizations (that convey their message), social media presences, and more. Part of this comes from the core foundation of their beliefs — that they are called to go and save people. That’s a very outward and active outlook to Christianity.

The mainline churches have fallen way behind on communications. But it wasn’t always this way. Anyone remember Davey and Goliath? ( Here’s the very first episode from way back when — you’re welcome). I think every Gen X kid probably saw some of these episodes. This show was like the theological version of “I’m just a bill.” ( Here’s the link — again, you can thank me…