Social Theology

The Art of Bringing the Gospel to Communities

By: Dr. Michael Patterson

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Length: 5 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

At the heart of Christian mission lies a call not only to faith and personal devotion, but also to unity and brotherly love. This call finds its deepest expression in Jesus' words, recorded in John 17, where he raises his voice to heaven not only for his immediate disciples, but for all those who will believe in him through his message. In this impassioned prayer, Jesus does not ask for riches for his followers, or even worldly success, but for something much deeper and more transformative: unity. "That they may all be one, even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me." (John 17:21). It is here that we find the foundation of our calling as leaders and pastors in the body of Christ.

This book was born out of a burning desire to see that same level of unity reflected in our cities and communities. In a world fractured by divisions, where discord and conflict are the norm, Jesus' message of unity and love resonates as an urgent and necessary call. Through these pages, we will explore how we can, as leaders and pastors, embody and promote the unity Jesus called for, working together to win our cities to Christ.
It is not an easy task. It requires us to put aside our denominational, cultural, and theological differences, to focus on what really matters: the love of Christ that unites us. This does not mean ignoring our differing identities or theological convictions, but finding in our diversity a common strength, a shared vision that can transform our communities in ways that, alone, we could never achieve.

Throughout this book, we will address practical topics and strategies based on biblical principles, from planning and strategy to community action and evangelism, all geared toward fostering unity and collective impact. We will see how effective collaboration between churches and leaders can result in a powerful witness to God's love and grace, bringing hope and transformation to our cities.

May this book be both a guide and an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the power of Jesus' prayer in John 17 and motivating us to seek, above all things, unity in Christ. Just as the Father is in the Son and the Son in the Father, may we also be united in them, so that the world may believe. This is our calling. This is our challenge.