“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”—Matthew 25:40
The seven marks that help determine a church’s level of vitality, as well as the various processes for self-assessment, discernment, and renewed commitment to the habits that foster an energetic engagement with the Spirit’s work in the world are as follows:
- A commitment to forming disciples over every members’ lifetime. Leading first to personal transformation, as people put on the heart of Christ, and then to social transformation, as people joyfully go forth into the community and tackle the issues facing today’s culture.
- Embracing the call to evangelism. Showing forth the love of Christ by our actions and our lives even more than by our words. Our relationships are genuine and caring. People know we are Christians by our love.
- An outward focus. Our church is not a place to escape from the world, but a gateway to our community where we may be the hands, feet, heart and mouth of Jesus Christ for people who are suffering or marginalized.
- Empowering every member to discover their individual calling and the gifts God has given them so they can go forth and serve.
- Spirit-inspired worship that challenges, teaches, transforms, convicts, and energizes us so when we are sent out, we have experienced the wonder of God and are changed for the better from when we arrived.
- Caring relationships modeled on God’s love. Opening our doors and hearts to all people, and building relationships modeled on God’s love, which leads to genuine reconciliation and peace.
- Congregations with healthy systems. Our mission focuses are clear, fiscal responsibility and accountability, and thoughtful decision-making structures. Our leaders and staff enjoy a sustainable balance of work/rest time.