24-0310a - Detailed Summary

Discussion on how Nebuchadnezzar’s story exemplifies the concept of a "depraved mind," and how understanding our times is crucial for knowing how to interact with others, as mentioned in Colossians 4:5-6.

Emphasizes the importance of answering others with grace and truth, likening it to seasoning with salt.

Highlights the need to listen and tailor responses to individuals, not just using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Connects understanding the times with effective engagement with outsiders, using Del Tackett’s worldview teachings as a resource.

Introduction of Del Tackett’s "Engagement Project" which aims at biblically engaging with non-believers, contrasting it with previous unsuccessful methods.

Discusses how rejecting God leads to a worldview where humans view themselves as divine (Homo Deus), impacting even the church, leading to what Del calls "Neo-Christianity."

Advises on the importance of adopting a biblical worldview for personal transformation and societal influence.

Contrasts the worldview with and without God, emphasizing the significance and purpose derived from a belief in God.

Highlights the power of God’s word in creation versus human myths like Atlas.

Notes how without God, the emphasis shifts to human attributes like strength and wisdom for survival.

Lists and briefly touches on the seven threats to society including the rise of Homo Deus, loss of noble male, etc., linking these to current cultural issues.

Introduces the "Engagement Project" as a strategy for churches to engage with those in a depraved mindset, describing its structure through various "tours".

Encourages the church to study and implement the tours of the Engagement Project to effectively reach out to and engage with outsiders.

Del Tackett introduces the concept of a metanarrative, defining it as an overarching account that shapes beliefs and experiences.

In Christianity, this is the story of God’s plan from creation to restoration, with believers currently in the epoch of engagement.

Explores the epoch of creation, emphasizing God’s intent for fruitfulness and active participation in creation by mankind.

Discusses the fall where God’s plan is disrupted, introducing death and setting a new, negative default for creation.

Redemption is introduced as God’s response to the fall, choosing love and grace over destruction to save humanity.

Focuses on the current epoch where Christians are to engage with the world, answering why Jesus left, why God sends, and what the divine endgame is.

Practical engagement strategies begin, focusing on building relationships with grace, wisdom, and truth to promote peace and trust.

Discusses how to apply biblical wisdom practically by tailoring interactions to each individual’s unique context.

Emphasizes the integration of love with truth in communication for effective and transformative evangelism.

Explores the motivation behind Christian engagement, rooted in the sacrificial love of Jesus, encouraging believers to emulate this love.

Stresses the significance of Christian fellowship and community in fulfilling the mission, advocating for small, committed groups.

Reflects on the post-COVID world, noting increased isolation and fear, yet sees it as an opportunity for Christians to offer true, loving relationships.

Concludes with an invitation for the congregation to stand and sing, extending an opportunity for commitment to engage with the world in God’s love.