133. Reaching cities with Scott Crawley #2

We continue our conversation with Scott and hear him share about the kingdom of God and our participation in it as we simplify our walk with God in complex cities. What is the kingdom? “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15). Scott begins by giving us an overview of the kingdom of God from a biblical perspective. Drawing from Mark 1:15, Scott shares how the gospel is itself the kingdom. It is where we participate in God ruling over us. So how do we participate in the kingdom? Scott described the kingdom of God as an upside down triangle where everyone can listen and obey God, helping others do the same. Luke 10 gives us a glimpse of Jesus’ excitement (and the disciples’ astonishment!) of how the kingdom of God is for everyone, even the unlearned and ordinary. ‘At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children….Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.” (Luke 10:21,23-24) Culture and the kingdom Scott also shares an analogy of the kingdom being like poured out wine. We need to keep in mind that our Christian culture or ‘wineskins’ are not necessary the most helpful vessels of God’s kingdom for some people. Engaging complex cities Some keys can include: Understanding the distinction between what is simple, complicated and complex. Cities are indeed complex systems where God wants to see his kingdom emerge. Christianity as an ‘empire’, ruled from the centre, can easily breakdown in complex cities. However Jesus, the king of God’s kingdom, can lead each of us with his amazing creativity. We need to stay flexible and adaptive to what can help serve us and those we lead as we all live out our relationship with God. Finally, since our king’s character is predictable, tools like DBS (Discovery Bible Study) are helpful since they centre around the obedience to and sharing of God’s Word. Resources to help us engage further Check out Scott’s blog here. Check out the ‘Two Four Eight’ movement website here. Keeping it simple Scott finishes by encouraging us to keep our discipleship walk simple… “Simply ask, ‘Am I listening, trusting and obeying God? And am I helping others do the same?’ This is all we need to do. God will guide us when we give him space…He wants sons and daughters who are living and sharing life with him. He will work the fruit out!”