The Essentials to Missions: Connections to Church Networks

[Adapted from a paper I wrote]

As previously discussed, here is my four-point model for evaluating how established local Churches are in missions:

Churches Established in Missions are -
1. Connected to Church networks
2. Connecting to unbelievers
3. Cultivating active Church members
4. Commissioning Church leaders
 
In the next few posts, we will consider each point. First: Point 1.

Point 1 - Churches established in missions are connected to Church networks
In Acts 13-14, we see an interdependence between the Church-planting team and the Churches they have planted. This, of course, starts with the team being physically present for long periods of time. However, after the work has been entrusted to the local leaders, we still see an ongoing relationship between the team and the Churches. An example of this is the case of Antioch of Syria, where the Church was first built up by Paul and Barnabus and then had the opportunity of blessing the two by sending them to the Gentiles.

Therefore, I think we should have strong, ongoing ties to Church planters/reformers/refreshers. I do not think that this necessarily means denominationalism. However, I cannot escape the fact that Paul and his team continue to have authority in these local Churches after they have finished their terms as Church-planters. This seems to be missing in much of the Church-planting and denominational life that I have been exposed to.

Two very practical questions regarding a Church's connection to Church networks: 

1. Does your Church belong to a network of faithful, gifted men and women that they can contribute to as an extension of their mission to expand God's Gospel work?

2. Does your Church belong to a network of faithful, gifted men and women that they can look to as a resource when they need strengthening, reform, or doctrinal correction?