The Imperative of Outward Focus for the Church
In today’s fast-paced society, a community church (Keys Vineyard Church is a community church located in the Florida Keys) must remain constant as a beacon of spiritual guidance. The world is not the same as it was during the early days of the Christian faith. Society has evolved, cultures have diversified, and our global challenges have become increasingly complex. In response to these changes, the church must maintain an outward focus, actively engaging with the world outside its doors. This outward focus entails reaching out to communities beyond their congregation, engaging in social justice issues, and adapting to societal changes in a biblically faithful and culturally relevant way.
Having an outward focus ensures that the church fulfills one of its core mandates: evangelism. The church has always been called to spread the Good News beyond its boundaries (Matthew 28:19-20). The Gospel was not meant to be an exclusive message shared only within the confines of church buildings; instead, it is a universal invitation to all people. By reaching out to those beyond their walls, churches can invite more individuals into a relationship with Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission.
Engaging with society enables the church to fulfill its prophetic role. From Old Testament prophets to New Testament apostles, the voice of faith has often served as a moral compass, challenging societal norms that contradict God’s justice and love. By maintaining an outward focus, the church can continue this tradition, standing up for the oppressed, advocating for the marginalized, and promoting peace, justice, and equality in the broader society.
The outward-focused community church helps the church remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. Churches that solely focus inward may become detached from the realities of the society they’re meant to serve. They risk becoming out of touch, failing to connect with younger generations and individuals facing contemporary issues. By understanding and responding to societal shifts, the church can effectively minister to people in a language they understand and through the frequently used mediums.
An outward focus allows the church to practice the teachings of Jesus more holistically. Jesus’s ministry was not one of seclusion but of engagement. He dined with tax collectors, spoke to the Samaritan woman, and healed the sick, embodying an outward-facing, compassionate approach. When the church mirrors this approach, it truly lives out the Gospel.
The church must not exist in a bubble, cut off from the world it is commissioned to serve. By maintaining an outward focus, the church can evangelically fulfill its mission, be a force for social justice, stay relevant amidst societal change, and more fully live out the teachings of Christ. In doing so, the church will sustain itself and be a true embodiment of Christ’s love, bringing light to all corners of the world.
Steve Lawes is a pastor at Keys Vineyard Church and a Church Encourager.
