I like orchestral music. Classically trained players are taught to interpret what is on the score before them. Deviation is generally frowned upon. “Rondo alla Turca” sounds the same each time it is played. I like that.
I like jazz music. While jazz players are trained to read compositions, improvisation is expected within designated parameters. There is certainty, but there is uncertainty as well. I like that, too.
When it comes to ministry, most of us would rather play classical. Familiarity, constants, and certainty are comfortable. There is nothing wrong with this.
However, we are serving people in a changing world and not robots in a constant universe. There are norms, but there are uncertainties. And it is the latter that requires Spirit-led improvisation (within biblical parameters, of course).
If you are serving the Body of Christ, you are called to ministry jazz. To operate from a ministry model that never changes will hinder sanctification and gospel advancement.
We must come to know that God is not a god of chaos. He is our Good Shepherd (Psalm 23) and will lead us as we lead others, even when we don’t know which notes to play next.
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Last week on Strike the Match, Werner Mischke and I talked about honor-shame cultures and his new book on this topic, The Global Gospel. Subscribe and listen: iTunes | Android | RSS