The Future of Adventist Media (ft. Kevin Wilson, TikTok's CEO of Chai)
Feb 8, 2024
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Seventh-Day Adventist pastor Kevin Wilson and TikTok's CEO of Chai discuss the future of Adventist media evangelism. Topics include morality of tea vs. coffee, family background and Adventist upbringing, ministry of reconciliation, future of media and faith, challenges of losing a manuscript, and 'The Way of Chai' book content.
Evangelism is about reconciliation, not just conversion, emphasizing bridges over bunkers.
Success in outreach is creating meaningful relationships beyond baptism numbers.
Practicing reconciliation involves engaging with diverse communities and embracing differing beliefs.
Relatability and genuine connection are crucial in effective ministry, prioritizing relationships over institutional goals.
Deep dives
Reconciling Evangelism and Proselytization
The distinction between evangelism and proselytization is highlighted, with evangelism being seen as a ministry of reconciliation rather than a push towards baptizing or converting individuals. The focus shifts to being ambassadors of reconciliation and connecting with people to build bridges rather than bunkers.
Measuring Success Through Relational Outreach
Success in outreach is redefined from solely focusing on baptism numbers to engaging in meaningful, messy relational work that prioritizes individual needs over institutional goals. The emphasis is on becoming a loving and lovable Christian who actively participates in diverse circles and friendships outside traditional religious or Adventist spaces.
Barometers for Practicing Reconciliation
Practical barometers for practicing reconciliation include assessing the number of non-Adventist friends in one's social circle, actively contributing to circles that are not defined by religious affiliations, and engaging in spaces where differing beliefs and perspectives are welcomed and valued. The minister of reconciliation concept is exemplified through genuine engagement and impactful relationships with diverse individuals.
Prioritizing Relatability and Genuine Connection
Relatability and genuine connection are underscored as foundational elements of ministry, where being a loving and lovable Christian serves as the strongest argument for the gospel. Building relationships and engaging with people outside one's faith community are highlighted as essential components of practicing effective reconciliation-based outreach.
Expanding Comfort Zones and Building Meaningful Connections
Expanding comfort zones by actively engaging with non-Adventist friends and contributing to diverse social circles helps in fostering meaningful connections and embodying the spirit of reconciliation. Encouraging genuine dialogue, fostering understanding, and embracing diverse perspectives are emphasized as pivotal elements of a reconciliatory approach to evangelism.
Reevaluating the Purpose of Evangelism
The episode delves into reevaluating the purpose of evangelism by posing the question 'why' repeatedly to uncover the underlying motivations behind spreading the message of Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of going beyond surface-level reasons like reaching others for Jesus and delving deeper into the desire for the flourishing of individuals. By exploring the ultimate 'why,' it challenges the notion of evangelism being driven merely by external influences or tradition, highlighting a deeper connection to the belief that following the way of Jesus is the optimal life operating system for human flourishing.
Transition from Evangelistic Focus in Online Content
The episode discusses a shift from an evangelistic focus in online content, detailing the personal journey behind rebranding from 'Cross Culture Christian' to 'Cross Culture Kev.' This transformation stems from a desire for broader access to engage a diverse audience and discuss a wider range of topics beyond Christianity. The decision reflects a critical stance towards the baggage associated with the term 'Christian,' highlighting the need to move beyond conversion-driven approaches towards fostering genuine connection and dialogue. The shift aims to navigate spaces where traditional Christian influencers may not reach, advocating for a holistic ministry of reconciliation amid changing perspectives.
What does the future of Adventist media evangelism look like? That’s the question we ask our guest Kevin Wilson (TikTok’s “CEO of Chai”). Kevin is a Seventh-Day Adventist pastor in Oregon, as well as a social media influencer who has hundreds of thousands of followers across Instagram and TikTok. Kevin reflects with us on what good evangelism really looks like, and how media can used effectively in today’s world.
Have a question you want us to discuss? Comment? Maybe you disagree with something we said? Either way, we'd love to hear from you! Shoot us an email at: seekingwhattheysought@gmail.com
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