Lucas Pulley, an expert in spiritual formation, joins Jeremy Stephens, who shares valuable insights on microchurch development. They delve into the concept of a 'rule of life', emphasizing its importance for community commitment and spiritual growth. The conversation highlights the balance between structured practices and organic community interactions. They also discuss accountability within microchurches and the role of personal and communal discipleship in fostering strong relationships. This engaging dialogue sets the stage for innovative approaches to microchurch life.
A rule of life provides a structured framework for individual and communal spiritual practices that promote intentional growth and accountability.
Commitment to shared practices within microchurches fosters a stronger sense of community and helps maintain focus amid challenges.
Creating clear, codified practices allows microchurch members to better understand their roles, engaging more deeply with each other and their mission.
Deep dives
Understanding the Rule of Life
A rule of life serves as a framework for both individual and community spiritual practices, focusing on intentional actions that align with one's values. This concept has gained traction recently, emphasizing not only personal spiritual formation but also collective engagement within microchurches. By identifying three to five key practices, individuals can effectively focus on their development rather than being overwhelmed by numerous resolutions. This principle encourages a manageable approach to spiritual growth, leading to sustained commitment and transformation.
Transitioning to Commitment
As microchurches evolve from experimentation to structured phases, establishing commitment becomes crucial for maintaining focus and direction. The commitment to shared practices fosters accountability among members and reinforces the community's purpose. Emphasizing the importance of external commitments, the discussions suggest that without these, motivation can wane as members fall victim to fleeting emotions. Consequently, a stable rule of life can help ensure ongoing dedication despite challenges and individual feelings.
Codifying Community Practices
Microchurch communities benefit from creating concise, codified practices that guide their shared identity and mission. By focusing on clear, memorable practices, such as the “B.E.L.L.S.” acronym, communities can establish a baseline for their communal engagements. These practices serve as tools for every member to understand their roles and commitments, enabling deeper relationships with one another and a clearer vision of their mission. As communities progress through different phases, revisiting and refining their rule of life ensures alignment with their evolving understanding of their purpose.
Navigating Commitment and Accountability
The process of maintaining accountability within a microchurch hinges on establishing unambiguous commitments among members. Regular check-ins, re-evaluations, and encouraged conversations about shared practices ensure that everyone remains aligned with the community's rule of life. Furthermore, discussing unspoken expectations and commitments promotes a culture of trust and transparency, helping to address any misunderstandings before they disrupt relationships. Ultimately, fostering this culture enhances the health and sustainability of the microchurch community.
Distinguishing Rule of Life from Discipleship Plans
The rule of life functions as a communal guide, while basic discipleship plans focus on individual growth within the community. While both serve different purposes, they overlap significantly, with a rule of life facilitating a broader approach to discipleship for the group. Establishing a community covenant further enhances commitment, emphasizing shared practices and expectations that guide individuals within the microchurch. This distinction clarifies that a thriving community flourishes through both collective support and personal accountability in their walks of faith.
Thank you for joining us in this episode of Microchurches! Today we are kicking off a new series all about microchurch life by sitting down with Lucas Pulley and Jeremy Stephens and discussing what we often mean by "rule of life". Because microchurches function differently than more "event-based" churches or ministries might, a set of expectations of commitments to God and one another is important for the growth and sustainability of a microchurch.