Micro-Church Model
Summary: Simplicity is vital for participation and reproducibility. A micro-church model can be participated in by everyone and passed on by anyone.
Note: This post is the fifth in our “Discipleship DNA” series that covers what we consider core values for discipleship. Our fourth core value at Pattern is “Micro-Church Model.”
This value encourages followers of Jesus to use a simple model, with simple patterns, of gathering together — much like the early church did, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
The early church had all they needed to become healthy, loving churches that spread throughout the world. They had the Old Testament Scriptures, stories of Jesus, one another, and the Holy Spirit. With these simple treasures, they cared for one another, discovered more about God, responded to God, and boldly shared the gospel. This pattern – care, discover, respond and go – defined the life of the early church. It is memorable and repeatable.
CARE – They practiced love through their fellowship, generosity, prayer, encouragement and service. Through authentic, face to face relationships they experienced true fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
DISCOVER – The Holy Spirit revealed more of God through scripture, stories of Jesus, and the apostles’ teaching. Through a willingness to learn from the Holy Spirit as their Teacher, they became more like Jesus.
RESPOND – They responded to the Holy Spirit through practices of confession, repentance, prayer, and worship. Through accountability and obedience they experienced deliverance and transformation.
GO – They practiced extravagant prayer to boldly share the gospel. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, they reproduced who they were throughout the world.
Simplicity is vital for participation and reproducibility. A micro-church model can be participated in by everyone and passed on by anyone.
