A House Divided

by Whitesel, Bob

• ISBN13: 9780687091041
• ISBN10: 0687091047
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2001-02-01
• Publisher: Abingdon Pr

Summary

Generational differences are nothing new in church. There have always been groups and subgroups within a congregation, divided according to age. Yet with the possible exception of their educational programs, congregations have generally practiced a "one-size-fits-all" approach to ministry and worship. Whichever group is dominant--generally the older members, although it can be the younger--sets the tone for musical styles, preaching emphases, and outreach focus. Frequently the non-dominant groups grow restless and dissatisfied, leaving the church to find better opportunities of service and worship elsewhere. The result is often stagnation and decline. Bob Whitesel and Kent R. Hunter wrote this book to provide congregations with a clear understanding of the problems caused by generation gaps as well as to offer ideas for transforming the church into a healthy, growing, tri-generational structure.Key Features: Author recognition; Addresses a very timely issue in a creative way; Offers a specific strategy for implementation in local churchesKey Benefits: Readers will gain an understanding of the major differences between the three major age/generational groups in most congregations; Readers will be offered a specific and practical seven step strategy for developing a healthy tri-generational church; Readers will find ways to not only live in peace within the household of faith, but to minister more effectively to community and world

Table of Contents

Preface	7	(2)
Acknowledgments	9	(4)
PART ONE: The What and Why of the Tri-Gen Church
How Generation Gaps Are Tearing Apart Our Churches	13	(18)
The Aftermath of Generational Conflict	31	(25)
Attitudes That Produce the Gaps	56	(26)
When 1 + 1 + 1 = 1	82	(23)
PART TWO: 7 Steps to a Tri-generational Church
Envision Your Leadership, Church, and Community	105	(16)
Leading the Tri-generational Church	121	(23)
Identify the Needs of teh Unchurched	144	(17)
Worship in a Tri-generational Format	161	(27)
Befriending and Inviting	188	(14)
Evaluate Your Success	202	(20)
Mobilizing Your Church for Transgenerational Prayer	222	(16)
Epilogue Which Church Will Yours Be in the 21st Century?	238