Practicclesiology: Church with Mind and Body
Over on The Practicing Church, Jeff McQuilkin coins the term “practicology” in response to the overabundance of academic theology that rarely if ever gets out of the proverbial library. Responding to my comment that I love putting ecclesiology and practicology together, Jeff coined another term, “practicclesiology.” Practicclesiology is such an excellent term, it deserves a bit of definitional unpacking.
The theory of ecclesiology consists of the rich, deep biblical truths, describing our safe identity and position in Christ as persons and community. Properly understood, these truths help us, persons and community, to live ordinary lives of risky creative participation in the world for the sake of Christ.
The practice of ecclesiology consists of the extensive and intensive influence of a church, grounded in proper understanding. A properly functioning church (persons and community) moves into the world in Christ and by the Spirit, applying a rich diversity of skills to live boldly in the world while pointing to Christ.
In sum, practicclesiology is a manner of life together that understands and lives out deep connection to Christ and one another in order to dream and risk the seemingly impossible.
What might practicclesiology look like in your church?
[...] in the World Are We?“) continues Jeff’s discussion in her own post called “Practicclesiology” which is focused primarly on a practical ecclesiology – a practical understanding of [...]