Originally posted June 24, 2009. Reposted September 6, 2010
There’s a debate going in the church world right now about “Attractional” ministry and “Missional” ministry. The debate is nothing new, but here’s my attempt at simplifying and understanding the debate (some of you may think I’m over-simplifying).
“Attractional” reflects the mindset that capitalizes on the “draw” of great weekend services and church programs. “If our ministry is cutting edge, quality, and inspiring, people will come to church and be led to Christ.”
“Missional” reflects the mindset that capitalizes on the “draw” of the church being active in the community and serving those in need. “If we are the hands and feet of Jesus in our community people will be drawn to Christ.”
For reasons that escape me people are choosing sides and debating the merits of both positions as if one were better than the other. Personally I think the whole debate is kinda nuts.
If we’re honest we’ll recognize that both models reach a certain part of the population, so why not be both? Why not have amazing ministries and programs while at the same time having an aggressive outward focus by serving the community?
To me it’s simple: the focus of the church should always include outwardly focused small groups (missional) and excellent, culturally-relevant weekend services (attractional).