Professional Documents
Culture Documents
OPINION, WHAT IS “CENTER CHURCH” AND WHAT CONTRIBUTION DOES THIS CONCEPT
emphasizing the need for churches to be deeply rooted in the gospel while engaging with the surrounding
culture. Keller’s vision of the “Center Church” finds a balance between tradition and innovation, ensuring
that the church remains true to its theological foundations while being relevant and accessible in the
modern world. This concept contributes significantly to contemporary missiology by offering a framework
that values evangelism and social justice, urging churches to be a counterculture for the common good and
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE AUTHOR’S DECISION TO START A NEW MINISTRY IN
THE CITY AND WHICH VALUES HE IMPLEMENTED? WHY? IN OTHER WORDS, WHAT IS THE
Timothy Keller’s decision to start a new ministry in New York City with Redeemer Presbyterian
Church was driven by his belief in the strategic importance of cities in shaping culture, values, and global
trends. He recognized that cities are centers of influence and power but also contain deep spiritual and
social needs. Keller believed that by planting a gospel-centered, culturally engaged church in the heart of a
global city, there would be a ripple effect, influencing the city and the broader culture. The values
evangelism but about allowing the gospel to shape all aspects of church life and personal transformation.
Cultural Engagement. Rather than retreating from or assimilating into the culture, Redeemer seeks
to engage with it, affirming what is good and critiquing what is not in line with the gospel.
Wholistic Ministry. Redeemer focuses on spiritual needs and addresses social and cultural issues,
Church Planting. Keller believes in the importance of church planting as a strategy for gospel
renewal in the city, leading to Redeemer’s commitment to planting new churches in NYC and globally.
Compared to other urban churches, Redeemer’s contribution lies in its unique blend of deep theological
grounding and active cultural engagement. It is not just a church in the city but a church for the city. Its
emphasis on church planting, leadership development, and holistic ministry has made it a model for urban
ministry globally. While many urban churches have made significant contributions in their contexts,
Redeemer stands out for its vision of gospel renewal in major global cities and its comprehensive strategy
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OWN ATTITUDE REGARDING THE CITY? WHAT IS THE
BIBLICAL CONCEPT OF CITY? HOW WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO LOOK FOR “PEACE AND
Cities, for many, represent hubs of opportunity, innovation, and cultural exchange, but they also
come with challenges like social disparities and economic inequalities. The Bible offers a nuanced view of
cities. In the early scriptures, cities such as Babel symbolize human hubris (Genesis 11), while others like
Jerusalem are depicted as God’s chosen places. The New Testament positions the city as a locale for
evangelism, as seen in Paul’s missionary journeys, and a place of resistance. The biblical narrative
culminates with the vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21, symbolizing a perfected city where God
Drawing from Jeremiah 29:7, believers are encouraged to “seek the peace and prosperity” of their
cities. This entails being proactive in community engagement, advocating for justice, and fostering
understanding among diverse groups. It is about praying for the city’s welfare, supporting educational and
health initiatives, and collaborating for the common good. By immersing themselves in improving their
urban communities, individuals can contribute to a city’s holistic well-being and, in turn, find their
prosperity.
The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church has a rich history of engaging with culture in various
ways. Suppose we were to categorize the SDA Church’s approach using H. In Richard Niebuhr’s “Christ
and Culture” typology, it appears that the SDA Church has adopted multiple models at different times and
Christ Against Culture. Historically, the SDA Church has often adopted a separatist stance,
emphasizing the distinctiveness of its beliefs and practices. This can be seen in its observance of the
Saturday Sabbath, dietary practices, and end-time beliefs. The church has often emphasized the importance
of being “in the world, but not of the world,” leading to a certain level of cultural separation.
Christ Transforming Culture: Conversely, the SDA Church has been actively involved in various
societal sectors, especially health and education. The church’s health message, vegetarianism, and
emphasis on holistic well-being have significantly influenced certain cultural practices and norms.
Moreover, establishing schools, colleges, and universities worldwide shows an investment in shaping
In my assessment, while the “Christ Against Culture” model might be more traditionally associated
with the SDA Church, many SDA leaders and members today lean towards the “Christ Transforming
Culture” model, seeking to impact their communities and the world positively. The shift might be
attributed to a globalized world with greater emphasis on dialogue, understanding, and positive community
engagement. However, it is essential to note that individual leaders and regional contexts might influence
CHRISTIANITY, IN WHAT “SEASON” ARE YOU? ADAPTING THESE “FOUR SEASONS,” WHAT
H. Richard Niebuhr’s seminal work, “Christ and Culture,” does not directly use a “seasons”
metaphor to describe the relationship between Christianity and culture. Instead, he proposes five
typologies: “Christ Against Culture,” “Christ of Culture,” “Christ Above Culture,” “Christ and Culture in
However, in his writings and teachings, Tim Keller has sometimes used a “seasons” metaphor to
describe various approaches churches take towards culture, drawing inspiration from Niebuhr’s typologies.
The metaphorical “seasons” can be understood as different postures or attitudes churches adopt concerning
Winter (Christ Against Culture). A season of resistance and opposition to the surrounding culture.
Spring (Christ of Culture). A season of embracing and identifying with the culture.
Summer (Christ Above Culture). A season of both engagement with and critique of the culture,
Fall (Christ and Culture in Paradox). A season of recognizing the tension between the church’s
Keller suggests that churches should aim for a “summer” approach, which aligns with Niebuhr’s
“Christ Transforming Culture” typology. In this stance, the church neither wholly rejects nor uncritically
embraces culture but seeks to engage with it, affirming its good aspects and critiquing its shortcomings
PRESENT AN OUTLINE OF A STRATEGY USING WHAT YOU LEARN FROM THIS BOOK IN
YOUR MINISTRY.
Drawing inspiration from Timothy Keller’s “Center Church” and its principles on gospel-centered
Deep Discipleship. Implement a robust discipleship program that roots members in the gospel,
Theological Training. Equip leaders and members with theological training to ensure a deep
2. Cultural Engagement
Cultural Assessment. Regularly evaluate the local culture to understand its values, challenges, and
opportunities.
Christianity.
Arts & Culture. Engage with local artists and cultural events to affirm and critique from a gospel
perspective.
3. City-Centered Living
Urban Investment. Prioritize ministry opportunities that cater to urban needs, such as housing, racial
Community Groups. Establish small groups within neighborhoods to foster community and engage
4. Missional Approach:
Church Planting. Invest in planting new churches in unreached areas of the city.
Wholistic Mission. Emphasize evangelism and social justice, ensuring the gospel addresses spiritual
Partnership.: Collaborate with other churches and organizations to maximize impact and resources.
5. Adaptive Structures
Innovative Worship. Ensure worship styles are both biblically faithful and culturally relevant.
Flexible Programs. Evaluate and adapt church programs to meet the changing needs of the urban
community.
Leadership Development. Continuously invest in raising new leaders who understand the gospel
Citywide Prayer: Organize regular prayer events focused on the city’s well-being and spiritual
renewal.
Retreats. Host spiritual retreats to rejuvenate members and leaders, ensuring they remain rooted in
Implementing this strategy requires ongoing assessment, feedback, and adaptation. The essence is
to remain centered on the gospel while actively engaging with the city’s cultural, social, and spiritual