the big picture.

“The problem is not that the content [churches’ teach] itself is weak, but that the content is not provided in a purposeful, systematic manner. As a result believers are exposed to good information without context and thus lose that information because they have no way of making sense of it without the bigger picture of faith and life… Ultimately, believers become well versed in knowing characters, stories, ideas, and verses from the Bible, but they remain clueless as to their importance.” – George Barna, pg 260 "The Complete Book of Discipleship"

I think Barna has just summed up the American Christian faith. We are trained in nice, neat little packages of morality and analogy, with key words and flashy graphics. But most often we couldn’t explain God’s BIG PICTURE of how redemption and sanctification are woven from Genesis to Revelation. That is discipleship – introducing the believer to the Story Teller, giving him the story overview and the framework to understand the details, and then helping him find his place as he walks confidently towards the End- you beside him.

I have gone to church since birth, but until this year at the Kanakuk Institute, I didn’t have this big-picture context of God’s story. It’s not because my church lacked love, integrity, or even vision. Nor am I above saying it’s my own fault. I don’t know really where they blame should be laid, other than we live in a fallen world and I’m a big sinner.

But I can say with full confidence,

knowing the context of the story and the big picture of faith

makes all the difference in the world.

I may not be able to explain the rapture, pre-destination, or the why’s behind some theology - - but I am so grateful this year has taught me how to know God and the context to understand His passion for people.

If I could pay for everyone to come here, I would. I’m walking away from 8 months of school, confident of what I believe and why; passionate about loving people with purpose; and excited because of Who my God is!