I've just come across a very interesting article on YouthMinistry360.com from a few weeks back. I don't have much time to digest it, so I'll throw it at you dolphins-at-the-zoo style!! Here's a slice...

Unless you've been in a bunker (c'mon, you don't REALLY believe in that Mayan Calendar 2012 stuff, do you?) you've probably noticed the increased focus (from virtually every corner of Christendom) on The Gospel. It seems no matter where you look across the landscape of the American Church, there is someone defining, refining, or urging a return to the Gospel.

Books. Conferences. Curriculum. Videos. Church Marketing Campaigns. Sermon Series. Etc.

Now, don't think for one second that I'm saying this trend is bad or wrong. That's NOT what I'm saying, not by any stretch of the imagination. But what I think I'm saying is that it does seem to be a trend. Or at least it feels like one. And maybe this is where I'm somewhat cautious. Or uncomfortable. Let me explain . . .

We have a basic understanding of what a trend is. Trends seem to fall in two major categories: let's call them innovations and reclamations. Innovative trends are just that: a new technology, a new application in fashion or music, etc. On the other hand, something like Retro fashion, or vintage design would be an example of reclamation. It's the revival of something that once was, except with a more modern twist. (Something like Instagram is an interesting blend of both innovation and reclamation.)

So, if we're following this logic, this trend of renewed emphasis on the Gospel seems to fall in the reclamation category. A return to the essentials, of you will. I say all this to arrive at this simple point: the increased emphasis on the Gospel has a lot of the same trappings of so many other secular trends I watch. And I guess on some level, I'm curious about the motivation behind what we're seeing.

Go, read the rest...