Front Matters

34 • F RONT M ATTERS : P REREQUISITE R EADINGS FOR THE E VANGEL S CHOOL OF U RBAN C HURCH P LANTING

Source: Ripe for Harvest, pp. 87-89

e. Cell Church Model – once centralized assembly which considers the heart of its life and ministry to occur in the cells which are connected structurally and pastorally to the central congregation; their participation together constitutes the church. f. Home Church Model – a church, which although similar to a cell church model, is intentionally planted with greater attention given to the authority and autonomy of the gathering of Christians who meet regularly in their respective homes. g. Missionary Model – a church where a cross-cultural church planter seeks to plant a church among an unreached people with an intent from the beginning to help the church to be self-propagating, self-governing, and self-supporting. 3. Instead of models language, World Impact recognizes three distinct “expressions” of church planting, out of which various models can be considered and employed. The Small Church Expression (or “house church,” 20-50 people). The small (or house) church can be understood as a small store in a shopping mall . It needs the connections to other small churches to both survive and thrive. Small churches are able to meet virtually anywhere and can operate with a tiny footprint with little to no financial burdens. They can focus on a specific block, housing development, or network of families. This expression allows for a strong discipleship focus of indigenous leadership development which can take place in this smaller connected group. The Community Church Expression (60-150 people) The community church is the most common expression of church, numerically speaking, in the world today. This expression can be understood as a grocery or convenience store in a neighborhood or community. This expression focuses on a particular geographic identity and proximity, highlighting both the affinity, connection, and unique context of the congregation and the surrounding community. It is developed around a deep calling and connection to a particular neighborhood, and typically requires a semi-stable place to meet (e.g., a park, community center, or school). Partnership with other community churches is important. The Mother Church Expression (200+ people) The mother church (or “hub church”) represents a larger assembly of believers, and can be understood as a Walmart Superstore or Super

Context Values/Vision

Prepare Launch Assemble Nurture Transition Schedule/Charter