{"product_id":"ekklesia-rediscovering-gods-instrument-for-global-transformation","title":"Ekklesia: Rediscovering God's Instrument for Global Transformation","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003eBestselling author Ed Silvoso explores why the church today has lost its influence in culture, comparing it to the first-century church that was a radical, countercultural force. He reveals Jesus' true design for the church, the Ekklesia, and how it can become a revolutionary, transformational, and life-giving force in the midst of social, economic, political, and moral chaos. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e                                                            \u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Paperback \/ softback\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 272 pages\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 05 December 2017\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: Baker Publishing Group\u003cbr\u003e                          \u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe church has faced a significant decline in cultural influence in recent times, despite the availability of technology, affluence, and knowledge. This decline raises questions about why the church, which operated in a different context in the first century, was more effective in transforming society. In his book, \"Dynamic New Teaching from Bestselling Author Ed Silvoso,\" Silvoso delves into Scripture to uncover Jesus's true design for the church, known as the Ekklesia. He demonstrates how the early church was a radical and countercultural force, transforming hostile and pagan environments. Through his insights, Silvoso shows how the church can regain its revolutionary and transformative power in the midst of social, economic, political, and moral chaos.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe early church was a remarkable example of a community that lived in obedience to Jesus's teachings and modeled the values of love, compassion, and service. They were a radical group of people who refused to conform to the cultural norms of their time and instead sought to live out the kingdom of God in their daily lives. The early church's success was not due to any external factors such as technology, wealth, or political power, but rather to their deep commitment to following Jesus and his teachings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne of the key characteristics of the early church was its emphasis on community. The believers gathered together regularly to worship, study the Bible, and pray for one another. They shared their resources and lived in unity, caring for the needs of those around them. This sense of community was a powerful force for transformation, as it created a sense of belonging and support that was absent in the surrounding society.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother important aspect of the early church was its mission to reach the lost and marginalized. The believers were passionate about sharing the gospel with those who had never heard it and were willing to go to great lengths to do so. They established schools, hospitals, and orphanages to care for the poor and sick and worked to spread the message of Jesus throughout the Roman Empire.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe early church also had a strong sense of the supernatural. They believed in the power of prayer, the authority of the Bible, and the presence of God in their lives. They were not afraid to speak out against injustice and oppression and were willing to risk their lives for the cause of Christ. This boldness and courage were a source of inspiration for many who followed in their footsteps.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDespite the church's many successes, it has faced challenges throughout its history. In the Middle Ages, the church was often divided and weakened by political and social tensions. In the modern era, the church has faced challenges from secularism, materialism, and cultural change. However, the church has also responded to these challenges with renewed vigor and creativity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne of the ways that the church has responded to these challenges is by becoming more inclusive and diverse. In the past, the church has been characterized by its exclusivity and rigidity, but today, there are many different denominations and traditions within the church that offer a wide range of perspectives and practices. This diversity has created a more welcoming and inclusive environment for people from all walks of life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother way that the church has responded to these challenges is by becoming more missional. The church has recognized that it is not enough to simply exist as a community of believers but that it must also be actively engaged in serving the needs of the world around it. This has led to the development of many social justice and outreach programs that seek to address issues such as poverty, hunger, and human trafficking.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe church has also recognized the importance of technology and social media in reaching new audiences and sharing the gospel. Many churches now have websites, social media accounts, and podcasts that allow them to reach people who may not have access to traditional forms of worship or religious education. This has created new opportunities for the church to share its message and engage with people who may be skeptical or disconnected from traditional religious practices.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn conclusion, the church has faced a significant decline in cultural influence in recent times, but there are many ways that the church can regain its power and impact. By emphasizing community, mission, and inclusivity, by becoming more missional, and by leveraging technology and social media, the church can once again become a radical and countercultural force for good in the world. The early church provides a powerful example of how the church can live out its calling to love God and love others and how it can transform the lives of those around it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e                            \u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 326g                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 142 x 215 x 18 (mm)                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9780800798567                                                      \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ed Silvoso","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":44094008262906,"sku":"9780800798567","price":9.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/1e6e3b6ed555c81b9780e367d241eb72.jpg?v=1630895130","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/ekklesia-rediscovering-gods-instrument-for-global-transformation","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}