Center for Christ

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

INTRODUCTION

The contemporary church movement has radically impacted both the church and culture. Many of the new churches that start are contemporary and many traditional churches have added contemporary services. A whole generation of boomers and busters are now trying church and finding that the contemporary church meets their needs and brings them closer to God. The significant increase of these churches is in large part responsible for the growth of mega churches. Many of the largest churches in America are contemporary including Willow Creek and Rick Warren's Saddleback Church. While traditional churches are struggling with declining numbers, contemporary churches are rapidly growing.

What is important to know is that the contemporary church is just that, the Church. The message is absolutely faithful to Jesus and the Bible but the methodology is definitely modern. Relevance is the word for the contemporary church as it tries to find a timely way to communicate a timeless message. The immense amount of change in our culture has necessitated a response from the Church. Computers, e-mail and the Internet were not even on the radar screen 30 years ago yet today they are such a part of modern life no one could live without them.

The appeal of the contemporary church is undeniable. Since we started we have seen explosive growth. The vast majority of the growth has come from previously unchurched people. The contemporary church has become the most effective way to reach spiritually seeking people. Because there is a significant emphasis on making the gospel message understandable to everyone seekers come. Because there is openness to innovation and change moderns are attracted.

Walk in and hear rock music, see people wearing jeans and flip flops, and look at big video screens in church -- yes, in church. Messages that focus on sex, success and decision making are also common fare. Welcome to the contemporary church. The movement...