Matthew 28v19 – 20 outlines The Great Commission which embodies 3 Zones and 6 Core Values.
ZONE 1 – REACH
"19 Therefore GO and make disciples of ALL NATIONS..."
From this we get our two REACH values: INTENTIONAL and INCLUSIVE.
"Go" is intentional. We value being intentional.
We don't go anywhere in life without some intentionality. Here at the G we are intentional in the way we reach people. They may have come to our venue but we intentionally go to them in our approach to the way we structure our GATHERINGS, work in our GROUPS or approach individuals. We also believe it is our responsibility to GO and meet people where they are at.
"All nations" is inclusive. We value being inclusive.
Here at the G we are inclusive in the way we reach people. We are not here to judge people we exist to love people. We don't say 'Believe, then behave and then we'll allow you to belong.' We say 'Come and belong' because we are inclusive in our approach.
Throughout each person's journey of faith they may come to believe, and through their connection to God, or others, their behaviour may change but that's all up to each individual and the choices they make. It won't change the way we approach you. You can belong here.
ZONE 2 – INFLUENCE
19 "Therefore go and MAKE DISCIPLES of all nations, BAPTISING them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,"
From this we get out two INFLUENCE values: LEARNING and LEAVING
A disciple is a learner. We value being a learner.
Staying teachable is essential for growth and advancement in every sphere of life.
Baptising them is about leaving. We value what it means to leave the old behind.
Leaving the old and rising to the new signifies the possibilities that become available to us through the rebirthing process that Jesus taught his followers about. This means we can always find a fresh start as a Christ follower. No matter what our background, or the narrative of our former selves, this transformative process allowing us to embrace a new self and new possibilities is available to us. Everyone continues to have some things in their lives that they are not proud of, or defining moments we wish we could break free from. We can change the story of our lives!
ZONE 3 – BUILD
20 "and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
From this we get out two BUILD values: LOVE and OBEDIENCE.
Love and obedience are intrinsic.
OBEDIENCE = taught to obey everything.
LOVE = Jesus isn't going anywhere.