Great post Dave and right on target. We need a definition. May I suggest (maybe not a good definition, but at least a working one):
The word `para' means `beside' or `along side.' Thus a para-Church organization is one that operates along-side the church. This is how
many (definitely
not all) para-church organizations function in practice. However, they are generally
not under the guidance and direction of a local church (some are), but operate separately, relying on local churches, other individuals, and organizations (including government) to support their endeavors and/or finance their
members (members is an interesting aspect on this topic). They tend to specialize in a certain area of ministry. Among para-Church ministries are
most seminaries, mission organizations, Christian hospitals, hospices, and yes, even Christian websites, etc. Are these legit?
Was Paul’s tent making a ministry? What of Peter's fishing fleet? Would we constitute these as a para-Church organizations today or just self-employment with an kingdom flair? Would we support Paul’s making of tents as a ministry? Paul himself submitted to the Church, but was his making of tents submitted? Our jobs should be submitted to the LORD, however, should they be submitted to the eldership of the Church? Is there a difference here? Is every member of the Church suppose to be involved in Church ministry outside the Church and thus do they operate along-side the Church to do the work of the Kingdom? Where do we draw the lines or do we?
I agree that
the church was ordained with the
message and
mission to take the Gospel to the world. However, the visible Church is
not a denomination or a building, but
individuals! However, it is an organized group of individuals with leadership and a foundation with the authority to minister the Gospel and yes, even discipline its members .... Thus, is it Scriptural for an individual who submits to his church leadership to have a para-Church organization? How much control by a Church would make a person’s para-Church organization scripturally legit (if at all)?
Has the Church failed—I astounding say YES they have to fulfill the Great Commission (but, God’s plan is still right on course <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />), however does this legitimize para-church organizations, or just identify the need within the Church to learn … mature … and then act?
Hopefully, we will now begin answering some of these questions and answer if we should give or not to give to "legit" ones? <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/shrug.gif" alt="" />
