Somewhere in this conversation will not we be forced to speak to the category of “peculiar people” to the either red or blue?
Can the word “world” in the axiom ” in the world and not of the world” be interchanged with the word “culture” as we engage it?
If so, doesn’t that automatically create the peculiar?
People seem repelled by the universal yet drawn to the tastefully peculiar.
Are there any evangelical “blues” out there speaking on how to speak to a “red” state of mind or is it a one way street? :-)

Question #2 How do we convey authenticity?
How do we communicate authenticity – how does the “contemporary church” avoid coming across as contrived – a caricature of itself. We all know authenticity when we see it – but what does it look like in the Church, in Christians, in Leaders?

By connecting with the truely authenic. We serve only as a notary to authenticate Jesus Christ.

Question #3 How do we address Politics?
Ikes – can’t believe I am even going here – so play nice! How can the church address the issues of the culture in a way that is above petty policy and candidates. How do we preserve our primary mandate of sharing the transformative message of the gospel. How is the role of the church different than the role of the individual believer?

Ben, I stay out of politics unless the political world has kidnapped the moral and cloaked it in political drag. Then I address the underlying moral issue ( using the power of scripture and very little opinion at all).
While touring the Holy Land, I was struck by the fact that Jesus never visited the seat of political power.

I agree with the statement, “Jesus is coming back, but not on Air Force One!”

Question #4 Where does communication count most in ministry?
Our ministry is all about “communicating” a 2000 year old message that is the difference between Heaven and Hell. How we communicate in every area of ministry makes an eternal difference – where do you see vital communication taking place in your ministry and in the Church?

For me, in this order: By example first in my personal life, then the example of my immediate family (wife and kids), and last, by words.
Who is that said, “Preach truth, and when necessary use words” or something like that. :-)

I hope this makes sense. Sometimes I don’t make sense to myself. But anyway – I like your thought provoking questions. Which I could attend.

Otis

A Man of God whose walk communicates as much as his talk and should reflect His GOd and His Gospel.

A Message from God which is the inspired, inerrant Word of GOd, not our opinions or preferences or what is politically correct or even culturally relevant.

A Mission for God which would fit with the Great Commission and can be described as “Leadership Communication” by Ben.

A Motivation like God which means the Great Commandment is reflected in our hearts and cross-cultural compassion is evident in our attitude and approach.

A Mandate by God to communicate this message for the joy of all peoples and in spite of obstacles and persecution – in season and out of season!

A Method for God means that all the above will shape and determine our methods of communication. While Paul was willing to be all things to win some, he also was adamant that his methods were not up to par with worlds expectations in terms of style and substance. Also motives played a huge role in shaping his approach and aims in communication.

If the Tower of Babel has taught us anything it is this: all that is humanly possible and technologically possible is not necessarily pleasing to God or in keeping with His revealed purposes!