Mark Beeson kicked off the conference talking about how prone we are to talk, talk, talk.
- enough planning
- enough committees
- enough talking
In classic Beeson style Mark communicated with hilarious stories and passionate teaching.
His point: the need around us is urgent. Too urgent to sit and talk. Too urgent to wait. Too urgent to move slowly.
On balance: living perfectly balanced means there's no leaning. Living perfectly balanced means there's risk of falling. But leaning also means there's movement. Leaning is to stop talking.
There is no one else lined up to do what God has called us to do. We're it. Just us. We must stop talking.
Then he turned to the writings and the life of Mark.
- With excellent biblical background Mark Beeson highlighted the sense of urgency with which John Mark wrote his Gospel narrative of the Christ.
- Every 16-17 verses Mark uses the word "eutheos", meaning urgent, immediate, NOW.
- The Gospel according to Mark was an intentional, short, 17-chapter account that drove to the point with a Roman audience in mind.
- It was the Jews who wanted a thoughtful, genealogic history. Hence, John's account.
In our day, in our culture...
- People want something to happen. Now.
- And yet, it must be presented in context, in story, with thoughtfulness.
- We must be creative enough to address both cultural expectations: story, rich with history and kingdom purpose - but delivered succinctly, clearly - now.
- Jesus is on the scene. Though met with rebellion, resisting his call from selfishness and pride. People need to hear the good news of the kingdom... in a clear, concise fashion.
Mark Beeson was anointed, brilliant, and compelling. It was one of best ever messages. You'll want to watch wiredchurches.com and innovateconference.com for info on hearing each session.
We're off to a great start!
