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Blog
Here we will post ideas and thoughts about evangelization, running an Alpha course, and how this interacts with the church and current society. Click on the articles below to view past blog entries. |
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 Two Things Alpha does best
by Todd Hunter
Upon assuming the role of Executive Director in the spring of 2004, I was interviewed by a leading Christian magazine and my comment about the Alpha course was as follows:
Alpha is the most holistic approach to evangelization available to the local churches.
While exploring sin, the cross, and resurrection, it also introduces seekers to life in the Kingdom and the Spirit -- in a way that leads naturally to discipleship to Jesus and love for neighbor. The Alpha course shows seekers how to become ambassadors of the Kingdom, the cooperative friends of Jesus who live constant lives of creative goodness through the power of the Holy Spirit for the sake of the last, the least and the lost. The Alpha course, revolving around a meal and short talk, and being communal, relational, and full of dialog, is a great tool for reaching postmodern and post-Christian people. |
In my view this is truer now than when I said it four and a half years ago. More than ever seekers are talking and observing their way into Christian faith. Thus they need the two things Alpha does best: listen within the context of a relationally and intellectually honest environment.
I know it could sound cliché, the basic recipe of Alpha—a sort of catechism with dinner and dialog, is the best thing out there.
My time as an official employee at Alpha USA comes to an end December 31st—but because of my dedication to the Alpha course I will continue to serve on the executive committee and board.
May God encourage you with these thoughts—and may he bless your January courses!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Todd
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Todd Hunter, 12/5/2008 |
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