Since we are on track to plant The Line in January 2009, this seems like a good time to briefly re-state our purpose and vision for those of you that haven’t yet made it to those sections of our website.
Simply stated, The Line is a movement of the People of God in Chicago. Let me touch on the key concepts in this statement.
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In Chicago
We speak and live the gospel in a unique place, time, and culture: 21st century Chicago. We celebrate those places where God’s image is present in this great city while grieving over its brokenness. We champion the causes of reconciliation and reconstruction through bold action. Our love for Chicago isn’t fueled by affiliation to a political party. It is fueled by our love for and gratitude towards Christ. The question is less “Who are we going to vote for?” and more “Who are we going to die for?”
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The People of God
God’s great plan of redemption has been accomplished through Jesus, the Christ. In Jesus we are adopted into a royal family. In Jesus we are forgiven for our rebellion against our Father God and restored to a life of unimaginable wonder with Him. In Jesus, the plumb line of Israel who is making straight all that is crooked and bent, we participate in the glorious triumph of redemption and the renewal of all things.
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A Movement
As we bring the good news of Jesus’ work and reign to Chicago, we stress the kind of discipleship that multiplies and sends missionaries (the people in God’s family). We work hard to become a broad, diverse network of Christian communities that heal, reconcile, and bless the city of Chicago in Jesus. Our emphasis will be less growing by one hundred members in a year, and more growing a hundred churches in a generation.
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Be sure to browse the other sections of this site, which describe this vision in more detail. I’d also love to answer any questions you have personally. Leave a comment on this post or email chicagoline at gmail dot com.
