Class 4 (Feb 25): Individualism (Part 2)

As a follow-up to last week's class on Individualism, we had a deep dive focus on the conversational dynamics involved when it comes to seasoning our engagement with salt (Col 4:5-6). Our focus is not to impose solutions, and giving "I am right, you are wrong" or "I am going to fix you" vibes but to understand the story behind the symptoms. Here are a few insights gathered from those who attended:

• I don't care how much you know until I know how much you care.
• Look for conversational "dips" which indicate hurts and backstories worth exploring further.
• Seek for clarity in their backstory, bearing in mind that deep seated hurts manifest itself as blame.
• Look out for "I have been done wrong" moments.

Here's are the class resources:

• Click here to download the two-page class outline (with discussion case study).
• Click here to the audio recording of the class.
• Click here to download The Ten Seasoning Principles bookmark.

Please post your questions, comments, and suggestions as we progress through this journey together on engaging today's cultural narratives. You can also reach us at:

• John Sittema, johns@uptownchurch.org
• Joseph Tan, joseph@uptownchurch.org

Lesson summary:

1. We do not need to "get to Jesus" ASAP but to engage in such a way that others would ask, "Why do you keep coming back?", "Why do you continue to care?" When the questions start coming, then their heart is ready for the answer.
2. As we listen to the core of what constitutes their story, be looking out for areas of commonality (as fellow human beings) to facilitate "Oh, I see" moments.
3. When does the Good News begin? It is triggered by how far we are from Shalom, what is it supposed to be? Listen to the absence of Shalom. 

Food for thought:

Consider the centrality of Shalom (as you observe common greetings across different cultures):
”Salam” in Arabic and “Ping-an” in Chinese means peace. In Korean, ”Anyoung Haseyo” translates “Are you at peace?” People seek it more than you know. 

Resources recommended:

• Hidden Worldviews: Eight Cultural Stories That Shape Our Lives, by Steve Wilkens and Mark L. Sanford. Consider purchasing a copy (but it is not required).
• Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be: A Breviary of Sin, by Cornelius Plantinga, Jr.

The Transformation Model (The inside-out approach to engaging worldviews)