Has the Centralized Denominational Church Structure Failed?
"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit." Ephesians 2:19-22
The question is mute. Obviously, the centralized denominational structure of the Body of Christ allowed transgenderism to rise up and run rampant in every aspect of Western society. The traditional denominational hierarchal system is not worth fixing. It will be cut off and discarded like a withering useless branch thrown in the fire. I realize these are strong words, but considering where society is, don't you think it is time for strong words?
"For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ." John 1:16-17
This article is not meant to point out the craziness of society and culture and the apparent failure of the Western denominational hierarchal church system. No, the Western church has failed so badly that this article entirely skips the disasters and instead points out and discusses the solution, Jesus. We don't have time to argue or fuss; it is time to make a stand.
KINGDOM Empowered's grand vision includes decentralizing the Christian Church. We believe decentralization is an absolute must, and if you hang around, we'll show you "why" and "how." If you continue to read, you then agree there is a sense of urgency to restore the Church to its authentic, decentralized roots, and there's no time to waste.
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33
The Decentralized Churches of the Future
KINGDOM Empowered envisions a future where churches transition from the centralized and often stagnant structures of the past to become dynamic and decentralized "starfish organizations." We believe this shift is essential to save the world's children and bring about explosive change through the power of God's grace.
In the book "The Starfish and the Spider: The Unstoppable Power of Leaderless Organizations" by Ori Brafman and Rod Beckstrom, the metaphor of a spider and a starfish explains the key principles behind decentralized organizations. A spider represents a top-down, centralized organization, while a starfish represents a decentralized, leader-empowered organization.
The power of a starfish lies in its ability to replicate and spread a fluid set of ideas, beliefs, values, and norms. This is what enables movements like Wikipedia, craigslist, Skype, and even the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous to have a significant impact and create transformative change.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him in love. In love" Ephesians 1:3-4
In contrast, a spider organization relies heavily on a central authority or leader. If the head of a spider is removed, the organization collapses. However, a starfish organization can adapt, grow, and thrive even if individual parts are removed or damaged. It has the inherent ability to regenerate and continue spreading its influence.
To save the world's children, KINGDOM Empowered recognizes the need for decentralized, starfish-like churches. These organizations replicate the major organs of the Church throughout every arm, allowing for greater flexibility, adaptability, and resilience. They are not dependent on a single leader or headquarters but thrive through the participants' shared values, beliefs, and goals.
The decentralized nature of starfish organizations means that knowledge and power are distributed rather than concentrated. Units within the organization can communicate directly with each other, fostering collaboration and synergy. These organizations are flexible, self-funding, and rely on the active participation and engagement of all believers rather than a few select leaders.
"And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
By embracing decentralization, KINGDOM Empowered aims to create an open system where intelligence and decision-making are spread throughout the Church. This allows for organic growth, adaptation to changing contexts, and the ability to respond effectively to the needs of children and families in diverse communities.
KINGDOM Empowered's mission to save the children of the world is intricately tied to the transition from centralized, spider-like churches to decentralized, starfish-like churches. By replicating the major organs of the Church throughout every arm, embracing shared values, and spreading the transformative power of God's grace, we believe we can create explosive change and bring hope, transformation, and salvation to the lives of children and families in need.
Decentralization: Breaking Free from Satan's Stronghold on the Body of Christ in America
The concept of decentralization is THE WAY to break free from the limitations of the current centralized structure where a select few hold power and decision-making. By embracing decentralization, KINGDOM Empowered aims to empower and mobilize ALL BELIEVERS throughout the ENTIRE Church, working to release everyone to participate actively in mission, community, and discipleship.
At KINGDOM Empowered, we believe that EVERYONE is called to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ daily with everyone to live a truly authentic "Christian lifestyle." We believe it starts with Grace Homes, Grace Coaches, and Grace Hubs. Let me explain.
Grace Homes represent the small, close-knit communities of believers, reminiscent of the early house churches. These homes provide a space for authentic Christian relationships, shared life, and shared Christian mission. They are supposed to be the heart of the Church, fostering deep connections between believers and engagement with the love and grace of God.
Grace Hubs serve as the resource and support centers for Grace Homes and Grace Coaches. We don't need to fix the traditional churches. Instead, we must turn them into resource training centers that effectively equip ALL BELIEVERS. We've given the traditional denominational model 100 years... and look what it gave us... our society is undergoing a hostile takeover by the tiny transgender movement, and it's very clear the traditional denominational church failed miserably, as it should.
"that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him." Ephesians 1:17
Grace Hubs provide decentralized communities with teaching materials, leadership and discipleship development, and incredible networking opportunities. The Hubs aim to equip and empower individuals within Grace Homes to fulfill their calling and contribute to the work of the Kingdom.
Through the decentralization of the Church, KINGDOM Empowered believes that the Church will be restored to its true essence, where individuals are activated and mobilized for mission, justice, and love. They believe this restoration will profoundly impact the world, bringing salvation, hope, and transformation to communities and families.
The vision of KINGDOM Empowered encompasses saving the world by embodying and sharing the love and grace of God in tangible ways. We believe that as the Church embraces decentralization and operates in the power of God's grace, the world will experience the transformative power of the Gospel.
"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might" Ephesians 1:18-19
Additionally, KINGDOM Empowered recognizes the importance of saving the children of the world and restoring families. By establishing Grace Homes and Hubs, we aim to create spaces where children are nurtured, families are strengthened, and the next generation is raised in the knowledge and love of God.
The Mission to Decentralize the Church
Part of the mission of KINGDOM Empowered is to decentralize the Christian Church, establish Grace Homes and Grace Hubs, and empower individuals to live out their faith, engage in mission, and restore the Church, save the world, save the children, and save families through the transformative power of God's grace.
Centralization refers to a structure where a select group holds power and decision-making, while decentralization disperses power and authority to empowered people throughout the Church.
We will find a balance between centralization and decentralization rather than falling into extremes. Complete decentralization can lead to chaos, while complete centralization stifles movement and control. We encourage all churches to discern their current position on the continuum and consider the possibilities and fears associated with decentralization.
"which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." Ephesians 1:20-23
The transition from centralization to decentralization focuses on the concepts of "The Grace Home," "The Grace Coach," and "The Grace Hub." The Home represents the small community of believers, akin to the early house churches, where authentic community, mission, and discipleship occur. The Coach represents the anointed, empowered believer of Christ. The Hub is a resource and support system for the Houses, providing teaching, leadership development, and networking.
The Body of Christ needs resourcing, developing, and tethering for Homes through the Coach and the Hub. Resourcing involves providing teaching materials and support for the Homes' needs. We focus on developing training and deploying leaders for each Home, identifying key roles, and assessing character, competence, and capacity. Tethering to local "churches" involves facilitating communication, administration, collaboration, and unity among the Homes, Coaches, and Hubs.
There is tremendous potential in decentralization to respond effetely to cultural changes while advancing God's Kingdom. We emphasize that BELIEVERS should determine the areas that need centralization and decentralization for effective ministry.
"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:4-7
We are encouraging all churches to embrace the decentralization shift, find a balance between centralization and decentralization, and let God, our Father, create a structure that empowers and mobilizes BELIEVERS for mission and community.
Grace Coaches
Grace Coaches are individuals who are dedicated to pointing people to Jesus and His grace in every aspect of life. They adhere to the belief in Scripture alone, grace alone, Christ alone, faith alone, and for God's glory alone. Their coaching style and approach are centered on the transformative power of God's grace, which they believe is enough to change people's lives radically.
Grace Christ-centric coaches recognize that Jesus has already provided everything we need and that His grace is always more than enough. They rely on the Scriptures as their guide and emphasize the importance of personal encounters with God, where His grace can transform individuals from the inside out.
"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Ephesians 2:8-10
Grace Coaches are part of the Grace Awakening, which refers to the revelation of Jesus as our Redeemer and High Priest. They believe that the days of Jesus' greater works have come and are here to reveal His blueprint as the King prepares to return in glory.
These coaches have undergone a time of waiting and preparation, which involved undergoing trials and purification by the Holy Spirit. Through these experiences, they have been sanctified and emerged with a heart entrusted by God to serve His people. They understand the cost and privilege of being a Grace Coach and are committed to serving the broken-hearted, the lost, and the sick.
"After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you." 1 Peter 5:10
Grace Coaches walk in the Spirit, relying on the grace of God to navigate battles and attacks from darkness. They surrender their own plans and reputations to enjoy the glory of God restored through Jesus' finished work on the Cross. These coaches boast about their weaknesses, relying on the grace of God to accomplish His purposes.
Grace Coaches are known for their endurance, perseverance, and patience. They stand on the promises of God and trust Him even in the face of outward circumstances. They reject fear, manipulation, and judgment, embracing love alone. Grace Coaches are devoted stewards of grace and live a forgiven life, free from offense, betrayal, and disappointment.
"Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, 3being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:1-3
These coaches understand the importance of waiting upon God's love, holding fast to His goodness, and allowing His patience to work through adversity. They relinquish self-ambition and identity, leaning on God's understanding and looking to His grace in all things. Grace Coaches faithfully carry and steward the Father's purposes on the earth.
Grace Coaches are individuals who have been prepared and equipped to point people to Jesus and His grace. They have gone through a process of purification and sanctification and rely on God's grace's power to transform people's lives. They faithfully steward God's purposes and stand on His promises, even during challenges and adversity.
Grace Homes
A Grace Home is described as God's original blueprint for mankind. It emphasizes the belief that believers themselves are God's dwelling place, filled with grace. The Grace Awakening is seen as a global movement where individuals are filled with God's grace, leading to radical changes in their lives. Grace is portrayed as God's unlimited supply of absolute goodness.
Scriptures such as John 1:16-17 and Isaiah 58:12 are referenced to support the idea that believers are God's dwelling place and that the church should focus on restoration and rebuilding. The concept of Grace Homes is based on the understanding that God's ultimate plan is about His love for His people, and believers are called to live out this love in their lives.
"There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.
But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift." Ephesians 4:4-7
The Grace Awakening is seen as a time of great harvest of souls, where billions of people worldwide are drawn to God's kingdom through His absolute goodness and grace. The believers are encouraged to embrace their identity in Christ and recognize that they have been given the ministry of reconciliation.
The teaching emphasizes the importance of freely receiving and freely giving, sharing blessings, talents, and provisions with others as trophies of God's grace. The example of the early church in the Book of Acts is cited as a model of grace-filled homes and exponential growth, even in challenging circumstances.
"so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us," Ephesians 3:17-20
Believers are encouraged to understand that they are the house of God and that God dwells within them. They are called to be grateful for God's blessings and trust in His plan for their lives. The teaching emphasizes that God's grace already provides everything believers need and that they should rely solely on His grace rather than their own efforts.
The importance of sharing God's grace with others and living a life of love and service is highlighted. The teaching suggests that believers should be like the Father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, showing compassion and acceptance.
Grace Homes emphasize the idea that believers are the dwelling place of God, filled with His grace and called to live out His love in the world. Our teaching encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, freely receive God's blessings, and share them with others.
"And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13
The Shift to Decentralization Has Already Begun
The shift in the church towards a decentralized network of individuals and cells absolutely aligns with God's original design. The principles of decentralized networks, seen in various technological advancements and cultural shifts, are embraced by BELIEVERS but not necessarily the church. This shift is characterized by a significant demand to reduce top-down hierarchical structure, leadership, and organization.
Examples from history, such as peer-to-peer networks like Napster and the Apache tribe, demonstrate the power of decentralized organizations. In these examples, decentralized structures proved resilient and difficult to control or suppress. We believe decentralized churches unlock more strength, resiliency, and wisdom.
Contrary to misconceptions, decentralized organizations are manageable. They still have leadership, rules, norms, and boundaries but operate without a command-and-control hierarchy. Decision-making is distributed to the BODY, and leadership is persuasive rather than coercive. The unity and organization stem from a shared commitment to a common purpose IN CHRIST.
"As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love." Ephesians 4:14-16
We believe a decentralized structure is God's design for the church. While God can work through churches operating under a top-down hierarchical structure, they are less effective than those embracing decentralization. The results of participating in a decentralized church are compared to the difference between eating fast food and eating healthy, real food.
A decentralized structure is a more aligned and effective way for the church to operate, empowering BELIEVERS and enabling greater participation in fulfilling God's mission.
The Movement from Centralization to Decentralization will Continue
Centralization refers to an organizational structure where decision-making power and resources are concentrated in a central authority, such as a headquarters or a leader. On the other hand, decentralization involves distributing power, knowledge, and resources throughout the system, allowing individuals to participate autonomously.
"For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light." Colossians 1:9-12
We believe God's church will operate on a spectrum between centralization and decentralization, with different contexts and times influencing the Body's shape. In the Western context, local churches tend to have centralized structures with defined leaders and leadership teams. However, decentralization is more prevalent in persecuted contexts or in-house churches due to the need for protection and a stronger focus on joint ownership and relational connection.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Decentralization
Both centralized and decentralized church structures have advantages and disadvantages. Centralization allows for consolidated resources and the ability to address larger-scale problems, while decentralization fosters shared ownership and active participation from all members.
The introduction of technology has already significantly impacted the church's organizational structure. Initially, it led to increased centralization as churches utilized technology for centralized communication and content delivery, as seen in the rise of multisite churches. However, as the internet and the participatory nature of technology shape people's expectations, there has been a huge shift towards decentralization. Technology can facilitate connections and interactions among believers, enabling more tightly connected groups and a sense of global community.
"For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Colossians 1:13-14
A big natural organic movement is underway to move away from large centralized churches towards smaller, tightly connected groups that use technology to interact and connect in new ways. This continued shift will result in a more engaged and missional faith experience and a deeper connection with the global body of Christ.
Your Part in the Church's Future
While the exact future shape of the church remains uncertain, all believers need to consider the effectiveness of different organizational structures in fulfilling the church's mission rather than viewing it as a matter of theological correctness. We believe technology-driven decentralization will continue to grow and eventually dominate because it leads to better outcomes for EVERYONE as the church actually engages the world with love.
The future of churches and whether they will become decentralized is a topic of ongoing discussion and speculation. While it is difficult to predict the exact trajectory, there are indications that many large and small churches have already experienced shifts in their organizational structures.
"Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory." Colossians 3:1-4
Decentralization has become a significant trend in various aspects of society, driven by advancements in technology and changes in cultural attitudes. The rise of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, for example, reflects a desire for decentralized systems that empower individuals to create agreements with others without relying on centralized authorities. This movement towards decentralization challenges traditional notions of centralized power and control.
In the context of churches, the question arises of whether they will evolve to become more decentralized, resembling decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). This would involve distributing decision-making, management, and ownership among individuals rather than concentrating them in a centralized leadership structure. Such a shift could enable churches to reach more people and adapt quickly to changing needs and contexts.
Recognizing that large and small churches have advantages and challenges is essential. Large churches often have greater resources and reach, but they may struggle with managing the complexities of their size. On the other hand, small churches can provide a more intimate and relational environment, allowing for deeper personal connections and focused discipleship.
"Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him— a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all." Colossians 3:9-11
As technology advances and cultural shifts toward decentralization persist, churches move toward new models and structures that embrace decentralization. This could involve leveraging digital platforms, online communities, and decentralized networks to facilitate meaningful connections and collaboration among believers.
Again, it's worth noting that decentralization does not necessarily mean the complete dissolution of centralized structures or the disappearance of large churches. Instead, we find a balance between centralized and decentralized elements, adapting to different communities' and contexts' needs and preferences.
Ultimately, the future of churches and decentralization will depend on various factors, including technological advancements, cultural shifts, and each church community's unique calling and vision.
Our Mission is to Save the Children of the World
KINGDOM Empowered's mission is to save the world and the children by establishing the Kingdom of God on earth through the establishment of Grace Homes and Grace Coaches working through Grace Hubs. Our vision is to empower Christian people, businesses, ministries, and causes to accomplish their Kingdom objectives and spread the Gospel globally. We aim to create a tokenized ecosystem where resources are leveraged to fund Kingdom projects and achieve Kingdom objectives.
"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. " Colossians 3:12-13
We are honored to introduce Jay's Legacy Foundation and Heaven's Door Children's Foundation as designated beneficiaries of KINGDOM Empowered. Users of the KINGDOM Empowered Apps actively contribute to these foundations' financial needs, supporting care, shelter, education, and spiritual support for orphaned children in Uganda.
KINGDOM Empowered aims to empower Christian individuals and entities, leverage resources, and establish a thriving ecosystem to accomplish Kingdom objectives, fund projects, and spread the Gospel globally. They invite individuals to become angel donors and participate in this groundbreaking opportunity.
"Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Corinthians 5:18-21
Decentralization: Stewarding the Grace of God
We intend to save the world's children by establishing Grace Homes and Grace Hubs. These homes and hubs serve as spaces where children receive care, shelter, education, and spiritual support worldwide.
Through our initiatives, such as the KINGDOM Empowered Apps, people actively contribute to the financial needs of organizations like Jay's Legacy Foundation and Heaven's Door Children's Foundation. These foundations provide support and resources to orphaned children in Uganda.
"Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." Colossians 3:14-17
By using the programs, products, and mobile apps developed by KINGDOM Empowered, individuals can make a tangible impact on the lives of vulnerable children. The goal is to generate funding and financial support directly from the KINGDOM Empowered community to provide for the well-being and future of these children.
KINGDOM Empowered believes that we will improve children's lives globally by empowering Christian people, businesses, ministries, and causes to accomplish their Kingdom objectives. Our vision is to establish the Kingdom of God on earth, and part of that mission involves actively supporting and saving the world's children.
Here's how decentralization plays a role in realizing the KINGDOM Empowered vision:
Empowering Individuals: Decentralization shifts the focus from a centralized authority or leadership structure to people. By decentralizing power and decision-making, KINGDOM Empowered aims to empower every believer to contribute their skills, talents, time, resources, and networks to advance the Kingdom's objectives. This allows for greater engagement and ownership of the mission.
Mobilizing Resources: Through decentralization, KINGDOM Empowered seeks to leverage the personal resources of people, businesses, and ministries. By decentralizing the funding process, we aim to enable people to mine native tokens and use them to fund Kingdom projects and causes. This decentralized fundraising and resource mobilization approach allows for broader participation and contribution.
Fostering Collaboration: Decentralization facilitates collaboration and networking among people and entities. KINGDOM Empowered established Grace Homes and Grace Hubs, which serve as decentralized communities and resource centers. These hubs provide the decentralized communities with teaching materials, leadership development, and networking opportunities. By fostering collaboration, individuals can share ideas, knowledge, and support, leading to a more unified and effective Kingdom impact.
"Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." 2 Corinthians 5:16-17
Flexibility and Adaptability: Decentralization enables flexibility and adaptability in responding to changing contexts and needs. As the Church faces disruptions and challenges, decentralization allows for quick adjustments and innovative solutions. It empowers individuals and local communities to address specific needs and opportunities within their contexts rather than relying solely on top-down decision-making.
Restoring Authenticity: KINGDOM Empowered sees decentralization as a means to restore the Church to its authentic, decentralized roots. We believe the early house churches exemplified the spirit of decentralization, where believers gathered in close-knit communities for fellowship, discipleship, and mission. By embracing decentralization, KINGDOM Empowered aims to bring back the sense of authentic community, shared life, and shared mission within the Church.
Decentralization is the way to empower individuals, mobilize resources, foster collaboration, adapt to changing needs, and restore the authenticity of the Church. KINGDOM Empowered believes that by embracing decentralization, the vision of establishing the Kingdom of God on earth can be accomplished more effectively with the active participation of ALL people, businesses, ministries, and causes.
There's a Church in Your Home
Having a "church in your home" refers to the concept of Grace Homes, which are small, close-knit communities of believers meeting in homes. These Grace Homes are decentralized expressions of the Church, where authentic relationships, shared life, discipleship, and mission occur.
The idea behind establishing decentralized home churches, or Grace Homes, is that they can significantly save the world's children by providing a nurturing and transformative environment for families and communities.
"for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world," Philippians 2:13-15
Here's how KINGDOM Empowered envisions this:
Nurturing Families: Grace Homes aims to strengthen families by fostering authentic relationships and creating a supportive community within the home. By establishing Grace Homes, KINGDOM Empowered believes that families can experience God's love, grace, and transformational power daily. This nurturing environment can positively impact children, providing them with a solid foundation of faith, love, and support.
Discipleship and Spiritual Growth: Grace Homes provide a space for discipleship and spiritual growth within the context of close relationships and shared life. KINGDOM Empowered emphasizes the importance of personal encounters with God's grace and the Gospel's transformative power. Within Grace Homes, children can receive intentional discipleship, biblical teaching, and mentorship from adults committed to their spiritual growth.
Community and Support: Grace Homes serve as a community of support and encouragement where families and individuals can share their joys, challenges, and burdens. This sense of community helps create a nurturing and safe environment for children to grow and flourish. It provides a network of caring individuals who can offer guidance, love, and support to both children and parents.
Mission and Outreach: Grace Homes are not intended to be isolated communities but rather missional communities. They are meant to actively reach out to their neighborhoods and communities with the love and grace of God. By being decentralized and embedded within local communities, Grace Homes have the potential to impact the lives of children and families directly in their own contexts.
By establishing decentralized home churches, KINGDOM Empowered believes that families can experience the transformative power of God's grace within their own homes and communities. This holistic approach to faith and community seeks to create environments that nurture children, disciple them in the ways of Jesus, provide support to families, and reach out to the broader community. Through these efforts, KINGDOM Empowered envisions saving the world's children by creating spaces where they can experience the love of God, grow in their faith, and find hope and transformation for a better future.
"For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf." 2 Corinthians 5:14-15