| Essence, Works, and Ends A Philosophical Model for Discussing Ecclesiastical Purpose |
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A new task force is continuing the unfinished work of the
Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church to reconsider the
purpose statements of the three expressions of the ELCA.
How should the task force approach this work to avoid the
potential pitfalls of political pragmatism and
unreflective dogmatism? This interactive workshop proposes
a philosophical and theological model for discussing the
purpose of the church that first seeks clarity on the term
"church." Next, it will explore the nature and ends of the
church. We’ll discuss four classes for categorizing the
works of the church. Finally, we’ll specify the works of
each of the expressions (congregation, synod and
churchwide), identifying the relationships between the
expressions. Workshop participants will help add detail to
the model and test it for its usefulness in thinking about
the church's purpose in general, the purpose statements of
each of the three expressions of the ELCA, specifically,
and interdependence. WorksheetChurch: Hidden vs. Visible
The Visible Church in Three Estates
The Three Estates and Their Works
Church Collective vs. Representative
Church Local (Ecclesia localis)
vs. Church Conciliar — Primacy and Ancillarity
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