Developing a Missional Community in the Urban Context of Decatur, Illinois, in Cooperation with First Christian Church of Decatur, Illinois

Abstract

This project developed a missional community in the urban context of Decatur, Illinois, in cooperation with First Christian Church or Decatur, Illinois. Chapter 1 presents the history and ministry context of Decatur, Illinois, its urban neighborhoods, its area churches, and communicates the goals for the project. Decatur has experienced significant economic, educational, and social challenges in recent decades resulting in the decay of its urban neighborhoods and a growing segment of the community’s population that is unreached by churches. Chapter 2 provides exegesis of four passages of scripture (Jer 29:4-11; Acts 1:3-1; 1 Thess 1:1-10; 2 Tim 2:1-2) to illustrate how God calls his people to represent and make him known to people in local settings and uses his people as a primary means of spiritual transformation and gospel mission. Chapter 3 presents the ways a missional community is the most effective as a means of engaging and reaching the urban context of Decatur, Illinois. Chapter 4 describes the project itself, recounting the content and teaching methodology of the specific missional curriculum. Chapter 5 evaluates the efficacy of the project based on completion of the specific goals. Ultimately, this project sought to develop a group of people, in community, who are equipped to engage and disciple others in Decatur’s urban context for the glory of God.