This GroupLife Trend Speaks the Language of the Culture

When I list the current grouplife trends, I think one is more important for the Church and its mission in the world than any of the others.  This may surprise you, but I think there is one trend more important than the missional group idea, the intentional discipleship strategy, or the integration of spiritual formation practices into grouplife curriculum.  I believe its even more important than the church-wide campaign strategy.

What trend is most important?  I believe story-driven visual media opens a unique door that presents a powerful, culturally savvy opportunity.  Think about it.  In a culture mesmerized by story, what creates better common ground?

While story-driven visual media is clearly an emerging trend in the production of small group curriculum (i.e., Liquid’s “The Ten” and “Mirror Image” or City on a Hill’s “Not a Fan”), I believe it will play an increasing role in the Church’s ability to connect with what I refer to as the widening 60% who will never be reached by an attractional strategy.  That is, this trend is about much more than a cool way to help Christian adults engage in discussion that generates life-change.

I don’t have many answers, but I know what causes an attention deficit distracted room to stop and watch…and then react.  For example, watch this commercial:

Watch the official video from Daughtry’s What About Now?

Or take a look at this powerful short film from Prolifik Films and POTSC:

BROKEN IS BEAUTIFUL from PEOPLE OF THE SECOND CHANCE on Vimeo.

How will we leverage an understanding of the language of a culture?  Watch for new curriculum that is story-driven.  Look for ways to incorporate story into your weekend experiences.  Look for ways to take advantage of the investment made by others.

As I’ve already said, I don’t have many answers.  I know this trend is escalating.  Now we just need to be on the lookout for opportunities to use the language of the culture to reach the widening 60%.