Frank Viola Re-Imagining Church, Chapter 7, Church practice and God's eternal purpose

Its been a while since I picked up this book so the summary continues.

There was quite a bit to chew on this chapter. The main idea that God's 'purpose' or 'mission', precedes the fall and can be identified in the first two chapters in Genesis and Revelation chapters 21 and 22. This been downplayed in the Christian Church. With the emphasis instead been::

Evangelical Christians have built their theology mostly on Romans and Galatians. And many nonevangelical Christians have built it on the Gospels (particularly the Synoptics- Mathew, Mark and Luke). And for both groups, Ephesians and Colossians have been but footnotes.

I think this is a pretty good observation. It is worthwhile pondering what God was up to. I'm not even sure 'purpose' or 'mission' are the best words to use. I'm probably happier with the words 'delighted'. MMmm worth a bit more thought.

Viola also adds a list of ten points which he has identified as part of the purpose. I'm would probably put more of an emphasis of God and his total creation, not just man.