unity model
The unity model starts with the clear observation that something must be blocking the flow of unity within the Christian church. The engineer’s model has been used for a very long time to solve real life problems where something is blocked or broken. When the problem has been solved, there is usually a visible flow verifying that the problem has been solved.
Many problems are solved by engineers by breaking them down into a source, a path, and a receiver. Usually one of these three elements is causing the blockage and the other two are just fine. When the blocked element is unblocked, the system is returned to normal operation. Think plugged garbage disposal or plugged fuel filter in your car. The source is the kitchen sink or gas tank. The path is the garbage disposal itself or the fuel filter. And the receiver is the sewer line or the fuel line to the engine. And the flow when the blockage is removed is a clean kitchen sink or an engine that burns fuel. Streamside breaks down the four Gospels of Jesus Christ in terms of source, path, and receiver to find out what is blocking the flow of unity that Jesus prayed for so passionately in John 17, a theme that is constant throughout the entire Bible. When we start looking at our individual Christian experiences in these terms, we can discover common ground very quickly and work to unblock the flow that right now the world does not see. |