What is Paradigm?
This word may be a new word for some it's our hope this explanation will help.
Paradigm defined: 1. an example that serves as a pattern or model (synonyms - prototype, mold, archetype, master, model, original, pattern, precedent, and source).
The word paradigm often takes on some negative connotations. Many times it stands for "traditional mind sets" that block the way of industrial or social progress. However, "paradigm" can also be very positive.
No matter whom we are, our lives are constantly affected by our "mental paradigms". Good and evil is perpetuated by the thoughtless repetition of behavior passed from our parents and teachers. These manners, customs, attitudes and traditions become so much a part of our lives that we don't even realize it. We believe the Lord is using us to challenge, change, or confirm some of these things in the Church.
Mike, Jerry, and I have been related to one another for the last 15-16 years. We are related by the Spirit. The connection we have was realized as we looked for, and discovered our places in, the "Body of Christ". We believe that the Lord Jesus has revealed something remarkable as our relationships have developed. He has built us into a team. We believe the unity and community among us to be a prototype for the body of Christ.
When we come together, we find an uncommon sense of coherence and agreement. Even without verbal communication, we find ourselves flowing in accord. I can truly say that the effect almost always takes us by surprise, humbling, and awing us at the work of God. We are joined, heart to heart. The effect of the whole is much greater than the sum of the individual parts.
Our hearts are to teach the Church how to be a relational body, to stand as one man. Many in the "Body of Christ" are understanding and responding.
We don't believe these are exclusive relationships. We have many precious friends, brothers and co-laborers in the Church. Almost daily we are developing new relationships that we believe are "Kingdom" and will last. As Paradigm grows many will become part of the example, showing the Church, not just telling the Church, how to be.
The Church is the ekklesia "the called out ones". That means the Church is not a building. It is a group of related believers put together by God for the greater good.
Tragically, we rarely find Christians operating in a relational dynamic. We see them casually acquainted, with few real working relationships in the Body. Most often "Christians" only see the back of other believers' heads in a Sunday morning service. We keep our distance to guard our privacy. How sad!
We know this can be different. God expects it to be different. That's what PAC is about. This is a place where people of diverse backgrounds, gifting, education, and interests can come together very intimately as the closest friends to submit to the purpose of God and to one another in the "fear of the Lord" for the greater good.
Paradigm Apostolic Company
