Paradigm = 20 cents
Chapter 7 of The Church of the Perfect Storm was written by Earl J. Pierce. “Paradigms are mental constructs–frameworks for understanding and answering questions posed by the task at hand” (page 82). They are built through experience. As long as answers are provided and there is continued progress, then the paradigm remains in use by the individual who developed it. When there are no longer answers or progress, then there is a paradigm shift leading to a different experience.
One common paradigm shift is from cognitive to affective. From chapter 7, we learn that there are two primary domains of human behavior: affection (emotion) and cognition (reason). The affective paradigm provides answers based on feeling and emotion while the cognitive paradigm provides answers based on reason and logic. Both are in constant conflict within an individual.
An example of this paradigm shift is seen in the titles given to Christian leaders. In Judaism religious leaders are called ‘rabbi’ or teacher. The Christian term for these leaders is ‘pastor’ or shepherd. Even in these titles we see the shift from cognition to affection (reason to emotion). (page 85). Faith became the standard of living, instead of logic or reason.
Experiences play a great role in growing churches and building relationships. We must have the affective domain of growing relationships and experiences or individuals will pull away and find other ways to meet those needs. We must hold on to the experiences of Jesus and the cross and grow relationships as He did to survive the perfect storm.
For more information on this paradigm shift, please deposit 20 cents into this great book.
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