T
he message of this book—and of Natural Church Development in general—is the message of spiritual balance. Whenever I mention this concept, it is usually strikingly well received. I am afraid, however, that this applause is based, at least in part, on a gross misunderstanding. Balance, for many Christians, is the very opposite of everything radical. “Passionate faith? No, no, that is something we leave to the cults. We are not fanatics, we are balanced.”
In general usage, for many people the term “spiritual balance” has become almost synonymous with mediocrity, with lack of passion, with stagnation. Of course, the concept of spiritual balance has nothing at all to do with that.
This diagram shows four options that result from one‘s position on the two axes “nominal – radical” and “imbalanced – balanced.” Quadrant A symbolizes spiritual imbalance which is expressed nominally. Quadrant B describes a position where spirituality shows itself radically, but in an imbalanced way. Quadrant C describes those Christians whose spirituality is balanced but nominal. Quadrant D indicates the goal of spiritual growth: radical balance.
Are you drawn more toward radical Christians or balanced Christians? Do you know any Christians you would describe as radically balanced?
Further topics in the above chapter of the full version of the book
From "balance" to "radical balance" - Two steps toward radical balance - Your starting point and your destination - Radical balance and spiritual passion - Nominalism as the opposite of passion - The peril of nominalism