In this series of posts, we will consider the practices of other churches that share some similarities with the OPC, though also some significant differences. With some of the examples (ten in number), we may see some ways in which their practice is inconsistent with our doctrinal commitments, but also hopefully learn from these brothers and sisters in Christ. In particular, we hope to learn more effective ways to welcome new people into the language and culture of our worship, practice, and life as a church.
Intro Video for Sermon Series: Particularly when preaching a longer series
or book, it’s popular in Acts 29/Missional circles to create a good intro video for the series. These can be real-life style or animated. Here are a couple of samples: (Click on links below and video will pop up in a new tab)
The rolls-royce example (for style and quality, you may or may not resonate with the actual content): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=222EJNx37Ao
Budget & time limitations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6DVPQz_xno
(If the ink seems a little “trippy” to you, we get it. There’s other inexpensive, stock footage that can be used. We just wanted to give an example of the idea.
Another interesting, simple, budget & resource friendly: https://vimeo.com/100907898
Initial Reformed Reaction: Probably mostly time, ability, budget. (My interjection: I’m with you…..but let’s move on) Maybe some concerns about video detracting from the medium of preaching, but that should be answered by how and when you use it (i.e. outside of the worship service as preparation for the series–website & social media).
Principle That Transfers: Modern communication, with modern ideas, in an engaging way is invaluable. Let’s think about how to do it and if we don’t have time and resources (I get it, believe me….) let’s think and work toward it—even in small ways. We could use it:
* As an intro on our website to let people get a sense of the series
* In Sunday School as a lead up to a new series (likewise Bible study, prayer, BBQ etc) this would be invaluable to our own people too.
* How about recommending families use it from time to time in family worship—again invaluable to our people as well as visitors.
Let’s start thinking and talking and work toward having the resources. You might be surprised at what your people can do or what they might fund if you give them something like this to chew on. Another great way to provide an opportunity for video people—younger people learning, perhaps–and artistic people to serve.
