+Ralph Neighbour is one of the pioneers of the groups movement in the U.S. I believe we can learn much from men and women like him who paved the way for us. Dr. Neighbour has a heart not only for healthy, holistic, Christ-centered groups, but for the church and God’s kingdom. And out of this passion he challenges and encourages us to break free from building-centered, program-focused, clergy-led forms and calls us to be the body of Christ, the priesthood of all believers.
“Those who cannot remember the past, are condemned to repeat it” (George Santayana). On the other hand, we can listen and learn from those who have gone before us. Ralph and others like him fulfill the psalmist’s affirmation: “We will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders” (Psalm 78:4).
You may or may not agree with Dr. Neighbour on every point. But I encourage you to hear his heart for God’s church: the body of Christ.
By the way, I highly recommend the book Dr. Neighbour and I mentioned in the video, Christ’s Basic Bodies: Embracing God’s presence, power, and purposes in true biblical community. The book has had a profound impact on me and my ministry. It really is a must-read if you are involved in groups ministry.
