On this episode of The Bounce, we explore the challenges of discipleship in urban communities and why churches need to adapt to the new reality of diversity in their neighborhoods. With the rise of gentrification, pastors must focus on building real relationships and partnerships with organizations that might not agree theologically. We also discuss the initiatives of MyBLVD, which offers a church planning training program for leaders, pastors, and planting couples to minister in majority minority multitenic spaces. Additionally, we talk about mission trips and why partnerships should be mutually beneficial to eliminate obstacles and perpetuate a sense of community within the church. Join us for an insightful discussion on how to engage biblically and holistically in our surrounding neighborhoods and cities.Dhati Lewis is the Lead Pastor of Blueprint Church in Atlanta, Georgia and the President and Founder of MyBLVD. He was born and raised in California and later moved to Texas where he completed his undergraduate studies from the University of North Texas. He later earned his master’s degree from Dallas Theological Seminary and his Doctorate of Ministry in Great Commission Mobilization from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.Timeline[00:05:46] The text discusses the challenges of discipleship in urban environments due to diversity and cultural differences. Urban no longer solely refers to inner cities, but to density and diversity. Discipleship is a challenge due to the interconnected and interpersonal nature of the practice.[00:08:13] Changing the approach to ministry to reflect the diversity of local neighborhoods is important, especially in cities where there are majority minority multiethnic populations. The shift should be from an ethnic mythology to a neighbor mythology, where churches aim to reach their neighbors. Discipleship should be a primary platform for making disciples rather than relying solely on Sunday gatherings. The approach to ministry needs to change as more people living in poverty move to suburbs and rural areas.[00:15:17] Summary: The purpose of church gatherings and missions should be understood. Tangible expressions of the church should be created where people live, work and play. Church buildings should be seen as missionaries within the community. Blueprint Church has partnered with many non-profits and schools in the neighborhood to become a person of peace within the community.[00:19:04] Educate people and create mutually beneficial partnerships to engage holistically with current affairs. Upper-class should think lowly, and marginalized should think highly.[00:21:36] Partnerships should be mutually beneficial, embracing mutual brokenness, and avoiding perpetuating the mentality of "I need even for the person who is receiving it."[00:26:12] Building relationships beyond transactions is essential for suburban churches to effectively do ministry in urban neighborhoods. Real problems are only identified through authentic relationships and proximity. Transactions should not be the basis of partnerships, but rather a commitment to each other beyond short-term transactions.[00:28:49] For a successful partnership, it's important to define the goal and whether issues are principle, prudence, or preference. Also, partnerships can be formed for hospitality, not just to spread the gospel.[00:33:24] The urban context is seeing an increase in churches being planted, more pastors seeking coaching and consulting, and an emphasis on sending missionaries to the city. People who love the city are being raised up as missionaries.[00:36:22] Training leaders for multicultural ministry is vital for the changing demographics of America. It's essential to recognize the new reality and act upon it rather than waiting too long. Churches can't remain homogeneous and must embrace multiculturalism to be fruitful and fill the earth made up of different people and groups.Resources Mentioned in this EpisodeMyBLVD: https://www.myblvd.co/Great Commission Collective: https://www.gccollective.orgGoorin Brothers Hat Shop: https://www.goorin.com/

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