Dr. Ed Silvoso’s book “Ekklesia: Rediscovering God’s Instrument for Global Transformation” was born out of a series of thought-provoking questions about the nature and role of the Church. The author, a Christian leader and founder of the worldwide movement Transform Our World, poses intriguing inquiries such as: Why did Jesus mention the Church only twice in the gospels if it’s so important? Why are there no explicit instructions in the Bible on how to plant a church? How did the New Testament Church manage to radically transform hostile environments without the structures we consider essential today? And why does the Church’s influence on social matters seem to be diminishing in our time, despite Jesus’ promises of greater works?
These questions set the stage for the author’s exploration of the concept of Ekklesia, which he argues is Jesus’ intended model for the Church. In this book, he presents a thought-provoking examination of this concept, aiming to rediscover the Church as Jesus designed it.
The introduction challenges readers to consider the apparent disconnect between the New Testament Church and the modern Church. The author offers insights based on biblical research and contemporary examples, with the goal of inspiring readers to embrace a more dynamic and transformative understanding of the Church’s role in society.
Chapter 1, titled “Church: A Radical Proposition,” delves into the origins and nature of the Ekklesia. It explains that Jesus deliberately chose the term “Ekklesia” – a secular, governmental institution – rather than religious terms like “Temple” or “synagogue” when introducing His transformational agency. This choice, the author argues, was intentional and significant.
The chapter explores the historical context of the Ekklesia in Greek and Roman societies, highlighting its function as a ruling assembly of citizens. The author draws parallels between this secular institution and Jesus’ vision for the Church, suggesting that the Ekklesia was meant to be a “building-less mobile people movement designed to operate 24/7 in the marketplace”.
A key theme in this chapter is the contrast between traditional religious institutions and Jesus’ concept of Ekklesia. The author emphasizes that the Ekklesia was not confined to a building or specific times but was meant to have a constant presence and impact in society. This aligns with Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom of God being like salt, light, and leaven – far-reaching and transformative.
The author uses the metaphor of the Roman conventus to illustrate how Jesus intended His followers to bring His presence and authority wherever they gathered. This concept parallels Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
The main message is that the Church needs to rediscover its true identity and purpose as Ekklesia – a transformative force in society rather than just a religious institution. This aligns with biblical teachings about believers being “salt and light” in the world (Matthew 5:13-16) and the early Church’s impact as described in Acts.
The main takeaway is that Christians should view their role in society through the lens of Ekklesia – as active, transformative agents of God’s Kingdom in all aspects of life, not just within church buildings. Practical application involves believers intentionally bringing God’s presence and principles into their workplaces, neighborhoods, and civic engagements, seeing these as legitimate arenas for ministry and transformation.
Footnotes:
Review of “Ekklesia: Rediscovering God’s Instrument for Global Transformation” by Ed Silvoso. Copyright © 2017 by Ed Silvoso.
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