Alpha, the popular course that introduces people to Christianity, has been an effective form of evangelism in the UK, starting in 1977, and internationally since the 1990s. It has been taken up by mainstream Christian churches and fellowships, despite opposition from those unsympathetic to its charismatic elements.
It has been criticized for superficiality, shallowness, heresy, false doctrine, theological error, crass conservatism and bourgeois religion. Despite all the criticisms and many more, Alpha has helped thousands to find faith in Christ and a place within the fellowship of the Church universal. There are many testimonies of people from all walks of life, not just urban professionals and the middle classes in comfortable suburban homes, to the life changing experience and encounters with God as a direct result of an Alpha course. Conversions and commitments to the Christian faith cannot be ignored or discounted.
It can be argued that at the end of the 20th century the Alpha course was the most effective form of evangelism in the UK and led to significant church growth in places throughout the land.
Alpha's basic formula, which has been tried, tested and refined, has worked well. A meal, a talk/presentation and a discussion have brought results.
The meal breaks down barriers and tensions. People are more relaxed and amenable after a good meal, even if it is a Holy Trinity Brompton pasta recipe. The meal makes people more open to listening to the talk. Christian hospitality can be very appealing.
The talks, based on clear and concise material, if they are well presented (and pre-recorded messages are available) help people to understand the basics of the Christian faith. Booklets, literature and downloads are also available to facilitate the Alpha experience.
In my opinion, the most important part is the discussion and how it is handled by the leader. If it is handled well, and that is not always the case unfortunately, then the group or participants will enjoy the frank exchange of ideas. They often bond and find a good level of fellowship and even friendship.
This can, in fact, lead to what has become known as Alphaholism. This is a condition in which the participant finds the Alpha experience so rewarding that they wish to continue it on another course, even course after course, because they do not find that level of friendship available in the normal life of the Church. Those who criticize the Alpha course for being "joined up dots Christianity" have probably not been on an Alpha course with a highly competent leader who is prepared to discuss difficult questions and tough topics.
When the discussions run well then the participants want to come back for more!
I shall return to this topic and share some more insights in due course.
It has been criticized for superficiality, shallowness, heresy, false doctrine, theological error, crass conservatism and bourgeois religion. Despite all the criticisms and many more, Alpha has helped thousands to find faith in Christ and a place within the fellowship of the Church universal. There are many testimonies of people from all walks of life, not just urban professionals and the middle classes in comfortable suburban homes, to the life changing experience and encounters with God as a direct result of an Alpha course. Conversions and commitments to the Christian faith cannot be ignored or discounted.
It can be argued that at the end of the 20th century the Alpha course was the most effective form of evangelism in the UK and led to significant church growth in places throughout the land.
Alpha's basic formula, which has been tried, tested and refined, has worked well. A meal, a talk/presentation and a discussion have brought results.
The meal breaks down barriers and tensions. People are more relaxed and amenable after a good meal, even if it is a Holy Trinity Brompton pasta recipe. The meal makes people more open to listening to the talk. Christian hospitality can be very appealing.
The talks, based on clear and concise material, if they are well presented (and pre-recorded messages are available) help people to understand the basics of the Christian faith. Booklets, literature and downloads are also available to facilitate the Alpha experience.
In my opinion, the most important part is the discussion and how it is handled by the leader. If it is handled well, and that is not always the case unfortunately, then the group or participants will enjoy the frank exchange of ideas. They often bond and find a good level of fellowship and even friendship.
This can, in fact, lead to what has become known as Alphaholism. This is a condition in which the participant finds the Alpha experience so rewarding that they wish to continue it on another course, even course after course, because they do not find that level of friendship available in the normal life of the Church. Those who criticize the Alpha course for being "joined up dots Christianity" have probably not been on an Alpha course with a highly competent leader who is prepared to discuss difficult questions and tough topics.
When the discussions run well then the participants want to come back for more!
I shall return to this topic and share some more insights in due course.
2 comments:
I have been surprised to see that, over the years, the Alpha courses have kept going, and indeed the programme has expanded significantly and is obviously very effective.
I do sometimes wonder if they are more suited to the sociable types, and perhaps those who are more introvert and withdrawn may find it hard to feel relaxed. For such people, perhaps some other form of contact, such as one to one, might be the answer.
Do you have any views on this?
I found that during my studies of the Alpha course it was very important for the leader of the discussion group to make everyone feel comfortable and at ease. It was, therefore, vital from the outset to make it clear that there was no pressure to talk, discuss or express any views when questions were raised. It is possible to come to an Alpha course, to enjoy the meal, listen to the talk and remain completely silent during the discussion. The more introverted person need not feel that they are out of a comfort zone. It can be a very passive experience, if the guest wishes it to be so. According to the Alpha course training, on no account should a guest be pounced on and asked for their views. They can just sit back and enjoy the discussion. They can ask any question. They can drop out at any time. They can opt out at any time, and they may choose not to go on the weekend house party or away day, later in the course. At HTB it suits the confident, young urban professional. It does not suit everyone.
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