COMMON GROUND

FLUENT | Understanding and Sharing the Gospel: Part 4

Insider language. 

If you are part of an institution, organization, club or team you probably use what is called insider language.  Insider language is language that is specific to that thing that you are part of (inside of).  It can be phrases, words, acronyms or abbreviations that communicate (internally) who you are or what you do. 

The thing about insider language is that it is only known by those on the inside.  These words and phrases are not known to those on the outside.  

A problem with insider language, is that it becomes so familiar to those on the inside that they assume outsiders understand it too. This is troubling when the insiders attempt to pull the outsiders into the group.  When the outsiders hear the insider language, they have no idea what the insiders are talking about.

A greater problem yet is when insiders use insider language that even the insiders don’t understand.  Imagine using words and phrases that you have known all of your life, yet can’t fully define—still don’t fully grasp.  

If you don’t understand your own language, how on earth are you to communicate with the outsider?

So it is with sin.  This word is part of our insider language. While it has been part of our vernacular since we were children, many still have difficulty understanding—especially communicating it to others—to outsiders.  In light of this, we are taking some extra time—an additional session—to continue fleshing out this very important word.  We have to really understand the problem in order to share the solution.

I love your heart!
Bryan

SUPPER FOLLOWS OFF-CAMPUS at Taco Bell on Dawson Road.