I was reading through Ed Stetzer's book 'planting missional churches' and came across some questions to ask when considering the reaching of a community or culture. I thought they were excellent, not just for anyone considering church planting but for all who are already involved in church and evangelism;
~ How can the gospel best become incarnate in this setting?
~ What cultural values and symbols can be used to illustrate gospel truth?
~ What is the worldview of the target audience?
~ What is the cultures decision making pattern?
~ What does it cost a person in this culture to become a Christian?
~ What redemptive analogy is best for this culture?
~ How does this culture view Christianity?
~ What does this culture understand about the basic components of the gospel story?
~ Is the culture based on guilt or shame?
~ How will this culture understand Christian rituals?
~ What is the best delivery system for exposing the people of this culture to the gospel?