Congregations seeking to transform seek to understand the cultural patterns that have developed within their fellowship, and gently but firmly challenge them in light of the new things God might be calling on them to do. They understand culture as “its unique outward expression of its shared beliefs and values.” [Malphurs and Penfold. Re:Vision, 2014.]
While many things about culture are good and positive, congregations can also become too comfortable with their culture patterns. As their community context changes, and as the call of God seeks to pull them forward, their love of their current culture may become a barrier.