Parochialism and the gospel

John Wesley said “Parochialism is always the enemy of the gospel.” What do you think he meant? Is it true, and how is it seen today?


That's how we started off our discussion in home group last night, it provoked a lot of discussion. I thought I'd follow up on it this morning.


Parochialism is defined as:
1. Of, relating to, supported by, or located in a parish.
2. Of or relating to parochial schools.
3. Narrowly restricted in scope or outlook; provincial


Is a narrowly restricted scope or outlook always the enemy of the gospel? In terms of Acts you certainly see God moving the early church beyond its narrow Jewish focus. Had that never happened then Christianity would have remained a Jewish movement and we would never had the gospel brought to these shores.

But the big question is how are we, how am I, parochial? There are people with whom we naturally find it easier to share the gospel but we must not do so exclusively. We must be strategic in thinking about reaching those who are outside our comfort zones.