(Read part 1)

Calvin's definition of "church" is where the Word is preached, the sacraments are received, and church discipline practiced. That's a good summary of the defining characteristics of the New Testament ecclesia and a good summary of the main problems with internet church.

Is the word preached "at" an internet campus? Absolutely. In fact, the Word preached becomes the centerpiece. Church is boiled down to singing a few songs and hearing a message.

And while internet campuses provide a great sermon delivery vehicle, and even allow you to virtually raise your hand in response, what they don't do is allow you to be known and missed. You can't stand at the end of the gathering and ask for help moving. You can't help tear things down and clean up afterwards. You can't look after someone's kids while they pray with someone else. You can't take a visitor out to lunch. How can our community be a sign and foretaste of the kingdom when our method of gathering keeps us from ever physically ...