What Exactly Is Aspire Network—and Why Does It Matter?

What exactly is Aspire Network?

Historically, we have been part of a larger Christian denomination.  In 2006, we left our denomination to lean into God’s new future for us. As part of that trajectory, today we carry the name of a network.

So what is the difference between a denomination and a network, and what are the strengths and weaknesses of each?

Missiologists suggest that movements or networks without organization burn out, and organizations without movement dry up. I believe the future belongs to those who can hold both together. 

Denominations are structured, institutional bodies marked by formal governance, shared doctrine, and long-term continuity. One of their primary strengths is stability. Denominations preserve theological identity across generations, ensuring coherence in belief and practice. Additionally, denominations provide accountability through systems of oversight. Finally, denominations have substantial resources in the form of seminaries, mission boards, and other service institutions; each of these combines to enable global and local mission. But they can be slow, overly bureaucratic, and can, over time, become more interested in self-preservation than innovative missional responses to the world’s needs. 

Networks are typically decentralized and relational, organized around a shared vision rather than formal authority. Their greatest strengths are adaptability and innovation. Networks can respond quickly to emerging needs, allowing leaders to experiment with new forms of discipleship, church planting, and social engagement. Networks can more easily pioneer new expressions of the gospel for a rapidly changing world. 

But networks aren’t without flaws. Their informality can lead to weak accountability. And long-term sustainability, theological formation, and care for leaders can be anemic, which, combined, can cause flame-out institutionally and personally.

There must be a better way!

Agreed! Aspire is leaning into a hybrid expression that combines institutional stability and sustainability with movemental flexibility. We are creating structures strong enough to endure and supple enough to adapt. We love our broad yet orthodox theological convictions and family identity, and at the same time, we are creating lean structures that will be adaptive, mission-focused, and results-oriented. And underneath it all, we are crazy committed to nurturing the spiritual, emotional, and physical health of our leaders. Without healthy leaders, things get stuck, sick, or go off the rails.

To catch more of this vision and your place in it, come to the Aspire Conference on February 5 and 6—see you there! 

Dr. Kirk Mackie