Contextual Intelligence

Why are some institutions thriving while others are closing their doors, declaring bankruptcy, and throwing in the towel? Why are some churches missionally prospering, while others are experiencing significant decline? The answer to these questions is an ancient secret, now unveiled afresh for mission on the frontlines of an emerging post-Covid world. The Tribe of Issachar possessed a distinct kind of intelligence which recognized that what worked in one season or location doesn’t necessarily transfer to another. This vital skill, known as contextual intelligence, is now unearthed for this pivotal moment. In this groundbreaking book from renowned author Len Sweet and trailblazing missional pioneer Michael Beck, you will explore the phenomenon of contextual intelligence, discover a framework for its cultivation, and learn how you can apply it in your own circumstance. In these pages you will be called to a new order that the authors are calling The Issacharians, the tribe known for the ability to “read the signs of the times and know what to do.”

Michael Adam Beck is Director of Re-missioning for Fresh Expressions US and the Fresh Expressions House of Studies at United Theological Seminary. Michael and his wife, Jill, are co-pastors of two traditional congregations (Wildwood and St. Marks UMC, FL) as well as a network of 15 analog and digital fresh expressions that gather in tattoo parlors, dog parks, salons, running tracks, community centers, burrito joints, and Zoom rooms. They direct addiction recovery programs, a jail ministry, a food pantry, an interracial unity movement, and house a faith-based inpatient treatment center. Leonard Sweet is a scholar of American culture, a visionary leader who “sees things the rest of us do not see.” He is a frequent guest lecturer at seminaries, university campuses and leadership events. He is the author of more than 60 books, 1,500 published sermons, and 200 published articles. Dr. Sweet works with graduate students at four institutions: Drew University, where he has occupied the E. Stanley Jones Chair, George Fox University, Tabor College, and Evangelical Seminary, where he currently holds the Charles Wesley Senior Professorship of Doctoral Studies.