D. Innovators will be perceived as living both inside and outside their cultures of origin, functionally linking two or more worlds and advocating diversity and pluralism.[1] Due to their variation from communal norms, Rogers states that the “most innovative member of a system is very often perceived as a deviant from the social system, and is accorded a somewhat dubious status of low credibility by the average members of the system.”[2] Their opinions often seem unusual and may be shocking to the mainstream. Linked with the world outside the system, Innovators are perceived as peculiar and outsiders.
E. Innovators hate boredom and predictability. Innovators would prefer a church focused on ideas. Innovators would prefer to play with ideas rather than deal with reality.
F. Innovators are so drawn to the new that they have difficulty in following through and finishing projects. They are easily bored and easily distracted by a new interest or project. Because of their focus on ideas, creativity and abstract thinking, Innovators are likely to be a Myers Briggs NT type and very likely an ENTP.
QUOTE [1]
NOTE
DISCERNMENT QUESTIONS
RESOURCES
[1] The quote is a selection from David O. Kueker’s Fuller Seminary Doctor of Ministry project submitted in September, 2007, entitled Diagnosis, Dialogue, and Decision: A Threefold Process of Revitalization For the Illinois Great Rivers Conference.
It is shared here in recognition of its 12th Anniversary along with comments to update and provide perspective on the material. The original project was a Training Manual/Study Guide of three Seminars supported by three chapters of research and an Introduction. The material is available for download at www.disciplewalk.com/Resources.html. In 2009 it was provided for purchase as a softcover book entitled Designing Discipleship Systems: Christian Disciple Making For Any Size Church, Any Theology through CreateSpace.com.
[2][3] [4][5] [6][7] [8]
All Scripture quotations are from the Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, and 1971 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Please review the page How and Why We Use Quotes.
[1]Ethnic Innovators seem like fully assimilated expatriates but remain a bridge into their original culture. All change strategies must first attract and involve the Innovators of a target market.
[2]Rogers, Diffusion of Innovations, 26.