Rather than asking a question about time Block says we should be talking about priority, or what is most important. How long does it take to change a culture? If change—real change—comes from care and commitment (as the author states), then “how long” must give way to “what is the most important thing to do?”

Changing a church into a radically communal culture will take much longer that you or I imagine. Even in the most intentional, strategically driven environments, commitment to the change is almost as significant as the change for which we labor. At least that’s my take on it. We can talk “group life” and “community” all we want. But the long-term commitment to changing the way we think, feel and act is what really matters.

Executing on a strategy or surrender to a cause requires perseverance beyond the quick-start, “aren’t groups just great!” honeymoon era of ministry. We all want an Acts 2 Church—but visions of Acts 2 soon confront the realities of Acts 5, Acts 10, Acts 15, and even Acts 20. Do we want that kind of Church as well?” These are the real questions I must confront, personally and in my ministry.