THE THREE LEGGED STOOL PLAN
Commentary by Roger Oakland
Understand The Times International: Roger Oakland Ministries
www.understandthetimes.org
1.800.689.1888
Here’s the news headline: “Warren challenges Baptists to promote peace worldwide, starting in Texas.” [1] Pastor Rick Warren had just presented a keynote address at the annual meeting of the Baptist General Convention of Texas encouraging Christians to "establish the kingdom of God" on planet earth.
Pastor Warren is well known for his three-legged stool plan that is designed to implement his global PEACE plan. Warren learned about such a plan from Peter Drucker, a well known consultant who promoted church growth methods based on a market-driven Christianity.
Warren's three-legged stool plan has three legs – the three legs are business, government and the church. [2]
Establishing the kingdom of God on planet earth is one of the goals of the PEACE plan and the Purpose Driven Church. It can be documented that Warren’s Purpose Driven Plan and the emerging church plan are similar. Both plans work together with people of various faiths, unifying for a common cause to do good. This is interesting in light of Pastor Warren's previous statements that he can work together with those of diverse faiths and beliefs such as Muslims, homosexuals and the Roman Catholics. [3]
It should also be noted that Pastor Warren has slightly modified the PEACE plan since it was originally conceived. The "P" in the PEACE plan now stands for something different than what was originally meant when the PEACE plan was first announced in April of 2005. Initially the "P" was for "planting churches." Now, the "P" stands for "promoting reconciliation.
The "three-legged-stool" plan is very interesting in light of Bible prophecy, especially if you expand the concept of a three-legged stool on a global stage - global government, global economy and a global spirituality centered on the name of Christ. The Bible indicates that in the Last Days Christian apostasy will abound. People who once held to biblical faith will embrace a faith for the cause of peace and safety.
If Warren’s PEACE plan continues to promote the establishment of the "kingdom of God" here on earth by working together with people of all faiths including Roman Catholics, the stage will be set for the fulfillment of Bible prophecy.
Pastor Warren has stated that Christians should not waste their time "trying to figure out Bible prophecy." In Purpose Driven Life he wrote:
Speculating on the exact timing of Christ's return is futile, because Jesus said, "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." … Jesus said, "The Good News about God's kingdom will be preached in all the world, to every nation. Then the end will come." If you want Jesus to come back sooner, focus on fulfilling your mission, not figuring out prophecy. [4]
Is this what Jesus said? Didn’t He say, “Take Heed!” Be alert. The signs indicate He is coming soon! Are you ready?
[1] ABC News, October 30, 2007
[2] Michael Ireland, “Rick Warren Talks about AIDS, Celebrity Status, Elections, January 9, 2007, http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/1460297.html
[3] Rick Warren Interview with Charlie Rose, August 17, 2006,
[4] Rick Warren, Purpose Driven Life, Zondervan, p. 285-286