The Matrix Explained
The Matrix expands our perception of the process through this full, two-dimensional model. It separates out the cognitive elements into the vertical axis (y-axis if we use mathematical terminology) while attitudinal dimensions belong to the horizontal (x-axis). A notable difference, also, is that in keeping with mathematical convention, positive numbers are represented upwards and to the right, while negative are the reverse. The Engel Scale is therefore inverted.
As has been already noted spiritual conversion is not merely a matter of acquiring knowledge (or developing a positive attitude towards Christian belief). The Matrix is not trying to say that. As with any model it is imperfect and should not be seen as making a theological statement: no model is adequate for describing the multiple dimensions of the spiritual process of new birth through faith in Christ. But for the purpose of the Matrix, conversion to faith in Christ through regeneration is depicted as taking place at the horizontal axis, or 0 on the vertical scale.
It is offered, rather, as a useful tool to help us better understand our role as communicators of this very precious Gospel which has been entrusted to us – in jars of clay! It addresses the crucial issue of finding the appropriate level of Gospel communication for our audience – wherever they may be. In reality it is no different from finding appropriate things to talk about with our neighbours or those we may meet in the market.
The basic Matrix model
The levels of -7 to +4 and -3 to +3 merely illustrate possible stages or phases, and do not imply a strict representation of the process.
The vertical scale depicts the extent of a person's awareness and knowledge of the Gospel, from a minimal awareness level of -7 through to a nominal +4 where the centre-point of 0 might be considered the conversion zone.
Zone is a preferred term since it is not always clearly defined. It might also be noted that the point at which a person's attitude moves from negative to positive is also not clearly defined). The peak of +4 is purely arbitrary, not intended to convey the impression that a person has arrived once a certain level of spiritual knowledge has been attained. It is a continuing process.
The labels assigned to each level are not intended to be precise since this is not a precise exercise but serve, rather, to illustrate the increase in understanding that takes place.
The horizontal axis depicts a person's openness to the Gospel and Christian teaching. On the left side we have those who are closed or who are rejecting it. To the right are those who are open and desire to know more. Expressed in another way we could say that those on the left are moving away from Christ, while those on the right are moving toward him.
What the Matrix demonstrates
It demonstrates in graphical terms where a person or people group is in terms of their spiritual development. By so doing it serves as a tool to help us better understand how we need to be communicating with these people. We shall also see later how it can be extremely useful for helping us take stock of any outreach we are currently doing and will show us whether it meets the mark.
The matrix approach provides us with four distinct quadrants (or areas). Each quadrant displays a different set of characteristics. The further from the centre point the more extreme are these characteristics while the closer to the centre the less pronounced they become. But in general terms people in the four quadrants display the following:
- Quadrant A (bottom left):
- closed toward the Gospel and ignorant of it
- rejecting the message
- unaware of the Gospel and possibly indifferent to it
- possibly opposed toward Christian outreach or evangelism
- hostile or resistant to Christians, evangelism and church activity
- Quadrant B (bottom right):
- open toward Gospel and hungry to know more
- accepting the message
- welcoming toward Christians and Christian activity
- a ripe harvest field
- Quadrant C (top right):
- born-again Christians -- members of a fellowship of believers (if there is one, and they are at liberty to attend)
- growing in Christ
- active in the Church
- bringing others to a knowledge of Christ
- demonstrating God's grace at work in their lives through the Holy Spirit
- Quadrant D (top left):
- a difficult group who have experienced conversion but have back-slidden or dropped out of active fellowship
- negative toward Christians and the Church
- spiritually ‘cold’
- unlikely to be impacted through mass media but patiently and personally brought back into fellowship
How the Matrix Helps Us
No matter what kind of Christian ministry we are engaged in the Matrix provides help in the following ways:
- It helps us understand visually where people are at in their spiritual pilgrimage
- It reminds us that imparting spiritual knowledge alone is not sufficient. We need to pay attention to building relationships, to feelings, sensitivities and attitudes
- It helps us better understand the kinds of things we need to be talking about in order to engage their interest and understanding
- It provides a tool that helps us evaluate the extent to which our own ministries can be effective in communicating the message (whatever that message may be)
Click here to continue with understanding how the Matrix works
Practical Applications of the Matrix
The Matrix was originally developed for use in the context of radio. Work is now underway to recognise its usefulness into other areas of Christian activity. Click on the following hyperlinks to see how it applies in other areas:
- Radio
- Other Media
- Local Church
- Internet
- Mission
We would much appreciate your help in developing these other areas where you have experience and stories to tell. If so Contact us