Tennessee developer creates Christian-themed subdivisions
September 15th, 2006
With street names like Covenant Boulevard and Lazarus Way, the subdivisions built by Tennessee developer Joe Swanson are definitely Christian-themed.
Swanson grew up in a Christian home, raised his children the same way, and when he talks about how blessed he is, there’s something so genuine in his tone that you’ll probably nod in agreement, whether you agree or not.
So he’s decided to spread his faith, but instead of standing at a pulpit preaching to a congregation, he’s found a more subtle way to introduce Christianity into society — by building mixed-use developments. Swanson is not the only one who’s found that, when it comes to real estate, faith can be an amenity.
Some of his subdivisions are named Victory Station, Kingdom Ridge and Providence Pointe.
Sounds like no place I want to live…In a Christian subculture around a bunch of loud mouth Christians. I understand I am generalizing, but still. From my experience, Christians who live in communities like this are not ones that I want to spend time with.
I addition, where does the whole “loving your neighbor” and “being a witness in your community” come in if everyone you live around is a Christian?
Rather than loving and engaging the world, lets just retreat and not ever rub shoulders with non-Christians. Give me a break.
Did he plan the Shepherds Way subdivision here in Jxn?
I think Hezekiah Lane sounds pretty cool.
Did you here about the pastor who played a joke on his congregation? He told everyone to turn to the book of Hezekiah. Some major page shuffling going on there–Lotsa nervous nellies…
All the pastors that frequent this blog can use that one and report back on Monday!
Nick, I’m new here so I hope that you don’t mind me saying so, but you are generalizing and drawing a conclusion that is a bit sarcastic and hard-hearted. Sorry if that was heavy-handed. I believe the story here is that Mr. Swanson, our brother-in-Christ, is using his business to the glory of God.
I think the misunderstanding you have with this story is that these are not Christian communities (like your church) but communities with a Christian “decor”. Looking around one of these neighborhoods, as in any neighborhood, you can be certain that not everyone mowing the lawn or washing the car is a believer. If it’s a struggle for many churches to ensure that all of their members are believers, how successful do you think a home owner’s association would be? As for the folks in the neighborhood, I would dare say that some don’t even see the connection between the street names they live on and the Bible.
The neighborhoods, i.e. the houses, streets, and yards, are not the real witness for Christ, but the man who developed, built, sold them is.
Mr. Swanson, if he conducts his business in a honest and thoughtful manner, surely is a good witness for the Lord. You learn a lot about yourself and the other guy when you get together to buy and sell a house.
This seems to be a good news story. Rejoice a little.
Zoner,
I personally prefer the book of First Opinions.;)
Thank you for your thoughts Joey.
I had a conversation with a friend about this. It is true that he cannot sell houses to only Christians, as that would be discrimination (and I’m sure he would not be discriminatory). One thing he can do, though, and it appears he has done, is create an environment for Christians, catering to them (entryway looking like a church, restored chapel etc.). while this certainly may not exclude all non-Christians, i think we would agree the vast majority of all residents will be Christians, and that seems to be the point.
Furthermore, I agree with you that the man can be a great witness, but that can be true whether or not he calls the road “Covenant Lane.” His witness has everything to do with those he works with and develops a relationship with, and nothing to do with the neighborhood. So if that is the case, why do it? why try and create a Christian subculture? Why seclude ourselves from those we are trying to reach?