I've been trying to come up with a framework for easily defining the difference between progressive and conservative churches. Here's what I've got so far...
Progressive churches seek to empower their members to action through the redeeming message of God's love and purpose for them. Conservative churches on the other hand teach their members to obey God via the doctrine that emanates from the pulpit.
Put simply, one says, "you are a child of God. Go forth loving God and serving others!" and the other says "Obey the Lord! Adhere to the rules of this church and find others who will do the same."
Two very different underlying theologies that have vastly different spiritual, social, and political implications.
(Cross-posted at my blog.)