The Great Giveaway

Book Review
Fitch, David E. The Great Giveaway. Reclaiming the mission of the church.Baker Books , 2005.
D.F.- Alliance pastor in Long Grove, Ill. Adjunct professor of ministry, theology, and ethics, Northern Seminary.
Comment. Henry.
Demolition is usually the first step of a major structural renovation. Deconstruction is the first step of a paradigm shift of ideas. When it comes to the shift from modernism to postmodernism Dr. Fitch has done a masterful job of the ‘demolition’ of modernism. He maintains that evangelicalism has effectively given away the functions that are “integral to the church’s life”. (19) This resource is masterfully academic but rather harsh on the ills that modernism has brought to the body of Christ in America.
“The autonomy of the individual and the necessity to organize for economic efficiency” (33) have become criteria for measuring success and that measurement must not be applied to churches. Counting decisions (spiritual) that don’t lead to action (discipleship) is not a valid measurement of church success. Counting baptisms and focusing on quality of community are suggested as a better measurement.
Postmodernity no longer accepts science as a method of determining truth. Evangelistic practices must change to be effective in today’s culture. “Postmoderns will be saved by osmosis.” (56) The gospel must be lived through hospitality, mercy and justice, community, etc. “Church planting is the ultimate form of postmodern evangelism.” (68)
The bottom line of evaluating leadership in modernity is effectiveness. Evangelicals have accepted this form of evaluation and this is another ‘giveaway’. There must be a return to servant leadership.
There has been another ‘giveaway’ in worship and preaching. They have become ‘pep rallies and hall lectures’. Worship needs to become immersive involving liturgy and art. Serious accusations are raised about expository preaching. “Narative preaching” (144) is where it is at. Interpretation of scripture must involve the community.
“There can be no social justice detached from the local church.” (160) The practice of benevolence is the responsibility of the body of Christ.
To make secular psychological therapy a part of spiritual formation is another ‘giveaway’.
Evangelicals have given away their children’s moral education. A return to “catechesis and other rites of initiation” (219) are suggested to deal with this ‘giveaway’. Church services should be generationally integrated.
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