Manning, Brennan. The Ragamuffin Gospel. Multnomah Publishers. 2000.
Comment. Henry
Brennan lives in Louisiana. His ministry arises out of Willie Juan Ministries. He was trained as a Catholic priest. His presentation is a radical (ragamuffin) view of the gospel that focuses squarely on God’s mercy and love and Christ’s demonstration of that mercy and love to ‘ragamuffins’ during his earthly ministry. This is a delightful thought- provoking read.
God’s grace and love is unconditional, without respecter of person. It is good news! “Creation discloses a power that baffles our minds and beggars our speech.” (36) In the gospel of grace there is no dichotomy between God’s power and his love.
The gospel is powerfully y portrayed in Jesus’ meal-sharing, a custom of his day reserved only for those who were intimate. Jesus’ actions communicate love, acceptance, and forgiveness. “Repentance is not what we do in order to earn forgiveness; it what we do because we have been forgiven.” (74) The gospel is all about love that drives out fear. Fear keeps us from honesty. There is nothing that can separate us from the love of Christ. Believe it! “Dear Lord, grant me the grace of wonder.” Joshua Abraham Heschel. Practicing “evangelism by concussion” (121) is part of the gospel.
When our actions do not match our words we become guilty of severe hypocrisy. Freedom that Christ offers has always been threatened by those who feel that such a gift is too difficult to handle without outside control and/or management. Christ’s freedom is very empowering. Such freedom is not without failure which leads to growth and maturation.
“Christianity (the gospel) is not primarily a moral code but a grace-laden mystery; it is not essentially a philosophy of love but a love affair; it is not keeping rules with clenched fists but receiving a gift with open hands.” (204)
www.henrydirksen,bolgspot.com
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A Love Worth Giving. Max Lucado.
Lucado, Max. A Love Worth Giving. Living in the overflow of God’s love. W Publishing Group. 2002.
Comment. Henry.
Max has given us his ‘exposition’ of 1 Corinthians 13. His illustrations and insights are inspiring and make scripture come alive. When we receive (God’s) love and don’t share and/or practice that love we live a lie. Max helps us to understand God’s love in such a way that we will discover that it is “a love worth giving”.
Based on Luke 7:47, Max talks about loving based on love received from God. Patience is God’s “premier expression of love”. (14) It cannot be given until it is received. With patience comes understanding. Another expression of love is kindness. We demonstrate it as we experience it.
Love does not tolerate a ‘pecking order’ of relationships or rudeness of any sort. We are all affected by the malady of self-seeking which has no part in love. “What we don’t have is so much less than what we have.” (69) Anger cannot survive in the presence of love. Rather than focusing on the wrongs (wrongdoers) of life focus on the blessings (God’s mercies). Love delights in truth. The love of Christ is truly into ‘all things’. ! Corinthians 13:7. Love protects. It endures and never fails.
Max includes a discussion guide for those who would like to use this book as a learning/teaching tool.
Comment. Henry.
Max has given us his ‘exposition’ of 1 Corinthians 13. His illustrations and insights are inspiring and make scripture come alive. When we receive (God’s) love and don’t share and/or practice that love we live a lie. Max helps us to understand God’s love in such a way that we will discover that it is “a love worth giving”.
Based on Luke 7:47, Max talks about loving based on love received from God. Patience is God’s “premier expression of love”. (14) It cannot be given until it is received. With patience comes understanding. Another expression of love is kindness. We demonstrate it as we experience it.
Love does not tolerate a ‘pecking order’ of relationships or rudeness of any sort. We are all affected by the malady of self-seeking which has no part in love. “What we don’t have is so much less than what we have.” (69) Anger cannot survive in the presence of love. Rather than focusing on the wrongs (wrongdoers) of life focus on the blessings (God’s mercies). Love delights in truth. The love of Christ is truly into ‘all things’. ! Corinthians 13:7. Love protects. It endures and never fails.
Max includes a discussion guide for those who would like to use this book as a learning/teaching tool.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Assumptions That Affect Our Lives
Book Review
Overman, Christian. Assumptions That Affect Our Lives. Pub. Micah 6:8. 1996.
C.O. – Director of adult education at North Seattle Christian Fellowship.
Comment. Henry
Christian’s book comes out of a concern about the state of affairs spiritually in America. (Our situation in Canada is probably worse.) He identifies assumptions that he feels are responsible for this state and traces where these assumptions come from. I am sure the situation has changed considerably since the writing of this book. As far as he goes with the topic, Christian has made a practical contribution to the challenge of being relevant in our culture.
We make life decisions based on assumptions that may require some examination in order to live fulfilled lives. Many of our cultural assumptions come from the ancient Greeks and Hebrews. The Greeks valued the form. The Hebrews valued essence. Our (American) culture is displaying Greek similarities just before its destruction.
It was the ancient Greeks who first came up with notion of life Nature being responsible for the origin and propagation of life. The Hebrews believed in and worshipped a God who created nature and who continues to maintain it. “Without God life has no meaning or value.” (53) Only man in God’s creation bears his distinction.
Greeks based the concept of truth on reason. Hebrews based truth on revelation which gave direction to reason. True freedom can only be experienced within the protection of “transcendent laws and orderliness”. (90) Under the authority of God man has been given ‘dominion’ over the earth.
One of the dramatic indicators of the decay of our culture is the erosion of the sanctity of life. The Hebrews differed from other nations because of their family values. Our culture values self-expression mor than self-control.
The Hebrews did not produce many philosophers. They had a balanced view of the spiritual and the physical. The influence of Plato and Aristotle are a part of our cultural dualism of the sacred and the secular. “The voice of the church was relegated to a narrow sphere of life known as ‘religion’.” (172) Some suggestions are made to help deal with the sacred-secular challenge.
Our culture has relegated the kingdom of God to the religious and private areas of life. The separation of church and state should legitimize the separation of God from civil government. The founding fathers considered education to include the sciences, arts, and religion. “The Hebrew model of education rests upon a moral base, not an academic one.” (225) An interesting defence is made for the values taught by the Puritans. Deism, Darwinism, Neopaganism, and the influences of Roman and Greek culture are identified as reasons for America getting off track. If the Hebrews could experience restoration with all that they were into, there is optimism for a spiritual restoration for our nation (culture).
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Overman, Christian. Assumptions That Affect Our Lives. Pub. Micah 6:8. 1996.
C.O. – Director of adult education at North Seattle Christian Fellowship.
Comment. Henry
Christian’s book comes out of a concern about the state of affairs spiritually in America. (Our situation in Canada is probably worse.) He identifies assumptions that he feels are responsible for this state and traces where these assumptions come from. I am sure the situation has changed considerably since the writing of this book. As far as he goes with the topic, Christian has made a practical contribution to the challenge of being relevant in our culture.
We make life decisions based on assumptions that may require some examination in order to live fulfilled lives. Many of our cultural assumptions come from the ancient Greeks and Hebrews. The Greeks valued the form. The Hebrews valued essence. Our (American) culture is displaying Greek similarities just before its destruction.
It was the ancient Greeks who first came up with notion of life Nature being responsible for the origin and propagation of life. The Hebrews believed in and worshipped a God who created nature and who continues to maintain it. “Without God life has no meaning or value.” (53) Only man in God’s creation bears his distinction.
Greeks based the concept of truth on reason. Hebrews based truth on revelation which gave direction to reason. True freedom can only be experienced within the protection of “transcendent laws and orderliness”. (90) Under the authority of God man has been given ‘dominion’ over the earth.
One of the dramatic indicators of the decay of our culture is the erosion of the sanctity of life. The Hebrews differed from other nations because of their family values. Our culture values self-expression mor than self-control.
The Hebrews did not produce many philosophers. They had a balanced view of the spiritual and the physical. The influence of Plato and Aristotle are a part of our cultural dualism of the sacred and the secular. “The voice of the church was relegated to a narrow sphere of life known as ‘religion’.” (172) Some suggestions are made to help deal with the sacred-secular challenge.
Our culture has relegated the kingdom of God to the religious and private areas of life. The separation of church and state should legitimize the separation of God from civil government. The founding fathers considered education to include the sciences, arts, and religion. “The Hebrew model of education rests upon a moral base, not an academic one.” (225) An interesting defence is made for the values taught by the Puritans. Deism, Darwinism, Neopaganism, and the influences of Roman and Greek culture are identified as reasons for America getting off track. If the Hebrews could experience restoration with all that they were into, there is optimism for a spiritual restoration for our nation (culture).
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Monday, August 31, 2009
The Release of the Spirit.
Book Review.
Nee, Watchman. The Release of the Spirit. Pub. Sure Foundation. 1965.
Comment. Henry.
Knowing that the author is a Chinese pastor who lived in China during a very stressful time, especially for believers, helps to put his writings in context. This is obviously a translation and assumes some understanding of the culture (religious and political) of the time and place. The thrust of the message is probably familiar to church people who are seniors. It is heavily guilt ridden with very little focus on relationship and what would today be described as missional and/or incarnational. Younger readers will certainly find this resource ‘thought provoking’.
Here is how Watchman explains our spiritual being. We are made up of body, soul, and spirit. The spirit he refers to as the “inner man”, the soul is the “outer man”, and the body is the “outermost man”. God’s indwelling takes place in the inner man. Thoughts will, and emotion are part of the outer man. It must become the “organ or vessel for the spirit”. (5) The outermost man must be broken in order for the inner man to become effective in God’s work. “The cross must destroy all that belongs to our outward man- our opinions, our ways, our cleverness, our self-love, our all.” (15) When this has happened we begin to enjoy the presence and peace of God. Our spirit will not be released if our outward man is not broken.
There can be no spiritual discernment of another person’s need until we have experienced brokenness. Brokenness is what is required for us to gain from the reading of the scripture. There can be no effective ministry, powerful preaching through the quickening of the Spirit until there is brokenness. It is through the “discipline of the Holy Spirit” (57) that the outward man is destroyed.
The release of the Spirit happens when the outward man (body) is destroyed. This is the basic lesson of this book.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Nee, Watchman. The Release of the Spirit. Pub. Sure Foundation. 1965.
Comment. Henry.
Knowing that the author is a Chinese pastor who lived in China during a very stressful time, especially for believers, helps to put his writings in context. This is obviously a translation and assumes some understanding of the culture (religious and political) of the time and place. The thrust of the message is probably familiar to church people who are seniors. It is heavily guilt ridden with very little focus on relationship and what would today be described as missional and/or incarnational. Younger readers will certainly find this resource ‘thought provoking’.
Here is how Watchman explains our spiritual being. We are made up of body, soul, and spirit. The spirit he refers to as the “inner man”, the soul is the “outer man”, and the body is the “outermost man”. God’s indwelling takes place in the inner man. Thoughts will, and emotion are part of the outer man. It must become the “organ or vessel for the spirit”. (5) The outermost man must be broken in order for the inner man to become effective in God’s work. “The cross must destroy all that belongs to our outward man- our opinions, our ways, our cleverness, our self-love, our all.” (15) When this has happened we begin to enjoy the presence and peace of God. Our spirit will not be released if our outward man is not broken.
There can be no spiritual discernment of another person’s need until we have experienced brokenness. Brokenness is what is required for us to gain from the reading of the scripture. There can be no effective ministry, powerful preaching through the quickening of the Spirit until there is brokenness. It is through the “discipline of the Holy Spirit” (57) that the outward man is destroyed.
The release of the Spirit happens when the outward man (body) is destroyed. This is the basic lesson of this book.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Too Small To Ignore.
Book Review.
Stafford, Wes. Too Small To Ignore. Why the least of these matters most. Waterbrook Press. 2007.
W.S.- Dr. Stafford is president of Compassion International one of the world’s largest Christian child-development agencies, partnering with more than sixty-five denominations and thousands of churches to serve more than six hundred thousand children in twenty-three countries.
Comment. Henry.
Although the focus of the book is the work of Compassion International it is very much a biography of its president. It is a story of great suffering and tragedy that became a driving force for good. It champions children and those who are involved with helping children realize their potential.
Wes spent his childhood in an African village of the Ivory Coast and in a residential school for missionary children, Bandulo Christian Academy, 750 miles away. The village part of his childhood was heaven compared to the school part which was hell. That hell was physical, emotional, and spiritual abuse of major proportions by the adults of the school. As a ten year old child Wes became the first child to break the silence forced upon the children to keep parents and other ‘outside’ adults from knowing what was going on.
Wes explains how his understanding of community and relationships developed in his life in the environment of a close African village. He felt involved and needed as a child in his father’s missionary ministry. He observed very strong relationships in a primitive culture. This gives him a unique understanding and motivation in his present ministry.
All the children of the boarding school during the time Wes and his sister were there experienced serious trauma. Many of them were damaged for life. As an adult Wes was able to turn that damage into good. He became a ‘fanatical’ champion for children. He was able to use the pain to become a “superachiever, which is a prison of its own”. (263)
For most of my 36 years as a school teacher I worked with elementary aged children. I was encouraged by the reading of this book that I did have an attitude toward these children that was based on Jesus’ teaching about the importance of “the least of these”. It was also a reminder for me to not neglect opportunities that I still have to encourage and empower children in their faith and development and the realization of their potential.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Stafford, Wes. Too Small To Ignore. Why the least of these matters most. Waterbrook Press. 2007.
W.S.- Dr. Stafford is president of Compassion International one of the world’s largest Christian child-development agencies, partnering with more than sixty-five denominations and thousands of churches to serve more than six hundred thousand children in twenty-three countries.
Comment. Henry.
Although the focus of the book is the work of Compassion International it is very much a biography of its president. It is a story of great suffering and tragedy that became a driving force for good. It champions children and those who are involved with helping children realize their potential.
Wes spent his childhood in an African village of the Ivory Coast and in a residential school for missionary children, Bandulo Christian Academy, 750 miles away. The village part of his childhood was heaven compared to the school part which was hell. That hell was physical, emotional, and spiritual abuse of major proportions by the adults of the school. As a ten year old child Wes became the first child to break the silence forced upon the children to keep parents and other ‘outside’ adults from knowing what was going on.
Wes explains how his understanding of community and relationships developed in his life in the environment of a close African village. He felt involved and needed as a child in his father’s missionary ministry. He observed very strong relationships in a primitive culture. This gives him a unique understanding and motivation in his present ministry.
All the children of the boarding school during the time Wes and his sister were there experienced serious trauma. Many of them were damaged for life. As an adult Wes was able to turn that damage into good. He became a ‘fanatical’ champion for children. He was able to use the pain to become a “superachiever, which is a prison of its own”. (263)
For most of my 36 years as a school teacher I worked with elementary aged children. I was encouraged by the reading of this book that I did have an attitude toward these children that was based on Jesus’ teaching about the importance of “the least of these”. It was also a reminder for me to not neglect opportunities that I still have to encourage and empower children in their faith and development and the realization of their potential.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Prodigal God
Book Review.
Keller, Timothy. The Prodigal God. Recovering the heart of the Christian faith. Dutton. 2008.
T.K.- pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Manhattan.
Comment. Henry.
This book is a pastoral exposition of Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32, usually referred to as the parable of the lost son. This exposition will add to your understanding of this portion of scripture and also impact your personal inventory of spiritual resources.
The parable in Luke 15 is more correctly called the parable of a father and his two sons. The two sons represent two groups of people Jesus focused on during his earthly ministry, the religious and the irreligious, the Pharisees and the ‘unbelievers’.
Both sons have acted in very disrespectful ways to their father. The father (Father) has responded to these actions in a most non-traditional way extending grace, forgiveness and love. Both sons have ‘sinned’ against their father, one through his self-discovery and the other through his hypocritical conformity. “The gospel is- everyone is wrong, everyone is loved, and everyone is called to recognize this and change.” (45)
Both sons illustrate truths about ‘lostness’ a biblical metaphor for sin. The younger son lost his way and decided to rebuild his life. The older son responded to his ‘lostness’ with anger and resentment. Anger causes us to loose our moral footing. It reflects an attitude of superiority and self-righteousness. It is suggested that the ‘lostness’ of the older brother may well have had a major part in the decision of the younger brother to do what he did to escape from such hypocrisy. When these brothers (groups of people) come to a point of reconciliation with the father and each other, they come with their own unique baggage which must be dealt with.
“We were created to live in the garden of God.” (95) Until we reach that garden our experience will be that of exiles (prodigals) longing for home. And there will be a feast.
The father’s feast is symbolic of the Father’s feast that is described in Revelation and is for all who have experienced restoration, salvation. That salvation is experiential, material, individual and communal.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Keller, Timothy. The Prodigal God. Recovering the heart of the Christian faith. Dutton. 2008.
T.K.- pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Manhattan.
Comment. Henry.
This book is a pastoral exposition of Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32, usually referred to as the parable of the lost son. This exposition will add to your understanding of this portion of scripture and also impact your personal inventory of spiritual resources.
The parable in Luke 15 is more correctly called the parable of a father and his two sons. The two sons represent two groups of people Jesus focused on during his earthly ministry, the religious and the irreligious, the Pharisees and the ‘unbelievers’.
Both sons have acted in very disrespectful ways to their father. The father (Father) has responded to these actions in a most non-traditional way extending grace, forgiveness and love. Both sons have ‘sinned’ against their father, one through his self-discovery and the other through his hypocritical conformity. “The gospel is- everyone is wrong, everyone is loved, and everyone is called to recognize this and change.” (45)
Both sons illustrate truths about ‘lostness’ a biblical metaphor for sin. The younger son lost his way and decided to rebuild his life. The older son responded to his ‘lostness’ with anger and resentment. Anger causes us to loose our moral footing. It reflects an attitude of superiority and self-righteousness. It is suggested that the ‘lostness’ of the older brother may well have had a major part in the decision of the younger brother to do what he did to escape from such hypocrisy. When these brothers (groups of people) come to a point of reconciliation with the father and each other, they come with their own unique baggage which must be dealt with.
“We were created to live in the garden of God.” (95) Until we reach that garden our experience will be that of exiles (prodigals) longing for home. And there will be a feast.
The father’s feast is symbolic of the Father’s feast that is described in Revelation and is for all who have experienced restoration, salvation. That salvation is experiential, material, individual and communal.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Monday, August 17, 2009
Missional Renaissance
Book Review
McNeal, Reggie. Missional Renaissance. Changing the scorecard for the church. Jossey-Bass. 2009. A Leadership Network publication www.leadnet.org
Comment. Henry
The term ‘missional church’ has become a buzzword among church leaders. Reggie takes this concept to a new level by describing what he calls a Missional Renaissance. He writes as a respected church consultant with a passion for the church in our ‘church-saturated’ culture. This is a must read for those who are serious about church being relevant today.
“The rise of the missional church is the single biggest development in Christianity since the Reformation.” (Intro.) For a church to become missional it will have to make three significant shifts. It needs to shift from an internal focus to an external focus, from program focused to people development, and from church based to kingdom based. These shifts are labeled “Missional Renaissance”.
This renaissance is being fueled by “the emergence of the altruism economy, the search for personal growth, and the hunger for spiritual vitality”. (3)
“The missional church is the people of God partnering with God in his redemptive mission in the world.” (24) Our personal and corporate mission is to bless people and share the life of God with them. To the extent that this goal is not being met, we (the church) need to undertake a ‘realignment’ of our priorities. “Missional is not a place you arrive at but a direction in which you are moving.” (38)
The shift from internal to external is a shift from church-centered to kingdom-centered focus. Such a shift will result in a change of score-card for the church. “What gets rewarded gets done.” (68) There will be a reallocation of resources.
The overwhelming dominance of church programs is a phenomenon of the last century. Shifting from program development to people development is part of becoming missional. People are developed in relationships not programs. The church score-card will focus on changed lives.
The shift from church-based to kingdom-based leadership is a shift from leading an institution to leading a movement. A score-card for such leadership will focus on “paradigm issues, microskill development, resource management, and personal growth”. (158)
Fear is a formidable enemy of legitimate, potentially freeing, change. Change is often resisted by expressed by anger. Change in the church always triggers strong emotions. Reggie has presented a blueprint for change that is scripturally sound with great potential to breathe new life into the church.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
McNeal, Reggie. Missional Renaissance. Changing the scorecard for the church. Jossey-Bass. 2009. A Leadership Network publication www.leadnet.org
Comment. Henry
The term ‘missional church’ has become a buzzword among church leaders. Reggie takes this concept to a new level by describing what he calls a Missional Renaissance. He writes as a respected church consultant with a passion for the church in our ‘church-saturated’ culture. This is a must read for those who are serious about church being relevant today.
“The rise of the missional church is the single biggest development in Christianity since the Reformation.” (Intro.) For a church to become missional it will have to make three significant shifts. It needs to shift from an internal focus to an external focus, from program focused to people development, and from church based to kingdom based. These shifts are labeled “Missional Renaissance”.
This renaissance is being fueled by “the emergence of the altruism economy, the search for personal growth, and the hunger for spiritual vitality”. (3)
“The missional church is the people of God partnering with God in his redemptive mission in the world.” (24) Our personal and corporate mission is to bless people and share the life of God with them. To the extent that this goal is not being met, we (the church) need to undertake a ‘realignment’ of our priorities. “Missional is not a place you arrive at but a direction in which you are moving.” (38)
The shift from internal to external is a shift from church-centered to kingdom-centered focus. Such a shift will result in a change of score-card for the church. “What gets rewarded gets done.” (68) There will be a reallocation of resources.
The overwhelming dominance of church programs is a phenomenon of the last century. Shifting from program development to people development is part of becoming missional. People are developed in relationships not programs. The church score-card will focus on changed lives.
The shift from church-based to kingdom-based leadership is a shift from leading an institution to leading a movement. A score-card for such leadership will focus on “paradigm issues, microskill development, resource management, and personal growth”. (158)
Fear is a formidable enemy of legitimate, potentially freeing, change. Change is often resisted by expressed by anger. Change in the church always triggers strong emotions. Reggie has presented a blueprint for change that is scripturally sound with great potential to breathe new life into the church.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Monday, August 10, 2009
Life By The Hour
Book Review.
Schroeder, Tim. Iife By The Hour. Knowing when you have had enough- for now. Trafford Publishing. 2009
Comment. Henry.
Tim is a local pastor who has been an impressive model to me regarding his involvement in the community. He writes out of these experiences and a strong commitment to scripture. I appreciated his response when I asked him whom he was targeting with this book; “Your neighbor”. His thesis of living (the Christian) life one hour at a time is a very helpful, fundamentally sound concept.
It is one thing to survive in our spiritual life but it is quite another thing to flourish. Flourishing involves a strategy of living life one hour at a time. Making right decisions (hourly) develops a foundation for making right decisions in the big decisions of life.
We should not accept meaninglessness in our schedule of life. We need continuous personal inspiration. Clear life values are developed and maintained hour by hour, e.g. practicing gratitude. Making sure our soul is alive and well-nourished and our bodies are healthy is our responsibility.
Lofty goals are reached with honest, genuine beginnings. Distractions and hurry, two enemies in our lives, are things that are totally within our control. The solution to stress and fatigue is not inactivity but some wholesome form of re-creation. “Resist predictability.” (102)
We are commanded to forgive. Forgiving is both an event and a process. Worry and anxiety will become fatal if left unchecked and/or unmanaged. The peace of God is a gift that we need to appropriate by faith. At all times recognize the lies in a temptation. The life of a Christ-follower requires total commitment and the giving of your best (one hour at a time). Prayer is fundamental in order to move from surviving to flourishing.
The challenge of not being mastered by money is best accomplished hour by hour. “Those things with the greatest capacity to bring the greatest pleasure also have the capacity to bring the greatest pain.” (190) e.g. our sex life.
Schroeder, Tim. Iife By The Hour. Knowing when you have had enough- for now. Trafford Publishing. 2009
Comment. Henry.
Tim is a local pastor who has been an impressive model to me regarding his involvement in the community. He writes out of these experiences and a strong commitment to scripture. I appreciated his response when I asked him whom he was targeting with this book; “Your neighbor”. His thesis of living (the Christian) life one hour at a time is a very helpful, fundamentally sound concept.
It is one thing to survive in our spiritual life but it is quite another thing to flourish. Flourishing involves a strategy of living life one hour at a time. Making right decisions (hourly) develops a foundation for making right decisions in the big decisions of life.
We should not accept meaninglessness in our schedule of life. We need continuous personal inspiration. Clear life values are developed and maintained hour by hour, e.g. practicing gratitude. Making sure our soul is alive and well-nourished and our bodies are healthy is our responsibility.
Lofty goals are reached with honest, genuine beginnings. Distractions and hurry, two enemies in our lives, are things that are totally within our control. The solution to stress and fatigue is not inactivity but some wholesome form of re-creation. “Resist predictability.” (102)
We are commanded to forgive. Forgiving is both an event and a process. Worry and anxiety will become fatal if left unchecked and/or unmanaged. The peace of God is a gift that we need to appropriate by faith. At all times recognize the lies in a temptation. The life of a Christ-follower requires total commitment and the giving of your best (one hour at a time). Prayer is fundamental in order to move from surviving to flourishing.
The challenge of not being mastered by money is best accomplished hour by hour. “Those things with the greatest capacity to bring the greatest pleasure also have the capacity to bring the greatest pain.” (190) e.g. our sex life.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Working On God
Book Review
Gallagher, Winifred. Working On God. The Modern Library. 1999.
W.G.- A behavioral-science reporter.
Comment. Henry.
The endorsements of this book focus on the value of this book as it deals with the religious environment on late twentieth century America. The author has spent three years on this resource and has done an impressive job researching religion as it relates to where people’s interests are. I don’t think her experience did much to change her understanding and relationship with God. She is still an agnostic. I found this book helpful as a resource on Zen (Buddhism), Judaism, Catholicism, and New Age.
The author talks about spirituality as she experienced it at Sonoma Mountain Zen Centre, B’nai Jeshurum (a Conservative synagogue), and a celebration of St. Francis of Assisi in the Episcopal Cathedral of St. John the Divine. She speaks as a representative of the ‘neoagnostics’ (“Well-educated skeptics who have inexplicable metaphysical feelings.”) Her focus is millennial religion, the religion of the twentieth century. The religion that appeals to neoagnostics “must be real in the experiential sense, it must also harmonize with what is intellectually known to be true”. (43)
To accept and understand a relationship between science and religion is fundamental to neoagnostics. The dynamic of the small group is conducive to thinking for ourselves and provides the community necessary for experiencing legitimate religion. The contrasts on good and bad (right and wrong) are demonstrated by the fundamentalists on one end of the scale and psycho moralists on the other.
The author subscribes to healing as the result of prayers. “Much of healing’s popularity derives from its fusion of two contemporary enthusiasms: spirituality and science.” (157) Pluralism is seen as inevitable and should be recognized and should be recognized for its positive effect on all faiths. New Age covers a great variety of practices and beliefs found in many cultures. It “is largely a movement of well educated white white-collared professionals whose spirituality must accommodate science, nature, and psychology”. (168)
Understanding and respecting each other’s view is tolerance. “The most obvious indication of moving beyond tolerance is intermarriage,” between people of different ‘faiths’. (202) Families and extended family are impacted. Children of such marriages are impacted the most. Religions of the past, i.e. childhood, will always have an impact (attraction) on a person’s spiritual journey.
Zen, Judaism and Christianity are claimed as major influences on the author’s experience of “Working On God”. Her point of reference is her position as a ‘neoagnostic’. In actual fact she does not believe in the God of Christianity. Her closing comment explains her position. “I believe religion is right. It says you should do the best you can right now. If there is a better way to live, I don’t know of it. I intend to keep working on God.” (317)
Check this out.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Gallagher, Winifred. Working On God. The Modern Library. 1999.
W.G.- A behavioral-science reporter.
Comment. Henry.
The endorsements of this book focus on the value of this book as it deals with the religious environment on late twentieth century America. The author has spent three years on this resource and has done an impressive job researching religion as it relates to where people’s interests are. I don’t think her experience did much to change her understanding and relationship with God. She is still an agnostic. I found this book helpful as a resource on Zen (Buddhism), Judaism, Catholicism, and New Age.
The author talks about spirituality as she experienced it at Sonoma Mountain Zen Centre, B’nai Jeshurum (a Conservative synagogue), and a celebration of St. Francis of Assisi in the Episcopal Cathedral of St. John the Divine. She speaks as a representative of the ‘neoagnostics’ (“Well-educated skeptics who have inexplicable metaphysical feelings.”) Her focus is millennial religion, the religion of the twentieth century. The religion that appeals to neoagnostics “must be real in the experiential sense, it must also harmonize with what is intellectually known to be true”. (43)
To accept and understand a relationship between science and religion is fundamental to neoagnostics. The dynamic of the small group is conducive to thinking for ourselves and provides the community necessary for experiencing legitimate religion. The contrasts on good and bad (right and wrong) are demonstrated by the fundamentalists on one end of the scale and psycho moralists on the other.
The author subscribes to healing as the result of prayers. “Much of healing’s popularity derives from its fusion of two contemporary enthusiasms: spirituality and science.” (157) Pluralism is seen as inevitable and should be recognized and should be recognized for its positive effect on all faiths. New Age covers a great variety of practices and beliefs found in many cultures. It “is largely a movement of well educated white white-collared professionals whose spirituality must accommodate science, nature, and psychology”. (168)
Understanding and respecting each other’s view is tolerance. “The most obvious indication of moving beyond tolerance is intermarriage,” between people of different ‘faiths’. (202) Families and extended family are impacted. Children of such marriages are impacted the most. Religions of the past, i.e. childhood, will always have an impact (attraction) on a person’s spiritual journey.
Zen, Judaism and Christianity are claimed as major influences on the author’s experience of “Working On God”. Her point of reference is her position as a ‘neoagnostic’. In actual fact she does not believe in the God of Christianity. Her closing comment explains her position. “I believe religion is right. It says you should do the best you can right now. If there is a better way to live, I don’t know of it. I intend to keep working on God.” (317)
Check this out.
www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
When God's People Let You Down.
Book Review.
VanVonderen, Jeff. When God’s People Let You Down. How to rise above the hurts that often occur within the church. Bethany House Publishers. 1995.
J.V.- pastor, speaker, writer, counselor.
Comment. Henry.
The church is often defined as a family of God made up of members of one body. There are many people for whom this ‘family experience’ has not been a happy and/or fulfilled one. In fact they have experienced serious hurts from fellow members. It is these experiences that are being addressed in this book.
Scripture sets high standards for relationships between fellow believers. High expectations set the scene for high disappointments. The author seeks to explain how these ‘problems’ develop and how it is possible to rise above these hurts and live fulfilled lives within healthy productive relationships.
Few people seem to escape damaging relationships in their church experience. Unity in any (church) family requires mutual respect, support, and encouragement. When it happens personal needs are met. “We must become what we claim to be.” (44) When the “one anothers’ of Scripture are practiced they result in spiritual growth because needs are met.
When those who say they care are not available, when favoritism is practiced, and when people feel let down by their leaders, hurts are experienced. The gift of spiritual leadership has potential for spiritual abuse.
Basic to successfully dealing with hurts is an understanding of the origins of the hurts. We must avoid the victim mindset even to the point where we blame ourselves for the hurts. “Healing and recovery begins when we reach a point where we take responsibility for our movement from victim to victor.” (140) This is a process that requires an understanding of how ‘God’s will’ impacts our lives. We must let go of attempts to control others. The steps involved in our healing are similar to the steps of the grieving process. It is not without risks.
The goal of this author is to present information that will be helpful to those who have experienced hurts and want to see relationships restored as members of God’s family (the church). Restoration and reconciliation can and should happen.
The information presented in this book has (in my opinion) an application to hurts experienced in families by family members.
(For opportunities for interaction on this review and many others please check out www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com )
VanVonderen, Jeff. When God’s People Let You Down. How to rise above the hurts that often occur within the church. Bethany House Publishers. 1995.
J.V.- pastor, speaker, writer, counselor.
Comment. Henry.
The church is often defined as a family of God made up of members of one body. There are many people for whom this ‘family experience’ has not been a happy and/or fulfilled one. In fact they have experienced serious hurts from fellow members. It is these experiences that are being addressed in this book.
Scripture sets high standards for relationships between fellow believers. High expectations set the scene for high disappointments. The author seeks to explain how these ‘problems’ develop and how it is possible to rise above these hurts and live fulfilled lives within healthy productive relationships.
Few people seem to escape damaging relationships in their church experience. Unity in any (church) family requires mutual respect, support, and encouragement. When it happens personal needs are met. “We must become what we claim to be.” (44) When the “one anothers’ of Scripture are practiced they result in spiritual growth because needs are met.
When those who say they care are not available, when favoritism is practiced, and when people feel let down by their leaders, hurts are experienced. The gift of spiritual leadership has potential for spiritual abuse.
Basic to successfully dealing with hurts is an understanding of the origins of the hurts. We must avoid the victim mindset even to the point where we blame ourselves for the hurts. “Healing and recovery begins when we reach a point where we take responsibility for our movement from victim to victor.” (140) This is a process that requires an understanding of how ‘God’s will’ impacts our lives. We must let go of attempts to control others. The steps involved in our healing are similar to the steps of the grieving process. It is not without risks.
The goal of this author is to present information that will be helpful to those who have experienced hurts and want to see relationships restored as members of God’s family (the church). Restoration and reconciliation can and should happen.
The information presented in this book has (in my opinion) an application to hurts experienced in families by family members.
(For opportunities for interaction on this review and many others please check out www.henrydirksen.blogspot.com )
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Marked By The Wild
Book Review.
Litteljohn, Bruce. Pearce, Jon. (editors) Marked By The Wild. An anthology of literature shaped by the Canadian Wilderness.
McClelland and Stewart Limited. 1973.
Editors: At the time of publication both were instructors at the
Preparatory School, Upper Canada College, Toronto.
Comment. Henry.
The editors use the writings of some fifty Canadian writers to demonstrate how Canada’s vast wilderness has impacted Canadian literature. “Everything that is central in Canadian writing seems to be marked by the imminence of the natural world.” Northrop Frye. The influence of the wild is a distinquishing element of Canadian literature.
The writings have been grouped together under themes, e.g. The Wilderness as Adversary, The Benign Wilderness, Wilderness and Self-Discovery, Wilderness as Cultural Influence, etc.
This anthology contributes to our appreciation of Canadian history and our responsibility for the care and protection of our environment and ecology.
This is a delightful ‘gem’ for a personal library.
Litteljohn, Bruce. Pearce, Jon. (editors) Marked By The Wild. An anthology of literature shaped by the Canadian Wilderness.
McClelland and Stewart Limited. 1973.
Editors: At the time of publication both were instructors at the
Preparatory School, Upper Canada College, Toronto.
Comment. Henry.
The editors use the writings of some fifty Canadian writers to demonstrate how Canada’s vast wilderness has impacted Canadian literature. “Everything that is central in Canadian writing seems to be marked by the imminence of the natural world.” Northrop Frye. The influence of the wild is a distinquishing element of Canadian literature.
The writings have been grouped together under themes, e.g. The Wilderness as Adversary, The Benign Wilderness, Wilderness and Self-Discovery, Wilderness as Cultural Influence, etc.
This anthology contributes to our appreciation of Canadian history and our responsibility for the care and protection of our environment and ecology.
This is a delightful ‘gem’ for a personal library.
Monday, July 6, 2009
You Were Made For More.
Book Review
Cymbala, Jim. You Were Made For More. The life you have, the life God wants you to have. Zondervan 2008
J.C.- pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle for over twenty five years.
Comment. Henry
On the ‘pendulum’ of church culture, Jim and his church would be somewhat right of centre. There would not be much postmodernism influence and the Message would be a traditional evangelical one with a strong Pentecostal flavor. I don’t thing there are any denominational ties here. The thesis is very straight forward. We are not fully entering into the kind of (spiritual) life God has intended for us. Herein lays the challenge and message of the book. You Are Made For More.
It is a very fulfilling experience to discover and carry out the work assignment that is especially for you from the Lord. From such an assignment there is no retirement. Not having a proper understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit places limitations on our knowledge and experience of God’s leading. Ministry must be void of prejudice of any kind; racial, social, etc.
In spiritual warfare Satan usually does more damage through deception than through frontal attacks. We need to hear from God at all times. Those who would be followers of Jesus need to realize that they are in it for the long haul. Hardships in our lives have a positive purpose. In our spiritual warfare we must always deal with the “enemy within”. (147) Our objections to God’s plans sometimes get overruled. In the midst of spiritual chaos God can bring hope, e.g. the story of Ruth. Real lasting peace comes only from God. God keeps his word.
Cymbala, Jim. You Were Made For More. The life you have, the life God wants you to have. Zondervan 2008
J.C.- pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle for over twenty five years.
Comment. Henry
On the ‘pendulum’ of church culture, Jim and his church would be somewhat right of centre. There would not be much postmodernism influence and the Message would be a traditional evangelical one with a strong Pentecostal flavor. I don’t thing there are any denominational ties here. The thesis is very straight forward. We are not fully entering into the kind of (spiritual) life God has intended for us. Herein lays the challenge and message of the book. You Are Made For More.
It is a very fulfilling experience to discover and carry out the work assignment that is especially for you from the Lord. From such an assignment there is no retirement. Not having a proper understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit places limitations on our knowledge and experience of God’s leading. Ministry must be void of prejudice of any kind; racial, social, etc.
In spiritual warfare Satan usually does more damage through deception than through frontal attacks. We need to hear from God at all times. Those who would be followers of Jesus need to realize that they are in it for the long haul. Hardships in our lives have a positive purpose. In our spiritual warfare we must always deal with the “enemy within”. (147) Our objections to God’s plans sometimes get overruled. In the midst of spiritual chaos God can bring hope, e.g. the story of Ruth. Real lasting peace comes only from God. God keeps his word.
Wrestling With Angels.
Book Review.
Arends, Carolyn. Wrestling With Angels. Adventures in faith and doubt. Harvest House Publishers. 2008.
C.A.- award winning songwriter and critically acclaimed recording artist. Lives in the Vancouver area with her husband Mark and two young children Ben and Bethany.
Comment. Henry
Carolyn is a very readable author. Her honesty and vulnerability is refreshing. Her insights are ‘simply profound’. The comments of endorsements are very strong and help us understand where this author is coming from. An inspiring read.
Carolyn writes very personally about her spiritual life. There is not an area of her life that is not touched by her ‘biography’. Her stories are chronological and even her childhood experiences are rich in recognizing and dealing with the tension of faith and doubt regarding spiritual matters. Honesty and vulnerability are very refreshing ingredients in Carolyn’s story. She places truth in perspective that makes it accessible and relevant. “Provocative, stirring, emotional, and true, Wrestling With Angels, leads us to the place where hard truths and holy secrets intersect.” Lorilee Craker. The endorsements are generous and numerous. A very readable heartwarming presentation.
Arends, Carolyn. Wrestling With Angels. Adventures in faith and doubt. Harvest House Publishers. 2008.
C.A.- award winning songwriter and critically acclaimed recording artist. Lives in the Vancouver area with her husband Mark and two young children Ben and Bethany.
Comment. Henry
Carolyn is a very readable author. Her honesty and vulnerability is refreshing. Her insights are ‘simply profound’. The comments of endorsements are very strong and help us understand where this author is coming from. An inspiring read.
Carolyn writes very personally about her spiritual life. There is not an area of her life that is not touched by her ‘biography’. Her stories are chronological and even her childhood experiences are rich in recognizing and dealing with the tension of faith and doubt regarding spiritual matters. Honesty and vulnerability are very refreshing ingredients in Carolyn’s story. She places truth in perspective that makes it accessible and relevant. “Provocative, stirring, emotional, and true, Wrestling With Angels, leads us to the place where hard truths and holy secrets intersect.” Lorilee Craker. The endorsements are generous and numerous. A very readable heartwarming presentation.
Wild Goose Chase.
Book Review
Batterson, Mark. Wild Goose Chase. Reclaim the adventure of pursuing God. Multnomah Books. 2008
M.B.- lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church.
Comment. Henry.
Truth is multidimentional. This is true about our ‘pursuit of God’. Mark uses the analogy of a ‘Goose Chase’ (Celtic name for Holy Spirit is ‘the Wild Goose’) to explain his search for and/or pursuit of God. There are things about the analogy that don’t seem to fit into my own paradigm of the Holy Spirit however his thesis was helpful in adding to my understanding of a vital topic. There are many things that inhibit our pursuit of God. Mark calls them cages. This implies that we need to take action to escape from those cages and engage in our ‘Goose Chase. This resource focuses on being proactive in our pursuit of God the Holy Spirit.
“Nothing is more unnerving or disorienting than passionately pursuing God (the Holy Spirit). And the sooner we come to terms with that spiritual reality, the more we will enjoy the journey.” (2) There is danger in genuinely following Christ. Our Christian life becomes stagnant when we become ‘caged’ by responsibilities, routine, assumptions, guilt, failure, and fear.
We need to follow God-ordained passions to escape these cages. But first we must discover these passions. Effective prayer will always lead to purposeful action. “Passions and purposes of God converge.” (34)
We are surrounded by miracles but they become ordinary because they are constants, e.g. sunrises and sunsets. “Where you are geographically affects where you are spiritually.” (50) To keep good routine from becoming stale there must be continual change. Small change can be effective. Assumptions can become very limiting.
No days are so bad that we are beyond God’s grace and no days are so good that we are not in need of God’s grace. “We can’t appreciate the full extent of God’s grace until we realize the full extent of our sin.” (99) Guilt has a vicious way of hanging around. It is a conditioned response. E.g. what did Peter think every time he heard a rooster crow?
Failures or apparent failures are very often things that become significant events for growth and development. Exchanging fear with courage is a choice. “Small acts of courage change the course of history.” (155) e.g. Martin Luther’s ninety five theses.
It is suggested that we live “today as if it is the first day of our life and as if it is the last day of our life”. (166) In our pursuit of God (the Wild Goose) we must be aware of cages that will eliminate us from that pursuit.
Batterson, Mark. Wild Goose Chase. Reclaim the adventure of pursuing God. Multnomah Books. 2008
M.B.- lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church.
Comment. Henry.
Truth is multidimentional. This is true about our ‘pursuit of God’. Mark uses the analogy of a ‘Goose Chase’ (Celtic name for Holy Spirit is ‘the Wild Goose’) to explain his search for and/or pursuit of God. There are things about the analogy that don’t seem to fit into my own paradigm of the Holy Spirit however his thesis was helpful in adding to my understanding of a vital topic. There are many things that inhibit our pursuit of God. Mark calls them cages. This implies that we need to take action to escape from those cages and engage in our ‘Goose Chase. This resource focuses on being proactive in our pursuit of God the Holy Spirit.
“Nothing is more unnerving or disorienting than passionately pursuing God (the Holy Spirit). And the sooner we come to terms with that spiritual reality, the more we will enjoy the journey.” (2) There is danger in genuinely following Christ. Our Christian life becomes stagnant when we become ‘caged’ by responsibilities, routine, assumptions, guilt, failure, and fear.
We need to follow God-ordained passions to escape these cages. But first we must discover these passions. Effective prayer will always lead to purposeful action. “Passions and purposes of God converge.” (34)
We are surrounded by miracles but they become ordinary because they are constants, e.g. sunrises and sunsets. “Where you are geographically affects where you are spiritually.” (50) To keep good routine from becoming stale there must be continual change. Small change can be effective. Assumptions can become very limiting.
No days are so bad that we are beyond God’s grace and no days are so good that we are not in need of God’s grace. “We can’t appreciate the full extent of God’s grace until we realize the full extent of our sin.” (99) Guilt has a vicious way of hanging around. It is a conditioned response. E.g. what did Peter think every time he heard a rooster crow?
Failures or apparent failures are very often things that become significant events for growth and development. Exchanging fear with courage is a choice. “Small acts of courage change the course of history.” (155) e.g. Martin Luther’s ninety five theses.
It is suggested that we live “today as if it is the first day of our life and as if it is the last day of our life”. (166) In our pursuit of God (the Wild Goose) we must be aware of cages that will eliminate us from that pursuit.
Why We're Not Emergent.
Book Review
DeYoung, Kevin, Kluck, Ted. Why We’re Not Emergent. (By two guys who should be.)
Moody Publishers. 2008.
K.D.- Senior pastor of University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Michigan. (30 years old.)
T.K.- Sports writer for ESPN, Sports Spectrum. Has written screen plays. (In his 30s.)
Comment. Henry.
This is the first book that I have read that actually ‘takes on’ the emergents. Kevin addresses the theological issues that concern him about emergence. Ted focuses on the issues that represent practical challenges re: Christianity and Christian life-style. I am not in a position to comment on their validity in these matters. I found the resource thought provoking. I must say I was quite taken with Ted’s humor. I can hardly wait for the responses of other writers to this ‘gauntlet’.
Both authors explain how they understand the terms emerging and emergent. “No one speaks for the movement and no one speaks for anyone else. The emergent church becomes whatever anyone who calls themselves ‘emergent’ happens to think at that moment.” (18) (See article from theooze.com on June 2, 2005.)
“In the music scene it’s really cool to search for God. It’s not very cool to find him.” Chuck (musician). This seems to express an emergent mind-set. Emergents and non-emergents have different views on mystery. Uncertainty
which motivates “intrigue and search” does not mean “the end of all certainty”. (39) This is illustrated by different approaches to the discussion of homosexuality. On this issue “indecision is not pastorally helpful to most people”. (48) It is a mistake to label doubt as a good friend but is also a mistake to call it an unpardonable sin. Recognize it for what it is and work through it.
The contrasting positions of emergents and evangelicals on the approach to scripture are presented. “The vast majority of the Bible is made up of propositions” (73) and these propositions are not given proper credence by emergents. Examples of propositions made by Christ are presented as evidence of their validity. Inerrancy is explained as “the Bible is true in all that it affirms”. (76) Emergent teaching undermines confidence in the Word of God.
Using his great sense of humor and interesting writing style Ted discusses futurism and tolerance.
“Orthodoxy as a set of immovable theological assertions is largely downplayed” (106) by emergents. Robert Sanders labels emergent views of doctrine and revelation as “the ecstatic heresy”. “Christianity cannot and does not exist without boundaries.” (118) Spencer Burke’s book, A Heretics Guide to Eternity and Peter Rollin’s book How (Not) to Talk to God, are referred to “voices in the emergent conversation” (119)
Ted shares a personal experience of visiting a very non-emergent church. For him it was a very positive experience.
Modernism (like society) is the culprit and a source of many difficulties that impact our understanding and practice of Christianity. The question is posed, “Are creedal statements (often questioned by emergents) really the product of modern spirituality?” (151) Modernism should not be blamed for all the challenges of postmodernism. Ted takes issue with Peter Rollin’s position on “dialoguing for the sake of dialogue”. (171)
The emergent view (manifesto) of the kingdom of God is found wanting in what it does not say. The gospel should not be politicized. Emergents are criticized for “jettisoning penal substitution”. (194) Emergents are accused of calling hell “imagery”. (196) Eight reasons are given to explain why we need God’s wrath.
Ted visits a number of emergent churches and takes a class from Tony Jones and then presents his own responses to what bothers him about emergence. He is not comfortable with a ‘reasonable faith’. He feels emergents lack historical perspectives. By way of contrast he pays a visit to small (congregation of nine seniors) non-emergent church. For him this is a positive experience.
Here is Kevin’s closing summary statement of his non-emergent position. “Listen to all the churches in Revelation.” (239) They represent the various kinds of churches that are part of our culture, including emergent and non-emergent churches. And in each case positives and negatives characterize these churches. The need for balance is stressed, especially a balanced view of Christ, i.e. lion and lamb. “It is God that the church needs most- God in his grace
and truth, God in his awesome and holy presence.” David Wells.
DeYoung, Kevin, Kluck, Ted. Why We’re Not Emergent. (By two guys who should be.)
Moody Publishers. 2008.
K.D.- Senior pastor of University Reformed Church, East Lansing, Michigan. (30 years old.)
T.K.- Sports writer for ESPN, Sports Spectrum. Has written screen plays. (In his 30s.)
Comment. Henry.
This is the first book that I have read that actually ‘takes on’ the emergents. Kevin addresses the theological issues that concern him about emergence. Ted focuses on the issues that represent practical challenges re: Christianity and Christian life-style. I am not in a position to comment on their validity in these matters. I found the resource thought provoking. I must say I was quite taken with Ted’s humor. I can hardly wait for the responses of other writers to this ‘gauntlet’.
Both authors explain how they understand the terms emerging and emergent. “No one speaks for the movement and no one speaks for anyone else. The emergent church becomes whatever anyone who calls themselves ‘emergent’ happens to think at that moment.” (18) (See article from theooze.com on June 2, 2005.)
“In the music scene it’s really cool to search for God. It’s not very cool to find him.” Chuck (musician). This seems to express an emergent mind-set. Emergents and non-emergents have different views on mystery. Uncertainty
which motivates “intrigue and search” does not mean “the end of all certainty”. (39) This is illustrated by different approaches to the discussion of homosexuality. On this issue “indecision is not pastorally helpful to most people”. (48) It is a mistake to label doubt as a good friend but is also a mistake to call it an unpardonable sin. Recognize it for what it is and work through it.
The contrasting positions of emergents and evangelicals on the approach to scripture are presented. “The vast majority of the Bible is made up of propositions” (73) and these propositions are not given proper credence by emergents. Examples of propositions made by Christ are presented as evidence of their validity. Inerrancy is explained as “the Bible is true in all that it affirms”. (76) Emergent teaching undermines confidence in the Word of God.
Using his great sense of humor and interesting writing style Ted discusses futurism and tolerance.
“Orthodoxy as a set of immovable theological assertions is largely downplayed” (106) by emergents. Robert Sanders labels emergent views of doctrine and revelation as “the ecstatic heresy”. “Christianity cannot and does not exist without boundaries.” (118) Spencer Burke’s book, A Heretics Guide to Eternity and Peter Rollin’s book How (Not) to Talk to God, are referred to “voices in the emergent conversation” (119)
Ted shares a personal experience of visiting a very non-emergent church. For him it was a very positive experience.
Modernism (like society) is the culprit and a source of many difficulties that impact our understanding and practice of Christianity. The question is posed, “Are creedal statements (often questioned by emergents) really the product of modern spirituality?” (151) Modernism should not be blamed for all the challenges of postmodernism. Ted takes issue with Peter Rollin’s position on “dialoguing for the sake of dialogue”. (171)
The emergent view (manifesto) of the kingdom of God is found wanting in what it does not say. The gospel should not be politicized. Emergents are criticized for “jettisoning penal substitution”. (194) Emergents are accused of calling hell “imagery”. (196) Eight reasons are given to explain why we need God’s wrath.
Ted visits a number of emergent churches and takes a class from Tony Jones and then presents his own responses to what bothers him about emergence. He is not comfortable with a ‘reasonable faith’. He feels emergents lack historical perspectives. By way of contrast he pays a visit to small (congregation of nine seniors) non-emergent church. For him this is a positive experience.
Here is Kevin’s closing summary statement of his non-emergent position. “Listen to all the churches in Revelation.” (239) They represent the various kinds of churches that are part of our culture, including emergent and non-emergent churches. And in each case positives and negatives characterize these churches. The need for balance is stressed, especially a balanced view of Christ, i.e. lion and lamb. “It is God that the church needs most- God in his grace
and truth, God in his awesome and holy presence.” David Wells.
Whispers That Delight.
Book Review
Hawkins, Andrew, T. Whispers That Delight. Building a listening-centered prayer life. Word Alive Press. Winnipeg, MB. 2008
A.T.H.- pastor of St. Paul’s Congregational Church in Chatham. Ont.
Comment. Henry
Listening is very much a part of prayer. That is the thesis of this fine resource. We all have need of growth and diligence in this fundamental aspect of our spiritual life. The author speaks with passion and clarity on the ‘how to’ of prayer. This would be a welcome edition for anyone wanting to progress in their relationship with God in prayer.
The prayer pattern presented is derived from two traditional practices of the church. “The traditional four-fold order for worship (gathering, word, response and dismissal) and Lectio Divina (reading, meditation, prayer, contemplation).” (Intro) The “place of solitude” (XI) is important in our understanding and practice of prayer. There is a place of positive barrenness that is experienced when all distractions (worldly) are removed. It can be described as a desert place.
Prayer should begin with praise, a joyful sacrifice. This is illustrated by models of prayer in scripture. Thanksgiving flows out of praise. Guilt and shame make us deaf to God’s voice so we need to come to God in confession. A door to confession is flung open by boldness and honesty. Impurities are removed by confession just like impurities are removed from a swimming pool though the process of ‘back-washing’.
Listening to God is a crucial centerpiece of prayer. He speaks through thoughts, feelings and desires. For these to be legitimate we must become quiet in his presence. This is a discipline that is not highly valued in our over-active culture. “Scripture meditation focuses our attention on God’s voice by first focusing it on his written word.” (60)
To experience God in prayer there needs to be a response. This response will be a demonstration of our love for God. Guidance is a result of such a response. Right desires are more powerful than willpower when it comes to doing what we know is right. Spiritual desires must be stimulated by our response to God’s offer to be filled by his Holy Spirit. This happens through ongoing, continuous prayer.
It is good to practice the presence of God in meditation and contemplation. This is the path to genuine joy.
In the three appendixes the author presents a number of practical “tips” regarding the spiritual discipline of prayer.
Hawkins, Andrew, T. Whispers That Delight. Building a listening-centered prayer life. Word Alive Press. Winnipeg, MB. 2008
A.T.H.- pastor of St. Paul’s Congregational Church in Chatham. Ont.
Comment. Henry
Listening is very much a part of prayer. That is the thesis of this fine resource. We all have need of growth and diligence in this fundamental aspect of our spiritual life. The author speaks with passion and clarity on the ‘how to’ of prayer. This would be a welcome edition for anyone wanting to progress in their relationship with God in prayer.
The prayer pattern presented is derived from two traditional practices of the church. “The traditional four-fold order for worship (gathering, word, response and dismissal) and Lectio Divina (reading, meditation, prayer, contemplation).” (Intro) The “place of solitude” (XI) is important in our understanding and practice of prayer. There is a place of positive barrenness that is experienced when all distractions (worldly) are removed. It can be described as a desert place.
Prayer should begin with praise, a joyful sacrifice. This is illustrated by models of prayer in scripture. Thanksgiving flows out of praise. Guilt and shame make us deaf to God’s voice so we need to come to God in confession. A door to confession is flung open by boldness and honesty. Impurities are removed by confession just like impurities are removed from a swimming pool though the process of ‘back-washing’.
Listening to God is a crucial centerpiece of prayer. He speaks through thoughts, feelings and desires. For these to be legitimate we must become quiet in his presence. This is a discipline that is not highly valued in our over-active culture. “Scripture meditation focuses our attention on God’s voice by first focusing it on his written word.” (60)
To experience God in prayer there needs to be a response. This response will be a demonstration of our love for God. Guidance is a result of such a response. Right desires are more powerful than willpower when it comes to doing what we know is right. Spiritual desires must be stimulated by our response to God’s offer to be filled by his Holy Spirit. This happens through ongoing, continuous prayer.
It is good to practice the presence of God in meditation and contemplation. This is the path to genuine joy.
In the three appendixes the author presents a number of practical “tips” regarding the spiritual discipline of prayer.
What's So Great About Christianity?
Book Review
D’Souza, Dinesh. What’s So Great About Christianity. Regnery Pub. Inc. 2007.
D.D.- Dinesh is a former White House domestic policy analyst. He is the Rishwain Research Scholar at Hoover Institution at Stanford University. His web site is www.DineshDSousa.com
Comment. Henry
This author aggressively defends the Christian faith as it is being attacked in our culture by atheists and their atheism, e.g. Darwinism, etc. This book is for the seeker, the skeptic and the believer who wants to defend his faith. “D’Souza meets every anti-God argument head on and defeats it on its own terms.” Stanley Fish.
In our culture Christians have not been ‘contenders of their faith’. “The world is witnessing a huge explosion of religious conversion and growth, and Christianity is growing faster than any other religion.” (1) Atheism is on the way out.
The survival of the religious is an anomaly for the Darwinist. “The distinguishing element of modern atheism is its intellectual military and moral confidence.” (22)
The emphasis in education, especially post-secondary, is away from anything religious and toward an atheistic view. The goal is “apatheism- a disinclination to care that much about one’s religion, and an even stronger disinclination to care about other people’s”. Jonathan Rauch. Such educators see their indoctrination as a form of liberating children (young people) who have been imprisoned by religious teaching.
The concept of separation of church and state or “limited government” (41) is shown to come from Christian teaching. Matt. 22:21. There has been an attempt by the courts (in America) to interpret freedom of religion as freedom from religion.
“The problem of evil is not a problem of knowledge (i.e., the philosophy of Plato) but a problem of the will.” (56) The concept of the dignity of fallible human beings is a Christian concept. It is motivated by compassion to respond to the needs of any human regardless of rank or station.
“If the West gives up Christianity, it will also endanger the egalitarian values that Christianity brought into the world.” (67) The notion that ‘all men are created equal’ did not originate with Greeks and Romans but with Christianity. The U.N. Declaration of Rights is based on Christian teaching.
Science has theological roots. The laws of nature that have been discovered and explained have been there from the beginning. “The whole science versus religion story is a nineteenth century fabrication.” (102) The case of Galileo’s experience with the church is explained to support the above quote.
Support for the existence of God can be found in physics, astronomy and biology. “Fantastic though it seems the universe is fie-tuned for human habitation.” (130) This is described as the “anthropic principle”. (131) Evolution “cannot account for the origin of life, the origin of consciousness, or the origin of human rationality and morality”. (150) “Christians and other religious believers should embrace evolution while resisting Darwinism” (153) and its atheistic interpretations. “Modern science was designed to elude the designer” (157) therefore all evidence of God is rejected.
The teachings of Kant demonstrate the limits of reason based on experience. David Hume’s argument against miracles is rendered invalid because of his own philosophy. “Faith is the only way to discover truths that are beyond the domain of reason and experience.” (191) “Doubt is the proper habit of mind for the religious believer.” (195)
It is common for accusations to be made about the “crimes of religion”. (203) “In the context of the history of warfare, there is no warrant for considering the Crusades a world historical crime of any sort.” (206) It was a ‘war’ between Christianity and Islam. The accuracy of statistics is challenged when it comes to religious casualties from events such as the Inquisition, Salem witch trials (and witch trials in Europe), and the Thirty Years’ War.
Christianity has been a special target of modern atheist writers. Powerful atheist regimes have wiped out millions of people, e.g. Stalin, Hitler, and Mao. In a single century more than one hundred million people have been murdered.
The argument for morality is based on natural and divine law. Only humans are moral beings. Conscience is described by C.S. Lewis as “the bridge that links the creature to the creator”. Morality includes the reality that man has a soul. Our traditional morality has been replaced by a secular morality focused on the propensity to ignore evil. “A true opium of the people is a belief in nothingness after death.” Czeslau Milosz (Nobel Laureate) “Atheism is not primarily an intellectual revolt, it is a moral revolt.” (272) The only triumph over evil and suffering is the hope of eternal life. The author closes his book with a strong appeal for an authentic Christian faith in our culture.
D’Souza, Dinesh. What’s So Great About Christianity. Regnery Pub. Inc. 2007.
D.D.- Dinesh is a former White House domestic policy analyst. He is the Rishwain Research Scholar at Hoover Institution at Stanford University. His web site is www.DineshDSousa.com
Comment. Henry
This author aggressively defends the Christian faith as it is being attacked in our culture by atheists and their atheism, e.g. Darwinism, etc. This book is for the seeker, the skeptic and the believer who wants to defend his faith. “D’Souza meets every anti-God argument head on and defeats it on its own terms.” Stanley Fish.
In our culture Christians have not been ‘contenders of their faith’. “The world is witnessing a huge explosion of religious conversion and growth, and Christianity is growing faster than any other religion.” (1) Atheism is on the way out.
The survival of the religious is an anomaly for the Darwinist. “The distinguishing element of modern atheism is its intellectual military and moral confidence.” (22)
The emphasis in education, especially post-secondary, is away from anything religious and toward an atheistic view. The goal is “apatheism- a disinclination to care that much about one’s religion, and an even stronger disinclination to care about other people’s”. Jonathan Rauch. Such educators see their indoctrination as a form of liberating children (young people) who have been imprisoned by religious teaching.
The concept of separation of church and state or “limited government” (41) is shown to come from Christian teaching. Matt. 22:21. There has been an attempt by the courts (in America) to interpret freedom of religion as freedom from religion.
“The problem of evil is not a problem of knowledge (i.e., the philosophy of Plato) but a problem of the will.” (56) The concept of the dignity of fallible human beings is a Christian concept. It is motivated by compassion to respond to the needs of any human regardless of rank or station.
“If the West gives up Christianity, it will also endanger the egalitarian values that Christianity brought into the world.” (67) The notion that ‘all men are created equal’ did not originate with Greeks and Romans but with Christianity. The U.N. Declaration of Rights is based on Christian teaching.
Science has theological roots. The laws of nature that have been discovered and explained have been there from the beginning. “The whole science versus religion story is a nineteenth century fabrication.” (102) The case of Galileo’s experience with the church is explained to support the above quote.
Support for the existence of God can be found in physics, astronomy and biology. “Fantastic though it seems the universe is fie-tuned for human habitation.” (130) This is described as the “anthropic principle”. (131) Evolution “cannot account for the origin of life, the origin of consciousness, or the origin of human rationality and morality”. (150) “Christians and other religious believers should embrace evolution while resisting Darwinism” (153) and its atheistic interpretations. “Modern science was designed to elude the designer” (157) therefore all evidence of God is rejected.
The teachings of Kant demonstrate the limits of reason based on experience. David Hume’s argument against miracles is rendered invalid because of his own philosophy. “Faith is the only way to discover truths that are beyond the domain of reason and experience.” (191) “Doubt is the proper habit of mind for the religious believer.” (195)
It is common for accusations to be made about the “crimes of religion”. (203) “In the context of the history of warfare, there is no warrant for considering the Crusades a world historical crime of any sort.” (206) It was a ‘war’ between Christianity and Islam. The accuracy of statistics is challenged when it comes to religious casualties from events such as the Inquisition, Salem witch trials (and witch trials in Europe), and the Thirty Years’ War.
Christianity has been a special target of modern atheist writers. Powerful atheist regimes have wiped out millions of people, e.g. Stalin, Hitler, and Mao. In a single century more than one hundred million people have been murdered.
The argument for morality is based on natural and divine law. Only humans are moral beings. Conscience is described by C.S. Lewis as “the bridge that links the creature to the creator”. Morality includes the reality that man has a soul. Our traditional morality has been replaced by a secular morality focused on the propensity to ignore evil. “A true opium of the people is a belief in nothingness after death.” Czeslau Milosz (Nobel Laureate) “Atheism is not primarily an intellectual revolt, it is a moral revolt.” (272) The only triumph over evil and suffering is the hope of eternal life. The author closes his book with a strong appeal for an authentic Christian faith in our culture.
What's So Amazing About Grace?
Book Review
Yancey, Philip. What’s So Amazing About Grace? Zondervan. 1997
Comment. Henry
The topic of this book and the literary quality is such that it will not become subject to the dangers of becoming ‘dated’. To experience grace is a wonderful thing. To practice grace is an awesome responsibility that we must give ourselves to completely. This is basic to the ‘Great Commission’. This resource is very helpful in understanding and living out grace.
“Grace is indeed amazing- truly our last best word.” (13) It is a word that is easier to convey than to explain. Karen Blixen’s story of ‘Babette’s Feast’ tells of grace in action. Where grace is absent, Christianity is ineffective. “The church has managed to gain a reputation for its ungrace.” (32) Ungrace is an overarching characteristic of out culture. Romantic love is an experience of grace. Jesus often responded to the inbuilt resistance to grace that characterizes all of us. God responds with rejoicing when we respond to his grace. “Grace means that there is nothing we can do to make God love us more and there is nothing we can do to make God love us less.” (70)
One of the hardest things to handle about grace is that it is unfair. It involves forgiveness which is not a part of fairness. Forgiveness breaks the cycle of blame and guilt. Revenge never settles the score. Ungrace spreads like an airborne disease; grace happens one person at a time. A number of stories shared about forgiveness happening on a ‘corporate/national scale.
Grace knows no boundaries or exceptions when it comes to those who require it. Philip tells the story of a very powerful story about how he experienced the demonstration of grace that was required in his relationship with a close friend who is a homosexual. We all need “grace-healed eyes”. (175) Grace can be refused but it cannot be abused since repentance is a prerequisite to experiencing grace. Grace cannot become a license for immorality. To argue that it is easier to get forgiveness than permission may sound like good logic but it does not make good theology. Legalism is alive and well in our culture and as damaging as it has ever been. Religion based on externals is weak indeed.
Great concern is expressed about the lack of grace in the lives of Christians today. The potential of what power grace can have in our culture is huge. The evidence of “patches of green” (253) in our parched cultural environment show up in the most unexpected places. “The world thirsts for grace. When grace descends, the world falls silent before it.” (282) What a blessing to experience grace. What a privilege and responsibility to share it, dispense it.
Yancey, Philip. What’s So Amazing About Grace? Zondervan. 1997
Comment. Henry
The topic of this book and the literary quality is such that it will not become subject to the dangers of becoming ‘dated’. To experience grace is a wonderful thing. To practice grace is an awesome responsibility that we must give ourselves to completely. This is basic to the ‘Great Commission’. This resource is very helpful in understanding and living out grace.
“Grace is indeed amazing- truly our last best word.” (13) It is a word that is easier to convey than to explain. Karen Blixen’s story of ‘Babette’s Feast’ tells of grace in action. Where grace is absent, Christianity is ineffective. “The church has managed to gain a reputation for its ungrace.” (32) Ungrace is an overarching characteristic of out culture. Romantic love is an experience of grace. Jesus often responded to the inbuilt resistance to grace that characterizes all of us. God responds with rejoicing when we respond to his grace. “Grace means that there is nothing we can do to make God love us more and there is nothing we can do to make God love us less.” (70)
One of the hardest things to handle about grace is that it is unfair. It involves forgiveness which is not a part of fairness. Forgiveness breaks the cycle of blame and guilt. Revenge never settles the score. Ungrace spreads like an airborne disease; grace happens one person at a time. A number of stories shared about forgiveness happening on a ‘corporate/national scale.
Grace knows no boundaries or exceptions when it comes to those who require it. Philip tells the story of a very powerful story about how he experienced the demonstration of grace that was required in his relationship with a close friend who is a homosexual. We all need “grace-healed eyes”. (175) Grace can be refused but it cannot be abused since repentance is a prerequisite to experiencing grace. Grace cannot become a license for immorality. To argue that it is easier to get forgiveness than permission may sound like good logic but it does not make good theology. Legalism is alive and well in our culture and as damaging as it has ever been. Religion based on externals is weak indeed.
Great concern is expressed about the lack of grace in the lives of Christians today. The potential of what power grace can have in our culture is huge. The evidence of “patches of green” (253) in our parched cultural environment show up in the most unexpected places. “The world thirsts for grace. When grace descends, the world falls silent before it.” (282) What a blessing to experience grace. What a privilege and responsibility to share it, dispense it.
Whale Done.
Book Review
Blanchard, Ken. (and several co-authors) Whale Done. The power of positive relationships. The Free Press 2002.
Comment. Henry
Much has been written about what works and what doesn’t work in the area of interpersonal relations. This resource focuses on the power of the positive focus. The principles have actually come from the experiences of trainers working with killer whales. All three co-authors are people whose profession is working with wild animals. There is a lot of practical ‘take-home’ material in this book.
The principle of reinforcing positive performance and/or behavior is studied as it relates to the training of killer whales at the Shamu Stadium at Sea World in Orlando. It is all about building a relationship using the following building blocks, “build trust, accentuate the positive, when mistakes are made redirect the energy”. (19) Progress is a moving target so praise needs to be ongoing. Based on what was learned from the study of the killer whale training program, using praise as a reinforcement tool is labeled as a “whale done response”. (40) This response is focused on catching people doing things right. The more common focus of catching people doing things wrong is labeled the “gotcha’ (42) focus.
The application of this ‘whale done’ approach was tested in the home and workplace. In each case the response(s) was (were) positive. Whatever behavioral response we focus on will be the response that will be reinforced. I.e. if we are into the ‘gotcha’ focus we will reinforce negative behavior. When we choose to focus on the positive (whale done) focus we will reap the rewards of building positive relationships.
Blanchard, Ken. (and several co-authors) Whale Done. The power of positive relationships. The Free Press 2002.
Comment. Henry
Much has been written about what works and what doesn’t work in the area of interpersonal relations. This resource focuses on the power of the positive focus. The principles have actually come from the experiences of trainers working with killer whales. All three co-authors are people whose profession is working with wild animals. There is a lot of practical ‘take-home’ material in this book.
The principle of reinforcing positive performance and/or behavior is studied as it relates to the training of killer whales at the Shamu Stadium at Sea World in Orlando. It is all about building a relationship using the following building blocks, “build trust, accentuate the positive, when mistakes are made redirect the energy”. (19) Progress is a moving target so praise needs to be ongoing. Based on what was learned from the study of the killer whale training program, using praise as a reinforcement tool is labeled as a “whale done response”. (40) This response is focused on catching people doing things right. The more common focus of catching people doing things wrong is labeled the “gotcha’ (42) focus.
The application of this ‘whale done’ approach was tested in the home and workplace. In each case the response(s) was (were) positive. Whatever behavioral response we focus on will be the response that will be reinforced. I.e. if we are into the ‘gotcha’ focus we will reinforce negative behavior. When we choose to focus on the positive (whale done) focus we will reap the rewards of building positive relationships.
Walking With God.
Book Review
Eldredge, John. Walking With God. Talk to Him. Hear from Him. Really. Thomas Nelson. 2008.
Comment. Henry.
This book is quite different from some of John’s earlier books. The ones I read were very much ‘guy books’. This one is more general and generic. The topic he is tackling is for all who would have a desire to ‘walk with God’. He still presents his material passionately. He speaks clearly with little room for special interpretation. He sets the bar high.
The Psalms speak in great detail about the reality of being intimate with God, e.g.137:1-8. God knows us intimately. He desires intimacy with us. Jer. 24:7, Zech.1:3. It makes sense that we assume that God speaks to us and we can know how this happens in our lives. To limit God’s communication with us to what is written in scripture is a mistake. Scripture confirms that God speaks personally to all kinds of people.
Begin listening to God by asking simple questions. But even simple questions require total focus to receive an answer. When we receive an answer we should not second guess that answer. Overarching principles from scripture should always be our anchor (standard). E.g. “The battle in your life is against joy.” (37) There may be times when we don’t hear from God on certain questions but that should not be a criterion for our relationship with God. Satan’s agenda is to keep us from hearing from God. We need to be listening at all times.
The sorrows (devastations) of life are very much a part of our spiritual growth. “as long as our happiness is tied to the things we can lose, we are vulnerable.” (85) Times of difficulty can cause our relationship with God to rise. “Our holiness is deepened.” (91) We must avoid making “agreements” (92) that disrupt our relationship with God. E.g. “I’ll never really be loved again.” (95) Feeling is not a valid indicator of reality. “Listening to God on behalf of one another may be one of the greatest gifts we can offer each other in the body of Christ.” (110)
It is crucial that we hear God’s ‘no’ as clearly as we hear his ‘yes’. When losses are given over to God they are not permanent. Don’t allow Satan to turn grief into despair and thus put us into bondage. Hearing from God is essential in our relationships. We need a sanctified imagination. We will not hear clearly from God if we don’t manage our motives. It is through prayer that we will cast out evil spirits and demons in our spiritual warfare.
Some valuable teaching is shared about how to respond to unmet longings and disappointments. When God gives desires they should be pursued. Lent is not just about giving things up but replacing those things with something that will add to our life. Life doesn’t get any better than when we are “Walking With God”.
Eldredge, John. Walking With God. Talk to Him. Hear from Him. Really. Thomas Nelson. 2008.
Comment. Henry.
This book is quite different from some of John’s earlier books. The ones I read were very much ‘guy books’. This one is more general and generic. The topic he is tackling is for all who would have a desire to ‘walk with God’. He still presents his material passionately. He speaks clearly with little room for special interpretation. He sets the bar high.
The Psalms speak in great detail about the reality of being intimate with God, e.g.137:1-8. God knows us intimately. He desires intimacy with us. Jer. 24:7, Zech.1:3. It makes sense that we assume that God speaks to us and we can know how this happens in our lives. To limit God’s communication with us to what is written in scripture is a mistake. Scripture confirms that God speaks personally to all kinds of people.
Begin listening to God by asking simple questions. But even simple questions require total focus to receive an answer. When we receive an answer we should not second guess that answer. Overarching principles from scripture should always be our anchor (standard). E.g. “The battle in your life is against joy.” (37) There may be times when we don’t hear from God on certain questions but that should not be a criterion for our relationship with God. Satan’s agenda is to keep us from hearing from God. We need to be listening at all times.
The sorrows (devastations) of life are very much a part of our spiritual growth. “as long as our happiness is tied to the things we can lose, we are vulnerable.” (85) Times of difficulty can cause our relationship with God to rise. “Our holiness is deepened.” (91) We must avoid making “agreements” (92) that disrupt our relationship with God. E.g. “I’ll never really be loved again.” (95) Feeling is not a valid indicator of reality. “Listening to God on behalf of one another may be one of the greatest gifts we can offer each other in the body of Christ.” (110)
It is crucial that we hear God’s ‘no’ as clearly as we hear his ‘yes’. When losses are given over to God they are not permanent. Don’t allow Satan to turn grief into despair and thus put us into bondage. Hearing from God is essential in our relationships. We need a sanctified imagination. We will not hear clearly from God if we don’t manage our motives. It is through prayer that we will cast out evil spirits and demons in our spiritual warfare.
Some valuable teaching is shared about how to respond to unmet longings and disappointments. When God gives desires they should be pursued. Lent is not just about giving things up but replacing those things with something that will add to our life. Life doesn’t get any better than when we are “Walking With God”.
Unfettered Hope.
Book Review
Dawn, Marva J. Unfettered Hope. A call to faithful living in an affluent society. Westminster John Knox Press. Louisville, London. 2003.
M.D.- a theologian and church musician. Ph.D in Ethics and the Scriptures- Notre Dame.
Comment. Henry
Marva speaks as a theologian and social critic to the technological milieu which is such a large part of our consumerist, affluent society. She presents a way in which we can remain true to our biblical values in this society and at the same time offer hope that our Christian faith offers.
We don’t realize how fettered we are by technology. E.g. The computer does not add as much to our lives as it controls our lives. An information glut (available on line) has the capacity to make us incapable of making decisions. The computer does not enhance education to the point we are led to believe it does. Technology contributes to loss of relationships.
Technology has removed tasks that were fundamental to building family (and other) relationships. The fireplace (wood burning stove) which created jobs for various members of the family has been replaced by electric (gas and oil) heat where no co-operative efforts are involved. Technology and its devices tend to replace or destroy opportunities to build relationships at all levels. This dilemma is called the “device paradigm”. (50) Consumerism feeds this paradigm. It has destroyed our work ethic and replaced it with “technological boredom”. (55) Some steps are outlined how we can escape technological bondage.
“Christianity provides focal concerns- for dealing with the – fetterings of our technologicalized, commidified milieu.” (76) These focal concerns are twofold, love god and love your neighbor. Are churches ready for this challenge? The loss of culture and community add to this challenge. Technology must be our servant rather than our master. The dangers of commodification are very real.
An exposition of the focal concerns is given. These concerns will provide an escape from death and despair which are brought on by endemic prevalence of meaninglessness.
The Ten Commandments are reviewed as a guide to living the “language of focal concerns”. (155) “The way forward is to give up on ourselves, to recognize how badly we fail, to acknowledge our guilt, and then, freed by unfettered hope of forgiveness and the promise of God’s new future (already begun), we rise from that death to ourselves into newness of life, filled with Joy and Hope and thereby equipped for devotion to loving God and the neighbor.” (192)
Dawn, Marva J. Unfettered Hope. A call to faithful living in an affluent society. Westminster John Knox Press. Louisville, London. 2003.
M.D.- a theologian and church musician. Ph.D in Ethics and the Scriptures- Notre Dame.
Comment. Henry
Marva speaks as a theologian and social critic to the technological milieu which is such a large part of our consumerist, affluent society. She presents a way in which we can remain true to our biblical values in this society and at the same time offer hope that our Christian faith offers.
We don’t realize how fettered we are by technology. E.g. The computer does not add as much to our lives as it controls our lives. An information glut (available on line) has the capacity to make us incapable of making decisions. The computer does not enhance education to the point we are led to believe it does. Technology contributes to loss of relationships.
Technology has removed tasks that were fundamental to building family (and other) relationships. The fireplace (wood burning stove) which created jobs for various members of the family has been replaced by electric (gas and oil) heat where no co-operative efforts are involved. Technology and its devices tend to replace or destroy opportunities to build relationships at all levels. This dilemma is called the “device paradigm”. (50) Consumerism feeds this paradigm. It has destroyed our work ethic and replaced it with “technological boredom”. (55) Some steps are outlined how we can escape technological bondage.
“Christianity provides focal concerns- for dealing with the – fetterings of our technologicalized, commidified milieu.” (76) These focal concerns are twofold, love god and love your neighbor. Are churches ready for this challenge? The loss of culture and community add to this challenge. Technology must be our servant rather than our master. The dangers of commodification are very real.
An exposition of the focal concerns is given. These concerns will provide an escape from death and despair which are brought on by endemic prevalence of meaninglessness.
The Ten Commandments are reviewed as a guide to living the “language of focal concerns”. (155) “The way forward is to give up on ourselves, to recognize how badly we fail, to acknowledge our guilt, and then, freed by unfettered hope of forgiveness and the promise of God’s new future (already begun), we rise from that death to ourselves into newness of life, filled with Joy and Hope and thereby equipped for devotion to loving God and the neighbor.” (192)
Truefaced.
Book Review
Thrall, Bill. McNicol, Bruce. Lynch, John. TrueFaced. Trust God and Others with who you really are. NavPress. 2003.
All the authors are associated with an organization called, Leadership Catalyst, located in Phoenix, AZ.
Comment. Henry.
This is a re-read of a book that I have had for several years.
The book speaks very clearly to the common problem of being hypocritical with those who know us best. It is described very simply as ‘mask wearing’ which is a result of unresolved sin. It is illustrated as a three-phase process; “Act of sin > Involuntary Response > Inevitable Effect.” (29) Dallas Willard describes this book as “one of the best books on practical theology” with regard to giving meaning to humility, grace and repentance. Becoming “TrueFaced” is a very freeing concept.
When it comes to who we are, it is “a waste of energy and soul” (11) to be wearing a mask. Such behavior is fear motivated. Like ancient Greek actors we all tend to be ‘masked performers’ at times. Mask wearing in its various forms is really denial (at various levels). Eventually the mask will crack and this is good news because it will lead to reality.
Mask-wearing is the inevitable result of unresolved sin causing guilt and/or hurt. “Guilt and hurt turn (mutate) into shame, blame, fear, denial and anger”. (24) Each of these debilitating responses must be dealt with.
Involuntary (sinful) responses result in inevitable effects (sinful behavior). One such behavior is becoming judgmental. It is devastating and is often passed from generation to generation. Hiding one sinful behavior (masking) makes us vulnerable to other sinful behaviors.
Another common mask is the need to control. “Performance driven cultures can never promote healing. Rather they create more wounding.” (73)
“Our motives always direct what we value and how we act. Motive> Values> Actions.” (88) Pleasing God is a by-product of trusting God. Trust must be the foundation. It must be our primary motive.
“Grace changes our life focus, lets God handle sin, melts masks, changes how we treat each other, and is attracted by humility.” (110) “Grace helps people trust.” (127) Love, repentance, and forgiveness are God’s gifts of grace.
First we must learn to receive God’s love before we can love. We cannot receive love on our own terms. Once we have experienced love we will be able to love others. “People who are unable to trust will never experience love.” (140)
Repentance is a gift of grace. It is appropriated through trust (faith). It is reinforced in the community of grace. “Grace begets repentance, and repentance nurtures forgiveness.” (165)
Forgiveness is a mysterious gift of grace. Seven “keys of forgiveness are discussed,” (176) e.g. forgiving consequences, forgiving the offender, reconciliation, etc.
Thrall, Bill. McNicol, Bruce. Lynch, John. TrueFaced. Trust God and Others with who you really are. NavPress. 2003.
All the authors are associated with an organization called, Leadership Catalyst, located in Phoenix, AZ.
Comment. Henry.
This is a re-read of a book that I have had for several years.
The book speaks very clearly to the common problem of being hypocritical with those who know us best. It is described very simply as ‘mask wearing’ which is a result of unresolved sin. It is illustrated as a three-phase process; “Act of sin > Involuntary Response > Inevitable Effect.” (29) Dallas Willard describes this book as “one of the best books on practical theology” with regard to giving meaning to humility, grace and repentance. Becoming “TrueFaced” is a very freeing concept.
When it comes to who we are, it is “a waste of energy and soul” (11) to be wearing a mask. Such behavior is fear motivated. Like ancient Greek actors we all tend to be ‘masked performers’ at times. Mask wearing in its various forms is really denial (at various levels). Eventually the mask will crack and this is good news because it will lead to reality.
Mask-wearing is the inevitable result of unresolved sin causing guilt and/or hurt. “Guilt and hurt turn (mutate) into shame, blame, fear, denial and anger”. (24) Each of these debilitating responses must be dealt with.
Involuntary (sinful) responses result in inevitable effects (sinful behavior). One such behavior is becoming judgmental. It is devastating and is often passed from generation to generation. Hiding one sinful behavior (masking) makes us vulnerable to other sinful behaviors.
Another common mask is the need to control. “Performance driven cultures can never promote healing. Rather they create more wounding.” (73)
“Our motives always direct what we value and how we act. Motive> Values> Actions.” (88) Pleasing God is a by-product of trusting God. Trust must be the foundation. It must be our primary motive.
“Grace changes our life focus, lets God handle sin, melts masks, changes how we treat each other, and is attracted by humility.” (110) “Grace helps people trust.” (127) Love, repentance, and forgiveness are God’s gifts of grace.
First we must learn to receive God’s love before we can love. We cannot receive love on our own terms. Once we have experienced love we will be able to love others. “People who are unable to trust will never experience love.” (140)
Repentance is a gift of grace. It is appropriated through trust (faith). It is reinforced in the community of grace. “Grace begets repentance, and repentance nurtures forgiveness.” (165)
Forgiveness is a mysterious gift of grace. Seven “keys of forgiveness are discussed,” (176) e.g. forgiving consequences, forgiving the offender, reconciliation, etc.
Trombone Player Wanted.
Book Review (book on C.D.)
Buckingham, Marcus. Trombone Player Wanted. The Marcus Buckingam Company. 2006. (Six C.D.s ranging in time from 10 minutes to 15 minutes)
Commentary. Henry
Apparently this is available in book form also. (See www.simplystrengths.com ) The subject matter covered in this resource follows along the lines of the book co-authored by Marcus, “Now, Discover Your Strengths”, The Free Press, 2001. Using a very interesting example from a school band experience Marcus explains how creativity can be used to ‘play’ to your strengths. (I used to be a beginner band teacher.) In a culture where it is common to find yourself dealing with expectations that are not going to maximize your strengths this resource will be helpful to cope with real life challenges.
Only twenty percent of employees feel positive about their work (play to their strengths). There are many reasons why this happens. There are some myths that may be responsible for people not realizing their potential. One has to do with suggesting that you change as you grow. The truth is that you become what you are. What you are can be channeled but not dramatically changed. Another myth suggests that you grow most in areas that you are weak in. We should not ignore our weaknesses but efforts to develop should be focused on areas of strength. A third myth says that what the team needs from you is to put away your strengths and do whatever needs to be done to win.
When you try to explain your strengths you have to be specific. Here are some signs of strengths. What do you look forward to doing? What are you naturally inquisitive about? What activities energize you? Strengths are personal.
You develop strengths by seeking out situations that call upon your strengths. Volunteer for something difficult that will free up and focus forces that are already there. Look for models of your strength and work within reasonable situations.
“Find out what you don’t like doing and stop doing it” To put it in another way; stop doing things that don’t work. Look for people who are actually strengthened by the activities that you find draining and get them involved. Look for options of partnerships involving different activities. Be mobile.
Success depends on many people making contributions. Your contribution to you team will be most effective when you function out of your strengths. Managers need to have “strengths” conversations with their people.
An important part of continuing to work to your strengths is knowing when and how to make adjustments. Your strengths are unique and you need to play to those strengths. There will be risks but let yourself get derailed. As you offer up your strengths make sure you believe in those strengths.
Buckingham, Marcus. Trombone Player Wanted. The Marcus Buckingam Company. 2006. (Six C.D.s ranging in time from 10 minutes to 15 minutes)
Commentary. Henry
Apparently this is available in book form also. (See www.simplystrengths.com ) The subject matter covered in this resource follows along the lines of the book co-authored by Marcus, “Now, Discover Your Strengths”, The Free Press, 2001. Using a very interesting example from a school band experience Marcus explains how creativity can be used to ‘play’ to your strengths. (I used to be a beginner band teacher.) In a culture where it is common to find yourself dealing with expectations that are not going to maximize your strengths this resource will be helpful to cope with real life challenges.
Only twenty percent of employees feel positive about their work (play to their strengths). There are many reasons why this happens. There are some myths that may be responsible for people not realizing their potential. One has to do with suggesting that you change as you grow. The truth is that you become what you are. What you are can be channeled but not dramatically changed. Another myth suggests that you grow most in areas that you are weak in. We should not ignore our weaknesses but efforts to develop should be focused on areas of strength. A third myth says that what the team needs from you is to put away your strengths and do whatever needs to be done to win.
When you try to explain your strengths you have to be specific. Here are some signs of strengths. What do you look forward to doing? What are you naturally inquisitive about? What activities energize you? Strengths are personal.
You develop strengths by seeking out situations that call upon your strengths. Volunteer for something difficult that will free up and focus forces that are already there. Look for models of your strength and work within reasonable situations.
“Find out what you don’t like doing and stop doing it” To put it in another way; stop doing things that don’t work. Look for people who are actually strengthened by the activities that you find draining and get them involved. Look for options of partnerships involving different activities. Be mobile.
Success depends on many people making contributions. Your contribution to you team will be most effective when you function out of your strengths. Managers need to have “strengths” conversations with their people.
An important part of continuing to work to your strengths is knowing when and how to make adjustments. Your strengths are unique and you need to play to those strengths. There will be risks but let yourself get derailed. As you offer up your strengths make sure you believe in those strengths.
Tranformational Leadership.
Book Review.
Sneed, Berry. Edgemon, Roy. Transformational Discipleship. Your church helping people be like Jesus. LifeWay Press. Nashville. 2002.
Comment. Henry.
Here is a very readable, practical resource which addresses a very basic area of spiritual development, i.e. discipleship. Making disciples is part of Christ’s Great Commission. Becoming a disciple is a challenge for each believer no matter where they are in their spiritual journey. This book will help you with that challenge.
God’s plan for our lives is for us to abide in him and bear fruit just like a branch abides in the vine and produces fruit. Fruit bearing is enhanced through pruning. This metaphor has significant spiritual application.
Spiritual transformation begins with a new birth. It continues in a “growing relationship of love, trust, and obedience”. (27) The goal of this relationship is to glorify God by our words and actions. There are many hindrances to spiritual transformation; spiritual warfare, lack of faith, rebellion, etc.
Being (becoming) like Jesus is in fact a very huge challenge. When people get to know you (me) do they get to know the Father? There is a big difference between knowing God personally and knowing him cerebrally.
A relationship with Jesus is foundational for a believer. “It is important that God is empowering believers to make relationships work.” (56) Followership is our responsibility. Empowerment comes from Jesus.
“God uses transformed hearts to forever change others.” (73) This happens through communications in every-day experiences.
“The structure of a church must be adaptable to change.” (83) An environment of small groups can be conducive to effective change and sound discipleship.
“Every believer is a (potential) disciple with a life-long potential of growth and service.” (96) Therefore a discipleship ministry is crucial for the health of a church. Pre-evangelism and evangelism are to be included in the discipleship process. Selecting and training “discipleship champions” (105) deserves a high priority. Discipleship experiences could take the form of special programs in a church although they may not be called that.
Sneed, Berry. Edgemon, Roy. Transformational Discipleship. Your church helping people be like Jesus. LifeWay Press. Nashville. 2002.
Comment. Henry.
Here is a very readable, practical resource which addresses a very basic area of spiritual development, i.e. discipleship. Making disciples is part of Christ’s Great Commission. Becoming a disciple is a challenge for each believer no matter where they are in their spiritual journey. This book will help you with that challenge.
God’s plan for our lives is for us to abide in him and bear fruit just like a branch abides in the vine and produces fruit. Fruit bearing is enhanced through pruning. This metaphor has significant spiritual application.
Spiritual transformation begins with a new birth. It continues in a “growing relationship of love, trust, and obedience”. (27) The goal of this relationship is to glorify God by our words and actions. There are many hindrances to spiritual transformation; spiritual warfare, lack of faith, rebellion, etc.
Being (becoming) like Jesus is in fact a very huge challenge. When people get to know you (me) do they get to know the Father? There is a big difference between knowing God personally and knowing him cerebrally.
A relationship with Jesus is foundational for a believer. “It is important that God is empowering believers to make relationships work.” (56) Followership is our responsibility. Empowerment comes from Jesus.
“God uses transformed hearts to forever change others.” (73) This happens through communications in every-day experiences.
“The structure of a church must be adaptable to change.” (83) An environment of small groups can be conducive to effective change and sound discipleship.
“Every believer is a (potential) disciple with a life-long potential of growth and service.” (96) Therefore a discipleship ministry is crucial for the health of a church. Pre-evangelism and evangelism are to be included in the discipleship process. Selecting and training “discipleship champions” (105) deserves a high priority. Discipleship experiences could take the form of special programs in a church although they may not be called that.
Toy Box Leadership.
Book Review
Hunter, William P. Waddell, Michael E. Toy Box Leadership. Leadership lessons from the toys you loved as a child. Thomas Nelson. 2008
Comment. Henry
The analogy of taking characteristics of toys and drawing leadership lessons from their functions could be considered cute, clever or something else. It probably won’t work for everyone who picks up this book. Certainly the leadership principles being discussed are valid and to be reminded of them is timely.
Leadership lessons learned from ‘lego’ focus on connectional value, connectional ability and connectional failures. The slinky teaches that “more than any other leadership trait, vision pulls an organization forward by giving it direction”. (22) The limit of this pulling action must be respected lest the ‘elastic limit’ is surpassed.
We learn from Play-Doh the importance of being shaped as leaders. Mentors are a part of this shaping. To be shaped properly requires that the leader (that which is being shaped) be shapeable. From the yo-yo we discover the principle of creativity. “The most important creative freedom by far is the freedom to fail.” (62) Be knowledgeable about killers of creativity. Mr. Potato Head teaches us about facial communication in relationships. Eight ‘specific faces’ are discussed.
The importance of ethics is associated with the popular Rubik’s Cube. “The rocking horse illustrates the faulty belief that actions equal progress.” (109) Some interesting “checkpoints” (128) are suggested that are drawn from the games involving toy soldiers. They include involvement, assessment, placement, development and refinement.
The last two toys that are credited with teaching leadership lessons are “lite-brite” (144) and “weebles”. (162) The first has to do with communication and the second illustrates endurance.
Note: By way of explanation, many of the reviews I do are to give info to a friend who is responsible for the selection of book purchases for the organization he works for. This is one of them. HD
Hunter, William P. Waddell, Michael E. Toy Box Leadership. Leadership lessons from the toys you loved as a child. Thomas Nelson. 2008
Comment. Henry
The analogy of taking characteristics of toys and drawing leadership lessons from their functions could be considered cute, clever or something else. It probably won’t work for everyone who picks up this book. Certainly the leadership principles being discussed are valid and to be reminded of them is timely.
Leadership lessons learned from ‘lego’ focus on connectional value, connectional ability and connectional failures. The slinky teaches that “more than any other leadership trait, vision pulls an organization forward by giving it direction”. (22) The limit of this pulling action must be respected lest the ‘elastic limit’ is surpassed.
We learn from Play-Doh the importance of being shaped as leaders. Mentors are a part of this shaping. To be shaped properly requires that the leader (that which is being shaped) be shapeable. From the yo-yo we discover the principle of creativity. “The most important creative freedom by far is the freedom to fail.” (62) Be knowledgeable about killers of creativity. Mr. Potato Head teaches us about facial communication in relationships. Eight ‘specific faces’ are discussed.
The importance of ethics is associated with the popular Rubik’s Cube. “The rocking horse illustrates the faulty belief that actions equal progress.” (109) Some interesting “checkpoints” (128) are suggested that are drawn from the games involving toy soldiers. They include involvement, assessment, placement, development and refinement.
The last two toys that are credited with teaching leadership lessons are “lite-brite” (144) and “weebles”. (162) The first has to do with communication and the second illustrates endurance.
Note: By way of explanation, many of the reviews I do are to give info to a friend who is responsible for the selection of book purchases for the organization he works for. This is one of them. HD
The World's Most Powerful Leadership Principle.
Book Review.
Hunter, James C. The World’s Most Powerful Leadership Principle. How to become a servant leader.
Comment. Henry
The term ‘servant-leader’ could well be considered a paradox. The reality is, this is exactly what Christ was and his teachings are clear on this very important principle of leadership. This resource addresses the topic simply and effectively. The challenge is implementing the principle. You cannot become a servant leader by reading a book no more than you can learn to swim by reading a book. Although this a very biblical concept the endorsements of this book all come from market place leaders.
Leadership is defined as “The skills of influencing people to enthusiastically work toward goals identified as being for the common good, with character that inspires confidence”. (32) Management is not leadership. There are serious responsibilities that come with leadership. “Life is not so much what happens to us it is how we respond to what happens to us.” (49) Servant leadership does not abdicate responsibility but becomes responsive to those that are being led.
There are fundamental differences between power and authority. The greatest leader ever explained leadership simply. “If you choose to lead, you must serve.” He was talking about leading with authority not power. The sowing/reaping principle applies. When you serve, you will be served.
We are introduced to the concept of “volitional love’ (85) as part of the equation of servant leadership. It is defined as, “The act of extending yourself for others by identifying and meeting their legitimate needs and seeking their greatest good”. (86) Love, leadership and character are all involved in doing the right thing. This requires patience, kindness, humility, respect, selflessness, forgiveness, honesty, communication, trust and commitment.
We learn more by listening than by talking. “Listening is the sincerest form of flattery.” (Joyce Brothers) Forget about being interesting and work at being interested. Toughness and sincere affection can and should co-exist.
Having the power of choice between good and evil is something unique about human nature. By this nature our tendency is toward bad behavior. Our choices determine our character. “Not all change is progress, but all progress does require change.” (151) Three crucial areas are defined when it comes to implementation of servant leadership. First there must be a solid foundation of information. Once the principles are being applied there must be continuous feedback from the people that are being led. There must be an ongoing process of commitment to change where ‘gaps’ are eliminated and accountability is in place “on your journey toward continuous improvement.” (184)
Hunter, James C. The World’s Most Powerful Leadership Principle. How to become a servant leader.
Comment. Henry
The term ‘servant-leader’ could well be considered a paradox. The reality is, this is exactly what Christ was and his teachings are clear on this very important principle of leadership. This resource addresses the topic simply and effectively. The challenge is implementing the principle. You cannot become a servant leader by reading a book no more than you can learn to swim by reading a book. Although this a very biblical concept the endorsements of this book all come from market place leaders.
Leadership is defined as “The skills of influencing people to enthusiastically work toward goals identified as being for the common good, with character that inspires confidence”. (32) Management is not leadership. There are serious responsibilities that come with leadership. “Life is not so much what happens to us it is how we respond to what happens to us.” (49) Servant leadership does not abdicate responsibility but becomes responsive to those that are being led.
There are fundamental differences between power and authority. The greatest leader ever explained leadership simply. “If you choose to lead, you must serve.” He was talking about leading with authority not power. The sowing/reaping principle applies. When you serve, you will be served.
We are introduced to the concept of “volitional love’ (85) as part of the equation of servant leadership. It is defined as, “The act of extending yourself for others by identifying and meeting their legitimate needs and seeking their greatest good”. (86) Love, leadership and character are all involved in doing the right thing. This requires patience, kindness, humility, respect, selflessness, forgiveness, honesty, communication, trust and commitment.
We learn more by listening than by talking. “Listening is the sincerest form of flattery.” (Joyce Brothers) Forget about being interesting and work at being interested. Toughness and sincere affection can and should co-exist.
Having the power of choice between good and evil is something unique about human nature. By this nature our tendency is toward bad behavior. Our choices determine our character. “Not all change is progress, but all progress does require change.” (151) Three crucial areas are defined when it comes to implementation of servant leadership. First there must be a solid foundation of information. Once the principles are being applied there must be continuous feedback from the people that are being led. There must be an ongoing process of commitment to change where ‘gaps’ are eliminated and accountability is in place “on your journey toward continuous improvement.” (184)
The Unity Factor.
Book Review
Osborne, Larry, W. The Unity Factor. Developing a healthy church leadership team. Owl’s Nest Pub. 2006 (4th printing)
L.O.- pastor of North Coast Church in Vista, California.
Comment. Henry
Larry has experienced what he is writing about. Although he wrote the first edition eighteen years ago the principles discussed are relevant. The last chapter is unique to this edition. He is honest and frank in sharing what actually are the challenges of church leadership as they relate to staff/board scenarios.
Board unity is crucial. “As the board goes, so goes the rest of the church.” (15) Lack of unity makes spiritual growth impossible. Unity is a fragile thing. It has three components; “doctrinal purity, sincere and warm friendships, philosophical purity”. (17)
There are four ‘road blocks’ that can impact unity. A meeting place may not be conducive to productive meetings. Doing business at the expense of developing relationships can be a roadblock. Infrequent meetings with continuous turnover of members is another roadblock.
“Board members should serve as leaders rather than representatives.” (39) Keeping contentious and/or divisive people from becoming board members becomes very essential. To make this happen requires what is referred to as “keeping the gate”. (36) It takes time to develop effective leadership. It must be granted not demanded.
A case is made for the training of lay leaders. It draws boards together and gives them an understanding of spiritual leadership. A warning is given to make sure training isn’t seen as a form of lobbying. It must be an ongoing process. It is recommended that this training take place in regular “shepherding meetings” (89) led by the pastor.
Basic concepts that need to be part of what boards should know are discussed. A board should focus on the church’s strengths not weaknesses. Don’t give undue attention to the folks of the church who might be described as ‘squeaky wheels’. The best plans for a church avoid rigidity and inflexibility. “Form follows function.” (111) Don’t overload your church with more programs than your volunteers can’t handle. Provide them with adequate tools to do their job. Church growth is more about change than about numbers.
Conflict is a part of change. Where possible reduce the conflict. The concept of what needs to change must be introduced carefully. Don’t ignore resisters. Introduce change gradually by focusing on smaller groups before you introduce (sell) it to the whole church. Don’t be apologetic about change.
Performance reviews (of pastors) can be very positive. They should be self- initiated. Timing is important. Anonymity undermines a review. It makes “clarification and explanation impossible”. (140) Reviews should be in writing. Salary reviews and negotiations can be done without undue stress for pastors (staff) and board (church).
The changes that accompany ministry growth require changes in leadership methods (style). The larger the leadership team the more complex the leadership mechanisms.
Osborne, Larry, W. The Unity Factor. Developing a healthy church leadership team. Owl’s Nest Pub. 2006 (4th printing)
L.O.- pastor of North Coast Church in Vista, California.
Comment. Henry
Larry has experienced what he is writing about. Although he wrote the first edition eighteen years ago the principles discussed are relevant. The last chapter is unique to this edition. He is honest and frank in sharing what actually are the challenges of church leadership as they relate to staff/board scenarios.
Board unity is crucial. “As the board goes, so goes the rest of the church.” (15) Lack of unity makes spiritual growth impossible. Unity is a fragile thing. It has three components; “doctrinal purity, sincere and warm friendships, philosophical purity”. (17)
There are four ‘road blocks’ that can impact unity. A meeting place may not be conducive to productive meetings. Doing business at the expense of developing relationships can be a roadblock. Infrequent meetings with continuous turnover of members is another roadblock.
“Board members should serve as leaders rather than representatives.” (39) Keeping contentious and/or divisive people from becoming board members becomes very essential. To make this happen requires what is referred to as “keeping the gate”. (36) It takes time to develop effective leadership. It must be granted not demanded.
A case is made for the training of lay leaders. It draws boards together and gives them an understanding of spiritual leadership. A warning is given to make sure training isn’t seen as a form of lobbying. It must be an ongoing process. It is recommended that this training take place in regular “shepherding meetings” (89) led by the pastor.
Basic concepts that need to be part of what boards should know are discussed. A board should focus on the church’s strengths not weaknesses. Don’t give undue attention to the folks of the church who might be described as ‘squeaky wheels’. The best plans for a church avoid rigidity and inflexibility. “Form follows function.” (111) Don’t overload your church with more programs than your volunteers can’t handle. Provide them with adequate tools to do their job. Church growth is more about change than about numbers.
Conflict is a part of change. Where possible reduce the conflict. The concept of what needs to change must be introduced carefully. Don’t ignore resisters. Introduce change gradually by focusing on smaller groups before you introduce (sell) it to the whole church. Don’t be apologetic about change.
Performance reviews (of pastors) can be very positive. They should be self- initiated. Timing is important. Anonymity undermines a review. It makes “clarification and explanation impossible”. (140) Reviews should be in writing. Salary reviews and negotiations can be done without undue stress for pastors (staff) and board (church).
The changes that accompany ministry growth require changes in leadership methods (style). The larger the leadership team the more complex the leadership mechanisms.
The Ten(der) Commanments.
Book Review.
Mehl, Ron. The Ten(der) Commandments. Reflections on the Father’s love.
R.M.- pastor and author in Portland, Oregon.
Comment. Henry
My review of this book is a bit of a departure from the normal format. I will not be presenting key concepts, etc. of the author but rather my own evaluation of the presentation.
As the title and subtitle suggest this is a ‘commentary’ on the Ten Commandments. Ron wants us to see these commands as a love letter. The theology is very simple. The concepts presented to support this message are very ‘black and white’. The illustrations are simplistic and at times irrelevant. Ron strikes me as a traditional pastor whose strength is ‘solid, biblical preaching and teaching’ acceptable by many who are not comfortable with a contemporary post-Christian culture.
To suggest that commands are indeed an expression of love is not an irrational concept or a contradiction. The person giving the command may be totally motivated by love; however the person attempting to carry out the command may be having a different experience. What with failure, guilt and shame as part of the experience the love focus can be easily threatened.
The truth of boundaries being the basis of true freedom is a very solid principle. Loving and honoring those boundaries are part of that freedom. When we learn and practice the presence of those boundaries (commands) we begin to appreciate the love aspect of the commands.
Ron is preaching to the choir and I have no problem with a very enthusiastic response from that choir.
Mehl, Ron. The Ten(der) Commandments. Reflections on the Father’s love.
R.M.- pastor and author in Portland, Oregon.
Comment. Henry
My review of this book is a bit of a departure from the normal format. I will not be presenting key concepts, etc. of the author but rather my own evaluation of the presentation.
As the title and subtitle suggest this is a ‘commentary’ on the Ten Commandments. Ron wants us to see these commands as a love letter. The theology is very simple. The concepts presented to support this message are very ‘black and white’. The illustrations are simplistic and at times irrelevant. Ron strikes me as a traditional pastor whose strength is ‘solid, biblical preaching and teaching’ acceptable by many who are not comfortable with a contemporary post-Christian culture.
To suggest that commands are indeed an expression of love is not an irrational concept or a contradiction. The person giving the command may be totally motivated by love; however the person attempting to carry out the command may be having a different experience. What with failure, guilt and shame as part of the experience the love focus can be easily threatened.
The truth of boundaries being the basis of true freedom is a very solid principle. Loving and honoring those boundaries are part of that freedom. When we learn and practice the presence of those boundaries (commands) we begin to appreciate the love aspect of the commands.
Ron is preaching to the choir and I have no problem with a very enthusiastic response from that choir.
The Spirituality of Grandparenting.
Book Review
Milton, Ralph. Milton, Beverly. The Spirituality of Grandparenting. Northstone- an imprint of Wood Lake Publishing, Kelowna, B.C. 2007.
Comment. Henry
This is a delightful little book about a topic that is very close to my wife and me. We have a dozen grandchildren ranging in age from two to twenty five. In fact we have one great-grandchild. We can relate so well with much of what is being presented.
By way of explaining his ‘biases’ Ralph confesses, “I am incurably religious. I’m deeply involved in the Christian church because I can’t hang on to my spirituality without it. Bev (his wife) is an ordained minister.” (10) He declares that when grandparents delight in their grandchildren that is their “spiritual vocation”. (13)
The learning and teaching of trust is a ‘two-way’ street in grandparenting. There is a wisdom of age, a senior, but there is also a wisdom of a child. Becoming a grandparent is not a choice, it happens. It is impacted by every manner of life-style.
There are many benefits and challenges that are a part of relationships that span two (or more) generations. Being ‘childlike’ (a biblical exhortation) seems to happen naturally between grandparents and grandchildren. Infants are on their journey away from their Eden of innocence. Grandparents are approaching a return to an Eden restored.
Grandparenting happens in every conceivable environment from live-in to long-distance relationships. Surrogate grandparenting is valid. Grandchildren are the major recipients and beneficiaries of legacies. The greatest gift we, grandparents can give our grandchildren is ourselves. The author defends the grandfather image of God as a valid analogy of a loving, providing divinity.
“Give selflessly to your grandchildren from the bountiful harvest of your ripened soul. In doing so, you will touch the future. That is the way to be ready to leave this life when your time comes.” Arthur Kornhaber.
Milton, Ralph. Milton, Beverly. The Spirituality of Grandparenting. Northstone- an imprint of Wood Lake Publishing, Kelowna, B.C. 2007.
Comment. Henry
This is a delightful little book about a topic that is very close to my wife and me. We have a dozen grandchildren ranging in age from two to twenty five. In fact we have one great-grandchild. We can relate so well with much of what is being presented.
By way of explaining his ‘biases’ Ralph confesses, “I am incurably religious. I’m deeply involved in the Christian church because I can’t hang on to my spirituality without it. Bev (his wife) is an ordained minister.” (10) He declares that when grandparents delight in their grandchildren that is their “spiritual vocation”. (13)
The learning and teaching of trust is a ‘two-way’ street in grandparenting. There is a wisdom of age, a senior, but there is also a wisdom of a child. Becoming a grandparent is not a choice, it happens. It is impacted by every manner of life-style.
There are many benefits and challenges that are a part of relationships that span two (or more) generations. Being ‘childlike’ (a biblical exhortation) seems to happen naturally between grandparents and grandchildren. Infants are on their journey away from their Eden of innocence. Grandparents are approaching a return to an Eden restored.
Grandparenting happens in every conceivable environment from live-in to long-distance relationships. Surrogate grandparenting is valid. Grandchildren are the major recipients and beneficiaries of legacies. The greatest gift we, grandparents can give our grandchildren is ourselves. The author defends the grandfather image of God as a valid analogy of a loving, providing divinity.
“Give selflessly to your grandchildren from the bountiful harvest of your ripened soul. In doing so, you will touch the future. That is the way to be ready to leave this life when your time comes.” Arthur Kornhaber.
The Secret Things Of God.
Book Review.
Cloud, Henry. The Secret Things Of God. Unlocking the treasures reserved for you. Howard Books. 2007.
Comment. Henry
Cloud has been motivated to write this book as a response (rebuttal) to another book that has enjoyed great popularity. The book is The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Henry’s book focuses on the Judeo-Christian teachings. Rhonda’s book focuses on New Age concepts. Like his other books this book has a practical application to Christian living and is in that sense a ‘self-help’ manual. There is a personal Creator of the universe who wants to have a personal relationship with each of us whom he has personally created. To make this happen we need to know the “Secret Things Of God”.
God can be found because he wants to be found. However our search must be genuine. It will happen according to God’s terms. It doesn’t happen without some initiative (faith) by the searcher and it will probably involve another person(s) and it will certainly involve scripture.
“Trust is the key that opens the door to all secrets”, (30) of God. To refuse to trust limits us to our own resources. Effective trust is never stupidity.
Recognize the responsibility and importance of positive thinking and the consequences of being overcome by negative thinking. We control what we think. Don’t accept the slavery that removes choice. Ask for help. Be prepared to deal with the causes of negativity and negative thinking. There are times when suffering results in healing, e.g. surgery. Happiness is not dependent on circumstances.
“We can only have relationships that equal our own ability.” (95) We need to realize that our own dysfunction will impact the kind of people we are attracted to, e.g. the selfish one and the selfless one”. (105) Misery can be the result of misplaced trust. It is a tragedy when it happens to innocent people (children). When you place trust in a person(s) consider both character and behavior. To be ‘good and mad’ can be a part of our emotional immune system that can preserve a relationship.
Cloud gives his version of a purpose driven life. Purpose in our life is very much a heart thing. It is impacted by the sowing and reaping principle. God made us unique and it our responsibility to discover and function according that uniqueness (giftedness). We must find the right path and be totally committed to it.
The most important secrets have to do with God himself. He wants a personal relationship with us. He is for us: Eph. 2:10. Guilt can be a huge obstacle to our relationship with God. Our response to guilt should be one of Godly sorrow that leads to repentance, etc. We can experience peace amidst turmoil as we rest in the knowledge that God is in control. He can be trusted. Our responsibility is to keep the law(s) he has given us and that will cause our relationship with him to grow and mature. Deut. 4:40.
Cloud, Henry. The Secret Things Of God. Unlocking the treasures reserved for you. Howard Books. 2007.
Comment. Henry
Cloud has been motivated to write this book as a response (rebuttal) to another book that has enjoyed great popularity. The book is The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Henry’s book focuses on the Judeo-Christian teachings. Rhonda’s book focuses on New Age concepts. Like his other books this book has a practical application to Christian living and is in that sense a ‘self-help’ manual. There is a personal Creator of the universe who wants to have a personal relationship with each of us whom he has personally created. To make this happen we need to know the “Secret Things Of God”.
God can be found because he wants to be found. However our search must be genuine. It will happen according to God’s terms. It doesn’t happen without some initiative (faith) by the searcher and it will probably involve another person(s) and it will certainly involve scripture.
“Trust is the key that opens the door to all secrets”, (30) of God. To refuse to trust limits us to our own resources. Effective trust is never stupidity.
Recognize the responsibility and importance of positive thinking and the consequences of being overcome by negative thinking. We control what we think. Don’t accept the slavery that removes choice. Ask for help. Be prepared to deal with the causes of negativity and negative thinking. There are times when suffering results in healing, e.g. surgery. Happiness is not dependent on circumstances.
“We can only have relationships that equal our own ability.” (95) We need to realize that our own dysfunction will impact the kind of people we are attracted to, e.g. the selfish one and the selfless one”. (105) Misery can be the result of misplaced trust. It is a tragedy when it happens to innocent people (children). When you place trust in a person(s) consider both character and behavior. To be ‘good and mad’ can be a part of our emotional immune system that can preserve a relationship.
Cloud gives his version of a purpose driven life. Purpose in our life is very much a heart thing. It is impacted by the sowing and reaping principle. God made us unique and it our responsibility to discover and function according that uniqueness (giftedness). We must find the right path and be totally committed to it.
The most important secrets have to do with God himself. He wants a personal relationship with us. He is for us: Eph. 2:10. Guilt can be a huge obstacle to our relationship with God. Our response to guilt should be one of Godly sorrow that leads to repentance, etc. We can experience peace amidst turmoil as we rest in the knowledge that God is in control. He can be trusted. Our responsibility is to keep the law(s) he has given us and that will cause our relationship with him to grow and mature. Deut. 4:40.
The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind.
Book Review
Noll, Mark A. The Scandal Of The Evangelical Mind. Erdman’s Publishing Co. 1994
M.N.- professor of Christian thought at Wheaton College.
Comment. Henry
Mark has a strong concern about the fact that evangelicals do not have a significant influence in today’s world because of a lack of a strong evangelical mind. The appeal of this resource would be limited to those with an appreciation for critical thinking as it relates to evangelicalism.
Of all the things that evangelicals are noted for in North America, exemplary thinking is not one of them. This is especially true of the past century. Some evangelical objections are raised about the importance of critical thinking. An appeal is made for balance.
The placing of importance on the development of the evangelical is actually part of Protestant heritage. “Where Christian faith is securely rooted- we almost invariably find Christians ardently cultivating the intellect for the glory of God.” (43) e.g. medieval monasticism.
Revivalism and disestablishment (separation of church and state) are explained as contributing to the present state of the evangelical mind. Jonathan Edwards is considered as evangelicalism’s most discriminating thinker. The effect of the Enlightenment on evangelicalism is explained. Fundamentalism is described as an “intellectual disaster”. (109)
One of the results in politics and science of evangelical thought was the development of creationism (creation science). In the 1930s and 1940s the evangelical mind began to experience an awakening. Although there has not been much progress made in science, thanks to some Dutch Reform thinkers philosophy has fare somewhat better.
“The search for a Christian perspective on life is not just an academic exercise. The effort to think like a Christian is rather an effort to take seriously the sovereignty of God over the world he created, the Lordship of Christ over the world he died to redeem, and the power of the Holy Spirit over the world he sustains each and every moment.” (253)
Noll, Mark A. The Scandal Of The Evangelical Mind. Erdman’s Publishing Co. 1994
M.N.- professor of Christian thought at Wheaton College.
Comment. Henry
Mark has a strong concern about the fact that evangelicals do not have a significant influence in today’s world because of a lack of a strong evangelical mind. The appeal of this resource would be limited to those with an appreciation for critical thinking as it relates to evangelicalism.
Of all the things that evangelicals are noted for in North America, exemplary thinking is not one of them. This is especially true of the past century. Some evangelical objections are raised about the importance of critical thinking. An appeal is made for balance.
The placing of importance on the development of the evangelical is actually part of Protestant heritage. “Where Christian faith is securely rooted- we almost invariably find Christians ardently cultivating the intellect for the glory of God.” (43) e.g. medieval monasticism.
Revivalism and disestablishment (separation of church and state) are explained as contributing to the present state of the evangelical mind. Jonathan Edwards is considered as evangelicalism’s most discriminating thinker. The effect of the Enlightenment on evangelicalism is explained. Fundamentalism is described as an “intellectual disaster”. (109)
One of the results in politics and science of evangelical thought was the development of creationism (creation science). In the 1930s and 1940s the evangelical mind began to experience an awakening. Although there has not been much progress made in science, thanks to some Dutch Reform thinkers philosophy has fare somewhat better.
“The search for a Christian perspective on life is not just an academic exercise. The effort to think like a Christian is rather an effort to take seriously the sovereignty of God over the world he created, the Lordship of Christ over the world he died to redeem, and the power of the Holy Spirit over the world he sustains each and every moment.” (253)
The Relationship Principles of Jesus.
Book Review
Holladay, Tom. The Relationship Principles of Jesus. Zondervan. 2008
T.H.- teaching pastor at Saddleback.
Comment. Henry
Tom is Rick Warren’s brother-in-law. This book has been written in the same format as the ‘4o Days of Purpose’ book. Each day some aspect of relationship is discussed under six general principles. Questions are provided to stimulate interaction in small groups. This is a very relevant resource focused relationships, something everyone is into.
When Jesus was asked about the most important command(s) his answer focused on relationships, with God and with others. Relationships always come with risks. Nothing can compare with the values that arise out of relationships. “Lesser values take less faith and less effort.” (33) Love God with ALL your heart, soul, mind, and strength. To love someone is taking a huge risk, however, you lose more by not loving. When we love we cannot limit the extent of our love but we must limit the expression of our love.
During the Last Supper Jesus added a new commandment; ‘Love one another as I have loved you’. This is impossible without God’s power. This love that Jesus commands is an action not an emotion. It must become a daily choice. When emotions become indicators of problems we must act quickly and decisively. Choosing fellowship and forgiveness are part of Jesus’ command to love. Loving involves acceptance and sacrifice.
“All relationships are fueled by communications.” (138) They are built on a foundation of trust. There must be consistency between what we say and what is in our heart. We must be honest (in love). Prayer fuels communication.
We are to be nonjudgmental while we “reject hypocrisy, choose integrity, and show mercy”. (199) We must trust God to be the final, just judge. Knowing that we are forgiven will make us less judgmental.
There is no challenge like the challenge to be humble. The need to be noticed seems to be woven into the very fabric of our being and can quickly become an addiction. In a culture of comparisons and competition humility is very uncommon. Understanding the analogy (parable) of the vine and the branches helps us understand a position of dependence and humility.
As we genuinely meet the needs of those around us we find that our own needs are met. This is how the Golden Rule works. The application and practice of this rule requires sacrificial love. How else can we ‘love our enemies’?
Holladay, Tom. The Relationship Principles of Jesus. Zondervan. 2008
T.H.- teaching pastor at Saddleback.
Comment. Henry
Tom is Rick Warren’s brother-in-law. This book has been written in the same format as the ‘4o Days of Purpose’ book. Each day some aspect of relationship is discussed under six general principles. Questions are provided to stimulate interaction in small groups. This is a very relevant resource focused relationships, something everyone is into.
When Jesus was asked about the most important command(s) his answer focused on relationships, with God and with others. Relationships always come with risks. Nothing can compare with the values that arise out of relationships. “Lesser values take less faith and less effort.” (33) Love God with ALL your heart, soul, mind, and strength. To love someone is taking a huge risk, however, you lose more by not loving. When we love we cannot limit the extent of our love but we must limit the expression of our love.
During the Last Supper Jesus added a new commandment; ‘Love one another as I have loved you’. This is impossible without God’s power. This love that Jesus commands is an action not an emotion. It must become a daily choice. When emotions become indicators of problems we must act quickly and decisively. Choosing fellowship and forgiveness are part of Jesus’ command to love. Loving involves acceptance and sacrifice.
“All relationships are fueled by communications.” (138) They are built on a foundation of trust. There must be consistency between what we say and what is in our heart. We must be honest (in love). Prayer fuels communication.
We are to be nonjudgmental while we “reject hypocrisy, choose integrity, and show mercy”. (199) We must trust God to be the final, just judge. Knowing that we are forgiven will make us less judgmental.
There is no challenge like the challenge to be humble. The need to be noticed seems to be woven into the very fabric of our being and can quickly become an addiction. In a culture of comparisons and competition humility is very uncommon. Understanding the analogy (parable) of the vine and the branches helps us understand a position of dependence and humility.
As we genuinely meet the needs of those around us we find that our own needs are met. This is how the Golden Rule works. The application and practice of this rule requires sacrificial love. How else can we ‘love our enemies’?
The Reflective Life.
Book Review.
Gire, Ken. The Reflective Life. Becoming more spiritually sensitive to the everyday moments of life. Chariot Victor Publishing. 1998.
Comment. Henry
The subtitle of the book is a very accurate statement of where Ken is going with this resource. I think it would qualify as a ‘tool’ for knowing how the Lord speaks to us regarding our relationship with Him. It is well written and well illustrated (word pictures).
Our life and our communion with God are a very sacred thing. We must see sacredness in every part of our life (lives). (Abraham Herschel is one of Ken’s favorite authors.)
The words we hear and read are like seeds in our lives. Don’t let the seeds perish. “The space we give words- allows them a place to live in our hearts.” (43) God in His wisdom calls us “out of the everyday moments of life”. (45)
We are responsible for the soil into which the seeds fall. It is made rich through humility and surrender. It is made hard and unresponsive through pride. Seeds will not germinate without moisture, ‘the water of the Holy Spirit’. Ungerminated words will impact the mind with knowledge but with proper germination the heart will be impacted for life. Faith must have a horizontal orientation not just a vertical orientation.
A very basic question we need to ask ourselves regarding our ‘life influence’ is: “Have I loved well?” (86) A reflective life is built around three key habits: “reading the moment, reflecting on the moment, and responding to the moment”. (88) see Psalm 1. These habits are the thesis of this book.
The discussion of these habits as they relate to “the Scriptures, other people and the arts”, (108) take up several chapters in the book. Stories are told about how theses habits are practiced in real life. The reflective life produces a harvest of fruit, i.e. the fruit of the Spirit.
My concept of a reflective life seemed to be associated quite strongly with some level of solitude or even a form of monasticism. This author has given me evidence to adjust that concept significantly.
Gire, Ken. The Reflective Life. Becoming more spiritually sensitive to the everyday moments of life. Chariot Victor Publishing. 1998.
Comment. Henry
The subtitle of the book is a very accurate statement of where Ken is going with this resource. I think it would qualify as a ‘tool’ for knowing how the Lord speaks to us regarding our relationship with Him. It is well written and well illustrated (word pictures).
Our life and our communion with God are a very sacred thing. We must see sacredness in every part of our life (lives). (Abraham Herschel is one of Ken’s favorite authors.)
The words we hear and read are like seeds in our lives. Don’t let the seeds perish. “The space we give words- allows them a place to live in our hearts.” (43) God in His wisdom calls us “out of the everyday moments of life”. (45)
We are responsible for the soil into which the seeds fall. It is made rich through humility and surrender. It is made hard and unresponsive through pride. Seeds will not germinate without moisture, ‘the water of the Holy Spirit’. Ungerminated words will impact the mind with knowledge but with proper germination the heart will be impacted for life. Faith must have a horizontal orientation not just a vertical orientation.
A very basic question we need to ask ourselves regarding our ‘life influence’ is: “Have I loved well?” (86) A reflective life is built around three key habits: “reading the moment, reflecting on the moment, and responding to the moment”. (88) see Psalm 1. These habits are the thesis of this book.
The discussion of these habits as they relate to “the Scriptures, other people and the arts”, (108) take up several chapters in the book. Stories are told about how theses habits are practiced in real life. The reflective life produces a harvest of fruit, i.e. the fruit of the Spirit.
My concept of a reflective life seemed to be associated quite strongly with some level of solitude or even a form of monasticism. This author has given me evidence to adjust that concept significantly.
The New Faces of Christianity.
Book Review.
Jenkins, Philip. The New Faces of Christianity. Believing the Bible in the Global South. Oxford Press 2006
P.J.- Distinguished professor of History and Religious Studies at Pennsylvania State. Author of “The Next Christianity”.
Comment. Henry
I found this book very interesting. To make a comparison of Christianity in the Northern countries (Europe and North America) and Christianity in the Southern countries (Asia, India, Africa, and Latin American countries) makes for a fascinating read. The book includes a fair amount of history in terms of how the Bible has been read and how that relates to cultures and traditions.
There is a definite north-south tension among world wide Anglicans regarding what they feel the Bible teaches on subjects like homosexuality, literalism, supernatural elements, etc. Pentecostals and Roman Catholics have similar experiences as they read their Bible. These tensions are described in generalities.
Christianity is experiencing great growth in the global South. From 1900to 2000 the number grew from 10 million to 360 million. Two thirds of the Roman Catholic Church lives in the global South. By 2025 this proportion is expected to rise to 75 percent. (How do such statistics impact our traditional evangelical view of the ’10-40 window’ concept?) It is important to have clarity of definition when we use terms such as fundamental, liberal and conservative in describing comparisons between the North and the South.
“Understanding the means by which the Bible is understood and communicated allows us to appreciate the special weight of authority that the text bears in global South churches.” (19) The high value the South places on the Bible and its contents is due to the recent advent of literacy and the perceived power of the book. Scripture is experienced communally.
Christian converts from Islam are coming from a value system that values a Holy Book. The power of story experienced in the Bible is welcome. They respond to Bible truth presented by film and video. “African exegesis is need-driven and faith oriented.” (35) There is a high regard for the physical presence of the Bible when miracles take place.
The past social cultures of those in the South give those Christians a greater acceptance of Old Testament teaching. An animal sacrificial system and the high value placed on family and ancestry are not difficult for them to accept. Being accountability to a divinity was part of many pagan religious cultures. Their own present experience makes it easy to relate to the famines, poverty and famine of Old Testament Hebrews. War and natural disasters have been experienced by many Southern believers. Food and faith are often closely related. Northerners and Southerners have contrasting views on good and evil. Southerners are into healings and the reality of the demonic.
Many Southerners have first hand experience with persecution and martyrdom. There are stories of progress and even victory by those who have become proactive to bring about change and vindication. They receive inspiration from many Old Testament stories.
Although the movement to emancipate women is in its beginning stage “the impact of Christianity on women’s lives remains impressive”. (158) There are examples of women in leadership in some pagan cultures of the past. When Christianity was introduced to Southern countries it was very much dominated by male leadership. The feminist movement is gaining momentum. Widowhood is still very harsh.
Culture is crucial in how the Bible is read and how truths are interpreted and how they affect all areas of life. The greatest contrast between North and South is in the area of healing. Faith is decaying in the North but in the South there is a “resurgence of primitive (early, first century) Christianity” (185).
Jenkins, Philip. The New Faces of Christianity. Believing the Bible in the Global South. Oxford Press 2006
P.J.- Distinguished professor of History and Religious Studies at Pennsylvania State. Author of “The Next Christianity”.
Comment. Henry
I found this book very interesting. To make a comparison of Christianity in the Northern countries (Europe and North America) and Christianity in the Southern countries (Asia, India, Africa, and Latin American countries) makes for a fascinating read. The book includes a fair amount of history in terms of how the Bible has been read and how that relates to cultures and traditions.
There is a definite north-south tension among world wide Anglicans regarding what they feel the Bible teaches on subjects like homosexuality, literalism, supernatural elements, etc. Pentecostals and Roman Catholics have similar experiences as they read their Bible. These tensions are described in generalities.
Christianity is experiencing great growth in the global South. From 1900to 2000 the number grew from 10 million to 360 million. Two thirds of the Roman Catholic Church lives in the global South. By 2025 this proportion is expected to rise to 75 percent. (How do such statistics impact our traditional evangelical view of the ’10-40 window’ concept?) It is important to have clarity of definition when we use terms such as fundamental, liberal and conservative in describing comparisons between the North and the South.
“Understanding the means by which the Bible is understood and communicated allows us to appreciate the special weight of authority that the text bears in global South churches.” (19) The high value the South places on the Bible and its contents is due to the recent advent of literacy and the perceived power of the book. Scripture is experienced communally.
Christian converts from Islam are coming from a value system that values a Holy Book. The power of story experienced in the Bible is welcome. They respond to Bible truth presented by film and video. “African exegesis is need-driven and faith oriented.” (35) There is a high regard for the physical presence of the Bible when miracles take place.
The past social cultures of those in the South give those Christians a greater acceptance of Old Testament teaching. An animal sacrificial system and the high value placed on family and ancestry are not difficult for them to accept. Being accountability to a divinity was part of many pagan religious cultures. Their own present experience makes it easy to relate to the famines, poverty and famine of Old Testament Hebrews. War and natural disasters have been experienced by many Southern believers. Food and faith are often closely related. Northerners and Southerners have contrasting views on good and evil. Southerners are into healings and the reality of the demonic.
Many Southerners have first hand experience with persecution and martyrdom. There are stories of progress and even victory by those who have become proactive to bring about change and vindication. They receive inspiration from many Old Testament stories.
Although the movement to emancipate women is in its beginning stage “the impact of Christianity on women’s lives remains impressive”. (158) There are examples of women in leadership in some pagan cultures of the past. When Christianity was introduced to Southern countries it was very much dominated by male leadership. The feminist movement is gaining momentum. Widowhood is still very harsh.
Culture is crucial in how the Bible is read and how truths are interpreted and how they affect all areas of life. The greatest contrast between North and South is in the area of healing. Faith is decaying in the North but in the South there is a “resurgence of primitive (early, first century) Christianity” (185).
The Missional Leader.
Book Review
Roxburgh, Alan J. Romanuk, Fred. The Missional Leader. Equipping Your Church to Reach a Changing World. Jossey-Bass, 2006
Comment. Henry
There are two ‘concepts’ that impressed me in this resource, the term “missional”, as it relates to a leader and a congregation, and the term “discontinuous change” and how it impacts church life. A strong case is made for the need for churches to make a paradigm shift from being inward focused to being outward (missional) focused. In fact this is a practical tool for leadership which has that commitment, i.e. creating an environment for missional transformation.
In his forward, Eddie Gibbs suggests that this book addresses the challenge of making the transition “from a consumer model of church to one that is essentially missional in nature”. A missional church is “a community of God’s people who live into the imagination that they are, by their very nature, God’s missionary people living as a demonstration of what God plans to do in and for all creation in Jesus Christ”. Introduction.
Six critical issues for missional leadership are identified and discussed. One such issue is “discontinuous change” (7) which is disruptive, unanticipated and always challenges assumptions. It transforms cultures. A congregation should not be viewed like a business or corporate organization. Its uniqueness is suggested by a term like ‘missional’.
The basis for the formation of a missional (church) leader is hope reflected in “a biblical and theological imagination”. (16) The Incarnation illustrates how miraculous God’s interventions in the affairs of man can be. “In God’s economy the Spirit is among the people of God.” (20) It is important to know what is happening in the lives of the congregation and community to become missional. “Missional leadership must be about cultivating the capacity and gifts of the people who are already part of the church.” (30)
A clear understanding of a congregation’s organizational culture is basic to bringing about missional imagination. The “three zone model of missional leadership” (40) is presented to help assess a congregational culture. Three types of leadership characterize these three zones, “emergent, performative and reactive leadership”. (41)
“Missional Change Model (MCM) requires some understanding of systems- any group of two or more interconnected and interdependent parts that intersect and function as a whole.” (61) A congregation is an example of a system. A change of a system involves a change of a culture. Systems are impacted by discontinuos change at different levels. Such changes have resulted in “people- losing their orientation”. (66)
The “Missional Change Model” (79) is presented as a ‘blueprint’ for a missional church. The pathway of change is illustrated by the pattern of a sailboat’s progress. This kind of change is difficult. According to anthropologist Everett Rogers there are five steps involved in this change process, knowledge, persuasion, decision, experimentation and implementation, confirmation and reinforcement. In MCM the steps are “awareness, understanding, evaluation, trial and commitment” (83) It is not a quick fix. It is a tool that can help leaders in missional transformation in discontinuous change
There are missional readiness factors with theological roots that leaders need to understand. The Incarnation and its impact on the early church culture stands in significant contrast with “the modern reductionism of Christian confession”. (121)
Being a missional leader has to do with “calling forth God’s future from among the people rather than coming at them with preplanned programs and strategies”. (126) it requires personal maturity, authenticity, and self-awareness. Effective missional leaders will have to do conflict management which is always a part of change. Missional transformational does not happen without trust.
“Some specific skills focused on the formation of missional people” (146) are delineated and discussed. Common leadership thinking must be replaced with developing missional imagination. The process takes time and cannot be rushed. Cultivation results in growth. “Cultivating growth requires formation through habits and practices.” (153) e.g. daily offices (monastic), hospitality, and learning. Change is not complete until there is transition.
We are introduced to Southside church in Vancouver, a missional, multi-congregational church. The church has focused on going out to the community rather than expecting the community to come to it. Missional ministry came out of “understanding context and learning to ask new questions”. (179)
Two very important tools are presented that will be crucial in implementing the information being taught in this resource: “The Pastor/Leader Survey (which is available online) and the Pastor/Leader Tea(183)
Roxburgh, Alan J. Romanuk, Fred. The Missional Leader. Equipping Your Church to Reach a Changing World. Jossey-Bass, 2006
Comment. Henry
There are two ‘concepts’ that impressed me in this resource, the term “missional”, as it relates to a leader and a congregation, and the term “discontinuous change” and how it impacts church life. A strong case is made for the need for churches to make a paradigm shift from being inward focused to being outward (missional) focused. In fact this is a practical tool for leadership which has that commitment, i.e. creating an environment for missional transformation.
In his forward, Eddie Gibbs suggests that this book addresses the challenge of making the transition “from a consumer model of church to one that is essentially missional in nature”. A missional church is “a community of God’s people who live into the imagination that they are, by their very nature, God’s missionary people living as a demonstration of what God plans to do in and for all creation in Jesus Christ”. Introduction.
Six critical issues for missional leadership are identified and discussed. One such issue is “discontinuous change” (7) which is disruptive, unanticipated and always challenges assumptions. It transforms cultures. A congregation should not be viewed like a business or corporate organization. Its uniqueness is suggested by a term like ‘missional’.
The basis for the formation of a missional (church) leader is hope reflected in “a biblical and theological imagination”. (16) The Incarnation illustrates how miraculous God’s interventions in the affairs of man can be. “In God’s economy the Spirit is among the people of God.” (20) It is important to know what is happening in the lives of the congregation and community to become missional. “Missional leadership must be about cultivating the capacity and gifts of the people who are already part of the church.” (30)
A clear understanding of a congregation’s organizational culture is basic to bringing about missional imagination. The “three zone model of missional leadership” (40) is presented to help assess a congregational culture. Three types of leadership characterize these three zones, “emergent, performative and reactive leadership”. (41)
“Missional Change Model (MCM) requires some understanding of systems- any group of two or more interconnected and interdependent parts that intersect and function as a whole.” (61) A congregation is an example of a system. A change of a system involves a change of a culture. Systems are impacted by discontinuos change at different levels. Such changes have resulted in “people- losing their orientation”. (66)
The “Missional Change Model” (79) is presented as a ‘blueprint’ for a missional church. The pathway of change is illustrated by the pattern of a sailboat’s progress. This kind of change is difficult. According to anthropologist Everett Rogers there are five steps involved in this change process, knowledge, persuasion, decision, experimentation and implementation, confirmation and reinforcement. In MCM the steps are “awareness, understanding, evaluation, trial and commitment” (83) It is not a quick fix. It is a tool that can help leaders in missional transformation in discontinuous change
There are missional readiness factors with theological roots that leaders need to understand. The Incarnation and its impact on the early church culture stands in significant contrast with “the modern reductionism of Christian confession”. (121)
Being a missional leader has to do with “calling forth God’s future from among the people rather than coming at them with preplanned programs and strategies”. (126) it requires personal maturity, authenticity, and self-awareness. Effective missional leaders will have to do conflict management which is always a part of change. Missional transformational does not happen without trust.
“Some specific skills focused on the formation of missional people” (146) are delineated and discussed. Common leadership thinking must be replaced with developing missional imagination. The process takes time and cannot be rushed. Cultivation results in growth. “Cultivating growth requires formation through habits and practices.” (153) e.g. daily offices (monastic), hospitality, and learning. Change is not complete until there is transition.
We are introduced to Southside church in Vancouver, a missional, multi-congregational church. The church has focused on going out to the community rather than expecting the community to come to it. Missional ministry came out of “understanding context and learning to ask new questions”. (179)
Two very important tools are presented that will be crucial in implementing the information being taught in this resource: “The Pastor/Leader Survey (which is available online) and the Pastor/Leader Tea(183)
Sunday, July 5, 2009
The Lord's Supper.
Book Review
Smith, Gordon T. (editor) The Lord’s Supper. Five views: Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Reformed, Baptist, Pentecostal. IVP Academia. InterVarsity Press. 2008.
Comment. Henry
A very informative resource giving the theological positions of five church organizations on a very basic Christian practice, the celebrating of the Lord’s Supper. When Christ instituted this practice it was to have a major unifying impact on the followers of Christ. It has actually been very divisive at times. A strength of this presentation is the interactive response on each essay. I think it is helpful to gain a new appreciation for how we celebrate the Lord’s Supper and gain a greater appreciation how others celebrate it.
The Roman Catholic view. Brother Jeffery Gros,F.S.C., Professor of Church History, Memphis Theological Seminary.
“Externally, the bread and wine retain their appearance even after consecration. Yet at the same time the whole Christ is sacramentally present in them- the whole Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity. Thus he is indeed bodily present in the form of bread and wine.” (17) “The doctrine of transubstantiation has been used in order to give a theological articulation to this (Catholic) faith.” (18) Progress has been made in ecumenical discussions (to bring unity to churches) on the topic of the Eucharist (Lord’s Supper) in recent years. “Condemnations study” (25) carried on by Reformed, Lutheran and Catholic scholars in the 1980’s in Germany have resulted in further progress in unity.
Response:
Lutheran: “We have arrived at mutual courtesy, but we have not yet fully engaged each other at deeper levels.” (33)
Reformed: Accepting the presence of common ground and ongoing conversation.
Baptist: Are focused on the wide gap between Protestant and Catholic teaching but recognize that the gap is not as wide as it used to be.
Pentecostal: Spending a year as a scholar in a Roman Catholic institution has ‘colored’ the responder’s response.
The Lutheran view. John R. Stephenson, Professor of Historical Theology, Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, St. Catharines, Ont.
“Concerning the sacraments of the altar, Lutherans are split between the adherents of Luther on the one hand, and of Melanchthon on the other, and- the numerical superiority of these groupings.” (47) The Lord’s Supper is meant for all but Lutherans practice ‘closed communion’. It must be properly understood and those who would partake should be adequately prepared having ‘examined themselves’.
Response:
Catholic: It is important to “understand that shared Christological faith is at the roots of our divisions, and that only by a high Christological approach to theological dialogue toward unity will such divisions be healed.” (59)
Reform: Sacramental theology is necessary to understand the Lord’s Supper. The “personal presence and bodily presence” (62) are welcome topics of conversation.
Baptist: Critical of Stephenson’s position not representing all Lutherans.
Pentecostal: This view reveals “an insuperable wall of separation between orthodox Lutherans and the wide world of Protestantism”. (66)
The Reformed view. Leanne VanDyk. Academic Dean and Professor of Reformed Theology, Western Theological Seminary, Holland, Michigan.
The Reformed tradition is very international and represents a variety of theological options that have created an environment of change. Zwingli, Bullinger, and Calvin, the fathers of Reform, had views that brought a range of meanings to the subject. These views are represented in the “Consensus Tigurinus of 1549, a key Reformed document of sacramental theology”. (73) Zwingli had a ‘memorial view’, Bullinger a ‘parallelism view’, and Calvin had an ‘instrumentalism view’ of the Lord’s Supper.
Response:
Catholic: Conciliatory.
Lutheran: Takes exception to the variations in the Reform view.
Baptist: Celebrates VanDyk’s views but stresses that it is in fact not a singular view but rather a variety of views.
Pentecostal: An appreciation of the “differentiation on the Lord’s Supper theology”. (89) Reference to the Holy Spirit in the celebration is welcomed.
TheBaptist view. Roger E. Olson. Professor of Theology George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Waco, Texas.
Baptists are known for their wild diversity. They are united on the doctrine and practice of baptism. There is no single view on the Lord’s Supper. A number of Baptist theologians “emphasize the aspects of commemoration and proclamation” (99) of the Lord’s Supper.
Response:
Roman Catholic: An appreciation for the “ecumenical methodology in approaching the Baptist communities”. (109) There is a willingness to learn from other traditions.
Lutheran: The absence of the presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper is unacceptable and a misinterpretation of Jesus’ words at the Last Supper.
Reformed: Shares view of the Lord’s Table as a place of memorial.
Pentecostal: Have a shared view.
The Pentecostal view. Veli-Matti Karkkainen. Professor of Systematic Theology, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Cal.
Pentecostals avoid the term Eucharist and prefer the term Lord’s Supper or Communion. It is an ordinance. It is a memorial meal where bread and juice (wine) have symbolic meaning. “Pentecostals at times envision partaking in the Lord’s Supper as a place of healing.” (126)
Response:
Roman Catholic: Focus on the aspect of the Holy Spirit and the element of healing as challenging concepts.
Lutheran: Also taken with the healing aspect.
Reformed: Take issue with the ordinance designation.
Baptist: Acknowledge similarities but have a problem with the healing aspect.
Smith, Gordon T. (editor) The Lord’s Supper. Five views: Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Reformed, Baptist, Pentecostal. IVP Academia. InterVarsity Press. 2008.
Comment. Henry
A very informative resource giving the theological positions of five church organizations on a very basic Christian practice, the celebrating of the Lord’s Supper. When Christ instituted this practice it was to have a major unifying impact on the followers of Christ. It has actually been very divisive at times. A strength of this presentation is the interactive response on each essay. I think it is helpful to gain a new appreciation for how we celebrate the Lord’s Supper and gain a greater appreciation how others celebrate it.
The Roman Catholic view. Brother Jeffery Gros,F.S.C., Professor of Church History, Memphis Theological Seminary.
“Externally, the bread and wine retain their appearance even after consecration. Yet at the same time the whole Christ is sacramentally present in them- the whole Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity. Thus he is indeed bodily present in the form of bread and wine.” (17) “The doctrine of transubstantiation has been used in order to give a theological articulation to this (Catholic) faith.” (18) Progress has been made in ecumenical discussions (to bring unity to churches) on the topic of the Eucharist (Lord’s Supper) in recent years. “Condemnations study” (25) carried on by Reformed, Lutheran and Catholic scholars in the 1980’s in Germany have resulted in further progress in unity.
Response:
Lutheran: “We have arrived at mutual courtesy, but we have not yet fully engaged each other at deeper levels.” (33)
Reformed: Accepting the presence of common ground and ongoing conversation.
Baptist: Are focused on the wide gap between Protestant and Catholic teaching but recognize that the gap is not as wide as it used to be.
Pentecostal: Spending a year as a scholar in a Roman Catholic institution has ‘colored’ the responder’s response.
The Lutheran view. John R. Stephenson, Professor of Historical Theology, Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, St. Catharines, Ont.
“Concerning the sacraments of the altar, Lutherans are split between the adherents of Luther on the one hand, and of Melanchthon on the other, and- the numerical superiority of these groupings.” (47) The Lord’s Supper is meant for all but Lutherans practice ‘closed communion’. It must be properly understood and those who would partake should be adequately prepared having ‘examined themselves’.
Response:
Catholic: It is important to “understand that shared Christological faith is at the roots of our divisions, and that only by a high Christological approach to theological dialogue toward unity will such divisions be healed.” (59)
Reform: Sacramental theology is necessary to understand the Lord’s Supper. The “personal presence and bodily presence” (62) are welcome topics of conversation.
Baptist: Critical of Stephenson’s position not representing all Lutherans.
Pentecostal: This view reveals “an insuperable wall of separation between orthodox Lutherans and the wide world of Protestantism”. (66)
The Reformed view. Leanne VanDyk. Academic Dean and Professor of Reformed Theology, Western Theological Seminary, Holland, Michigan.
The Reformed tradition is very international and represents a variety of theological options that have created an environment of change. Zwingli, Bullinger, and Calvin, the fathers of Reform, had views that brought a range of meanings to the subject. These views are represented in the “Consensus Tigurinus of 1549, a key Reformed document of sacramental theology”. (73) Zwingli had a ‘memorial view’, Bullinger a ‘parallelism view’, and Calvin had an ‘instrumentalism view’ of the Lord’s Supper.
Response:
Catholic: Conciliatory.
Lutheran: Takes exception to the variations in the Reform view.
Baptist: Celebrates VanDyk’s views but stresses that it is in fact not a singular view but rather a variety of views.
Pentecostal: An appreciation of the “differentiation on the Lord’s Supper theology”. (89) Reference to the Holy Spirit in the celebration is welcomed.
TheBaptist view. Roger E. Olson. Professor of Theology George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Waco, Texas.
Baptists are known for their wild diversity. They are united on the doctrine and practice of baptism. There is no single view on the Lord’s Supper. A number of Baptist theologians “emphasize the aspects of commemoration and proclamation” (99) of the Lord’s Supper.
Response:
Roman Catholic: An appreciation for the “ecumenical methodology in approaching the Baptist communities”. (109) There is a willingness to learn from other traditions.
Lutheran: The absence of the presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper is unacceptable and a misinterpretation of Jesus’ words at the Last Supper.
Reformed: Shares view of the Lord’s Table as a place of memorial.
Pentecostal: Have a shared view.
The Pentecostal view. Veli-Matti Karkkainen. Professor of Systematic Theology, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Cal.
Pentecostals avoid the term Eucharist and prefer the term Lord’s Supper or Communion. It is an ordinance. It is a memorial meal where bread and juice (wine) have symbolic meaning. “Pentecostals at times envision partaking in the Lord’s Supper as a place of healing.” (126)
Response:
Roman Catholic: Focus on the aspect of the Holy Spirit and the element of healing as challenging concepts.
Lutheran: Also taken with the healing aspect.
Reformed: Take issue with the ordinance designation.
Baptist: Acknowledge similarities but have a problem with the healing aspect.
The Living Church.
Book Review.
Stott, John. The Living Church. Convictions of a life long pastor. IVP Books. 2007
Comment. Henry.
I found this read of the elder statesman Stott refreshing. He has a balanced view of the current church landscape in our postmodern world. He gives practical teaching on what the church is all about and how it can remain being God’s representative in today’s culture wherever it finds itself. Good stuff!
“Traditional and emerging churches need to listen attentively to one another, with a view to learning from one another.” (15) John begins by making a “threefold common commitment to the church, to its mission and to its renewal”. (21) To know what God’s vision for the church is we need to revisit the early church of the Day of Pentecost. It was a learning and caring church. They worshipped and evangelized.
“Worship is the church’s preeminent duty.” (34) Worship must be based on revelation from the Word and the whole congregation must participate. It must come from a sincere heart and an upright life.
Evangelism in its various forms is the normal outgrowth of sincere worship. To neglect passing on the gospel suggests that we have not received it properly. The church must strive for a “God-given
double identity of holy worldliness”. (54) In its structure it must have a glocal (global and local) form.
Ministry, in a local church, is not limited to pastoral (apostolic) work. It is much more inclusive. “All Christians are called to minister.” (74) Pastoral responsibilities are crucial to a church’s spiritual health. The work of a shepherd (pastor) is to feed (take to pasture) and defend the flock.
The concept of fellowship (koinonia) includes three things we hold in common- “common inheritance, common service, and mutual responsibility”. (90) Fellowship is a subjective concept. Note: It is interesting that the word community is not used although the small group is (becomes) the basis for an environment of fellowship
In contemporary culture preaching has become an “outmoded form of communication”. (97) For preaching to be Christian it must be biblical. To be authentic it must be contemporary. Preaching is not feeding people as much as it is leading people to the source of food (scripture) where they can feed themselves. This is the concept taught in the shepherd sheep analogy. Five “paradoxes of preaching” (109) are listed and discussed.
Ten principles of giving are presented. Giving springs from the Trinity. Giving creates “equality according to our means”. (115) It requires careful supervision and benefits from friendly rivalry. It comes from a “harvest
with symbolic significance”. (122) Giving is truly an expression of thanksgiving to God.
Our impact on culture as salt and light is explained. “Christian social responsibility depends on socially responsible Christians”. (136) Being salt and light must go beyond influence to action.
John leaves us with a challenge similar to the one Paul gave to Timothy. It is an appeal to balance in the “ethical, doctrinal and experiential” (145) of our Christianity. We tend to polarize around one of these. We need to be Timothys.
.
Stott, John. The Living Church. Convictions of a life long pastor. IVP Books. 2007
Comment. Henry.
I found this read of the elder statesman Stott refreshing. He has a balanced view of the current church landscape in our postmodern world. He gives practical teaching on what the church is all about and how it can remain being God’s representative in today’s culture wherever it finds itself. Good stuff!
“Traditional and emerging churches need to listen attentively to one another, with a view to learning from one another.” (15) John begins by making a “threefold common commitment to the church, to its mission and to its renewal”. (21) To know what God’s vision for the church is we need to revisit the early church of the Day of Pentecost. It was a learning and caring church. They worshipped and evangelized.
“Worship is the church’s preeminent duty.” (34) Worship must be based on revelation from the Word and the whole congregation must participate. It must come from a sincere heart and an upright life.
Evangelism in its various forms is the normal outgrowth of sincere worship. To neglect passing on the gospel suggests that we have not received it properly. The church must strive for a “God-given
double identity of holy worldliness”. (54) In its structure it must have a glocal (global and local) form.
Ministry, in a local church, is not limited to pastoral (apostolic) work. It is much more inclusive. “All Christians are called to minister.” (74) Pastoral responsibilities are crucial to a church’s spiritual health. The work of a shepherd (pastor) is to feed (take to pasture) and defend the flock.
The concept of fellowship (koinonia) includes three things we hold in common- “common inheritance, common service, and mutual responsibility”. (90) Fellowship is a subjective concept. Note: It is interesting that the word community is not used although the small group is (becomes) the basis for an environment of fellowship
In contemporary culture preaching has become an “outmoded form of communication”. (97) For preaching to be Christian it must be biblical. To be authentic it must be contemporary. Preaching is not feeding people as much as it is leading people to the source of food (scripture) where they can feed themselves. This is the concept taught in the shepherd sheep analogy. Five “paradoxes of preaching” (109) are listed and discussed.
Ten principles of giving are presented. Giving springs from the Trinity. Giving creates “equality according to our means”. (115) It requires careful supervision and benefits from friendly rivalry. It comes from a “harvest
with symbolic significance”. (122) Giving is truly an expression of thanksgiving to God.
Our impact on culture as salt and light is explained. “Christian social responsibility depends on socially responsible Christians”. (136) Being salt and light must go beyond influence to action.
John leaves us with a challenge similar to the one Paul gave to Timothy. It is an appeal to balance in the “ethical, doctrinal and experiential” (145) of our Christianity. We tend to polarize around one of these. We need to be Timothys.
.
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