I am not really sure what this is or what to think about it. I think they have somewhat correctly identified the problem, but the solution seems terribly “off”. read the whole article and see what you think. here is a bit to tease you over there.
In the 15 years since, Henderson has blazed a new path as an innovator, author, church-evaluator, self-professed subversive, and leader in the creation of new ways to be publicly and persuasively Christian in the 21st century. Maybe the most subversive — and sensible — surprise of all is the population to which this well-caffeinated Seattle man has turned for partners, friends and teachers: atheists.
What could a Christian possibly learn from atheists? A lot, it turns out. As more and more Jesus followers like Henderson are discovering, taking a look at yourself and your religion through the eyes of the unconvinced can be a revelatory experience.
Although he is just north of 60, Henderson is emblematic of an up-and-coming wave of evangelicals intent on course correction for the church. Through public-opinion research, grassroots dialogue and ears to the shifting ground, they are getting the message that the old ways don’t cut it anymore.
Via Phil Johnson on twitter who is quite sure what he thinks about it.
maybe i am just sleepy while reading this, but this doesn’t sound any different than the trek we and many others have been on, including our church for several years. We read the book “Unchristian” and it rocked us. It is essential to have the perspective of the people we are trying to reach. We are not truly loving people if we are befriending them only to pounce on them and leave. We have to show people Jesus and let the chip fall where they may. Sovereignty of God and all that. It is also clear in scripture that He hardened Pharoah’s heart and he certainly used that for his Glory, so he certainly can use these atheists.
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.” Heb. 12-14,15
but somehow it is a different trek. The similarities with what we have been working on for the last 6 or 7 years comes with the recognition of the problem.
I have a new post coming up today where contextualization done correctly is discussed.
This approach above illustrates how wrongly things can go when there isn’t a doctrinal core at the center of the project.
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