I started reading Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church by Don Carson in September last year. While pointing out the contribution the movement has to make, he is gracious in showing their weaknesses (read: rips it to shreds!). I still haven’t finished it but here are a few problems I have with the movement after reading Carson’s book and their websites:
>>> Their critique of the Seeker Sensitive church movement is based on it no longer being what people want. The Bible and theology ought to guide our critique of any movement.
>>> In attempting to be culturally-sensitive it fails to see the need to be COUNTER-cultural. I agree that its appropriate to be sensitive to the culture you’re working in, however the call of the gospel is a call to be distinct and different.
>>> Worship of God seems to be on my terms rather than on God’s. Eg. “lighting this candle or looking at this cross helps me to feel close to God.” That sounds like idolatry.
>>> Their advocates get cranky on forums when you raise the topic!
The whole emerging church thing seems to have significant interaction with a growing number of youth ministries (at least in the US). So I thought I’d read a book on both: Contemplative Youth Ministry: Practicing the Presence of Jesus. So far… it’s terrible! Stay tuned.
UPDATE>>> Doctrine doesn’t seem to matter – hence evangelicals can hook up with catholics and liberals.
The rain was falling. I heard a knock at the front door. Knock. Knock. Knock. I opened the door. Behold, it was a man dressed in a Foxtel jacket.
