There isn’t much question that Christianity is in Crisis. The mainline denominations are suffering from dramatic reductions in attendance and with scandals. Independent churches seem to be doing better with attendance, but are often personality driven with questionable teachings. Several “movements” have arisen in response to the crisis. We have seen “seeker friendly” churches and the “emergent” church. These movements seem to have some good ideas about making a better presentation of the gospel, but often raise questions about the biblical purity of their message.
Theology seems to have been caught up in concepts of modernism and post-modernism. I am convinced science has seen some dramatic advances, but many have tried to apply these changes to ways of thinking about God and truth. For the ordinary person, trying to be a follower of Jesus or trying to explore whether Christianity holds the answers, it is very difficult. The writings on these new movements tend to be written by theologians for theologians or, perhaps, pastors.
I think what is needed is a handbook for Everyman. Something that will explain in understandable terms what Christianity really is and what these new movements offer both in terms of positive and negative ideas. When you are lost, it’s a great idea to return to the last place where you were sure of your place. For Christianity, that may be the first century. I believe we need a better understanding of what following Christ meant at the beginning and what it means today.
I think such a guide would be invaluable. What do you think?
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