On the Wednesdays in April, members and friends of Shiloh Church, along with some community guests, have been engaging in discussions around the issues of the Emerging Church Movement. On the first Wednesday, we discussed the nature and character of the Emergent Church Movement, how it is shaping a relevant response to the cultural transition that we have experienced since the late 1960's. On the second Wednesday, we talked about worship configurations that might be meaningful to persons of the digital, post-modern world. Last week, we discussed structure and organization of an entirely new church model. The conversations have been interesting and meaningful.
This week, we wrap up our conversation around the Emergent Church movement with a look at Biblical and Ecclesial authority in the Emergent Church. What will the cultural changes mean for Biblical studies, for professional Pastors, for Judicatories, for Denominationalism? How might the church shape itself to return to a point of cultural relevancy and social import?
The bottom line of this week's discussion will rest on the notion that the developing culture rejects all institutional authority. Politicians, preachers, teachers and elders are no longer granted authority on the basis of position or experience. Denominations and Judicatories are not held in high regard. Elected officials are, simply by virtue of being part of a corrupt system, particularly distrusted. Teachers and elders are believed solely on the basis of the utility, reasonable status and both internal and external cooperation with what persons have come to know.
The Emergent Church Movement recognizes that persons of the developing culture refuse to park their intellect and knowledge at the front door of its religious institutions. If religion counters what we know of the world, if it denies scientific and practical knowledge, then religion is not to be believed. If it fails to improve the quality of personal and communal life, then it has no purpose and no meaning. It is seen as manipulative and coercive, "the opiate of the peoples."
Come and join us for this most meaningful conversation. We meet at Boston's Bistro and Pub, located at the corner of North Main and Westbrook Road in north Dayton/Harrison Township. We meet from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. in the Dog House.
Remember, too, that the new curriculum for Bible @ Boston's begins on May 8. We will utilize the material that I taught at The University of Dayton's Life Long Learning Institute's Class, "You Believe...What?" We will examine the theological diversity of the New Testament as a means of understanding contemporary theological diversity. Plan now to be with us each Wednesday.
See You Then!
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