In just over a week I will be flying out to an international conference focusing on Bible Engagement issues. As part of the program I have elected to sit in on a Think Tank dedicated to investigating the question of why there is a crisis of Bible Engagement in 'Post-Christian Societies'. There is no simple answer/s to this dilemma and I have been attempting to martial my thoughts in preparation for this discussion. Without any real explanation, I am going to list some of the key contributing factors to Western Bible Dis-engagement as I see them. I would love to hear your feedback on this list - especially if you are planning to be at the conference. If you are not going to the conference, but would still like to share your thoughts, I'll attempt to take your ideas to the discussion table.
Here we go...
1. Misunderstanding amongst Christians in regard to the true nature of the Bible and the appropriate use of it.
2. Misunderstanding amongst Christians in regard to the true nature of the Gospel and discipleship.
3. Dualism in the Christian Church.
4. Postmodern philosophy (relativism, pluralism, deconstruction)
5. Individualism and the loss of community.
6. Affluence, materialism and consumerism.
7. The ongoing consequences of humanism, The Enlightenment and the 'death of God'.
8. The challenge of technology and New Media.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
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2 comments:
Hi Marty,
It will be good to discuss the root causes of this crisis at the conference, I'm looking forward to it!
You're right, this is a complex question with a very complex answer. Each of your points probably has a whole library of books waiting to be written on the topics and how they affect Bible use within the Christian church.
I agree with your points here and would emphasize point one by saying that Christians generally have no idea what they're suppose to do with the Bible, how to read it and how to interpret it. As a result, it's been devalued within the church and now sits alongside (rather than above) other 'tools' such as the latest Christian worship CD or self-help book.
This really worries me and what is really concerning is how we got to this point. Most likely because of the other points you've listed - the effect of materialism, post-modern ways of thinking, individualism, the need to be entertained etc etc.
Your post got me thinking just now about what involvement God has had in all of this? Is he waiting for us to do something? Is there a 'key' that he's going to impart on some people or the church as a whole that will bring the Bible back to the centre of the church? What is God doing through this?
Will be a great discussion! Hopefully participants at the Think Tank will gain some real insight into the issue, and uncover some significant strategies for addressing the crisis.
See you soon.
snap
You mentioned a "Western Bible Crisis" in a "Post Christian Society". Your first few questions assume some responsibility on Christians to make a difference.
A few Q's of my own:
What period of time, Since the Bible was written/collated, has the West been a literate society, where everyone is expected to be able to read and understand for themselves?
Can engagement of the Bible become the central consistent practice within a community, in a way, without alienating/fear of, other texts, traditions, cultural practices being part of that community? ,,,...in other words.
Could the Church go back to being about Spiritual Formation centered on the Bible, at the same time allowing and not condemning the holistic development of the community?
Marty i hope that your time is inspiring for you personally, as well as being a catalyst for the change you bring back home.
enjoy going deep with many like minded lovers of the Bible.
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