I really do. I don’t like Emergent theology. At first I thought it was a good idea…Our world is changing, so we need to be prepared to address it in a different way. But once I started to understand the difference between Emergent and emerging, and saw the basics of Emergent theology, I’ve disagreed. But I refuse to disagree with something when I don’t understand it. So I read papers, blogs, and books written by Emergent leaders and those who consider themselves part of the “emergent conversation”.
I think I’m pretty informed on the subject, so I don’t shy away when I talk about it. I do, however, try my best to be cordial and polite, and avoid stereotypes, assumptions, and generalizations. I try to cite specific people and organizations when I talk about their theological position, and avoid blanket statements. But I’m not perfect. And I don’t mince words.
If only those who disagree with me would extend the same courtesy. I find my statements continually misrepresented, setting up a straw-man for the other person to knock down. Please read carefully, and understand what I’m saying. It’s cool if you disagree, and if you do I hope you’ll speak up…I might need correcting. But make sure you’re not accusing me of saying something I didn’t. And, while I feel that the EV/Emergent movement as a whole has certain widely held theological positions (many with which I disagree), I’m not saying that all emergents (or you) necessarily agree.
If you want to know what I have to say about the movement and it’s theology, look here:
Is “Emergent” a Noun?, The Truth War, Repost: I Dont Think I Want to be “Christian” Anymore, No Comprende, Driscoll Does it Again, Arguing the Faux Facts, Whose Power?, Listening to…Emerging Churches, Part Deux, The Supremacy of Christ, The God Who’s Always Known Me, What is this?, All of Them? Really?, Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches, Me, Me, Me; MTD.
These aren’t all explicitly or exclusively “Emergent” or “emerging” subjects, but they’ll give you a good idea of what I believe and how I feel. They aren’t all perfect examples of the qualities I strive for, but I do my best. Have a look, and let’s talk.
Technorati Tags: Church, conversation, emergent, progressive, Theology
2 responses so far...
I like a good portion of Driscoll’s theology, but not the whole, necessarily. I’m not really reformed, and have some conflicts internally about sovereignty and some other issues.
What I like about him is that he’s willing to communicate the Gospel however he has to to reach people, as long as it’s the Gospel. He’s firmly devoted to Christ’s teaching and at the same time devoted to reaching people by whatever means.
Blogs4God
I agree with you!
There are many, many aspects of the Emergent movement that makes my stomach churn.
However, I think men such as Mark Driscoll are great and have some good teachings.