A dispatch re: the value of 'good ole traditional/mainline, catholic expressions of church' compared to 'a-historical evangelicalism

[Karen Ward]

A dispatch re: the value of 'good ole traditional/mainline, catholic expressions of church' compared to 'a-historical evangelicalism. READ IT HERE

[Elisabeth Dewey]

As part of the Jesus Movement, I remember reading a lot of Francis Schaeffer's works and the influence they had on my life.  I have been a member of several 'evangelical' denominations in my lifetime, seeking relevance in my Christian walk.  What I have discovered is there are many organizations that carry the official title of 'church' that absolutely are expressions of some religion, but not necessarily Christianity.  It is confusing when these organizations label themselves Christian, but their doctrines diverge from Biblical Christianity.  And sometimes it takes a while to parse out the 'religion' of a particular church.  I agree with John Sullivan that there are many good and loving evangelical believers.  There are people in all religious bodies who are seeking truth and to be true followers of Jesus Christ.  But to me, it seems some have forgotten that to be Christians, we are obligated to agree to do things Jesus' way.  I do believe we need to look at the language and culture of Jesus' audiences to insure we are not applying our own cultural understandings and implying things Jesus never intended. 

I knew a woman who expressed that she believed that she should have the individual right to travel 75 mph in all 55 mph zones.  She absolutely believed this exception should be available to her.  Sometimes I believe Christians think in the same manner:  that certain things express to being Christians should be suspended for them personally, but they can still be called Christians.

 

I have found much to love in my journey to the Episcopal church.  I find much to love in the body where I share worship and eucharist and the opportunity to worship Jesus respectfully and give Him the honor He is due. At this time in my life, I am glad to have found this oasis in the drama of the evangelicalism of this age.

[John Sullivan]

Hi Karen.
Thanks for the post. I thought it interesting.
There are many good and loving "evangelical" believers... however I do believe with Frank Shaeffer that the cult of personality and fear permeates "American Evangelicalism" and this cause much sorrow to members as well as non-members. However... lets be honest also with ourselves and our "movements"... let's not be afraid to spot the inconsistencies in our own "homes"... let's be open to where we are wrong. Let's live and believe in such a way as to give a gracious answer to those who disagree.
Happy new year.