Western Church
From Coop's interview with Gloria Reimer.
When you look at the western church, what is one thing you think we have gotten wrong and do you think it is possible to change it?We have created out own "church" culture where we are totally insulated from the real world and never touch the world outside of the church. We have our own rules, movies, books, bookstores, movies, videos, schools, baseball leagues, and the list goes on. It is sad to see how little we as Christ followers make a difference in the "real" world. We are too busy going to all our own activities. Is it possible to change? The only way it will change is if we quit living "safe" and be willing to risk living outside of our comfort zone. There are small pockets of Christ followers who are moving in this direction. However, overall I believe the church is too complacent and comfortable to change the culture they have created for themselves.
Comments
Well, Dan, we're not just talking anymore, are we? I think we can change it, don't you? Do not lose hope, or heart. But my question is... Where? Where will we do this? Where is our "real" world??
Ahh... Got to study... And get back to talking... :P
Posted by: Alan | April 27, 2004 1:57 AM
Hope and heart is not lost - with me, anyways.
After having read the whole interview, if, at least, a sense of hope hasn't taken root (or been further encouraged), then perhaps we begin to turn away from Christ's work of transformation in us.
My hope is that this little quotation is provocative enough for us to take notice and to - consider, begin, and continue - living as "ministers exactly where [we] are planted whether in their homes, businesses, workplaces, gym, neighbourhoods, professions, knowing that first and foremost we are Ministers for Christ and everything falls in behind that."
Posted by: Dan | April 27, 2004 2:28 AM
how about spending some money. normal ppl go out. a lot of church ppl don't do anything with their free time. get some new hobbies and take some fun courses.. meet new ppl..
the next step is realizing how hard it is to be bombarded by the temptations of the world.. that's where the fellowship and support of the church comes in. it's not an easy battle folks.. and not many ppl choose to fight it.
Posted by: dr rumble | April 27, 2004 2:39 AM
Yes, yes. Of course. I wanted to mention that since abandoning the work world, my entire existance revolves around people who are 'saved', but I remembered that I just started working at Cora's Breakfast and Lunch Restaurant. Ahh...
I actually, finally, get to walk, to work, in my neighbourhood as a result. A place to be light.
Dan, when you do come back, you and I will have a nice long 'talk'. And we'll pray. And we'll know 'where'... As I rise from the stumbling about of my first year back in academia, I still know, the Kingdom is here and coming.
We aren't talking. We haven't settled to inspire or provoke. We are living.
Here's someone I want to read up on:
http://www.blumhardts.com/articles/bl/IsGodStillDead.htm
(free book download too!)
Many blessings, brother.
Alan
Posted by: Alan | April 27, 2004 8:41 PM
Wow, I'm intrigued that the author (Christoph Friedrich - the son) wrote that essay so long ago. But how prophetic are his words! It cuts to heart of our religiousity. Well, in my opinion, the Bruderhof communities are a good example of living out the Kingdom through all aspects of life.
(I took the liberty of editing your comment so that the URL is clickable.)
Yeah, so live on, live up, live out...
Posted by: Dan | April 27, 2004 11:45 PM