I was heartened to day to read the Church of the Nazarene’s statement on Emerging/Emergent churches.
This is one of the most balanced responses I have seen, and coming from a somewhat conservative ecclesiastical body I am even more impressed with its balance and winsomeness.
The statement acknowledges those among the church’s number who are concerned about theological error in the ECs,
but also those within its number who think this is one way to faithfully explore what it means to be a follower of Jesus in our postmodern contexts.
Thus, while warning everyone to steer clear of, and to clearly distance themselves from, what the church considers theological error, it also affirms this:
The involvement of many Nazarenes in this conversation reveals a sincere desire to embrace our missional objectives. They are attempting to reach the emerging cultures around us while clearly articulating an orthodox interpretation of Scripture and theology.
Kudos to the Church of the Nazarene for acting on the godly impulse that people within one denomination can differ on ecclesial and missional praxis while still affirming a common theology and working together for the Kingdom of God.
Well done.
That’s refreshing to hear.
Yes that is somewhat encouraging, I wish there were more of this across all denominations and “movements”.
“Any conversation of this nature carries with it the risk of being misunderstood or being classified with positions that are not healthy or appropriate. Issues involved in discussions such as these are often complex. The communication is sometimes at inappropriate volume levels.
Nonetheless, it is our hope and prayer that those in the Church of the Nazarene who are engaged in this conversation will do so with grace and humility. We believe it is possible to move beyond mischaracterizations, embrace what is legitimate, and reject any unorthodox positions without hesitation.”
Just put a blank in here for the church name and start suggesting groups to adopt this language in any number of current issue discussions.
Paul, that’s a brilliant suggestion. Bleedin’ brilliant.