Because of World
Vision’s new decision to allow people in a gay union to be employed by their
ministry, I have seen a renewed amount of traffic on my posts regarding Richard
Stearns and his book The Hole in Our
Gospel. In light of that renewed interest, I have decided to repost that
blog in its entirety, to allow for an easier reading format. Yes, I know it is
long, but it can still be read incrementally. It will simply be easier to do
so, laid out in one blog post rather than multiple entries. I have also tried
to condense it to some degree.
In regard to “World
Vision’s” recent change of policy we see there are those that still want to
defend “World Vision”. Their arguments are weak and misaligned. Defenders say this
new policy isn’t any different than if they allowed someone to be employed who
is divorced or any other sin that God hates. That argument can be struck down
in one simple fact: Anyone living in a gay relationship is still participating
in the besetting sin in question, and therein we see the difference.
The new policy World
Vision has recently made comes as no surprise to me in light of the direction
they have been taking the last few years and of which I wrote about in the
following posts.
To take it one step
further, when World Vision saw the public outcry they have now rescinded their
recent change. This is simply one more reason I wanted to repost this article.
I am afraid the liberal change in their policy is what is really at the heart
of this ministry with Richard Stearns at the helm. And in my opinion, they will
be effective in nothing if they don’t bring the true and full message of God’s
Word.
To me, this recent revelation of World Vision's platform is a classic example of how while liberals will attack conservatives for their beliefs and especially any Christian who is politically active, they will continue to promote theirs. Though this was written 3 years ago, we are only now seeing active steps that reveal what I believe is Richard Stearn's and thereby "World Vision's" true heart. We must stay alert.
“Be
sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,
walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” ~1
Peter 5:8 KJV
Friday, February 11, 2011
Controversial
Posts! EC-1
I think I can pretty much sum up the controversy between the
emergent church movement and traditional Christianity in one or two sentences. The
emergent church has ushered in a new “social gospel” that has made America and Americans the new sinner, with
conservative Christians being the contributing source of blame; unfortunately,
the cross has been left far behind and all but forgotten there at Golgotha.
There you have it. But I have a desire to explain, so that is what I intend to
do in several future posts. What I believe is at issue here is that the “social
gospel” is not trying to save the world from a heart issue of sin. Rather, it
is trying to save the world from poverty. Americans so rich in resources and
wealth compared to the rest of the world, I’m afraid, according to emergent
pastors are the new sinner.
I believe discussion aids in bringing truth. Much of the following may be my
opinion, though I have tried to offer sources and facts where needed.
I became interested in the emergent movement several years ago, when I had
first heard about it through an issue that had risen in a news program I had
been watching. I pursued study of it, because whatever has taken place
in “the church” has always interested me. Throughout my life, I have
watched the pendulum swings from doctrine to doctrine. Yes, it does swing! But
“the church” has never lost its foundation, and it has held on to Jesus’
promise to us that He will never lose His church. Because of that
promise, I have never feared the swings of the pendulum, but I do enjoy the
discussion and a chance to bring awareness.
Most swings I am talking about were not damaging to salvation. This swing is a
little different, however; and is quite possibly going to have an after effect
that could be quite dangerous. Though most involved in the movement would
likely deny it, this movement is very political. So while conservative
Christians get bashed for being too involved in politics over moral issues, we
have a new group entering on the other end of the political realm.
When I owned my bookstore, I studied the emergent church movement a bit
further, and a bit deeper. I did not want to be guilty of encouraging or
spreading false doctrines simply because I had a book in my store that was
inaccurate. For that reason, I monitored my Christian books more carefully than
any other genre I carried. I learned authors, ministries and pastors who might
be teaching things that were not according to Scripture. I did not attack their
ministries. I simply did not carry their books on my shelves.
Recently, a letter to the editor of our local paper prompted my decision to
begin the posts that I am beginning to share. I did not want to respond to the
letter in the local newspaper. Though others did; personally, I don’t believe
that is the proper place. It’s almost like the church "airing our dirty
laundry" for all to see. I believe that is damaging. “Letters to the
Editor” are all about opinions, but for myself, I'm not really sure I want to
see matters of faith, there. Blogs, however, are understood to be a
place to read someone’s view point on any and every topic. So every now and
then, one will find on my blog something that is political or controversial. This
one, I am sure, will be both.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
As I mentioned in the earlier post, someone recently decided
to write a letter to the editor of our local paper about the dangers of a book
entitled The Hole in Our Gospel, written by the president of "World
Vision", Richard Stearns. The letter created a bit of a controversy, here
locally - much of what I expected once I read the letter. I have been watching
the emergent church debate among Christians for several years now, and I felt controversy
is exactly where this letter would lead. The author of the letter did not name
the book or ministry as emergent; I believe she was simply concerned that the
book was an attack on our faith.
The particular book mentioned in the letter was one with which I was not
familiar. Yes, I had heard about "World Vision" and the new direction
they were beginning to take, but I had not heard about this book written by
"World Vision’s" CEO. I decided therefore this would be a good
resource for me to read, to see for myself just exactly what is capturing so
many as a wonderful new truth, and causing so many others to cringe in the thought
of heresy. I had already read a number of books and articles on the dangers of
the emergent church, but this book I wanted to read and analyze on my own. At
the time, I wasn’t sure the author would be actually promoting an emergent
doctrine, but I did suspect it. I want to note that Stearns’ book is not so
much about the work of "World Vision" as it is about what he believes
is the problem within the Christian faith and that is the issue I seek to
address. It is a bit of Stearns auto-biography, but it isn't simply that. He
seeks to bring us along to join him in his belief system. It is not my
intention to single out any particular ministry with concerns over the emergent
church. It is the general philosophy with which I am concerned, but as this is
the one that brought discussion through our local paper, this is the one I
chose to read.
I ordered the book, which came in no time, but I put it on my shelf for the
time being until I could finish two others books I had been reading. Not long
after I had received the book in the mail, though, the company where I had
ordered the book sent me an email saying: “Jan: Based on this purchase,
(the one I had just ordered – The Hole in Our Gospel) we've hand picked some
titles you just may find impossible to resist.” There below their email a
number of books were pictured just waiting for my purchase. I got a good laugh;
every single one of the books pictured was written by an emergent church
author. Ok, so it is as I suspected, The Hole in Our Gospel will be
promoting a social gospel. But it only piqued my interest, so I decided to
start reading this book right away. I wanted to find out just why this division
is so easily occurring and manifestly growing at a rapid pace.
Even at my first glance through the book, I found there was so much I wanted to
comment about, that I almost felt overwhelmed. I read more, and started making
notes and doing more research. I did not want to be wrong in blogging about
this particular book and ministry - especially if it would be something that
was simply a minor doctrinal issue. No sense in joining in controversy over
something that would fade away in time, as so many minor differences have. I
prayed about blogging these thoughts and gave it some time. I don’t believe we
should go around bashing other ministries at will. That is destructive and
hurtful and most often only sets the recipient more firmly in his beliefs. I
simply have no desire to do that; but I do believe the “blog” can be a proper
forum for this type of discussion. It is also a good place to trade thoughts
and ideas, and I welcome in-put, thoughts and comments.
First I want to give a little history about "World Vision", which I
will attempt to do in my next post. Again, this is not to point out whether
"World Vision" is a worthy ministry or not. I simply want to share
the history that I learned. As with anything, there is good and there is bad.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Since I am talking primarily about the book written by the
president of "World Vision", I thought it might be helpful to give a
bit of history about this organization. As I said before, Richard Stearns’ book
is not so much about the work of "World Vision"; but as the title
suggests, The Hole in Our Gospel, it is more about what Stearns believes
is the problem within the Christian faith.
"World Vision" was founded in 1950 by a pastor whom had traveled to China and South Korea as a missionary with
“Youth for Christ”. His name was Dr. Robert Pierce. A sincere desire of Dr.
Pierce was written on the flyleaf of his Bible: "Let my heart be broken
with the things that break the heart of God."
To me that demonstrates a beautiful yearning for the things of God and explains
why Dr. Pierce was so successful in his endeavor with World Vision. But his
selfless ambitions did not end when Dr. Pierce resigned from World Vision in
1967. He also founded the effective evangelical Christian organization,
"Samaritan’s Purse" which is now lead by Franklin Graham.
The original World Vision Mission Statement read as follows:
"To follow our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in
working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek justice
and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of God."
A current mission statement that I took from the World
Vision website reads this way:
“World Vision is a Christian relief and development
organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide
reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty.”
Not quite the same, is it? Upon searching their website
further, though, I was happy to find the original statement has also been
included on their website:
“World Vision is an international partnership of
Christians whose mission is to follow our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in
working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek
justice, and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of God.”
But still, upon searching "World Vision’s"
website, the Gospel of Jesus Christ and any mention of the cross seems to be
missing. So though started by a humble man with a sincere heart for the things
of God, and whom had an effective missionary agenda, "World Vision’s"
goals seem to have changed somewhat since its beginnings. In reading their
website it appears they have lost their main desire to evangelize for Jesus;
and instead as reported by some, they now direct their efforts toward
“community development” and aid for the poor around the world. Unfortunately,
although the name of Jesus is used, what He did for us no longer appears to be
at the forefront of "World Vision’s" goals.
Of course theirs is a worthy cause and I don't know who would ever want to find
blame with an organization that seeks to help suffering children around the
world. I am simply concerned (as are others) about their failure to mention
mankind's need for a Savior while claiming to be a Christian organization.
Though their agenda for community development and help for the poor is indeed
admirable and is truly something that is necessary around the world, if we do
not include a salvation message to bring others into the Kingdom, I’m afraid it
is all for naught. Sinners cannot be lead to salvation with a weakened Gospel
that fails to show why they are in need of a Savior. How sad an organization
such as this, would fail to show all that Jesus endured so that we might have
salvation. Hopefully they do that in their work, but I could find nothing on
the “World Vision” website that even so much as alludes to our old-fashioned
Gospel message. It just isn’t there; and that appears to be the case for many
of the emergent leaders and their ministries. That single factor is where
the concern begins for those that question emergent doctrine.
But let me get back to the desire posted on "World Vision’s" website
that speaks of seeking to help through community development. The Wikipedia
definition of “community development” reads as follows:
“Community development seeks to empower individuals and
groups of people by providing these groups with the skills they need to affect
change in their own communities. These skills are often concentrated around
building political power through the formation of large social groups working
for a common agenda.”
Hmmm…..As I said, although the website tells us much about
Jesus’ concern for children and the poor, one will be hard-pressed to find any
mention of salvation or the cross. That simple fact is what is most needed to
change and transform lives.
“We seek to follow Jesus — in his identification with the
poor, the powerless, the afflicted, the oppressed, and the marginalized; in his
special concern for children; in his respect for the dignity bestowed equally
on women and men; in his challenge to unjust attitudes and systems; in his call
to share resources with each other; in his love for all people without
discrimination or conditions; in his offer of new life through faith in him. We
hear his call to servanthood, and to humility.”
That’s as close as "World Vision’s" website gets
to any mention of a Savior or Salvation. I believe what is mentioned in the
above statement fails to include everything with which Jesus was concerned.
Wouldn’t you agree? By the way the lack of capitalization of the pronouns
referring to Jesus in this quote is "World Vision’s" error, not mine…
One more quote from the "World Vision" website:
“We are called to serve the neediest people of the earth;
to relieve their suffering and to promote the transformation of their
wellbeing. We stand in solidarity in a common search for justice. We seek to
understand the situation of the poor and work alongside them.
We seek to facilitate an engagement between the poor and
the affluent that opens both to transformation. We respect the poor as active
participants, not passive recipients, in this relationship. They are people
from whom others may learn and receive, as well as give. The need for
transformation is common to all. Together we share a quest for justice, peace,
reconciliation, and healing in a broken world.”
That pretty much sums up their vision. It sounds extremely
noble. Certainly, it is something for which we should strive. But wouldn't it
be wise to question their means and methods in seeking this end? And what kind
of transformation are they referring? Is it physical or spiritual? Certainly,
we see no mention for the need of a Savior on the webpage and little if any in
Stearn’s book.
For me, one of the biggest concerns about the new "World Vision" – or
perhaps I should say the president of "World Vision
U. S." – is the political
affiliations I have found. And though in his book Stearns seems to bash all
things political, (I will get to that in future posts) "World Vision"
itself, I believe, has become a liberal, emergent campaign. “World Vision
International” has openly endorsed the
“Universal Declaration of Human
Rights” as well as the
“United Nations Convention on the Rights of the
Child”. Believe me, that
is a political posture! We have
conservative politicians and organizations fighting courageously and tirelessly
to pass an amendment to our US Constitution - “Parental Rights Amendment” - so
that we might keep our freedoms as parents. Unfortunately, this amendment is
now desperately needed to prevent the United Nations from having control over
our own nation’s children and families! That is the type of control the UN will
be allowed through the “United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child”!
You can read more about the efforts and concerns of "Parental Rights"
here:
http://parentalrights.org/
To see a “Christian” organization supporting the UN program mentioned above is
frightening. Throughout his book,
The Hole in Our Gospel, Stearns makes
a number of political statements, (sometimes subtle and sometimes not so
subtle) but the whole attitude of his book is one of politics. It just doesn’t
happen to be “conservative” politics.
World Vision by their own admission is an ecumenical organization that partners
with Christian churches, but desires to be respectful of other faiths.
Respecting another’s beliefs is important and admirable, but when respect turns
to acceptance of false teachings that are contrary to Scripture, a line as been
crossed.
This is a second concern of those that question the emergent
doctrine.
This will be the only post written about "World Vision"; the rest of
my posts will be concerned with the statements Stearns makes in his book. I’m
sure it is safe to assume their visions of this work are the same.
Personally, I believe if Dr. Pierce was still living, he would not be happy
with the direction that "World Vision" is taking.
Monday, February 14, 2011
“Two thousand years ago, twelve people changed the
world.” Wow, I didn’t expect to find a problem with the very first sentence
on the dust jacket even before I started reading the book. This is going to be
verrrry interesting, I thought. I have to admit; this is the first time I have
ever seen a statement like that coming from a Christian. I believe those twelve
people mentioned in that quote would absolutely abhor the fact that two
thousand years after they had lived their lives for the God of the Universe,
they were now being credited with changing the world themselves. They worked
diligently in their lives and each succumbed a martyr’s death because of their
firm conviction to bring the message that is focused on the Life of only One.
Since that time, Christians have consistently pointed to that same Life and the
message of only One Man – God Incarnate – Jesus Christ. Is that simply a minor
point in which I am being overly critical? Maybe; but that single statement
about twelve people changing the world, is also the foundation for all the
other points the author wants to write about in his book. The author wants us
to believe and understand that we, too, can change the world. Fortunately, in
reality, it isn’t about us.
The first few chapters are Stearns’ testimony and how he came to be the
President of “World Vision”. His is a compelling story filled with wonderful,
Biblical truths. He encourages the reader with lots of Scripture, and there is
wisdom in that which he encourages the Christian to do, such as being diligent
in prayer, and staying in the Word. He reminds us that God is a God of order,
and that we need to follow His teachings. Most of his thoughts here I agree
with, and he seems to have a pure heart for God. I will not go into a lot of
this, as some of it may be doctrinal differences that are always present among
Christians; i.e. the differences that are not really dangerous, because the
foundation is still pure. Those are not the issues with which I am concerned in
this blog.
Stearns also begins to present a Gospel that includes aiding the poor and
explains his thoughts about it. It begins to get a bit dicey for me here. One
especially troubling section is in Chapter 4. He has just made his case for a
Gospel that requires more than “saying the right words and believing the right
things.” He seeks to bring clarity about what he calls the “Towering Pillars of
Compassion and Justice” which is the title of this chapter. The basis he uses
to prove his point is Isaiah 58 and Matthew 25. His argument is somewhat
persuasive and much of what he says is true; but we also get a glimpse of his
purpose for this book and where he will take us after his foundation is laid.
The hint comes when he paraphrases Scripture which he calls The RESV version.
That is: “The Richard E. Stearns Version” he jokes. Though he admits it is “irreverent"
he definitely tries to bring us along to his political stance. Below is his
paraphrase:
“For I was hungry, while you had all you needed. I was
thirsty, but you drank bottled water. I was a stranger, and you wanted me
deported. I needed clothes, but you needed more clothes. I was sick, and you
pointed out the behaviors that led to my sickness. I was in prison, and you
said I was getting what I deserved. (RESV – Richard E. Stearns Version)
Yep, I view that as political. He is pointing out a problem
with those that might be concerned with the lifestyle that is most connected
with AIDS. (And no, I am not advocating attacking anyone) He is troubled with
those that have a desire for a strong judicial system that would ask for strong
consequences in punishment. That is generally a conservative stance. And he is attacking
those that would be upset with amnesty and allowing those that come into our
country illegally to be sent back to their homeland and come in to our nation
by the appropriate channels. That also is a conservative position. He forgets
the key word as many with a liberal agenda do – illegal. But right now, I won’t
go into the importance of secure borders and asking immigrants to come into our
country legally as all nations require. Obviously he views it as something that
shows no compassion. Unfortunately, most that are coming across our borders
illegally are not people simply seeking a better life as we are led to believe;
they are criminals that continue their life of crime, by trying to enter here
illegally in the first place. But that is not an argument I seek to prove,
today. This quote is a set-up for what Stearns will get to later. And
unfortunately, what he has specifically singled out to target is a conservative
platform.
This quote he jokingly calls “irreverent” is just a shallow illusion to where
he will take us later in his book. The politics do not actually begin in these
early chapters. He really just hints at such things, and I view much of what he
is writing as a foundation he is building which he will use to attempt to
eventually persuade us to his way of thinking. At this point, he merely uses
subtle politics, with which he hopes to change the scope of opinion later.
In an early chapter, Stearns does mention atonement, reconciliation and gives a
salvation message – kind of. Much of it is beautiful, and had I not scanned the
book with a precursory glance initially, or given it too much thought, at this
point I would probably still believe this book is no different than any other
Christian book trying to encourage us in our faith. Gradually though, little
warning signs become more and more apparent and as I earlier mentioned, at
first they are subtle. I know I have said that before, but I don’t want it to
go unnoticed, because I believe the subtlety is intentional…and harmful.
For the most part, the prologue to his book and the initial chapters are full
of what seems to be sincere, factual commentary and perhaps if Stearns
continued in this vein throughout the rest of the book, we would have something
we could take to heart and improve our Christian walk. But he doesn’t do that,
and I can’t help but wonder if Richard Stearns has an ulterior motive and he is
in fact setting us up for a type of snare – if you will. I’m afraid we are
about to see a series of trappings that do nothing to bring others to Jesus;
but rather, it seems he joins an agenda of those that try to bash and destroy
the Christian church in America.
Yeah, I know; that sounds harsh. But I have to ask: is it all for a purpose? If
not intentional, the outcome is still the same. It appears Stearns believes the
problems of the world lie with the American Christians who are in actuality -
according to this book - the ones at fault. Stearns can’t prove that point – i.e.
that Christians are responsible for the ills of the world – unless he has built
a foundation that demonstrates “twelve people [once] changed the world”. I’m afraid that simply isn’t true, and that is
not what the Bible says. Stearns informs us though, "it happened once and
it can happen again". If it hasn't happened yet again, it must be the
Christian who is to blame. If there are poor people in the world, then it is
the rich with whom we must place blame.
The Bible says it is Jesus that changes lives - one, individual heart at a
time. I’m afraid the world will never be fully changed until Jesus returns
again. Until that time, we seek to change hearts by telling others that “God
commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died
for us.” That is the message that Jesus encouraged us to bear witness to until
He comes again.
So why does Stearns go to such lengths to write about how wrong the American
Christian is and has been? I guess I don’t rightly know....except it seems to
be what the emergent philosophy tends to do and at this point in the book I am
suspecting a “liberal” political bias.
Friday, February 18, 2011
I have probably pretty much exhausted this topic for most
readers that stumble across this blog. But I want to write just two more posts,
maybe three, on my thoughts on Richard Stearns book, The Hole in Our Gospel.
In this post, I intend to get political….only because Stearns has. I simply
want to write about some political ideologies in which Stearns has given voice.
If you think I have already been political…oh boy, just wait. ;-)
This post will be a difficult one for me to write. I have had a political
“bent” all my life. I have simply found all of it extremely interesting. I know
it is not always popular. I have watched the rolled eyes, whispers, and
snickers at my political comments, but the truth of the matter is, I don’t
believe the two can be separated – i.e. faith and politics – and no, I am not
talking about an issue of separation of church and state here. That would have
to be for a completely different post. The whole reason I have found politics
so interesting is because of my faith. For me, politics has always been
about protecting our religious freedoms and maintaining the moral values our
nation has had because our country’s foundation springs from a Biblical
foundation.
If the richest country in the world doesn’t keep freedom to spread the Gospel,
here and abroad, then which one will? Statistics show that it indeed has been
the U.S.
that has done more than any other nation. Oh, I know God could always raise
another; but I believe, as does Stearns, that God expects much from this one.
With all the statistics Stearns has given, it simply troubles me that it is the
American Christian that he has chosen to condemn. He even gives a warning
before doing so:
"Let me say something at the outset. Some of the
things I am going to say in this section are very critical of the Church
universal and also some of our individual churches. They were hard to write and
may be even harder to read. I love the Church and truly believe that it is at
the center of God's plan for the world."
Well, that's good to know. Anyway, on to the politics of
Stearns' book. Keep in mind that through all of his writings there is an
element of truth. That shouldn’t surprise us. How would he convince us to his
way of thinking if truth wasn’t included? Also, I am not questioning his
salvation, or his desire for right things. I only wish to speak to his methods,
and his political leanings and affiliations.
When I made my initial glance through the book I was troubled by a number of
the quotes at the beginning of the chapters and throughout his writings. I saw
the author had used a number of statements from emergent leaders. That was as I
expected. He quotes a number of well-known liberals and even one of our
well-known liberal U.S.
Presidents. That’s fine; I like reading quotes from all – it doesn’t mean I
will always agree – but I like reading all kinds of quotes just the same. I
suspect, however, by seeing each individual Stearns chooses to quote, that
Richard Stearns and I most likely have diametrically opposite thoughts and
opinions.
To be fair, he also has quoted some solid Christians and successful
politicians, but they are not the majority. Instead, he leans heavily on
emergent leaders like Dallas Willard, and Rick Warren, and religious leaders of
the world such as Confucius, and Gandhi; and he seems to love little proverbs
from other nations which include an African Proverb, a Chinese Proverb and one
from a woman from Egypt.
I will leave you to consider from what sources each of those might come.
Granted, he also quotes Jesus, lots of Scripture (I would hope so in a book
labeled Christian Non-fiction.), Jim Elliot and past American leaders such as
Abraham Lincoln and John Adams. Some of the liberals he chooses to quote are:
Bono, (and boy does he love to talk about him!) Jimmy Carter, and Martin Luther
King, Jr. (Yes, Dr. King was liberal in his politics and not always accurate in
his theology.) Oh, and of all people: Margaret Mead!!! Oh man! For me, quoting
liberals and running down conservative Christians for being too political is a
huge “red flag”. But then to see Stearns quote Margaret Mead, anthropologist,
secular humanist and the outspoken advocate for “open marriage” and other grave
sins; as well as an advocate for a liberal agenda and worldly mindset! And that
is somehow viewed as acceptable in his eyes and not a political statement?? Oh
man!! Below is the quote:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed
citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
So there Stearns goes again; by using this quote he is
giving credit to anyone except the One who is the only One that deserves
credit. Now those words coming from Margaret Mead is no surprise. But to quote
words such as hers in a book claiming to be “Christian” is heartbreaking.
Further troubling is the fact that the quote is an incorrect ideology.
Christians should be the first to proclaim the Good News of the One and only
One Who has ever changed the world. And for me, it is absolutely mind-boggling
that a Christian such as Richard Stearns would choose a quote from a woman who
caused a great deal of political controversy during the unrest of the 60’s and
70’s with her liberal thinking and platform. Again, it seems he believes this
quote from Margaret Mead backs up his point on the dust jacket, that I
mentioned would be the foundation for all that he hopes to teach us in his
book.
Something else I find a bit troubling about the author, is that he devotes an
entire chapter about the accurately (according to Stearns) held “perception” he
claims the majority of non-believers hold toward Christians. This fact, by the
way, according to Mr. Stearns is only due to the conservative Christian that has inappropriately (according to
Stearns) made strong, political statements and taken political stands on moral
issues. I hate to say it Mr. Stearns, but by weighing in with divisive
statements like that, and quoting the people you have chosen to quote, you too,
are being political in a very harmful way.
Mr. Stearns explains to us how time and time again he has seen that Christians
will balk at the idea that they are viewed in this manner and Christians will
claim that it is simply not true. “Christians do not like to hear this
fact,” he tells us; and he has had to clarify for us what is at stake.
Stearns condescendingly informs us: “Now I explain to them a simple but
compelling truth: perception is reality.” He continues: “In other words,
you may not think you are this way or that way, but if that is how you are
perceived by others then you have to change either the reality or the
perception or both.”
Hmmm; that means if someone perceives that I am a bad parent, because I spank
my child, then I am therefore required to change their perception of me by no
longer spanking my child. I’m pretty sure that’s what he just said. Right? I
don’t think it works that way. I would say to him, that’s only his
perception, and that absolutely does not make it truth. In fact, that is in
direct contrast to what Jesus said. Jesus warned us we would be hated by the
world; and that we would be persecuted for righteousness sake. Paul warns us in
Galatians 1:10 - “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please
men? For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.”
Jesus certainly didn't tell us to change our behavior so that the world would
approve.
To me the above verse instructs me that I really shouldn’t worry too much about
what man thinks of me. Now of course I understand the point that we are to be
salt and light and we are to lead our lives so that others will be encouraged
and not "turned off". That is absolutely true, but I do not have to
change my convictions in order to change someone’s negative perception of me. I
do believe we need to meet a balance that Stearns does not appear to want to
reach. I am not talking about compromise. I am talking about a balance the Holy
Spirit brings, so that we do not run around with our Sword chopping of the
heads of those that get in our way, but rather, we would allow the Holy Spirit
to be our guide and be the One that prompts us into action.
On page 229 of his book, Stearns inform us that data suggests Christians have
become defined by the things we are against, rather than what we support. He
states that the world perceives us against gay marriage, and against alcohol,
and drug use, and Islam and evolution. I'm sorry, but that is not what we are
doing; that is what a liberal media is stating that we are doing. I do not
believe that is the profile of the church in America (or throughout the world
for that matter) that most people hold.
His definition of this supposed “perception of Christians that is in fact
reality” is actually nothing more than what the liberal media has been
spewing about Christianity for the last 40 years or so. He has simply joined
their mantra. That’s political. One's perception is derived from one's world
views and that does not make it truth.
One whom he interviewed, says Stearns, explains it best like this:
“Most people I meet assume that ‘Christian’ means very
conservative, entrenched in their thinking, antigay, anti-choice, angry,
violent, illogical, empire builders; they want to convert everyone, and they
generally cannot live peacefully with anyone who doesn’t believe what they
believe.”
He uses faulty statistics to prove his point….well, maybe
the statistics are not wrong, but maybe his deciphering of them is. He says
that as recently as 1996, 85% of nonbelievers still felt favorably toward
Christians and their role in society. However, just 10 years later (2006) he
says the statistics reveal that only 16% of those that have no religious faith
had a good impression of Christianity. He claims this is due to the
conservative Christian becoming increasingly involved in politics and “trying
to grab a share of the media spotlight.”
Wow…I have sure never viewed trying to stand for the sanctity of life, or
working to preserve the tradition of marriage, as “trying to grab a piece of
the media spotlight”. But aside from that, his rational does not make
sense. Actually, the height of political activism for the Christian came in the
early 80’s with the onset of Jerry Falwell’s "Moral Majority". It
swept the nation, and changed the direction of our country after the trying
years of the 60’s and 70’s. Try as they might, the liberals could not quench
this faith-based movement. Instead, it ushered in a President that freely
quoted Bible and referred to this nation as a “shining city on the hill.”
For awhile, America
was restored and our freedoms were kept safe under the guidance of President
Ronald Reagan. The liberal media eventually successfully destroyed Falwell's
"Moral Majority" and it got to the point where even the Christian
believed Jerry Falwell was some right-wing nut. He was not. He was a wonderful
man of God that cared deeply about his faith and this nation. I will never
forget an interview I saw with him in the early 80's on the Phil Donahue Show.
Rev. Falwell showed so much of God's love and such grace, I believe even Mr.
Donahue was shocked. Try as he might, Phil just couldn't make Rev. Falwell look
bad. It was awesome, and I never forgot it. If you have been one led to believe
this organization was a bunch of fanatical lunatics, do a little deeper
research and see what you find.
But back to Stearns' point. I believe the reason for the distrust Christians
and Christianity is now receiving is due not to their political activism, but
rather to the constant barrage of attacks by the liberal media and politically
correct agenda that has become the new god of a minority, and a loud and
clanging one at that. The world is buying into the media’s distortion of facts.
If the new found disdain for the Christian was only about the Christian’s
political stances, as claimed by Mr. Stearns, the low ratings would have
occurred during the "Moral Majority" years when the Christian became
more politically astute and active than ever before or since - at least in my life-time.
Personally, I thank God for Jerry Falwell and President Ronald Reagan.
The Bible teaches us until the scales are removed by Salvation through Jesus we
will continue in our sin. Without a doubt, there are absolutes that are black
and white and it has nothing to do with perception. There simply isn't much
mention of sin in this book, except in the way Stearns talks about Americans
lack to help the needy of the world.
I find it interesting, that it appears the new focus is not the sinner, but
rather the American. According to Mr. Stearns, Americans are the new sinful
child wallowing in the mud and eating with the pigs. It seems Stearns believes
it is Americans that are the new prodigal son – the sinner that needs to come
home.
Indeed, according to Stearns and other emergent pastors, I believe, Americans
are the guilty ones, now. No call for repentance to a world in sin…only to the
American that is fat, greedy and puffed up. Stearns tells us on page 120 of his
book that it is man-made actions that contribute to poverty and the apathy of
the "well-off" who allow it to persist. Stearns fails to see it, but
that is his perception of the American. It certainly isn’t mine. My
perception of the American is that it is the American that is the first to bring
aid, wherever the natural disaster, wherever the tragedy. The American is the
first to fight for freedoms, and the first and sometimes the only one to come
against those that would want to dictate, control, and torture. The American is
the only one to come against the murdering, vicious dictators throughout the
world. And there is no other nation that has brought more relief and aid to a
hurting world. And that, I believe is
all due to our Christian foundation.
Though Stearns loves to talk about Bono and his agenda to help the poor, there
is no mention of the "Pat Robertson's" of the world that have been
there with the work of organizations such as "Operation Blessing"
almost before Bono was even born. And though “Samaritan’s Purse” was started by
the same founder as World Vision, there is no mention of someone like Franklin
Graham, that was deep in action before Richard Stearns became the president of
"World Vision". Or even someone like my own church's mission
organization "Far Reaching Ministries" who have put their lives in
danger working in Sudan
for years.
I have to question: why does Stearns choose to profile the words and actions of
a rock star who is not even a Christian. He actually laments the fact that it
could not be a great church leader that would speak such profound truths that
Bono has. The truth of the matter is, had he wanted to quote a great church leader with a compassionate quote of
concern for action, he could have. Frighteningly, he finds it more important to
call Bono a "modern day prophet."
I simply have to question: why is Mr. Stearns so anxious to glorify the
"liberal stars" that are not Christian, and so readily leaves out the
work of the Christian that has been doing this work for decades. Even George
Clooney (one of the most active liberal actors there is) shocked fellow liberals
when he recently came back from Africa and
made the statement: "Amazingly the ones that we do not agree with are the
ones that are there doing the work in these God-forsaken lands." That's a
paraphrase on my part, but you get the idea.
Stearns is very much showing a political side and agenda in this book. I wonder
why it's ok for him to be political, but not the rest of us? Stearns informs us
that statistics show that 75% of non-believers say Christians are too involved
in politics, Well, it is my “
perception”,
that we are not involved enough.
Stearns' concern is great; his compassion wonderful; but those he chooses to
commend and those he chooses to attack is anything, but fair.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
I guess in light of my past five posts it is pretty easy to
see that The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns was really quite
disturbing for me…on a number of fronts. I have outlined some (but not all) of
my concerns in these past posts. As I said earlier, I do not wish to discredit
anyone, or anyone’s ministry. I believe it is wrong to do so. One never knows
if someone is only temporarily deceived or misled by something that
could be harmful. We all need a chance to learn and grow with patience as we
seek the truth. That being said, however, I believe there are times that error
absolutely must be exposed. Richard Stearns’ book is a number one best seller,
and it is said to have had a great impact on the Christian church, today. That
fact is extremely bothersome in light of all I found while reading this book. I
decided if Stearns can write what he believes is wrong with today’s church, I
guess I can counter with what I believe is wrong with his book. Much of what is
frightening about his world view may be hard to recognize as it is very much
cloaked in a richness of truth. But the fact can not be ignored that a lot of
his teaching is distorted, a bit condescending, and it appears he has a motive
that is a whole lot deeper than a desire to bring believers into a stronger
relationship with our Lord which he claims can only be achieved by offering our
lives in service to the poor.
I have already written about most of my concerns. I simply want to summarize in
this final post that we as believers need to be aware of what is taking place
within our churches through the emergent church movement. For myself, I am
concerned that what the emergent church* is espousing is not just a simple
mistake; it is not simply doctrinal differences, or a misunderstanding of words
and interpretation. Is it much more than that? I have found myself wondering if
what is taking place in churches across America is intentional to weaken,
divide and attack. Yeah, I’m a conspiracy theorist. It is common knowledge that
in order to bring about change in any venue, what is standard or the norm in
people’s lives must be proven wrong or inadequate before any change can be
brought forth. I’m not saying Richard Stearns intentionally seeks to divide the
church. I don’t believe that. But I do believe he seeks to bring the church
into a liberal political view that he believes is necessary to orchestrate work
in the foreign mission field. It appears it is his belief that this work must
be done through the United Nations. And I believe that is dangerous.
I also found what I believe to be error in doctrine and in his interpretation
of certain Scripture. Most troubling is his interpretation of Matthew 25: 31-46
which he incorrectly uses to make his points about poverty. But I chose not to
write about that. I chose rather to focus my concerns on the political side of
his writings and what is happening in the emerging church, because politics
is exactly what emergent leaders are using to bring about the change
they hope to effect. There is a common mantra coming from any and all emergent
leaders one may seek to study. That study will reveal a belief that:
• We need a social gospel (through liberal politics) that must spread
throughout the world to bring relief and unity.
• Americans are puffed up and greedy and to blame for the world’s ills.
• The American Dream needs to be destroyed.
• We need the work of the UN through the UN Millennium Development Goals and
the World Health Organization
• God is in every person and in all things.
• All faiths are of the same God and we should strive for an ecumenical belief
system.
Also noticeable among emergent supporters is a failure to speak of the need of
repentance from a sinful heart. America
is blamed as those who have neglected a duty for taking care of the poor of the
world. Most emergent leaders fail to mention it is America that provides this aid more
than any other nation.
As I said in my previous posts, Stearns chooses to quote and highlight some
troubling figures. Some of whom are fellow Christians that are having a
tremendous impact on today’s church. For example: Rick Warren. Why is Warren a problem for me?
Warren showed
his ecumenical side at President Obama’s inauguration when he prayed these
words:
“I humbly ask this in the name of the one who
changed my life—Yeshua, Esa, Jesus, Jesus—who taught us to pray…”
Esa, to those of the Islamic religion, is a “prophet” of God worshipped by
Muslims and spoken of repeatedly in the Quran. The Quran teaches that though
Esa was born of Immaculate Conception, he is believed to be human and not at
all considered to be Divine.
The Bible, however, is very clear that there is no other God and “no other
name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12.
That a Christian would choose to pray in the name of a false “prophet” is
deeply troubling. Yet Stearns and other emergent leaders continue to quote Warren and use him as an
example in their work.
Stearns also quotes Jimmy Carter with a fact that simply isn’t true. Carter
says:
“The greatest problem of our time is the growing gap between the richest and
poorest people on earth.”
Oh really. And all this time I thought the greatest problem of our time might
be lives lived without Jesus; wars and rumor of wars; earthquakes and other
natural disasters, and of course famines; just to name a few. The poor?
Heartbreaking, yes; but the gap between rich and poor the greatest problem? I
don’t think so. Carter’s quote and Stearns exposition on it sounds like a
socialistic agenda to me! I guess it’s time to "spread the wealth
around". Only thing is, Jesus said that would never work. He said the poor
will always be among us. No, I am not saying that we shouldn’t bother
with the poor in that case. Of course we are to care for any and all those in
need that God places in our path. Hey! I even believe that includes unborn
babies who will lose their lives before they have a chance to breathe that
first breath of life….oh but wait, Stearns said if I care about that I am just
“trying to grab a piece of the media spotlight.” Sounds like politics to me.
And woops! I promised myself I wouldn’t get sarcastic or flippant.
I have never understood why those that claim not to be political want to find fault with those that do. I
believe America
has been blessed by God to be the nation most able to spread His Gospel and in
fact we have been the ones that have consistently done just that. But if we do
not strive politically to keep those
freedoms, we will not be able to continue to reach that goal. I believe God has
gifted each of us for a reason. If we didn’t have the “Jerry Falwell’s” and “Pat
Robertson’s” who have fought diligently to preserve our freedoms through the
venue of politics, we wouldn’t be able to have the “Billy Graham’s” that seek
to only share the Gospel….and by the way, where have the “Billy Graham’s” gone?
Stearns explanation of how this “hole”
came to be in our Gospel is nothing more than his opinion. He takes great strides to inform us this hole is a
result of the liberal concern for the poor that came into odds with the conservative
“who believed the world was beyond fixing”. That’s political! But more
than that, it is only his personal belief. The problem is, he presents
it as fact and diligently tries to convince us that this divide is the major
cause of bringing about a "partial gospel" on both sides. The truth
of the matter is, the gospel Stearns presents, barely resembles the Gospel of
old.
Most distressing of all; Stearns, in this book, has changed the truth of the
Gospel of Jesus Christ to a gospel of people of works and action with Stearns
himself being the one that has determined what believers should be doing if
they are truly saved. I don’t believe I read anything like that anywhere in
Scripture. In order for him to convince us and bring us into his world view, he
needs to have us believe “Two thousand years ago the world was changed
forever by just twelve men…it can happen again.” My reason for these posts
is simply to say, I’m afraid that just isn’t so.
Ok, I’m done. Thanks for reading.
"Be it known unto you all and to all the people of
Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom
God raised from the dead, even by him doth
this man stand here before you whole.....Neither is there salvation in any
other..."
~ Acts
4: 10-12
*Throughout my posts, I have made no distinction
between the "emergent church" and the "emerging church". I
am referring to each term as one and the same.
It’s spring! And my yearly bird watching has begun; rather, continues! I am
excited to see what this year brings to my yard. I really want to see the Mountain Bluebirds again this year. They have been sparse the last couple years it seems, though we always manage to get a few Western Bluebirds to nest in our boxes. The Mountains are not as agressive as any other bird I have seen, and will not usually be the ones to win the box. They are delicate and rare. For that reason, and also because they remind me of my childhood, they are my favorite bird.
I finished some of the work I was doing in the yard and went
back into the house. It hadn’t even been an hour yet, but when I looked out the
picture window of my living room to admire the new boxes, there was a mama
bluebird entering the hole of the box. The daddy flew around outside. 
.JPG)
