I received a solid biblical education growing up in the Sunshine congregation. I feel blessed and am pleased to see that tradition continuing with today's youth. One difference, the significance of which is debatable, is that I was given a basic knowledge of our restoration history. By restoration history, I am referring to what is now called the Stone-Campbell Movement. My understanding was indeed cursory. I knew something of Stone and Campbell and knew that we held to baptism, weekly observance of the Lord's Supper, and non-instrumental music in an effort to uphold "the ancient order of things". I understood that we honed-in on the book of Acts to ascertain the "pattern" of New Testament Christianity. I also understood that we interpret Scripture based on the principles of: 1) direct command, 2) approved example, and 3) necessary inference. These fundamental principles that stem from our religious heritage were ingrained in me. What I lacked was a broader understanding of the religious and historical factors that contextualize these beliefs within the scope Christendom.
It seems to me that these things are rarely, if ever, discussed in our Jr. High, High School, and adult classes. Occasionally, while teaching a class, I ask a question related to our heritage. I have yet to find anyone who has a clue as to what I am referring. I have mixed feelings about this reality. On one hand, that we are not indoctrinating our youth in narrow traditional thinking is a good thing. On the other, that many in our fellowship have a limited understanding of from where it is that we have come, is a bad thing. Time spent studying the Stone-Campbell Movement might be better spent reading the Bible directly, some might say. Yet, anyone who would decry the value of history is surely a fool. How can you divorce our understanding of the Scriptures from the religious context that has shaped us?
I am of the position that a deeper appreciation of our heritage is a good thing. I am wondering how all of you feel about it? Or if you have ever given it any thought? Many times I have been asked why we do what we do? Those are great questions. The answers can not be given in 25 words or less. Why did the Hatfields hate the McCoys? The real answer lies in a developed understanding of the context out of which the feud emerged. So it is with us.
Is it OK that so few find such a contextual understanding of our beliefs relevant?
Thursday, January 12, 2006
History sucks...I thought
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11 comments:
I must be clairvoyant...I knew before even looking at who posted this one that it was Jason.
First he used the word "wussies" in a post now he uses "sucks" in his title line. Next thing you know he'll be talking about all sorts of controversial stuff...always pushing the envelope :P
Just kidding Jason...good post, and thought provoking as always.
Oh...and the aqua color of the title hurts my eyes...
Jason,
You're the only one talking about Stone-campbell. I don't recall getting educated on that in Sunday School growing up. can you tell us about it.
Jason,
I've always found it fascinating to hear you talk about the S-C movement, but truely felt unprepared to discuss it with you. I know that you read a lot, I would love to be able to read more, but it is hard to find time. Reading my bible and keeping up with the latest Optometric journal actually fills my quota for reading. (Actually overfills my quota, I'm having trouble keeping up with the blogs)
Is there a movie about the S-C movement? All kidding aside I would be interested in a class discussing the history of the Church of Christ. I don't think it should replace our regular bible studies (we would have to change the name from bible study to history lessons) but I would be interested in an adjunct class.
Just thoughts from a layman christian
If there is significant interest, I would love to lead (or be part of leading) as class on Stone-Campbell history. Some might feel that a focus in this area might detract from a focus on Jesus or the Bible itself. I disagree. Many of the issues that we are addressing in a round-about way are related to the growing friction between our traditional thinking and new (post)modern thinking. Delving to the roots of our congregational consciousness allow us to critically evaluate our automatic reflexes.
There is much about our heritage that is wonderful, principles and convictions that we will want to reaffirm in our worship and doctrine. There are also areas in which we are weak and need to press onward in an effort to follow Jesus' headship of the church.
I have always been interested in why we do what we do. Mostly because I have found myself doubting whether I was right in believing what I believe or not. I also love sociology and physchology (why do people behave the way they do...what makes them tick, etc.) I want to know WHY I should continue to stay within the congregation of the Church of Christ instead of going to another denomination. I want to be able to explain to others what the church of Christ is and why we don't have instruments and why we believe baptism is essential to salvation, etc., etc.
So, yes, a class would definately be of interest to me.
History sucks what?
There's more interest in this than I expected. I am happy about that! There are a couple ways to approach this study. We could have a class. I'm doubtful the Elders will approve using a Sunday or Wednesday class for this purpose. We could do it another time (if a time can be found that works for all interested). A second approach would be to acquire a book or two for those interested to read. We then could meet to share what we have learned. I currently have on order a book that looks very promising. If you click the title of this post, you will be directed to the Amazon.com page on the book.
Interested here too Jason. Let's ask the elders before we give an answer for them. They may be all for a class on our history. It does directly effect how we view the Bible as we cannot escape the influences of our past and how we have been taught.
It won't hurt to ask.
Donnie offered such a class a few months ago but people showed little interest then. The classes that I attended with my Brother In Law were very good and were the very topics that are discussed in these comments. Donnie had interesting thoughts and great scripture references. It made great discussion and really showed where we came from. So I know you can ask him for some materials.
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