Nobody likes an elitist

In our discussion of the last post, I called for us (referring to my CofC family and friends) to strive for insight. Even as I write this, I know many of the usual readers of this blog are turned-off. It's not that you are just disinterested, but actually peeved that the conversation won't go away. Please understand, it is not my desire to try your patience.

Finally it hit me! Nobody likes an elitist. Conversations of this nature involve terminology and historical references with which most folks are not familiar. Therefore, many folks feel blocked out, and nobody likes that. When a point is made that involves expressions like hermeneutics, theological presuppositions, and historical references; too much is expected of the average participant. It is not normal to know what all these words mean and be well-versed in the history of the Stone-Campbell Movement.

Nevertheless, it still seems important for us to grow in our self-understanding as followers of Christ. I am so confident that the rewards will greatly outpace the pain of the effort. The burden needs to be on the leaders of such discussions to avoid rapid-fire terminology and obscure historical references (I do realize that I am guilty of both). The goal MUST be the betterment of the whole congregation (or blogging community).

So, to borrow a line from Joan Rivers, "Can we talk here?" Can we strive for insight? When I began the study of therapy, like all therapy programs, I was required to undergo treatment. If I am unable or unwilling to deal with my own issues, how will I successfully help another deal with theirs? It seems obvious in the realm of counseling, yet in regard to our own religious issues we do not typically demand such self-analysis. The end result here is not doubt and a weakening of faith, but rather freedom and a deeper appreciation for the mighty power of God.

INSIGHT: an understanding of the motivational forces behind one's actions, thoughts, or behavior; self-knowledge.

For those of us raised in C'sofC, this involves a growing understanding of the Stone-Campbell history (nothing terribly extensive, the basic gist will suffice). Out of that comes an awareness of our historical emphasis on imitating the forms and structures of the early Christians. Campbell referred to it as "the ancient order of things" and I have used the phrase "pattern theology". Once that is mentally digested, it is then helpful to compare/contrast our ways with the ways of other Christian denominations. It is here that one begins to see him/herself in a new light.

Again, the goal of all this religious self-reflection is freedom. Freedom to look at our congregational activities, our mission, even Jesus afresh. Freedom to march deliberately ahead in a quest to be in full capacities the people God has called us to be. This cannot be accomplished by a select few, it must be a community-wide exercise.

That is why I give so much attention to this blog. I believe it is worth the effort.