>> This is the November 2015 issue containing the December Bible Study Lessons
Nadia Bolz- Weber on why the church is for losers 12
baptiststoday.org
Stan Pethel’s MUSICAL PRESENCE 4
Tom Long talks about preaching in challenging times 38
BIBLE STUDIES 17 FA TH™ Reclamation John D. Pierce PERSPECTIVES Executive Editor Lessons from Lula Lake [email protected] Hesitation and Hope 7 Julie Steele By John Pierce Chief Operations Officer [email protected] Pastors serving in tandem 15 Jackie B. Riley By Mike Massar Managing Editor [email protected] A Baptist among the Mennonites 27 Tony W. Cartledge By Nikki Stoddard Schofield Contributing Editor [email protected] Anti-immigrant rhetoric can be deadly 37 Bruce T. Gourley By David Gushee 42 Online Editor/Contributing Writer [email protected] David Cassady IN THE NEWS Church Resources Editor [email protected] Directors remember Dunn, elect leaders, Gifts to Baptists Today Vickie Frayne address future 9 Art Director Religious or not, many Americans see IN HONOR OF Jannie Lister Customer Service Manager a creator’s hand 10 CHARLOTTE COOK SMITH [email protected] From Peggy Chestnutt Evangelical leaders: No ‘therapy,’ Lex Horton but Jesus can change LGBT lives Nurturing Faith Resources Manager 10 IN MEMORY OF [email protected] Singer Sandi Patty to retire, Walker Knight, Publisher Emeritus NATHAN C. BYRD JR. launch farewell tour 10 From Frieda Byrd Jack U. Harwell, Editor Emeritus Poll: 29 percent of Americans still think DIRECTORS EMERITI SARAH WITHERS Thomas E. Boland President Obama is a Muslim 10 From Joy Withers Brown R. Kirby Godsey Anne Roebuck Ultra-Orthodox and secular Jews fight Guy Rutland III over shaping Jerusalem’s character 11 Mary Etta Sanders Mel Williams Winnie V. Williams FEATURES BOARD OF DIRECTORS Donald L. Brewer, Gainesville, Ga. (chairman) JOURNEY TO FORGIVENESS: Cathy Turner, Clemson, S.C. (vice chair) Author uncovers life-shaping factors 30 Nannette Avery, Signal Mountain, Tenn. By John Pierce Kelly L. Belcher, Asheville, N.C. Edwin Boland, Johns Creek, Ga. BEYOND EARTH: Ronnie Brewer, Bristol, Va. RELIGION AND THE AMERICAN Janie Brown, Elon, N.C. Toward a theology for the universe 32 PRESIDENTS: JOHN QUINCY ADAMS Bob Cates, Rome, Ga. By E.B. Self Jack Causey, Statesville, N.C. (1825-1829) 28 Anthony D. Clevenger, Pensacola, Fla. By Bruce Gourley Kenny Crump, Ruston, La. Doug Dortch, Birmingham, Ala. Jack Glasgow, Zebulon, N.C. Wayne Glasgow, Macon, Ga. Frank Granger, Athens, Ga. Cynthia Holmes, St. Louis, Mo. David Hull, Watkinsville, Ga. Bill Ireland, Dalton, Ga. Becky Matheny, Athens, Ga. Tommy McDearis, Blacksburg, Va. Andrew McGill, Chattanooga, Tenn. Cynthia Wise Mitchell, Birmingham, Ala. William T. Neal, Stone Mountain, Ga. Roger Paynter, Decatur, Ga. Kathy B. Richardson, Rome, Ga. Charlotte Cook Smith, Winston-Salem, N.C. Sarah Timmerman, Cairo, Ga. What is Nurturing Faith? 42 David Turner, Richmond, Va. Clem White, St. Petersburg, Fla. Donna Wood, Macon, Ga. COVER PHOTO BY SCOTT WILLIS. CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRS Drayton and Mary Etta Sanders - READERS SERVICES
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Baptists Today (ISSN 1072-7787) is published monthly by: Baptists Today Periodical postage paid at Macon, Ga. 31208 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to: Baptists Today All rights reserved. PRESENCE Self-effacing music professor’s arrangements and compositions heard widely
OME, Ga. — His name appears in churches near and far each Sunday — R wherever choral music still finds its rightful place in corporate worship. While Stan Pethel is not omnipresent, his good works seem to be. More than 1,200 of his musical com- positions and arrangements have now been published. They are played and/or sung with great regularity by church choirs, school choruses and other musicians including marching bands.
SELF-EFFACING While a highly trained and accomplished musi- cian who heads the fine arts department at Berry College in Northwest Georgia, where he has taught for 43 years, Stan is not snooty about it. He’ll jump into a bluegrass jam session, perform silly Ray Stevens songs with his son, or Stan shared his gifts and story during a bang out a Southern gospel tune on the piano CHURCH MUSIC September dinner event at First Baptist Church with the same excellence and enthusiasm. of Rome, Ga., sponsored by the Baptists Today/ Stan’s deepest musical roots, however, are in And, come Sunday, while far-flung church Nurturing Faith Board of Directors. the church. choirs and instrumentalists make use of his The musical interview was conducted by “I was always in church music,” said the many, beautiful arrangements and composi- Kathy Richardson, provost at Berry College Gainesville, Ga., native who “grew up on the tions, Stan leads the worship music at Everett and a Baptists Today/Nurturing Faith director. red hymnal.” Springs Baptist Church nestled in a scenic pas- She is also a former member of one of Stan’s And gospel music was in his blood. toral setting — beyond the reach of cell phone church choirs. “My dad was a gospel piano player,” he towers. Stan confessed to becoming “a band nerd” said, “and I wanted to play like my dad.” The small, rural congregation is several after a health issue kept him off the basketball Stan took piano lessons and discovered a miles north of the bountiful 27,000-acre cam- court as a teen. But it did not keep him out of gift for it. He was carrying on a family tradi- pus from which he will retire next spring. The the action. tion traced back on his paternal grandmother’s church is one of several congregations over the In the 10th grade he thought it would be side. years to benefit from Stan’s willingness to serve cool to arrange the popular music of Herb “They were a bunch of pickers.” with humility and giftedness. Albert and the Tijuana Brass for his high He was influenced as well by his uncle, school band. So he did. James Pethel, who retired from Carson- EARLY START Then at the University of Georgia he Newman University in Jefferson City, Tenn., Stan’s special talent for trombone, among took a class in musical arrangement from band after 37 years of teaching music and serving as other instruments, is rooted in economics. As director Roger Dancz. distinguished composer-in-residence. a youngster he wanted to play the saxophone, “He liked my work and after I finished his “He’s 14 years older than me; he was a he said. arranging class, he said, ‘How about writing piano player,” said Stan of his uncle. “So you However, his father brought home the the shows for the next two years?’” can imagine when I was 6 and he was 20. I was brass instrument with the slide, announcing: So for his junior and senior years at the so impressed when he was writing music on “The sax was too expensive.” But Stan took to University of Georgia, Stan wrote the halftime the piano. I thought that was pretty cool. He the trombone just fine. shows for the Redcoat Band. was my early role model.”
4 | Feature November 2015 WIDE RANGE And he is readily available for writing commitments make worship more meaningful commissioned pieces as well. for many each Sunday — most of whom don’t Pethel’s love of music comes with a wide “I write choral stuff for various churches take note of the name “Pethel” listed again and embrace of various styles. and for high schools,” he said with a smile. again after an anthem or offertory music in the “I’ll do any form of music,” he said, “…Whatever you need, I’ll write it for you.” Order of Worship. before adding one qualifier: “I won’t do rap, He has written school fight songs — hip-hop. But outside of that I’m good to go!” including both the fight song and the alma COURT TIME Stan is best known for his choral pieces mater for local Rome High School. Stan and his wife Jo Ann, an accomplished that church choirs often sing. This is his sweet Fight songs for churches? Not yet. pianist and music teacher as well, continue to spot. He beautifully arranged a hymn — on pass along the musical bloodline. All three of the spot — for his listening audience in Rome. CHANGING TIMES their children are educators, two of whom hold “Choral [arranging] is a lot easier. I was Church music has changed in recent years doctorates in music. used to writing for bands — flutes, clarinets, and “the market has gotten smaller,” said Stan In fact, it might seem that music has con- oboes, bassoons, horns, trumpets, trombones without expressed bitterness or judgment. sumed Stan’s life as a teacher, department head, — then if you throw in an orchestra — violins, His first published piece appeared in composer, arranger, choir leader and music violas, cellos, double bass, percussion — Gospel Choir magazine from Broadman Press minister. But not so. we’re talking about a score with 30 lines,” he in 1976. He wrote and published heavily over Stan finds time for running up and down explained. the next 25 years or so including some popular the basketball court now, as he was unable to “Now a church choral piece: soprano, alto choir cantatas. do as a student. And he blows his whistle as (one line) then tenor, bass (another line), piano “They were selling well and everything well at volleyball players who foot foul, carry, part — four lines. I could do one overnight. I was going fine, but nothing stays the same,” he double hit or get caught in the net. can do one in two hours if I get started.” said. “With the praise teams and praise bands, He is a certified high school referee for Of the hundreds of works, the best seller churches are losing their choirs. I don’t think those two sports. And he approaches his offici- has been his composition “Come Down, it’s going away completely, but it’s certainly ating tasks with the same intensity, excellence Lord.” He also has a collection of arrange- smaller than it was.” and good humor as his music. ments of “Great Hymns for Intermediate What has not changed, however, as Stan “Hey ref! Is this your phone?” he laugh- Piano,” “Praise and Worship Hymn Solos” (for eyes retirement from his academic position ingly quotes one of his heckles. “It’s got four various instruments), “Celebrate Emmanuel: next spring, is his love of music, exceptional missed calls.” A Christmas Musical” and many, many more gifts and strong personal faith. It is good exercise, discipline and lots of fun, published pieces. The published results of those talents and he said. Call it revenge of the band nerd. BT A recent release FROM Faith BOOKS
hile emerging from Ledford says this is “not a the author’s own book to read” but rather “a book W responses to read- to pray.” It is her intent that each ing through the Gospels, these person who delves into its pages prayers are also written with a will “encounter the truth of God’s sense of community to foster love in a fresh way and be encour- dialogue between the Word of aged to follow his son Jesus down God and the reader — and with the path of life with increasing the world. and unwavering fidelity.”
Order now at nurturingfaith.info
November 2015 Feature | 5 quotation
—Editor Marv Knox of the Baptist Standard on Diana Garland, dean of the now-named Diana R. Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University, who died Sept. 21 at remarks age 65 (BNG)
—Wiley Drake, pastor of First Southern Baptist Church in Buena Park, Calif., who in 2006 served his denomination as second vice president and in 2009 stated he was praying for God to kill President —President Jimmy Carter, who is mediating a Obama, announcing his own candidacy for president —Theologian Tony Jones following the Sept. 22 death dispute among the children of Martin Luther of the United States (Gospel Herald) of his friend Phyllis Tickle, 81, who wrote extensively King Jr., over their famous father’s Bible and on American spirituality (Huffington Post) Nobel Peace Prize (ABC News) —Late Show host Stephen Colbert, a devout Catholic (Daily Beast) —Author Brian McLaren (RNS) —Ed Stetzer, executive director of LifeWay Research (RNS) —Vicar Jason Bray on the discovery of a first edition King James Bible from 1611 that had been —Pope Francis, during a massive Mass in —Diana Butler Bass, author of Grounded: Finding stored away at St. Giles Parish Church in Philadelphia Sept 27 (RNS) God in the World, a Spiritual Revolution (RNS) Wrexham, Wales (BBC)
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6 | Feature November 2015 Editorial By John Pierce Hesitation and hope
aptists Today/Nurturing Faith has a So what is needed to address our current opera- Be assured that, with your help, we serious cash flow problem that must be tional needs and to ensure long-term viability? are envisioning and planning for a bright Baddressed soon and well. I write this to We need: future. Our ministry continues to evolve as our readership with hesitation and hope. times and technology change. We are hard at Hesitation comes from not being an work in charting a course that is faithful and alarmist. Yet the reality of our current financial enlisting more supporters) forward-looking. condition needs to be communicated widely. Now you know of both my hesitation and Hope comes from the repeated affirma- expenses on a regular basis) my hope. If you share such hope for the good tion of those who deeply value this uniquely health and ongoing effectiveness of Baptists independent publishing ministry that seeks to to meet long-term needs). Today/Nurturing Faith, please express that hope provide an informative and inspiring news jour- Also, we need some in the form of practical help at this time. nal along with quality Bible studies and other heroes — individuals, Enclosed in this issue is a response card and resources for congregations. organizations, foundations envelope. If you have any questions or want to It would be unfair to ask for your help — who will make larger discuss ways to be supportive, please call us without explaining the situation at hand and the gifts to restore our reserve at (478) 301-5655. Or you may email me at intentional efforts to chart a healthy future. fund that enables us to [email protected]. We got behind in renewing and enlisting deal with the operational The future can and will be bright with annual pledges that have been the lifeblood of ebb and flow. more hands joining together in strengthening this publication for many years. While many Neither income nor this work to which many of us are deeply supporters have been very faithful and gener- expenses comes in at the committed. BT ous, the gifts received in recent months have not same rate each month. We need to fill three been enough to cover expenses. Therefore, we buckets: our operational fund, reserve fund and have depleted our reserves. endowment fund to empower and ensure our The Together Campaign, led ably by effectiveness. volunteers Drayton and Mary Etta Sanders, is Despite my own hesitation, and that producing much-needed pledges and prom- of those who guide this ministry as ises of estate gifts that can ensure the future. directors, we are informing you of However, immediate funding is needed to cover these needs — believing there are costs while the campaign continues to grow. those who value this ministry and Directors and staff are facing this financial wish to be a part of its success. situation in forthright and responsible ways In sharing this informa- by their own sacrificial giving and by reduc- tion informally, some faithful ing operational costs to the bare minimum. readers of the news journal Honestly, any further cuts would harm the qual- and Nurturing Faith Bible ity of our work or the persons who do it. Studies have said, “We didn’t Organizationally, we are lean, effective and know there was a real need.” held to high accountability — carrying out the There is — and it must best practices of a non-profit organization. be addressed soon and well. It is important to know that the expanding We have many Nurturing Faith publishing ventures — Bible faithful, generous (even END OF THE YEAR GIVING studies, books, resources and experiences — are sacrificial) friends. We need assets, not liabilities. Revenues from this min- more. istry expansion — often done in collaboration Honestly, our circle of with other organizations or sponsors — are very Baptists is not as large as helpful and continuing to grow. those who have vacated his- Income from subscriptions and adver- toric Baptist understandings tising and other sources does not cover all and practices of freedom. But the expenses, even though Baptists Today/ that makes our cause even Nurturing Faith runs an efficient organization. more important.
7 “…The notion of believers as CONSERVATIVE or LIBERAL in the absolute sense that these terms are being used today is a 21st-century innovation. What we are dealing with here is nothing less than a new kind of CHRISTIAN SELF- UNDERSTANDING unique to the contemporary era.”
—William E. Hull in his final book, Conservatism and Liberalism in the Christian Faith
Available now at NurturingFaith.net!
“In this last testimony, out CONSERVATISM of his knowledge and his experience, [Bill Hull] ac- AND LIBERALISM complished a momentous in the and greatly needed clarity.” —Novelist WENDELL BERRY, CHRISTIAN in a letter to David Hull
“Hull calls us to account, whatever our ideology of theology and gospel. Churches and schools FAITH should find it a valuable introduction to ways of Toward a Moderate Approach confronting diverse ideas and thought-forms.” —From Foreword By William E. Hull by BILL J. LEONARD
AVAILABLE NOW from NurturingFaith.net. For a limited time, get a 10% discount by entering code HULL10 with your order. Publication of this book and guide made possible by the generosity of David Hull, FREE STUDY/DISCUSSION GUIDE Susan Hull Walker and the by educator Terry Maples at Hull Legacy Series Commit- NurturingFaith.net. tee of Mountain Brook Bap- tist Church, Birmingham, Ala.
8 Directors remember James Dunn, elect leaders, address the future
OME, Ga. — The Board of Directors of Baptists Today/Nurturing Faith R began their mid-September meeting by remembering longtime director James Dunn of Winston-Salem, N.C., who died July 4. Following testimonies of Dunn’s influence, his fellow directors wrote notes of appreciation and concern that were delivered by director Charlotte Cook Smith to his wife Marilyn. During business sessions held at Berry College the Board elected leadership, heard updates on the expanding publishing ministry, addressed financial needs and approved creat- ing an envisioning committee to help chart the future. Elected as new directors are Nannette Avery of Signal Mountain, Tenn., Kelly Belcher of Asheville, N.C., Wayne Glasgow of Macon, Ga., and Bill Ireland of Dalton, Ga. The board re-elected Chairman Don Brewer of Gainesville, Ga., and Vice Chair Cathy Turner of Clemson, S.C., along with Jack Glasgow of Zebulon, N.C., who chairs the development/marketing committee. Edwin Boland of Johns Creek, Ga., now chairs the budget/finance committee. At the closing session, held at the Winshape - Retreat Center on Berry’s mountain campus, outgoing directors Charles Schaible of Macon, Kelly Belcher, Frank Granger, Bill Ireland and Ga., and Vickie Willis of Murfreesboro, Tenn., Roger Paynter. The committee is exploring were recognized for their service as well as Mary new ways to reduce costs, increase revenues Jane Cardwell of Waycross, Ga., who could not and address future audiences. attend the meeting. A dinner event was held at First Baptist Directors heard and discussed reports Church of Rome, Ga., featuring a musical regarding budgeting and fundraising — and interview with Stan Pethel conducted by Kathy explored ways to reduce costs while increasing Richardson (Story on page 4). Director Bob revenues. Commitments from directors to give Cates, a member of the congregation, spoke to more personally and to help seek new donors his fellow directors and friends at the dinner. arose from the discussions. “The quality of the work at Baptists Director Jack Glasgow made related Today is remarkable,” he said, urging support. motions, approved unanimously, that called for “We are a voice that’s reasonable and good.” the Board to “affirm and pledge its active and Ann Roebuck, a longtime resident of th immediate support for the capital campaign,” Rome and influential lay leader, was recognized that asked for clear communication of the as director emerita for her instrumental service financial needs to readership, and that created as chair of the Baptists Today board many years Sweet Home Alabama. an ad hoc committee to envision the future of ago as the news journal was transitioning from Baptists Today/Nurturing Faith. coverage of a denominational crisis to serving a I look forward to Baptists Today every month Those serving on the envisioning commit- larger Baptist movement. and read every word. I am never disappointed. I tee, appointed after the meeting by Chairman In appreciation she responded: “This was really consider Baptists Today a miracle in print. Don Brewer, are: Bill Neal, Kathy Richardson, an unexpected honor. Thanks for remembering. Thank God for the miracle.” BT
9 Religious or not, Evangelical leaders: No ‘therapy,’ many Americans but Jesus can change LGBT lives see a creator’s hand Lambert, ACBC executive director, said Religion News Service psychological therapy, including reparative therapy, is a “superficial” response to the Religion News Service vangelical leaders spoke out against “struggle” people face in dealing with same- “reparative” mental health therapy sex attraction and transgender identity. ou don’t have to identify with any reli- for LGBT people in October but A joint statement later released by gion to see a creator’s hand in human E still called on them to “change,” saying that Mohler and Lambert still used the language life and morality, suggests a new survey. Y only through faith in Jesus could they find of “change” and “repair” for LGBT people LifeWay Research’s finding — that most “wholeness and holiness.” who, Mohler said, can only find “wholeness Americans believe there is a creator who The Association of Certified Biblical and holiness” through faith in Jesus. designed the universe and defines human Counselors and the Council on Biblical In an interview, Mohler said: “We are morality — is not surprising. After all, Manhood and Womanhood that met at not saying homosexuality can’t change or 3 in 4 U.S. adults identify with a religious Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in shouldn’t change. This is not something that denomination. Louisville, Ky., had been under fire from can be reduced to deciding or choosing an The surprise is that so many people who LGBT activists for failing to condemn object of sexual attraction. That’s simplistic don’t identify with a religion — so-called reparative therapy, sometimes also called and a sin against those who are in the struggle nones — agree. “conversion” therapy. (with sexual attraction and gender identity).” The survey of 1,000 U.S. adults found Oregon, California, New Jersey and the Every person struggling with sin that most Americans — 72 percent overall and District of Columbia prohibit licensed thera- — whether it’s pride or anger or sexual 46 percent of nones — agree that: “Since the pists from attempting to change the sexual attraction — faces the same kind of battle, universe has organization, I think there is a orientation or gender identity of a minor. Mohler added. Only the gospel promises creator who designed it.” However, the Biblical Counselors group, as transformation because it can “make us This view is most strongly held by religious advisers, is not necessarily subject desire things we have never desired before evangelicals and by older adults. And most to those bans. and it will give us progressively the ability to Americans — 79 percent overall, and 43 per- Dozens of activists from the Fairness follow him in obedience.” cent of nones — say they agree that “The fact Campaign, a Louisville LGBT advocacy He dismissed the argument by LGBT that we exist means someone created us.” group, demonstrated near the campus, saying activists that they, too, can be faithful The phone survey was conducted Sept. reparative therapy increases the rate of depres- Christians. 26-Oct. 5, 2014. The margin of error is plus sion and suicide in the LGBT community and Lambert told RNS before the conference, or minus 3.5 percentage points for overall objecting to religious calls to “change.” “We’re in a culture where Christians are the findings. BT In a press conference, Albert Mohler, only ones that can teach moral sanity in the president of the seminary, and Heath midst of the moral craziness we’re in.” BT Poll: 29 percent still think President Obama is Muslim Christian singer Sandi Patty to launch farewell tour USA Today official career, though, began during college Religion News Service when she was studying to become a teacher Despite a Hawaii birth certificate and repeated and accepted a gig singing backup vocals for professions of his Christian faith, some NEW YORK — Grammy-winning Christian the Bill Gaither Trio. Americans still believe President Obama is a singer Sandi Patty is singing her swan song. As her popularity grew, Patty became Muslim born outside of the United States. In late September, a group of publicists, one of the first Christian artists to gain the Eighty percent of Americans do believe media moguls and celebrities gathered to attention of mainstream audiences, even Obama was born in the U.S., according to a hear the 59-year-old music great announce making multiple appearances on The Tonight new CNN/ORC poll, but 20 percent do not. her retirement and farewell tour. Show with Johnny Carson. Of that total, 9 percent claim there is Patty’s career has spanned some four While Patty’s music has influenced “solid evidence” Obama was born elsewhere, decades, during which she accumulated millions, the market’s demand for her musi- while another 11 percent said it is just their five Grammy Awards, four Billboard Music cal style has waned. But rather than slip suspicion, CNN reported. The birth certificate Awards and 40 Dove Awards. She is one of away quietly into the night, Patty wants to released in 2011 says Obama was born Aug. 4, only a few musicians to perform at three end her storied career on a high note. In 1961, in Honolulu. separate presidential inaugurations. February, she will launch “Forever Grateful,” And while Obama has repeatedly said he Born in Oklahoma City, Patty made her a yearlong farewell tour, which will include is Christian, 29 percent of poll respondents musical debut at age 2, singing “Jesus Loves approximately 90 dates and a performance at said they still believe he is Muslim — includ- Me” at her family’s church. The balladeer’s Carnegie Hall. BT ing 43 percent of Republicans. BT
10 USA Today
- Ultra-Orthodox, secular Jews fight over shaping Jerusalem
ERUSALEM (RNS) — Yossi Cohen was The 330,000 residents in West Jerusalem bicycles stand idle on the Sabbath. shocked when city inspectors warned — which is overwhelmingly Jewish, unlike the Einav Bar, a secular city councilwoman, J him to close his downtown convenience mostly Arab eastern part of the city — have said even the city’s secular residents savor the store during the Jewish Sabbath or else be very different views on how to observe the “quiet, family-centered atmosphere that envel- socked with fines. Sabbath. Roughly half the people are ultra- ops West Jerusalem on Friday afternoons,” “For 20 years I’ve been open during Orthodox, while the other half range from when public transport and shops shut down Shabbat (the Hebrew for Sabbath) and sud- moderately Orthodox to secular, along with a before the start of the Sabbath. denly the city decides I have to close?” said few thousand Muslims and Christians. But she fears the mayor’s crackdown Cohen, one of eight convenience store owners “What we’re seeing in Jerusalem is part “could drive non-religious residents and tour- ordered to shut down from sundown Friday of a national battle over the public domain ists from the city.” until Saturday night. and who owns it,” said Uri Regev, president of Since Barkat, who is secular, became “The message is clear: The municipality Hiddush, which promotes freedom of religion mayor in 2008, Bar said, “many more restau- doesn’t want non-religious people in this city.” in Israel. “How does Israel balance between a rants and entertainment spots have been open The closure order was part of a compro- Jewish state, a democratic state and a state for on Shabbat, and the exodus of non-religious mise that Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat struck all its citizens?” residents has slowed. These strides won’t con- with ultra-Orthodox city council members Haredi Jews, who hold more than a third tinue if people don’t feel welcome.” who threatened to block a movie multiplex of the city council seats and wield strong In response, the city noted that current from opening on the Sabbath in a secular part political clout in Prime Minister Benjamin law allows restaurants, cinemas and entertain- of the city unless the convenience stores were Netanyahu’s razor-thin coalition government, ment spots to remain open on the Sabbath, shut on the Sabbath. say being open on the Sabbath destroys the and that will continue. The mayor agreed to close the eight sanctity of the day of rest. That is little comfort to Yinoun Elkayam, markets but allowed a dozen others in differ- Over the years, thousands of Haredi men a mini-market owner threatened with closure. ent Jewish neighborhoods to remain open on have clashed with police over such issues as “A third of my business occurs on Saturdays. The mini-market standoff is the where vehicles can drive on Saturdays to the Shabbat. If I can’t work on Shabbat my busi- latest battle over the religious character of this opening of a municipal parking lot near the ness won’t survive,” he said. “I let people live city between the ultra-Orthodox and more tourist-filled Old City. Now they are trying to the way they want to. Why can’t they let me do secular Jews. halt plans for a rent-a-bike program unless the the same?” BT
11 Religion News Service Right relationship Nadia Bolz-Weber on why the church is for losers
Nadia Bolz-Weber is the kind of pastor who ends up doing funerals for an alcoholic stand-up comic and a transvestite. The founder of Denver’s House for All Sinners and Saints, this tattooed Lutheran pastor wants noth- ing more than to tell it like it is. er newest book, Accidental Saints: Finding God in All the Wrong People, H expands on her trademark exploration of finding God in the unexpected. “When it comes down to it,” said Bolz- Weber, “the church is for losers. We connect to each other and to God through our shared bro- kenness, not through our personal victories and strengths and accomplishments. This is why it’s hilarious to me when people sort of write me off as hipster Christianity. You have definitely not been to my congregation. It is not hip.” Bolz-Weber talked recently with Religion News Service about the book. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Q: In the book, one of your critiques of social justice goes like this: “Nobody gets to play Jesus.” A: People say, “I’m just a Jesus-follower. I want to be just like Jesus.” No one’s like Jesus, man. I’m more and more convinced that right he was “pretty much exactly the kind of Jesus was Jesus. Jesus was God. You’re not God. relationship with God is just standing naked in person Jesus would hang out with.” You’re going to fail. front of our Creator and receiving the love as What do you mean? If we’re trying to be forgiving people broken people. Right relationship is confession because that’s the way Jesus was, and yet we’re and forgiveness. A: I’ve just become more and more confused never willing to confess our sins and admit That’s right relationship. Allowing God about how Christianity became what it is today, what we need forgiveness for, good luck with to be the forgiving, redeeming God that God given how it started. It just keeps puzzling me. being a forgiving person. wants to be for us. Whereas we think that It didn’t start with the religious authori- being in right relationship is not making any ties. It didn’t start with the people for whom Q: Everywhere you see people trying to mistakes so we don’t have to bother the guy. life was easy. It didn’t start with people who better themselves, yet you write that, “We That’s not a relationship, then. were nailing whatever purity system was being always love imperfectly. It is the nature of handed to them at the time. human love. And it is okay.” Q: You wrote about a guy named Billy who It started with rank fishermen and pros- A: In conservative Christianity, there’s this ques- struggled with heroin and booze, “some- titutes and tax collectors — people for whom tion, “How is your relationship with the Lord? times played piano in his sister’s dresses” life wasn’t easy. And yet that’s whom Jesus Do you have a right relationship with God?” and eventually took his own life. You say chose to surround himself with.
12 | Feature November 2015 Q: Why do you write that we’re punished ‘We connect to each by our sins and not for our sins?
A: Harboring resentment instead of forgiving other and to God through someone — that’s like drinking poison and hoping the other person dies. That’s its own our shared brokenness, not punishment, just like shopping at Wal-Mart is through our personal vic- its own punishment. Being punished for your sins implies that tories and strengths and God’s going to wreak havoc on you, God has this score sheet, and if you go over a certain accomplishments.’ number, then God’s going to make some horrible thing happen to you. God doesn’t have to do that. We do it to me. That’s why I go on to say something like, ourselves. Good Lord! We create our own hell. “Blessed are they who aren’t so sure they’ve figured it out that they stop taking in new Q: Do you think God punishes? information.” A: All I can say is, I certainly hope not because Q: Also making the list are hospital order- I’d be screwed. All I can say is, I think if God lies, NFL players and their fundraising punishes, then I don’t understand Jesus on the trophy-wives. There’s something very cross saying, “Forgive them, for they know not physical about all these examples, and you what they’re doing.” say God is “blessing all human flesh.” What If God was that sort of punishing God, does God care about flesh? Isn’t God con- then I can’t think of a better situation than cerned with the soul? striking down all the people who crucified A: I think a physical life is a spiritual life. God Jesus. I mean, that’s what I’d do. That’s why chose to have of all things a human body. God I need a God who’s not like me to save me. didn’t spare God the indignity of having things like the hiccups. God chose to have a body. Q: What do you mean by God’s saying “yes” to humanity, instead of “maybe”? What does that mean about all human bodies?
A: I’ve been taught that God says, “Well, we’ll Q: You’ve got a whole chapter about King see how good you are.” That’s the maybe. Herod’s slaughtering of the innocents I think there’s a way in which there’s this sort and the Sandy Hook shooting. Why do you of yes from God that we reject all the time. think it’s important to remember Herod in We’d rather have the ball in our own court. the Christmas story? So God says: “The game’s over. You don’t have A: When we’re talking about Christmas, one to compete anymore.” I’m like, “Yeah, but I feel of the important things we have to look at is, like if I compete, then I’m in control.” what kind of world did God choose to enter? Grace actually feels like I’m totally power- What was going on in the world at this point? less. I have no power. I have no agency. And And how did God choose to enter it? that feels terrible to us, and we reject it over God chose to enter a world as violent and and over and instead go: “You know, I’m work- faithless as our own. I feel like that’s an impor- ing on my own redemption project over here. tant thing to know about God. I’m going to see how that pans out.” How do we reflect theologically about what’s going on now? Political tyranny, or in Q: At the end of Accidental Saints, you the case of Christmastime 2012, when a bunch rewrite Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount with of kids are slaughtered in their schoolroom. alternate “saints” — for example, “Blessed This is what Christmas is about. I don’t are the agnostics.” How is doubt saintly? want to put Herod on wrapping paper, nec- A: Doubt’s not the opposite of faith to me at essarily. But Herod has to be part of the all. I think certainty is the opposite of faith. Christmas story. He just has to be. Doubt means you’re in an active, dynamic I can’t stand that blend of sentimental- relationship to an idea. Certainty means you’re ity and religion that we’re seeing in cultural done thinking about it. Christianity. I don’t think it’s in any way help- I think there’s something really sacred ing us make sense of the world as it actually about doubt. It’s part and parcel of faith to exists. BT
November 2015 Feature | 13 Baptist history for wide theological audience has bright spots but overstates readership
Writing a comprehensive history of publisher wanted a work for group study, it should have published the book at a cheaper a tradition as diverse as the Baptist cost. Few textbooks, if any, are capable of the tradition is no easy task, yet such is readership that B&H anticipates. Even as an undergraduate textbook, the the assignment of Anthony L. Chute, work does have shortcomings aside from my own historical grumblings and nitpickings. Haykin in their recently published Specifically, I would have liked to see the authors work a little harder to incorporate work, The Baptist Story: From English Sect to global material into the dominant Euro- Global Movement (B&H Publishing, 2015). American narrative that runs throughout the book. The Baptist Story: From English Sect to Global The title makes the claim that the Baptist hile I think it is fair to say that Movement these authors approach the subject tradition historically evolved from an English W of Baptist history from a solidly sect into a global movement, but I am not sure conservative perspective, they should be of discussion questions. the book supports this most basic of claims. commended for their attempt to write a com- There are many bright points that should Each author loses sight of this central thesis prehensive history of the Baptist people that be noted within the work. In his discussion of at various points in the work, which leaves does justice to a multiplicity of perspectives. “Baptist Beginnings,” Haykin nimbly treads readers often unaware of where the narrative is Three primary sections of content com- the confusing waters of Baptist origins amid taking them. prise the overall body of the work, with a England’s tumultuous 17th century. Even so, I commend Chute, Finn and few concluding pages on Baptists beliefs and Chute’s chapter, “Transitions and Trends,” Haykin for their work on this text. All in all, I distinctives. serves as a particularly articulate section that am confident in saying these authors succeed in Haykin writes the first section on 17th- addresses Baptists toward the end of the 19th writing a Baptist history intended for a broad and 18th-century Baptist life. Chute writes the century. Likewise, Finn walks a fine tightrope theological audience. The clear prose as well second section on the 19th century, and Finn in his discussion of the Southern Baptist as the inclusion of discussion questions and concludes the historical discussion with con- controversy. primary source material make this work ideally tent from the 20th and 21st centuries. Unfortunately, by marketing the work as suited for an undergraduate classroom. BT The book’s strength lies in the authors’ “ideally suited for graduate and undergradu- commitment to presenting historical data in a ate courses, as well as group study in the local —Andrew Gardner is a doctoral student in clear and concise fashion. Sprinkled throughout church,” B&H Publishing has detracted from American religious history at Florida State the work are photographs along with breaks in the work’s identity as chiefly, in my opinion, an University, and a graduate of Wake Forest the narrative for selections from church min- undergraduate textbook. University School of Divinity and The College of utes, letters, hymnals, books and other primary If the publisher wanted a graduate William and Mary. His work, Reimaging Zion: source documents. Concluding each chapter is a textbook, it should have insisted and made A History of the Alliance of Baptists, will be list of further suggested readings and a sampling accommodation for footnotes. And if the published by Nurturing Faith later this year.
14 Editor’s note: This article in the series “Transitions: Helping churches and church leaders in changing times” is provided in partnership with the Center for Healthy Churches (chchurches.org). Healthy Church Pastors serving in tandem By Mike Massar
It all began not so much as a novel confidence and courage. loneliness and stress that plague the ministries The early church picked up on that phi- of so many pastors. In addition, the co-pastor- idea but a fresh answer to a ques- losophy: When they sent out missionaries, ate fosters the spiritual discipline of humility. tion that was burdening the faculty they did so in pairs (or more), and a good deal It calls for placing ego aside by genuinely of the early missionaries’ success came from praying for one another and celebrating the at Truett Seminary: “Why is it that so the fact that the disciples had a distinct syn- successes of one’s colleague. many of our recent graduates seem ergy in working in twosomes. Individual gifts I became aware of the advantages of such appeared to complement each other (e.g., Paul a ministry when I observed Hardy Clemons to leave the seminary, go to their first and Barnabas, Simon Peter and John Mark, and John Claypool as co-pastors of Second church, and then leave the ministry?” Priscilla and Aquila), expanding perspectives Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas. Here were and ministries. two incredibly gifted ministers, both effective ne answer could be to admit that the Therefore, it is a bit ironic that such a communicators and leaders. decline of Protestant churches has model of ministry has not been employed more In working together they were able to give O exerted more and more stress on the often in the 21st-century Second Baptist diverse opportunities for spiri- church and its ministers. Sociologically speak- church. And that is a tual growth and discipleship. Their collegiality ing, life in the local parish has become much shame, because the con- encouraged one another and inspired so many more difficult. cept of a co-pastorate has ministers who watched them. I don’t know of any of my colleagues who myriad advantages, espe- In our own context Griff Martin and I would say that ministry has gotten easier over cially if the two pastors are have been serving together for more than four the years. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Church different ages. years. Griff is one of the brightest ministers I life is growing increasingly demanding with For instance, pulpit know. He is intelligent, enthusiastic and deeply new technologies, new theologies and new committees deal with a committed to Christian community. I have so ecclesiology. dilemma that may have much enjoyed his theological inquisitiveness In short, ministers these days face what all always been an issue but is most acute in our and engaging personality. ministers have faced over the years: the expec- time: that is the question of opting for someone What’s more, he is a voracious reader, tation of having gifts for every ministry and young who can attract young families versus an always sharing new thoughts and new reads. even nuance of ministry in the church — only older leader who has the wisdom garnered by The result is that I have broadened my reading in exponential ways. experience. In the co-pastorate, this question is discipline to discover all kinds of new worlds. The electronic church has not only dealt with in ways that address both needs. Hopefully, I have returned the favor. (Of course, made critics of its members but has also over- In addition, this model bears fruit that both of our libraries have expanded to the point whelmed the unique voice of the pastor with benefits pastors and congregation alike. Better of spousal concern at home and the office!) blaring sounds of cultural Christianity. We’re in sermons, lessons and lectures are possible, Sharing ministry with Griff has made me a time where confusion of calling runs rampant because more time is afforded for preparation. a better minister. He has made me more atten- in local congregations and its ministers. Better pastoral care and spiritual direction can tive to the world around me as well as to the Perhaps it’s that confusion that led Griff be carried out, because the personal time nec- still small voice that beckons me. Martin and me to respond to the seminary essary for quality ministry is available. To share in such a calling makes ministry with the idea of a co-pastorate model, where a What’s more, administration and commu- all the more meaningful. My sense is that the young minister could be paired with an older nication benefit from the proverbial two heads co-pastorate not only encourages longevity in minister to work side-by-side, in tandem. being better than one. In short, a co-pastorate a pastorate but also a living model of how the The professors were enthusiastically allows more creativity, more energy, more Gospel works its way out in our day and time. BT affirming. After all, one of the innovative strat- enthusiasm, and a wider variety of ideas and egies of Jesus was to send out his disciples in insights. —Mike Massar is co-pastor of pairs. He seemed to realize that having a com- This model naturally increases gifted- University Baptist Church in rade in the faith would bolster each disciple’s ness, while at the same time decreasing the Baton Rouge, La.
15 The Lighter Side By Brett Younger How can we keep from singing?
The persistent demand throughout you heard how it is that angels fly? G.K. consider themselves poor, truly funny comedi- Chesterton said, “Angels can fly because they ans, the best writers, genuine Christians, the the Bible that people of faith sing take themselves so lightly.” Conversely, someone ones who sing alleluia for the good they have loud may seem cruel to those whose suggested that Satan fell to hell by the sheer been given. We have a song that we need to sing. weight of gravity. He took himself so seriously. In the early 1960s, when racial con- musical gifts do not fill the buckets If there is no music bursting within us, flict was first erupting in the Deep South, in which we cannot carry a tune. then we need to open ourselves to the joy God a Southern white person went to where the has offered. When you open the Bible, you trouble was hottest to see for himself what was “Come Christians, Join to Sing” would hear music: going on. He watched African Americans ask- be less threatening if it was “Come ing for their rights and watched them being … the prophet Miriam, tambourine in hand, beaten back. He returned home and a friend Christians, Join to Talk.” “Come singing at the Exodus asked about what he had seen. Christians, Join to Eat” would be nice. … King David auditioning musicians to lead He said, “It looks bad. The culture’s in worship against them. The laws are against them. The hen we sing “When in Our Music … psalmists writing symphonies for harps, FBI is against them.” God Is Glorified,” some of us lyres, trumpets, timbrels, strings, pipes and His friend asked, “Do you think they’re W assume God is more glorified by the loud clashing cymbals (never a mention of going to lose?” people singing around us. The cacophonous quiet, soothing cellos) “No, I think they’re going to win.” among us have learned to sing off-key at a “You just said the laws are against them, volume that does not draw attention, with a The hymns of the early church are the FBI is against them, and the whole culture is rhythm that only we recognize. sprinkled through the New Testament. against them. Why do you think they’ll win?” Fortunately for the disharmonious, sing- At the annunciation Mary bursts into the “They have this song.” ing — at least the kind of singing described “Magnificat.” At Jesus’ birth a choir of angels We have a song born within us each time in scripture — has little to do with quality of breaks into song. Paul and Silas have favor- we open our hearts to God’s presence. We have voice and everything to do with openness of ite hymn night in prison. In Revelation the the song of God’s goodness, the hymn of the spirit. The tone-deaf in Colossae were glad “Hallelujah Chorus” ushers in the kingdom Almighty’s grace, the melody of the Creator’s to hear Paul say that their singing of “psalms, of God. On virtually every page we hear the mercy, the psalm of the Spirit’s love. How can hymns and spiritual songs” was to take place music of the holy that transcends what is we keep from singing? BT “in your hearts.” Some of us find it comfort- expected. ing that singing is not about what gets to the A theology student went to the philoso- —Brett Younger is associate professor of ear, so much as it is about what penetrates pher Paul Tillich with nagging questions about preaching at Mercer University’s our souls. Maybe every now and then pastors faith. Tillich responded to this young person McAfee School of Theology. should sing solos just to make that clear. by playing a recording of “Credo” (“I Believe”) We become too sensible to sing. We admire from Bach’s B Minor Mass. “Credo” does not efficiency over spirit. We are preoccupied with explain the Nicene Creed, but surrounds it what seems useful. Without a song in our with violins, trumpets, flutes, oboes and voices. hearts we become dull people. We baptize our Tillich realized that the most satisfactory grouchiness and call it maturity. The opposite answers to that student’s questions were more of singing is not silence, but critical restraint. likely to be found in music than in sharper God, deliver us from being rigid, clenched- reasoning. teeth people who try to be more earnest than Some people sing life — 4-year-olds God. Faith gives us a lightness of spirit. Have on their good days, poor people who do not
Some people sing life — 4-year-olds on their good days, poor people who do not consider themselves poor, truly funny comedians, the best writers, genuine Christians, the ones who sing alleluia for the good they have been given.
16 The Bible Lessons that anchor the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are written by Tony Cartledge in a scholarly, yet applicable, style from the wide range of Christian scriptures. A graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div) and Duke University (Ph.D.), and with years of experience as a pastor, writer, ™ and professor at Campbell University, he provides deep insight for Christian living without “dumbing down” the BIBLE STUDIES richness of the biblical texts for honest learners.
Teaching resources at baptiststoday.org
HOW TO USE THESE December lessons in this issue BIBLE STUDIES Season of Advent 1. Order a copy of Baptists Today news journal Dec. 6, 2015 for EACH MEMBER of the class. The Bible Lessons are found only here. A Time for Praise 2. Teachers can go to baptiststoday.org to access all Luke 1:68-79 of the free resources needed for presentation. Simply click on “Adult” or “Youth.” Dec. 13, 2015 When God Sings Teaching the Lessons Zephaniah 3:14-20 After reading The Bible Lessons by Tony Cartledge starting on page 18, teachers can access Dec. 20, 2015 helpful teaching resources (at no charge) at baptiststoday.org These include: Small Town, Big Hope Micah 5:1-5a * Tony’s video overviews * Adult teaching plans by Rick Jordan Season of Christmas * Youth teaching plans by Jeremy Colliver * Tony’s “Digging Deeper” notes and Dec. 27, 2015 ”The Hardest Question” A Time for Growth * Links to commentaries, multimedia 1 Samuel 2:12-26 resources and more How to Order The Bible Lessons in Baptists Today are copyrighted and not to be photocopied.
* Orders may be placed at baptiststoday.org or Adult teaching plans by Rick Jordan of the 1-877-752-5658. Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina are available at nurturingfaith.net * The price is just $18 each for groups of 25 or more — for a full year — with no additional costs. Thanks, sponsors! * All online teaching resources are available at no These Bible studies for adults and youth are sponsored through generous charge and may be printed and used by teachers of gifts from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (Bo Prosser, Coordinator of the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies. Organizational Relationships) and from the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Thank you!
© Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org | 17 Luke 1:68-79
with Tony W. Cartledge
Dec. 6, 2015 Luke 1:76-77 – A Time for Praise “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the ave you ever heard news so Most High; for you will go good that you were dumbstruck, before the Lord to prepare H unable to speak? A whole genre his ways, to give knowl- of television “reality programs” are edge of salvation to his based on helping a needy family by ren- people by the forgiveness ovating an inadequate home or building of their sins.” a new one, then capturing their response at a big “reveal.” The happy recipients are often at a loss for words, dissolving into happy tears before calming down enough to speak. A man named Zechariah once received the best news of his life: that he and his wife Elizabeth would have a long-desired son despite their advanced age. He was also dumbstruck, not from joy but as punishment for not believ- Zechariah may have been waiting reminded him who was speaking: he ing the news. In today’s text, Zechariah for that honor as long as he had dreamed stood in the presence of God and had been sent from God with the message. (vv. 8-9). As the old priest approached Because of Zechariah’s unbelief, the A backstory the altar, though, the incense was forgot- angel said, he would be unable to say Here’s the backstory. After a short pre- ten: the angel Gabriel appeared, leaving amble (1:1-4), Luke recounts the story (vv. 19-20). of how the angel Gabriel visited an with fear (vv. 11-12). Can you imagine how frustrating elderly priest named Zechariah, whose The angel told Zechariah not that must have been? In today’s text, the wife Elizabeth was also from a priestly to fear, and announced that he and aged but happy father, silent for many family. The couple had longed for a Elizabeth would have a son, who should child, but “Elizabeth was barren.” Like be named John and taught never to the patriarch Abraham and his wife drink any wine or strong drink, after the A present story Sarah, they were past the normal age of fashion of the Nazirites. John would be (vv. 68-75) childbearing. Elizabeth became pregnant, as the angel Jews from priestly families far the Holy Spirit and destined to become had predicted. Meanwhile, Gabriel outnumbered positions in the temple, like the great prophet Elijah, calling also visited Mary, who happened to be so priests served two-week stints on a many to repent “to make ready a people related to Elizabeth. Mary responded rotating basis. Even then, priests were prepared for the Lord” (vv. 13-17). with a song of praise that has become so abundant that they had to draw Zechariah was dumfounded, though straws for the honor of taking incense not yet dumbstruck. Struggling to in which she spoke of her child as the into the temple, where it would simmer believe, he reminded the angel that he coming savior of the world. over charcoal on a small altar just out- and Elizabeth were old, and asked how After Elizabeth gave birth, neigh- side the Holy of Holies. he could know the angel was telling the bors and relatives gathered for his truth (v. 18). ceremonial circumcision on the eighth Additional background information What greater sign could one have day. They called for the baby to be online where you see the “Digging than a personal visit from an angel named for his father, but Elizabeth Deeper” icon in the heart of the temple? Gabriel insisted that his name would be John.
18 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes When they turned to Zechariah for his the forgiveness of their sins” opinion, he took a tablet and wrote “His are available at baptiststoday.org Readers who know the gospel story Immediately, Luke says, Zechariah’s might interpret “the Lord” as Jesus, as “mouth was opened and his tongue freed, coming of a messiah anointed by God to John later spoke of himself as coming and he began to speak, praising God” (v. deliver his people. “to prepare the way of the Lord” (Luke The Jews had longed for a mes- 3:4). Both John and his father, however, siah who would rise up to lead Israel were quoting from Isa. 40:3, where the to vanquish their enemies and set up a word “LORD” is Yahweh, the personal and launched into a song of praise that new kingdom on earth, and many were name God had revealed to Israel. Later has become known as “the Benedictus” disappointed to discover that Jesus had followers of Jesus would refer to him as a different agenda. Zechariah spoke “lord,” but Zechariah had not taken that Zechariah spoke as a prophet of how the savior would come to save step. Neither he nor Mary could have would, interpreting present events with Israel “from our enemies and from the fully understood the cryptic messages an eye toward their future unfolding. He hand of all who hate us” (v. 71), but began by blessing God in words famil- said nothing about how such deliver- their children would play. iar from the Old Testament: “Blessed be ance would take place. Zechariah believed that John would - When Zechariah spoke of “we” do important preparatory work in the - Ps. 41:13, among others). cence, he probably had in mind the - He then cited reasons why God Hebrew people and the promises made stood this plan to be motivated “by the should be so blessed: “for he has looked to the ancestors (v. 72). Zechariah did tender mercy of our God,” leading to a favorably on his people and redeemed not yet understand that the messiah’s them. He has raised up a mighty savior mission would be to all people, but he on high will break upon us” (v. 78). for us in the house of his servant David, did recognize that God’s salvation had a Again, Zechariah’s prophetic bene- as he spoke through the mouth of his deeper purpose than allowing the Jews diction avoids any language of conquest holy prophets from of old, that we to run their own country. What is unsaid or an Israelite hegemony. The dawn he would be saved from our enemies and foresees will “give light to those who from the hand of all who hate us” Zechariah mentioned the promises to sit in darkness and in the shadow of Abraham, but said nothing about Israel death,” and “guide our feet into the way Through John’s birth and Mary’s being a great nation or controlling the of peace” (v. 79). John’s work would pregnancy, God had set in motion the land. He spoke of a descendant of David, not prepare the way for a conquering long-awaited promise of deliverance but said nothing about the messiah ruling king, but for the Prince of Peace. through a savior born from the house over anyone. The story of John’s birth and of David. Here Zechariah seems to be Rather, Zechariah seems to perceive Zechariah’s “Benedictus” may be enter- speaking of Mary’s son, who had yet a more spiritual purpose for Israel: God’s taining or informative, but what might it to be born. Since Mary had spent three deliverance would come so “that we, say to modern readers? How might we months in Elizabeth and Zechariah’s being rescued from the hands of our respond to this story? enemies, might serve him without fear, First, Zechariah’s experience chal- Zechariah would have heard about the in holiness and righteousness before him lenges us to listen for guidance God angel’s annunciation to Mary and the may send our way. Angelic visitations predictions that accompanied it. are not required: if we are attentive, the The belief that a ruler would arise A future story reading of scripture, the pastor’s preach- from the house of David goes back (vv. 76-79) ing, or a faithful friend’s advice may to 2 Samuel 7 and the story of how bring the words we need to hear David sought to build a house for God, promise of salvation through the mes- Zechariah’s prediction also reminds but God promised instead to build a siah and addresses his own baby boy, us that God’s ultimate work is not one house (in the sense of a dynasty) for who would have his own role to play in of conquest – even in the realms of David, pledging that a descendant of the drama of redemption. “And you, culture or civil law – but of peace. How David would rule forever. David’s child, will be called the prophet of the have we experienced peace through earthly kingdom lasted only a few Most High,” the proud prophet/father knowing Christ, and in what ways do hundred years, but after the kingdom proclaimed, “for you will go before we follow his observation that peace- was destroyed, Israel’s prophets rein- the Lord to prepare his ways, to give makers are those who “will be called terpreted the promise to predict the knowledge of salvation to his people by BT
LESSON FOR DECEMBER 6, 2015 | 19 Zephaniah 3:14-20
with Tony W. Cartledge
Dec. 13, 2015 Zephaniah 3:15 – When God Sings “The LORD has taken away the judgments against you, he has turned away your enemies. e live in changing times. The king of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; Climate change has global you shall fear disaster no more.” W temperatures rising, glaciers melting, and super-storms brewing. While those who own beachfront prop- erty are getting nervous as sea levels Maldives, and Micronesia are in danger of disappearing altogether. Political turmoil and power-grabbing activities by ISIS and other groups have wrecked formerly stable countries, bru- tally murdered thousands, destroyed cultural heritage sites, and sparked an immigration crisis that threatens to over- whelm Europe. Times are changing, but we are not to the famous King way, he believed, in thinking that they BCE), then Zephaniah was also the could worship both Baal and Yahweh. shifts and political upheavals. Our text great-great grandson of another illustri- Zephaniah saw disaster looming on the today derives from a period in Israel’s ous king. A careful reading of the horizon, and he insisted that it was well history when times were about to book shows that Zephaniah criticized deserved. change in a major way – both for bad the royal house, but never the king Zephaniah’s prophetic message of and for good. himself. doom reminds me of an old song writ- ten by Terri Sharp and recorded by Don A “minor” prophet having instigated a religious revival in McLean: “When the gates are all down, Zephaniah is one of those prophets you Judah. He renovated the temple, ordered may never have heard of unless you the destruction of altars to other gods, whistle is screamin’ in vain – and you memorize the books of the Bible. We and instituted the book of Deuteronomy stay on the track, ignoring the facts, may think of him as being obscure, – purported to having been found during well, you can’t blame the wreck on the but Zephaniah’s book suggests that he temple restorations – as the law of the train.” played a living and vital role in Israel’s land. Since part of Zephaniah’s preach- The prophets sometimes described history. ing was sharply critical of Judah’s that coming train as an imminent inva- cultural and religious life, his activity, sion of a particular nation, such as almost certainly postexilic, but the along with that of Jeremiah, may have Babylonia or Assyria. Zephaniah may helped to spark Josiah’s revival. have had a particular enemy in mind, having been active during the reign of but he believed Israel’s greatest fear A major message should be a coming day of divine judg- Zephaniah’s genealogy is traced There are two important aspects to ment, which he referred to as the “Day back four generations (more than any of Yahweh” (1:7, 14). People in Israel other prophet) to Hezekiah. If this refers of his book is devoted to a scathing traditionally looked forward to a “Day criticism of sinful people everywhere, of the LORD” as a time of deliverance Additional background information starting with other nations and con- and vindication, but the prophets were online where you see the “Digging cluding God’s people who lived in convinced it would not be a day of Deeper” icon Judah. They had failed to follow God’s good news for everyone. If Yahweh was
20 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes coming to punish the wicked, liberate and Isaiah (2:1-4, ch. 11) had also spo- the oppressed, and vindicate the righ- are available at ken of the eschatological age as a time teous, should that not affect the wicked baptiststoday.org when all would live in harmony and no in Israel, as well? one would have cause to fear. You may notice that several themes Hosea (ch. 11). Zephaniah declared in this passage sound a lot like the New prophets, Zephaniah saw God’s impend- that a time would come when Israel’s Testament. Zephaniah’s insistence that ing judgment as a train wreck waiting present danger and future judgment God would take away judgments that to happen. Zephaniah’s prophetic warn- would come to an end. He saw a new Israel deserved helped prepare the way ing bell rang clearly: If the people of day when God’s people would again for the New Testament concept of salva- Judah did not recognize the peril of their put their trust in God and populate tion by grace. The Gospel writers and wicked path and get off the tracks, they Jerusalem in a sublime new age not Paul declared that Christ came precisely would be destroyed. If any survived to unlike the New Testament image of a to take the judgment of God’s people think about it, they would know that new heaven and a new earth. upon himself, so that we might be for- “you can’t blame the wreck on the train.” That good news would call for joy- given of our sin and made right with God That sentiment remains true. How ful song on the part of God’s people, Zephaniah’s idyllic picture of God the train tracks of life, neglecting God’s as Zephaniah looked to a day of cel- dwelling as king in Israel’s midst is way and courting danger by insisting on - our own way. We hurt other people, we shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with ment that the kingdom of God had come abuse our own bodies, we focus on our all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem!” near – that the rule of God was present own needs to the neglect of others who (3:14). need us, we engage in risky behaviors. Zephaniah exulted in Israel’s cause When we live like that, we are a for celebration: the Lord would reverse Look back for a moment. Zepha- train wreck waiting to happen: waiting the judgments that the people deserved, niah’s happy oracle began with a call for to contract a preventable disease, waiting turn away Israel’s enemies, and dwell the people to sing praise for the Lord’s to crash while drinking or texting, wait- in Israel’s midst as king, so there would steadfast love (v. 14), but in v. 17 he ing to wreck a marriage. Zephaniah’s be no need to fear any future disaster declares that God will sing for joy in celebration of the prospect of dwelling light, and a lowered gate to warn us of Speaking for God in words that among a faithful people. impending danger. But if we ignore the Can you draw that picture in your warning, when trouble comes, we can’t “I will save the lame and gather the out- head? Can you hear that sound? Can blame the wreck on the train. cast, and I will change their shame into you imagine the voice of God, like a praise and renown in all the earth. At great waterfall with rhythm, singing A joyful song that time I will bring you home, at the with joy? Zephaniah saw a day when (vv. 14-20) God would go looking for his people, you renowned and praised among all Zephaniah saw a coming day of disaster would bring them home, and sing for the peoples of the earth, when I restore for those who have rejected God’s way, joy over the reunion. Just imagine! your fortunes before your eyes, says the but he also saw beyond the train wreck Have you known the joy of being Lord” (vv. 19-20). to the possibility of a new day of life found by God – saved from your lost These verses seem to be directed to and hope. A transition comes in 3:9-13, condition, forgiven by divine grace, Israel in exile, as a promise that a puri- as the prophet looks to a day when God born anew and wrapped warmly in the would reverse the multilingual curse of swaddling clothes of eternal love? It’s from Babylon and live an idyllic and Genesis 11 and all peoples would share no accident that this text is read during peaceful life in the land of promise. As the same speech (literally, “a pure lip”). the Advent season. such, they may have been proclaimed A poor and humble remnant of Israel When the angels sang for the by a later prophet, one who expected would return, he declared, minus the shepherds in those ringing voices that the turnabout to occur soon: it would proud and haughty. declared glory to God and peace on happen “before your eyes.” Zephaniah was not the only prophet earth, it was just a prelude to the day to include both words of dizzying doom when God’s people will gather home, the initial return from exile, however, the day when the great God of the which turned out to be a quite depress- Zechariah (ch. 14) also preached judg- universe will sing for joy in a way that ing affair. It would have to look to a ment along with encouraging words echoes even now in the hearts and souls new future in a new age. Micah (4:1-4) of those who love him. BT
LESSON FOR DECEMBER 13, 2015 | 21 Micah 5:1-5a
with Tony W. Cartledge
Dec. 20, 2015 Micah 5:2 – Small Town, Big Hope “But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, ave you ever said something from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, that you intended to be under- whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. H stood one way, but someone took it another way, and by the time a few others had taken it up, it became something different altogether? It’s easy for that to happen, and not only because people may have mis- heard or misreported what they heard. Sometimes we fail to communicate clearly. If I should say “I saw a boy with a telescope,” would you assume that it was I or the boy who was equipped for distance viewing? Imagine this ad: “Wanted: sitter for a baby about 18 years old.” Would job-hunters assume that the task involves an overaged baby, or that applicants should be 18 to apply? Ahaz, and Hezekiah” (1:1), which Meaning may also rest with the would have been the latter half of the responded by entreating God’s favor, hearer. We all live within our own con- eighth century BCE. Micah was prob- so that destruction was withheld. texts, with our own perspectives, and may hear the same words but interpret have been alive when Jotham and Ahaz A post-exilic message them in different ways. A young man ruled, but his prophecies appear to date Micah’s preaching in chs. 1-3 is almost may intend nothing but admiration by from the reign of Hezekiah. uniformly critical of Judah and Israel, telling a classmate “Wow, you’re pretty Micah hailed from Moresheth, a predicting doom and gloom as a result and smart,” but she could easily take village not far from the Philistine city of the peoples’ sins. His oracles that can the remark as sexually demeaning, as of Gath, in an area of fair and fer- be linked to historical connections are if women were not normally capable of tile hills about 20 miles southwest of almost inevitably pessimistic. There are, being both attractive and intelligent. Jerusalem. Micah had a keen social however, some elements of hope scat-
conscience and was a champion of the tered within the book, especially in A pre-exilic prophet peasantry. He promoted ethical living and forcefully condemned the injustice, The oracles of hope in chs. 4-7 text. It is found in a book attributed to greed, and decadence of the controlling seem out of sync with the Micah of chs. a prophet from the eighth century BCE, aristocracy who lived in the cities. 1-3. Just as the book of Isaiah switches Micah’s name is probably a con- gears (and centuries) between chs. 39 context, and it was later given a messi- traction of micaiyah, meaning “Who and 40, ch. 4 of Micah appears to shift anic interpretation. is like Yahweh?” Micah was a gifted from an eighth-century to a sixth-cen- The prophet in question is Micah, tury audience. This has led most critical who lived and worked in and about ence, at least on Hezekiah. He is, in scholars to speculate that these oracles fact, the only prophet whose work is derive from a later hand, an admirer of quoted by name in the Old Testament. Micah who sought to apply his teaching Additional background information to a new day by showing that the doom online where you see the “Digging land quoted Micah’s prophecy that predicted in Micah 1-3 had served Deeper” icon Jerusalem would become “a plowed an educational purpose, preparing a
22 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes - would become the envy of the world. ter day. are available at After the life and ministry of Jesus, Lectionary readings typically begin baptiststoday.org the early church reinterpreted these same prophecies as pointers to Christ, we shouldn’t ignore the context of con- a different kind of messiah who would reinvent Israel as a people of God com- truly unite the country. posed of believers from all nations. Thus, it’s not surprising that strike the ruler of Israel upon the cheek.” because its verbs and pronouns don’t Matthew’s story of the wise men’s The verb translated by the NRSV as have clear antecedents. A common read- search for a baby king has the paranoid “walled around” could also be rendered ing is that God is the subject of “give as “slash yourselves” (NET, HCSB) or them up,” meaning God would leave prominent scribes to ascertain whether the people of Israel to their enemies the scriptures had predicted the birth of What is clear is that Jerusalem until “she who is in labor” – the mother a new king, and where. They responded is portrayed as being under siege. of the ruler to be born in Bethlehem – by quoting Micah’s assertion that a Gathering troops would be an appropri- had given birth. Afterward, “the rest of ruler would arise from Bethlehem of ate response to a siege, but it’s quite his brothers” (the king’s countrymen) possible that the prophet was criticiz- would return to the people of Israel. Question” online for more about this ing those who expressed their fear and The new king would arise to shep- quotation). panic by cutting themselves with knives, herd the people of Israel “in the strength Both Matthew and Luke are care- a practice more in keeping with the of the LORD, in the majesty of the ful to locate the place of Jesus’ birth name of the LORD his God” (v. 4a: as Bethlehem, even though his child- forbidden for the Israelites (Deut. 14:1). note that LORD translates the divine hood was spent in Nazareth. They also To underscore the nation’s humili- name Yahweh). The new leader with pointedly identify Jesus as a descen- ation, Micah declared that the enemy the old heritage would bring a new era dant of David, the very “shoot from was striking Israel’s ruler on the cheek of security and peace to the people Jesse” (David’s father) that Isaiah had with a rod (or scepter), a royal slap in predicted (Isa. 11:1, 10), the David redi- the face that emphasized the people’s hope to Israelites facing a crisis, vivus of whom Jeremiah spoke impotence before the enemy. whether it was caused by Assyria, (Jer. 30:9), the shepherd-king David The foe responsible for the siege is Babylon, or the Roman Empire. promised by Ezekiel (34:23-24, This is probably inten- tional: by leaving the enemy unnamed, A messianic interpretation But the early church understood History tells us that this promise was Jesus to be more than the second com- themselves in the prophet’s picture, not ing of David, however idealized the just to relive the nation’s shameful igno- way. No king born in Bethlehem arose ancient king was. The kingdom Jesus miny, but also to claim the hope that to deliver Israel from the Assyrians or ruled would not be a worldly empire, follows. the Babylonians. Although the Persian but a community of faith with roots in While Jerusalem sat under siege king Cyrus allowed the Jews to return the earth and its branches in eternity. with its king being slapped around, the home, they functioned as a sub-prov- How ironic it is that Bethlehem prophet anticipated the birth of a new ince of Persia with appointed governors. today has become a walled city, fenced king who would arise to set things right. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah in by an Israeli government so con- He looked south of the powerful city to had hopes that governor Zerubbabel, a cerned about security that Jerusalem’s the village of Bethlehem, the birthplace descendant of David born in Babylon, Palestinian neighbors in the town of of David, and declared “Bethlehem would lead Israel to new heights, but it Jesus’ birth are kept behind razor wire Ephrathah, you are small among the didn’t happen. and not allowed to leave without a How, then, could the prophecy be special permit. to be ruler over Israel for Me” (v. 2). The ancient Jews were not the only The verse goes on to indicate that the As the Jews suffered under many people to live in a world torn by dis- coming ruler would be “from antiquity, rulers, prophecies such as this one sension. As they longed for a “second from eternity” (NRSV), perhaps better (along with several from Isaiah and coming” of David, so today we look read as “from the distant past” (NET). certain of the psalms) came to be inter- with anticipation to Christ’s return and The clear inference is that the com- preted as predictions of a messiah who a day when the Bethlehem-born ing ruler would be a virtual second would yet arise to lead Israel into a new shepherd-king brings security and coming of David, still remembered as day as a nation of righteous people who peace to all. BT
LESSON FOR DECEMBER 20, 2015 | 23 1 Samuel 2:12-26
with Tony W. Cartledge
Dec. 27, 2015 A Time for Growth 1 Samuel 2:26 – “Now the boy Samuel continued to grow ave you ever noticed that most both in stature and in favor with the LORD H same basic plot? Everything and with the people.” guys come on the scene, mess things up, and threaten the future. Good guys arise to save the day, but run into all kinds pulling it out in the end. Movies with more of an artsy or postmodern twist often have more complicated charac- ters: good guys who have a dark side, or Stories featuring good-versus-evil characters are as old as storytelling. The Bible, for example, is full of both villains younger brother was named Phinehas, was such a strong word that the Qumran and heroes. Some of them are also com- which is Hebrew – but it means “brass community used it as their primary plex people: David, for example, was lips.” word for the devil. mainly a hero, but capable of villainy. Priests generally gave their children The author’s word choice is sig- The characters in today’s text are theophoric names, incorporating one or more clearly drawn. There are two bad more references to God. Later on, for temple and made a solemn vow in ask- guys, and one good one. Let’s take a example, Samuel would name his two ing for a son, old Eli had thought she closer look. sons Joel (“Yahweh is God”) and Abijah was drunk. Hannah responded “don’t (“my father is Yahweh”). It’s likely take me for a wicked woman!” Literally, Two worthless sons that Eli would have given his children “don’t take me for a daughter of belial!” (vv. 12-17, 22-25) similar names, and that the author Hannah was not the one who was Two of the most dastardly characters in wicked. That honor belonged to Eli’s all of scripture are men we don’t hear sons. much about. They are the dissolute sons “service” as priests. Now, the worst thing about the of Eli, who succeeded him as priests Despite having grown up in the contemptible pair is that, though they in the temple at Shiloh. If Daffy Duck temple at Shiloh, raised by a priest, served as priests, “they had no regard were describing them, he’d say they Hophni and Phinehas turned out to for Yahweh” – or more literally: “they were dethhhhhpicable. did not know Yahweh.” The Hebrew respect for either God or God’s people. word “to know” suggests an intimate ple and prayed for a child (1 Samuel 1), Unfortunately, like most sons in ancient relationship based on personal experi- elderly Eli was still the chief priest, but Israel, they were expected to take over ence: not just knowing about someone, his two grown sons carried out most of their father’s business, and they had no but knowing them personally. Hophni the priestly functions (1:3). The sons business doing that. and Phinehas grew up in church, as it have surprising names: Hophni is an were, but they did not know the Lord. Egyptian word meaning “toad.” His It is possible. regard for the Lord” (v. 12). The word The narrator catalogs some of their Additional background information “scoundrels” translates the phrase “sons reprehensible practices: they took more online where you see the “Digging of belial.” The word “belial” means than their share of boiled meat from the Deeper” icon “worthlessness” or “wickedness,” and
24 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes (vv. 13-14), and they demanded addi- to integrate childhood faith with daily tional meat raw with the fat untrimmed are available at experience and comes to a personal – a clear violation of the law (vv. baptiststoday.org encounter with God. But growth continues: later on, people did not comply. the narrator points to yet another stage The scipture’s judgment is, “This long he had been there when the narrator in Samuel’s development. After he sin of the young men was very great in described him as “ministering before the responded to God’s prophetic call on the Lord’s sight, for they were treating LORD” (v. 18), and we don’t know what his life, we read, “As Samuel grew up, the Lord’s offering with contempt” type of ministry he was performing: the LORD was with him and let none (v. 17). They had no regard for the Lord the word was a technical term used for of his words fall to the ground. And all who gave them life. They led services priestly service, but such service could Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that of worship, but they themselves did not take many forms. Samuel’s priestly sta- Samuel was a trustworthy prophet of worship. They knew all the rituals and tus was also indicated by the linen ephod the LORD” (3:19-20). how to use them to their advantage, but the narrator says he wore. We presume they did not know the Lord. They treated that Samuel was still a growing boy, for A host of questions each year his mother Hannah “made him God’s special gifts with contempt, and None of us are born fully formed, either a little robe and took it to him when she violated their sacred trust with God’s as human people or as Christian believ- went up with her husband to offer the people. ers. We all must go through stages of And that was not the end of it: v. 22 growth and increasing maturity, but it is Eli blessed Hannah, we are told, claims that the two married men also not automatic. We may have loving par- and prayed that God would give her used the women who served at the tem- ents who take us to church and caring another child to replace Samuel. In time, ple gate for their sexual pleasure. Given friends who do their best to bring us to we read, she bore three more sons and their forceful means of obtaining meat, God, but every person must make his or two daughters (vv. 19-20), but the focus the women’s participation in the illicit her own choices. remains on Samuel, who “grew up in the liaisons may not have been voluntary. We’ve all read or heard horror sto- presence of the LORD” (v. 21). Samuel’s Eli tried to straighten out his bull- ries of priests, pastors, or youth ministers growth did not stop there. After remind- ing us again of how wicked Eli’s sons it was too late. They dismissed him as abuse children or young people. We’ve were, the narrator tells us that “the boy a senile old man, refused to listen, and all known people who grew up in church Samuel continued to grow both in stature did as they pleased. Ultimately, they but abandoned their faith. We are famil- and in favor with the LORD and with the became the death of Eli, and of them- iar with our own struggle to grow in faith selves (1 Sam. 4:1-18). The narrator’s that sometime feels like two steps for- Even so, though Samuel grew up “in lack of sympathy for them is evident: he ward and three steps back. the presence of the LORD” and “in favor declares “it was the will of the LORD Samuel’s experience – especially with the LORD,” the story of Samuel’s as compared to that of Hophni and call in the following chapter tells us that Question” online for more on this). Phinehas – reminds us that we can prior to that nighttime encounter, “Now Is it any wonder that the writer calls choose to mature in faith or to disown Samuel did not yet know the LORD, and them scoundrels? it. We can choose positive paths or neg- the word of the LORD had not yet been ative ones. We can become people who revealed to him” (3:7). One worthy lad bless the world, or people who honor (vv. 18-21, 26) Even for a good, well-trained, and ourselves alone. cooperative boy like Samuel, there is The family of Eli was hopeless, and Eli’s sons “had no regard for a difference between knowing about the LORD,” while Samuel “minis- God and knowing God through personal 3:11-18), but that does not mean that tered before the LORD.” Eli’s sons experience. the temple was doomed, or that God’s were great sinners “in the sight of the Samuel’s growth in faith was a work was ended. Intertwined with the LORD,” while Samuel grew “in favor progressive thing. He was a boy who sordid story of two sorry sons is a ray of with the LORD and with the people.” ministered, like a young acolyte who hope in the form of another son, a boy How much of Hophni and Phinehas proudly adorns an alb and lights the who serves the Lord with innocence and lives in us? How much of Samuel? candles on Sunday morning. He grew obedience. With a new year approaching, this in the presence of the Lord, like a child Samuel had been born as a result story of two bad boys and a good one faithfully brought to Sunday school of his mother’s vow, and brought to the offers us important food for thought. and worship. He grew in favor with temple when he was probably no more Going forward, what path will we the Lord, like a teenager who begins than three years old. We don’t know how take? BT
LESSON FOR DECEMBER 27, 2015 | 25 very aware of the natural patterns of nature Readers’ that recent technology has allowed mankind In the Know to forecast weather, climate change, space Responses activities and other things that God estab- Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston- lished in the beginning but better understand Salem, N.C., has called the following today with modern technology. Since God ministry staff: Ellen Price, minister of Safer, more wholesome America established the patterns and purposes for invitation and hospitality; Mike Nuckolls, EDITOR: While the opinions of John Pierce everything, why are there controversies? minister of missional engagement; Jim in the September issue (“Wholesomeness for Three messages in God’s Word help me Davidson, music and arts educator; and some is not liberty for all,” page 32) are valid answer this question: and valuable, I believe he fails to understand Julie Suggs, preschool director. the perspective of J. Robert White when he Genesis 1:27 — So God created mankind in Mack Hannah died Aug. 20 in Dunwoody, found himself “longing for the United States of his own image, in the image of God he created Ga., at age 66. He served as pastor of America in which I grew up.” them; male and female he created them. Harpeth Heights Baptist Church in I, too, grew up in that place and at that time The purpose for mankind was to have Bellevue, Tenn., and Dunwoody Baptist and my memories are also of a safer, more whole- freedom to choose activity but to live by the Church in Atlanta. Also, he served at some America. But these memories are not, as purposes and pattern of God. The freedom of Belmont University in Nashville as vice Pierce suggests, greatly romanticized. They are choice allowed mankind to do activities not president of spiritual development. real. Not because they were universal, but because consistent with the purposes of God and the Ron Hinson is pastor of Lafayette Baptist they were the experiences of children. patterns of God’s activity. Church in Fayetteville, N.C. He previously One of the prevailing theories of parent- God then gave mankind rules for behavior served as pastor of First Baptist Church in ing at that time seems to have been protecting that would help mankind to understand the Whiteville, N.C. children from the problems of grown-ups. A purposes of God and the patterns of God’s favorite sentence when adult issues arose was, activity. These rules led mankind to believe J. Brent Walker has announced plans to retire “Okay, you kids go outside and play now.” that following the rules is all that God desired. at the end of 2016 as executive director of Over the years I’ve met men and women Of course, people did not all agree on the the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious our age from all parts of the country, from details in following the rules for behavior. Liberty. He has worked with the Washington, other races, and from a wide range of eco- D.C.-based organization since 1989 and has nomic circumstances who remember that time John 3:3 — Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, been the group’s leader since 1999. as White and I do. Most of us were neither no one can see the kingdom of God unless they wealthy nor insensitive. We were children, are born again.” by Jesus, they have been born again. They and we grew up soon enough. As adults, we This is how God answered the question continue in the image of God as to choices of became active in the attack on the problems regarding mankind being rewarded because from which we had been sheltered for a brief, purpose and life pattern. However, in the new innocent but authentic time. mankind followed the behavior rules. Of life, their purpose and pattern is to have the course, to be born again raised questions. Patricia A. Kerley same purpose and pattern that God has for the Gainesville, Ga. world. The born-again Christian follows the Matthew 22:37-40 — Jesus replied: “Love the image of God as described in Genesis 1:27. Lord your God with all your heart and with Controversies are caused by mankind Religion controversies among all your soul and with all your mind. This is attempting to use behavior standards to define Christians the first and greatest commandment. And the how mankind can please God when God’s word Controversies come from statements by second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ tells us that it is our relationship with God and humans starting with Bible records. Humans All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two other humans that defines how to please God. fail to seek the meaning of life from the pur- commandments.” William H. Osborne, Deacon poses of God and the patterns of God’s activity. Here God explains the rules for behav- Tallowood Baptist Church As a retired computer professional, I am ior. When mankind follows this statement Houston, Texas
26 A Baptist among the Mennonites
aving attended the Baptist World Alliance gatherings in Birmingham, H England in 2005, and in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2010, I considered attending the recent one in Durban, South Africa. Due to the lengthy flying time, however, I drove to Harrisburg, Penn., to attend the Mennonite World Conference the same week in July. The MWC meets every six years; this was its 16th gathering. The BWA meets every five years; this was its 21st congress. The Mennonites’ theme was “Walking with God.” The Baptists’ theme was “Jesus Christ, the Door.” When I met people at the Mennonite gath- ering, I introduced myself and added: “I’m a Baptist.” The response was either “How did you hear about this?” or “What are you doing here?” To the first question I answered: “I subscribe to On Tuesday, after registering, I attended the with Godly Books,” “Gender Challenges in a the Mennonite Quarterly Review and read about first worship service in the arena, ate in the main Changing World,” “Cultural Chameleons” and it there.” hall along with hundreds of others, and met my “Walking with God in Politics.” To the second question, I answered: “Five hostess, Anna Predoti, at the shuttle bus. A thou- Because of a half-day tour of Gettysburg, generations back, my family was Mennonite.” sand people stayed in 350 Mennonite homes. led by a Brethren in Christ pastor, I was not able Next came the question about the family name: Messiah College also housed attendees. to attend the workshop “Forgiving and Healing: It was Good, which is like Smith in America. Anna was raised Mennonite. Her husband, the Amish Experience at Nickel Mines.” Having I arrived early to go on an all-day tour Joe Predoti, who came from Italy at the age of read the book and seen the movie Amish Grace of Mennonite historic churches in eastern three, grew up Catholic. They both attend the about the murder of schoolgirls on Oct. 2, 2006, Pennsylvania. I was the only Baptist on the bus Lititz Mennonite Church, and both went to the I was interested in the session. of 28 people. Our guides were two young men MWC. Their lovely home is in Brunnerville, a However, I was able to chat with a woman who work at the Mennonite Heritage Center in tiny village near Lititz. who did attend. She said the mother of one Harleysville, Penn. From Wednesday through Saturday I of the girls who died was very articulate in We visited the first Mennonite church in attended morning and evening worship ser- describing the events of that terrible day and its America in Germantown, founded in 1708 in a vices and workshops in the afternoons. The aftermath. Herman Bontrager spoke, along with log cabin. Deep Run East Mennonite Church, opening worship began with a parade of people community members from Nickel Mines. which is across the road from the Deep Run carrying banners and singing “When the Saints I met one Southern Baptist who now West Mennonite Church, provided our lunch. Go Marching In.” attends a Mennonite church. I heard that The two churches split in the 1840s over The preachers did not wear suits and ties. a Quaker and a Catholic also attended the progressive changes. Both current pastors In fact, one wore blue jeans. Preceding the main workshop. attended the lunch and answered questions. sermon in the evening, we heard a sermon from On Sunday I worshiped with Anna and Someone asked, “What about beer drink- one or two Young Anabaptists. The choir, whose Joe at their Lititz Mennonite Church, where ing?” One pastor said, “We alternate.” The members came from different countries, per- I heard a Lithuanian pastor preach with an other pastor said, “And designate a driver.” formed at all the services. American woman interpreting. After the ser- They both laughed. The two churches celebrate I attended a workshop given in two parts: vice we had a “pitch-in” lunch in the basement Thanksgiving together, work on mission projects first, the history of the shameful events at that was planned in honor of the visitors to the and share the cemetery. Munster, Germany in 1534-1535, followed by Mennonite World Conference. That afternoon we toured the Indian Creek “What do we have to understand through the I highly recommend gathering with our Church that seats 100 and the Franconian history of Munster?” cousins in the faith. The next MWC will be held Mennonite Church across the parking lot that In these sessions three Amish men attended, in Indonesia in 2021. BT holds 1,000. one of whom was a bishop from Iowa. One For dinner we ate at the Norristown speaker said that all Christian groups have —Nikki Stoddard Schofield is a deacon at Mennonite Church, organized in 1990 from something of which they are ashamed. I thought Speedway Baptist Church, Indianapolis, Ind. She three churches — Hispanic, African American about our own Baptist split in 1845 over the is the author of four Civil War historical novels and white. The church has a worship team with issue of slavery. (civilwarromances.com) and is writing her fifth, three pastors from each of these groups. I also attended these workshops: “Walking titled Confederates in Canada.
27
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the sixth in a series of articles by historian Bruce Gourley on the religious faith of U.S. presidents. Gourley is online editor and con- tributing writer for Baptists Today and executive director of the Baptist History & Heritage Society. His latest book, Baptists and the American Civil War: Crucible of Faith and Freedom, a compilation of articles from the recent series on Baptists and the American Civil War, is now available from Nurturing Faith.
Religion and the American Presidents John Quincy Adams (1825-1829)
As a young child, John Quincy Adams Church) in the District of Columbia. Seeking the presidency in 1824, Adams watched the 1775 Battle of Bunker vied for the position as one of five candi- Hill at Boston, not far from his 1767 dates. None obtained a majority electoral vote, sending the election to the House of birthplace of Braintree (now Quincy), Representatives for a second vote. Against his Mass. The Revolutionary War won four southern opponents, Adams prevailed in the House vote, becoming only the second during his teenage years, in early non-southern president of the United States, adulthood he followed with keen and the first not among the ranks of America’s founding fathers. interest the drafting and ratification of John Quincy Adams’ inaugural presi- dential address touched upon religion only briefly, offering no mention of God. The hen not observing the foundational newly-elected president did, however, affirm events of the American nation, freedom of religion. He also pledged “by the W young Adams, the son of a diplo- solemnities of religious obligation to the faith- mat and future president, traveled to France, ful performance of the duties allotted to me in Holland and Russia before graduating from First voted into the Massachusetts leg- the station to which I have been called.” Harvard in 1787. islature, he then served a term in the U.S. President Adams, viewing government The youthful Adams did more than follow Senate prior to an 1809 appointment by James in the service of the freedom and better- in his father’s political footsteps. Raised in his Madison as America’s first minister to Russia. ment of all (including African Americans and parents’ Unitarian (Congregational) church, During this time Adams led the American del- Native Americans), set his sights on national the First Parish Church of Braintree, Adams as egation in the Treaty of Ghent, ending the War infrastructure and science. His advocacy for a young adult chose to remain in the faith as of 1812. the construction of federal highways, canals, he settled into his own career. A brief appointment as minister to Britain astronomical observatories and a national Admitted to the bar in 1791, Adams followed, after which Adams with his family university met stiff resistance from southern briefly practiced law in Boston, near his home- returned to America to serve as secretary of state congressmen determined to advance the cause town of Quincy. Although seemingly satisfied for the two terms of James Monroe’s presidency. of slavery through states’ rights. Nonetheless, with the life of a lawyer, the world beckoned While in the Senate, Adams taught part the completion of the Erie Canal occurred yet again. time at Harvard, but only after securing a during Adams’ presidency. Returning to Europe in 1794, Adams waiver from signing the faculty declaration of Frustrated by congressional opposition, for three years served as President George religious conformity. Nonetheless appreciative Adams declared the presidential office to be Washington’s minister to the Netherlands. In this of the Christian scriptures, Adams as secretary “harassing” and “wearying.” Perhaps merci- capacity he played a small role in effecting the Jay of state assumed a position as a vice president fully, he lost a re-election bid in 1828, soundly Treaty of 1795, an agreement averting a second of the American Bible Society, remaining in defeated by southerner Andrew Jackson. war with Great Britain. Evidencing his confi- that capacity until his death. Religion, meanwhile, offered some com- dence in Adams, Washington called him “the He wrote: “In accepting the appointment fort to Adams. He stood apart from previous most valuable public character now abroad.” I am duly sensible to the honour conferred presidents, including his father, in — some- Heritage and experience propelled the upon me by this invitation to join the assembly times — expressing belief in the divinity of younger Adams ever upward. Now married of those whose voices in unison with the heav- Jesus, the doctrine of the Trinity and the exis- — to Louisa Catherine Johnson, British-born enly host at the birth of the Saviour, proclaim tence of an afterlife. He also wrote hymns and daughter of an American consul — Adams good tidings of great joy to all people.” religious poetry, frequently mentioning God in served as minister to Prussia during his father’s A devoted churchman, in 1821 he helped his diary. presidency, afterward entering elective politics. found First Unitarian Church (now All Souls Yet a dark side of doubt lingered in
28 | Feature November 2015 Adams’ mind. Ever the rationalist, he wavered market, Adams in 1838 expressed anger Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation between opposition, reluctant affirmation against Christian slaveholders (including 1. Publication title: Baptists Today and outright doubt of many Christian tenets. many southern congressmen) for “taxing their 2. Publication number: 1072-7787 3. Filing date: Oct. 1, 2015 Human depravity, predestination and vicari- learning and ingenuity to prove that the Bible 4. Issue frequency: monthly ous atonement he found offensive. sanctions slavery; that Abraham, Isaac and 5. No. of issues published annually: 12 Enjoying church services, he approved of Paul were slave-holders; and that St. Paul is 6. Annual subscription price: $24 U.S.; $35 Canadian; $50 foreign 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: the preaching of “sound morals” but not “doc- the apostle of man-stealers, because he sent P.O. Box 6318 trinal speculation.” Critical of many preachers, Onesimus back to his master Philemon. These Macon, GA 31208-6318 Adams determined “to content myself with preachers of the Gospel might just as well call Contact person: Jackie Riley practicing the dictates of God and reason so far our extermination of the Indians an obedience Telephone: 478-301-5655 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business as I can judge for myself.” to Divine commands because Jehova com- office of publisher: In his diary Adams once confided his manded the children of Israel to exterminate 988-1/2 Bond St. “judgment that the doctrine of the Divinity the Canaanitish nations.” Macon, GA 31201 9. Full names and complete mailing address of publisher, editor and of Christ is not countenanced by the New Arguing before the Supreme Court in managing editor: Testament. As little can I say that it is clearly 1841 and against the administration of Martin Publisher: Baptists Today, Inc. revealed. It is often obscurely intimated; Van Buren, Adams secured the freedom of the P.O Box 6318 Macon, GA 31208-6318 sometimes directly, and sometimes indirectly, slaves on the ship Amistad. Three years later he Editor: John D. Pierce asserted; but left on the whole, in a debat- successfully led a movement to retract House Baptists Today able state, never to be either demonstrated or rules preventing abolitionists from petitioning P.O. Box 6318 refuted till another revelation shall clear it up.” Congress for the abolition of slavery. Macon, GA 31208-6318 Managing Editor: Jackie B. Riley Aside from doctrine, Adams’ religious In addition, Adams became the first Baptists Today faith found firmer expression in opposition to congressman to insist that the government P.O. Box 6318 slavery. On numerous occasions as president could free slaves during time of war. Some two Macon, GA 31208-6318 10. Owner: Baptists Today, Inc. (nonprofit) he attended African-American congregational decades later, President Abraham Lincoln used P.O. Box 6318 services. In 1826 he wrote the following Adams’ wartime slavery argument in craft- Macon, GA 31208-6318 words as part of a sonnet: “Who but shall ing the rationalization for the Emancipation Don Brewer (chairman) P.O. Box 6318 learn that freedom is the prize / Man still is Proclamation. Macon, GA 31208-6318 bound to rescue or maintain; / That nature’s Near the end of his life Adams sum- Cathy Turner (vice chair) God commands the slave to rise, / And on th’ marized his faith in words that conveyed his P.O. Box 6318 oppressor’s head to break his chain. / Roll, mind’s lifelong religious tensions: “I reverence Macon, GA 31208-6318 Julie Steele, (corporate secretary) years of promise, rapidly roll round, / Till not God as my creator. As creator of the world. I P.O. Box 6318 a slave shall on this earth be found.” reverence him with holy fear. I venerate Jesus Macon, GA 31208-6318 Following his presidential years, Adams’ Christ as my redeemer; and, as far as I can 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, Massachusetts constituency voted him into the understand, the redeemer of the world. But mortgages or other securities: House of Representatives in 1830. “My election this belief is dark and dubious.” None as president of the United States was not half so He also affirmed: “I believe there is a 12. Tax status: The purpose, function and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes gratifying,” he said of his House victory. Finding God who heareth prayer, and that honest has not changed during the preceding 12 months great happiness and purpose as a representative, prayers to him will not be in vain.” 13. Publication title: Baptists Today therein he remained until his death. John Quincy Adams, the sixth president 14. Issue date for circulation data below: In the House the former president’s reli- of the United States and afterward a con- September 2015 15. Extent and nature of circulation (average/Sept. 2014) gious faith in human equality propelled him gressional representative, died in the House National and limited foreign to the forefront of the ascendant abolitionist chamber on Feb. 21, 1848. Arguably the most Total number of copies: *11,724 **12,183 movement and set the stage for the ultimate religious president of the 19th century, Adams’ Paid and/or requested circulation Paid/requested outside-county mail subscriptions stated triumph of emancipation. body came to rest in the crypt of the First on Form 3541: *11,233 **11,583 Incensed over D.C.’s thriving slave Parish Church in Quincy, Mass. BT Paid in-county subscriptions stated on Form 3541: *— **— Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other non-USPS paid distribution: *— **— Other classes mailed through the USPS: *— **— A recent release Total paid and/or requested circulation: *11,233 **11,583 he 150th anniversary of the American Civil War provides Free distribution by mail Outside-county as stated on Form 3541: *— **— a grand opportunity to consider precisely what Baptists T In-county as stated on Form 3541: *— **— — North and South — were saying from their pulpits, in the Other classes mailed through the USPS: *— **— press, and through official resolutions from that time. Bruce Total free distribution: *391 **400 Total distribution: *11,624 **11,983 Gourley brings such perspectives to life by making good use Copies not distributed: *100 **200 of careful and significant research, creatively taking a chrono- Total: *11,724 **12,183 Percent paid and/or requested circulation: *97% **97% logical approach using primary sources. 16. Publication statement of ownership: Publication required. Will be printed in the November 2015 issue of this publication. *Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months nurturingfaith.net **No. copies of single issues published nearest to filing date
November 2015 Feature | 29 -
Author digs deeply to uncover factors that shaped her life Journey to Forgiveness
Cindy Henry McMahon is a wife and pastor and denominational leader. “…I needed Yet, the Pilgrim Congregational Church in to understand [my father’s] demons and come Birmingham, Ala., was not ready for the social mother who works in non-profit man- to forgiveness.” change its pastor sought in the 1960s. After agement in Asheville, N.C. Most anyone “Forgiveness is not a destination,” she said participating in the Selma to Montgomery when speaking of her experiences. “It is a jour- march, he offered his well-sought resignation. would call it a normal life, she admits. ney; we get there and then we go back.” Cindy recalled finding two pieces of white er life today, however, belies a tortur- paper from that time. On one, in red, he’d ous upbringing with a troubled father. CONTRASTING FIGURES written of God as a consuming fire. On the other, in green, he had penned words from She has been on a long journey of Her father, Al Henry, was “the handsomest H Psalm 11: “Flee like a bird to the mountain.” forgiveness that called for traveling old paths, ministerial student at Mercer University” at the “That was my daddy, alright,” wrote pulling together pieces of history and putting time — and just what her mother was seek- Cindy. “Fire. Flight. That was his legacy.” words onto pages. ing, said Cindy. But the mental illness of his Telling her story in Fresh Water from Old mother would eventually appear in her highly Wells (2015, Mercer University Press), she intense son. TRACED STEPS said, was like removing a painful splinter that Al’s commitment to social justice mirrored “This book is built on a lot of memories,” Cindy needed to work its way out. that of his influential father-in-law. But com- told her listeners at Vineville Baptist Church. But The upheaval in her early life was the parisons ended there. it is also built on careful, even persistent research. result of her father’s emotional struggles and Walter Moore could take a stand for Cindy traveled to various places where her unpredictable decisions that included rage and racial justice in the ’60s and still be revered grandparents and parents had lived to better desertion. in his church and get elected president of the understand the context of her own life. There “I had a lot of healing I needed to do,” she Georgia Baptist Convention. Al, who could were warm recollections as well as painful told a book club gathering at Vineville Baptist not find such acceptance, left the conservative episodes that shaped her family’s life. Church in Macon, Ga., where her maternal Southern Baptists for the more-progressive Admittedly, she “grew up during the dark, grandfather, Walter Moore, had been a beloved Congregationalists. dark times” of her father’s life.
30 | Feature November 2015 After Birmingham, Cindy’s family found TROUBLED LIFE worth taking. refuge at Koinonia Farm — the interracial, “I was beginning to understand, finally, Christian community founded by Clarence Al Henry’s unlikely résumé included service as that this forgiveness — letting go of the pain Jordan, her father’s cousin. Cindy was born at a hospital chaplain, pastor, farmer, ambulance and protective anger left over from my child- that time. assistant and more. Then he decided to leave hood — could be the greatest gift I would ever “Koinonia was very much a Christian his role as father — and he made it clear. give myself,” she wrote. “It would be freedom. place,” she wrote. However, the radical nature As Cindy’s sixth birthday came around, he At last.” of human equality was not socially acceptable penciled in his daily calendar: ‘FATHER NO MORE.” in rural Georgia. Violent attacks and economic STRENGTH AND COURAGE boycotts struck the otherwise pastoral setting When and where his children might see that Cindy described as “a childhood paradise.” their father was never predictable. His hair and “I grew up outside the church,” said Cindy in Yet, after just a few months, it was the beard grew long, and he took up residence in a response to a question about how her experi- violence of her father toward her mother that tent. His thumb could be out for a ride in any ences impacted her view of the church. surfaced during this time that would chart a direction. “When my dad left Birmingham, he left long and ugly course for her family. “His life seemed far away and hard to the church,” she continued. “I always felt very It was into this context that Cindy was understand,” wrote Cindy. But she and her much on the outside of church growing up.” born on May 29, 1966. Digging through the siblings tried. One summer they joined their Yet when she and her family starting archives at Vineville Baptist Church, she found father in the great outdoors in Virginia. attending a UCC church in Asheville, she said, the Sunday bulletin from that day. “Even though we were in the woods, living the experience provided the perspective and Her grandfather had preached a sermon the life Dad wanted for us, it was never enough.” support needed for her to take the needed jour- titled, “Fresh Water from Old Wells.” Cindy And when he did come home to be with ney toward forgiveness that played out in her had found the title for her book. the family in Atlanta, “he was still far away storytelling. from us.” “It gave me strength and courage,” she said DEFINING DEATH He didn’t work. But he imposed his diet of being in a caring, encouraging community of restrictions on his family and made certain faith. “I don’t think I could have done this with- Cindy visited Waynesboro, Ga., where her they did not celebrate holidays. out that church connection at the time.” BT grandfather had been pastor at the First Baptist Church in the 1930s before moving to Macon. She wanted to learn more about the tragic death PLACE OF REFUGE of Walter and Miriam Moore’s daughter, Sunny. Cleo, N.C., is a small, mountainous commu- The Moores had served as missionaries nity that was first an escape and then a refuge $15 in Cuba and therefore had experiences across for Cindy and her family. Summer camp there NEW! includes shipping racial lines unlike many Georgians at the time. provided the Henry girls with a normalcy But the greatest test of one’s acceptance and unknown during the rest of the year. grace is found in reaction to deep personal loss. “Sometimes nothing but the green of Cindy’s detective-like work led her to the Celo could soothe my soul,” Cindy penned in man who as a boy called for Sunny to come see reflection. him. She darted into the street and was hit and In 1976, Cindy’s mother finally “took killed by a car. over” and made the bold decision to move the That evening some men arrived at the family to Cleo. “Still unemployed, spiraled pastor’s home with assurance that the black lower into paranoia and depression,” her father woman driving the car had been found, and that went along. they had the rope needed to lynch her. But the The peaceful mountain setting, however, grieved father told them they would need two. would not end the familiar “rant and rage” that “White Mississippi Baptist Ministers The accident was just as much his fault, marked his presence in the family. Who Helped Crack the Walls of the ‘Closed he added. Cindy learned that her grandfather When her mother finally found the cour- Society,’ 1954-1974” had spent that night at the jail to comfort the age to end the marriage, her father wrote to “A Flea Against Injustice: The Social Christi- woman who had understandably left the scene Cindy assigning blame to her for the divorce anity of Marian Wright Edelman” — and to assure her of his protection. and wavering on his love for her. Such a deeply personal and painful story “Seeking Justice through Novel Writing and As his troubled life neared its end, Cindy Book Publishing: Sutton Griggs’s Commit- lessens the surprise that the pastor would be found the courage to tell him of the “really ment to Literature and Battles in Print” called upon three decades later to chair the scary childhood” he had created for her. But “‘A High-Class Christian Gentleman’: committee that stood against Georgia Baptists taking a long first step toward forgiveness, she and others when inviting a young African Tennessee Governor Ben W. Hooper added: “I’m working on letting it go.” and Progressive Era Reforms” named Sam Oni to become the first person of The road to forgiveness for Cindy has color to attend Mercer University. been long and winding — requiring a lot of “Justice: Walter Rauschenbusch’s That same commitment to social justice digging into the past, careful reflection, and Contribution to Baptist Identity” rang in the heart of Cindy’s father. But a hurt putting the resulting words into print. Orders: spirit and troubled mind played out in a very The extension of grace by others con- 151 Broadleaf Dr., Macon, GA 31210 different life. vinced Cindy that the risk of the road was [email protected]
November 2015 Feature | 31 BEYOND EARTH Toward a theology for the universe
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is more exten- is possible to go faster than the speed of light Channel’s series Through the Wormhole. Two sive than most content we publish. However, it and whether there are parallel universes. Also, especially intriguing programs at the end of this addresses a relevant topic of interest to many scientists still have much to explore concerning series are “Can We Resurrect the Dead?” and thoughtful Christians. A recent cover story by possible but mysterious parts of the universe “Did We Invent God?” David J. Wood in Christian Century began: such as dark matter and dark energy. Information gained in these ways does not “By and large mainline congregations have Our focus will be on areas of general match training as a scientist and may not be situated themselves outside the debates over agreement. Scientists believe much the same fully understood, but it is good to make some religion and science, leaving it to the young earth way on how the universe started, the age of the effort. creationists and the militant atheists to fight it out. universe, and the immense size of the universe. Scientists, primarily astrophysicists, have Unfortunately, the rationale for disengagement As we think about a theology for a scien- been trying to tell the rest of us their views from that shrill debate has resulted in a disengage- tific understanding of the universe, there are about the universe. Some hope that eventually a ment from science altogether.” This article takes a two main questions: What is at least a simplified comparatively simple formula will be discovered helpful course away from either of those extremes. summary of current scientific agreement on the that expresses the essence of the universe. universe? What major theological beliefs are Meanwhile, according to their Theory of compatible with that understanding? Everything, scientists believe that everything in For those of us who are not scientists, there the universe started with and then developed s it possible to have a theology for the are various sources for gaining some acquain- from the Big Bang, a tremendous explosion that universe? I am thinking of a Christian theology tance with scientific views of the universe. happened about 13.7 billion years ago. I for a scientific understanding of the universe. Especially helpful to me have been Charles Everything in the universe as currently The reason for concern with a scientific Darwin’s The Origin of Species and The Descent understood refers to what has been or may understanding of the universe is that scientists of Man, Stephen Hawkings’ A Brief History of be experienced. Dark matter and dark energy appear to have the best evidence. Poets and Time, Carl Sagan’s Cosmos, and Neil deGrasse may be real but are not directly experienced. storytellers may be insightful and even enter- Tyson’s Origins. Astrophysicists think that some movements of taining, but scientists do seem to have the most Also of benefit were videos from the objects in space can be explained by gravitational abundant and most reliable evidence for the Discovery Channel, especially “The Story of effects from something that cannot be seen. nature of the universe. Everything” in the series Into the Universe with Thus there are references to something “dark.” More specifically, I am thinking of the Stephen Hawking and “Big Bang” in the series Details are complicated, but the scientific areas where scientists usually agree concerning How the Universe Works. view is that cosmic dust and gas from the Big the universe. There are areas where scientists There are also videos, usually giving various Bang were shaped by gravity and eventually have very different views, including whether it views on debatable questions, from the Science developed into meteors, planets and stars.
32 | Feature November 2015 Hydrogen was apparently present at or near the occurring over and over again. to be standing still, our planet would have had beginning. Hydrogen is abundant and is the There is, of course, much more to the to stop rotating for a short time, not a very simplest of chemical elements with one electron universe than is indicated in this brief summary. likely occurrence from a scientific perspective. circling one proton. Astrophysicists like to talk about many things. (The sun, of course, is always “standing still” Then there were more chemical elements They especially like to talk about gravity and in relation to the planets in our solar system as with more electrons going around more protons temperature and space. they go around it.) and even some neutrons. These additional But there is one subject they usually avoid. If we consider the age of the universe, there chemical elements were developed through the Astrophysicists almost never mention God. is another conflict between the Bible (or at least activity of the stars. When some stars exploded, If we think there should be a theology for a literal interpretation of the Bible) and a scien- various chemical elements were dispersed a scientific understanding of the universe, what tific understanding. The first chapter of Genesis throughout the universe. might that be? Astrophysicists are not going to provides an account of the creation of the world At some later time, a combination of supply any theology, so some of the rest of us and of humans within a period of six days. various chemical elements in the ocean, perhaps can try. Combining a literal interpretation of this aided by the arrival of life-building materials How much do we have to do? Do we not account with other information in the Bible from space, brought forth life on our planet. already have what we need in the Bible? My (such as genealogies), some have concluded that There were very simple living things capable answer is yes but a qualified yes. The Bible creation is only about 6,000 years old. In contrast of motion, absorption of food, growth, and provides very valuable material, but it is not the most recent claim of scientists is that the reproduction. completely satisfactory. There are at least two universe began about 13.7 billion years ago. Life forms became more complex over long difficulties. If we consider intelligent life in the periods of time. Eventually some living things, One difficulty is that the Bible does not universe, there is further conflict. The book of including humans, developed consciousness and even acknowledge much of the universe. The Genesis indicates that God directly created man intelligence. (A few living things became biolo- first chapter of the Bible does refer to the and woman as adults in the beginning. The gists and astrophysicists and tried to explain heavens and the earth. There is specific mention story in the second chapter of Genesis is that everything.) of the greater light to rule the day (the sun) and God created Adam out of earth and then created The general view for many years was that the lesser light to rule the night (the moon). Eve out of one of Adam’s ribs. the universe reached a certain size and stayed We are further told that God made the In contrast the prevailing scientific view that size, not getting any bigger and not getting stars. It is hard to find much else about the today is that extremely simple life began from any smaller (the solid state view). universe in the Bible. We do not find anything a mixture of chemical elements under special Then in 1929 Edwin Hubble made some about planets, solar systems, galaxies, quasars, conditions. The claim is that simpler forms startling astronomical observations that led him black holes, dark matter or dark energy. We are of life then gradually developed over a long to believe the universe was expanding. Scientists not told about the immense size of the universe, period of time into the intelligent life known now believe that the universe has been and is the expansion of the universe or what may be as humans. The scientific view is not clear expanding very rapidly. beyond the edge of the universe. on exactly when adult humans first appeared, How big has the universe become? Quasars, A good theology for the universe does except not at the beginning. the most distant objects from us in the universe, not have to include mention of every object in If we consider our place in the universe, may be 8 to 10 billion light-years away. the universe, but the theology should at least there is even more conflict. The first chapter of A light-year is the distance that light include recognition that our entire planet is only Genesis claims that God created “the heavens goes in a year (one orbit of our planet around a very small part of a gigantic universe. and the earth” (NRSV). There is at least the the sun). Since light travels at approximately Another difficulty is that the Bible, or at implied belief that the earth is extremely 186,000 miles per second, the distance that it least a completely literal interpretation of the important. goes in a year is tremendous. Bible, sometimes comes into conflict with what The theory of Ptolemy, that the sun It is staggering to think that the edge of the scientists and many others claim about the revolved around the earth, supported the view universe is billions of light-years away. Scientists universe, including our part of the universe. that our planet was the center of creation. But may disagree over exactly how big the universe For example, there is a reference in scientists have told us it is the earth that revolves is, but we get the idea that it is gigantic. Revelation 7:1 to “the four corners of the earth” around the sun and that we are not at the center What is the future of the universe? (NRSV). A literal interpretation of the reference of our solar system. Scientists believe that the end of the universe is supports the idea of the earth as flat, as perhaps Nor is our solar system at the center of our many billions of years away but have different having the four corners of a square, an outdated Milky Way galaxy. And there are many other ideas of what might happen. idea for almost everyone. galaxies, some much larger than the Milky Way. One view is the Big Chill: that the stars Also, there is mention in Joshua 10:13 that Humans and our planet are hardly a speck in will eventually run out of the hydrogen they use “the sun stood still” (NRSV). The statement this gigantic universe and do not seem to be at for fuel. There would then be no light, no heat reflects the old belief that the sun ordinar- the center of anything. The view of scientists and no life anywhere. ily moved around the earth (the geocentric or greatly diminishes the importance of our planet Another view is the Big Crunch: that earth-centered view of the solar system). (the earth) that we find in the Bible. the universe for some reason will reverse its Copernicus and Galileo were significant These conflicts and others between science expansion and shrink back to its original tiny figures in promoting the scientific claim that and literal interpretations of the Bible challenge size. A further version is that a Big Crunch the earth, rotating on its axis, moved around the view of the Bible as inerrant teachings from will be followed by another Big Bang, possibly the sun (the heliocentric or sun-centered view of God. with creation and destruction of the universe the solar system). For the sun to have appeared Why then do many people believe that the
November 2015 Feature | 33 Bible is infallible even when interpreted liter- Does this idea fit a scientific understand- compassion for the sick and the poor. He spoke ally? Why do many defend the Bible with such ing? In view of the vastness of the universe and against violence and promoted forgiveness. He ferocity? Might extreme devotion to the Bible the tiny place that our entire planet occupies criticized some who were extreme about minor represent, at least in part, a psychological wish in it, why would God be especially concerned matters but neglected weightier parts of the law for security and even certainty? about humans at all? concerning mercy. Jesus was willing to die for his There is a view of the Bible that is more We may have various questions about convictions. There is much about Jesus that was nearly compatible with a scientific understand- God’s relationship to people, but the overall admirable and that does not go against science. ing of the universe, namely that the Bible claim that God is concerned appears to be But there is also much about Jesus that expresses profound and inspiring but not neces- compatible with the universe. Humans and our does not meet scientific expectations. sarily perfect beliefs from men of faith. Those planet are barely a speck in the vastness of the Does believing in Jesus require belief in who accept this latter understanding may have universe. Yet, as far as we know, we are the only his divine conception, his virgin birth, his great respect for the Bible but still question intelligent life in the universe. salvation-granting death, his resurrection, and some of the views in the Bible. We have not yet detected even unintelli- his ascension into heaven? We have seen that there are convictions gent life anywhere else than our planet. It seems Should we go beyond biblical terms and different from the views of men of the Bible preposterous in some ways but quite reasonable believe that Jesus was of the same substance as about exactly how and when the universe began. in other ways to believe that God is especially the Father? Should we think that Jesus was one There also might be questions about how much interested in people. person with two natures (human and divine)? biblical writers were influenced by tribal and If God is interested in us, what does God Many Christians hold strongly to these cultural ideas rather than the will of God. expect from us? beliefs, even though these beliefs are scientifi- How much may human rather than divine A very important part of the teaching cally questionable. views be represented in such biblical matters as of Jesus in the New Testament was what he What is the proper and full meaning of harsh penalties, extreme violence, animal sacri- considered to be the greatest commandment: to “believes in him” that is called for in John 3:16? fice, slavery, the status of women and possibly love God with all of your heart, all of your soul, The belief is associated with not perish- additional issues? all of your mind and all of your strength. ing but having eternal life. Many are convinced Although the Bible has weaknesses regard- The commandment allows for some that a simple, childlike faith in Jesus is both ing a theology for the universe, the Bible still flexibility in interpretation in its various parts necessary and sufficient for salvation (going to has important contributions. We may regard the but does call for great commitment to God. heaven). Science cannot prove nor disprove that Bible as properly instructive in many areas. There seems to be no conflict with the universe claim. What beliefs in the Bible are compatible in believing that God, if real, requires great If we go beyond simple faith, it is challeng- with a scientific understanding of the universe? devotion from people. ing to see how additional traditional views of The men of the Bible did have faith in If so, what is the extent of God’s interest? Jesus (such as divine conception, virgin birth God, including God as creator. Perhaps God What does God expect not only from us but and resurrection) can be considered compatible did not create in the way that a literal reading also for us? with a scientific view of the universe. of Genesis says that God did. There can still be We find intriguing answers in some of the Should these views be considered faith in God as creator of the universe. teachings of Jesus. According to John 10:10b, metaphorical? Perhaps interpreting them as Scientists generally believe in the Big Jesus said, “I came that they may have life, and symbols of some kind would be appropriate. Bang as the beginning of the universe but have have it abundantly” (NRSV). Another possibility is for faith to go beyond no idea as to what preceded the Big Bang. It What was meant by having life? Was Jesus science and perhaps even against science in this is reasonable to believe that there was a very speaking about spiritual life that would be area. A further idea is to say that some beliefs powerful, even if somewhat mysterious, force added to physical life? about Jesus do exceed scientific expectations but that produced the Big Bang. There is no conflict The part of the statement about abundant are not necessarily false. with the universe in believing that such a force life has usually been interpreted in the sense Extremeophiles, for example, exceed scien- was real and was God. of spiritual fulfillment. Although there may tific expectations for conditions of life but are It is also reasonable to believe that this be differences over its exact nature, improving real. Extremeophiles are forms of deep ocean life possible force at the beginning (before the Big life in some way sounds like an appropriate that apparently thrive under normally unbeliev- Bang) has a continuing relationship with the goal even for a scientific understanding of the able conditions of nearly boiling heat and universe. For example, the scientific explanation universe. high acidity. Extremeophiles do not have the of the origin of life is far from satisfactory. We should also consider the often-quoted significance of Christian beliefs about Jesus but The scientific view of the origin of life may statement of Jesus in John 3:16: “For God so simply indicate that scientific expectations are be accurate as far as it goes but does little to loved the world that he gave his only Son, so sometimes too limited. Perhaps Jesus is a special explain exactly how lifeless matter became living that everyone who believes in him may not exception. matter. There is also no clear scientific view on perish but may have eternal life” (NRSV). Let us think further concerning the claim how consciousness and intelligence developed. What is meant by believing in God’s only in John 3:16 about not perishing but having Unless scientists arrive at a compelling alterna- Son? eternal life. tive, it is not against the universe to believe that There are beliefs about Jesus that fit a Does eternal life sound like wishful, God is ultimately responsible for life, conscious- theology for the universe because the beliefs are unscientific thinking? ness and intelligence. compatible with science. Doubts have been expressed not only The Bible as a whole presents the belief Jesus taught that the greatest command- about the immortality of the soul but even the that God is especially concerned about people. ments were ones about love. He showed great existence of souls.
34 | Feature November 2015 As to another claim, does it sound and that may sometimes receive support from realistic to talk about the resurrection of dead scientific views. It does not contradict science Classifieds bodies? to believe that God is not only real but also The challenges are formidable. is the power behind the Big Bang. Scientists Eternal life does not appear to fit in with currently have no serious proposals as to what Senior Pastor: a scientific view of the universe but consider may have preceded the Big Bang. - various views of scientists. Our bodies are said The belief that God is real and has special to be made of chemicals, which are made of interest in humans seems to be a reasonable atoms. The atoms are composed of electrons, possibility when we consider that humans, as protons and neutrons, all of which are some far as we know, are the only intelligent life in kind of electrical energy. the universe. Our planet is only a speck in the Things made of atoms can change form, vast universe, but human consciousness and but the atoms or at least the component parts intelligence suggest both a higher power and of atoms do not die. They can be reassembled. special significance for us. If atoms or at least their component As to inclusion of Jesus in a theology - parts can be reassembled, might not bodies be for the universe, here again there should be a - reassembled or assembled in some new form? distinction of beliefs. We have seen that some If there is the objection that life cannot beliefs about Jesus are not in conflict with come from a collection of chemicals, we might science. These beliefs include his emphasis on remind ourselves of how scientists think that love in the two greatest commandments, his life started in the first place. compassion for the sick and the poor, and his There may be other and better explana- concern for mercy more than for strict adher- tions, but the belief that God has provided ence to minor matters. There is much about for eternal life expresses a possibility that does the life and teachings of Jesus that is free of Senior Pastor: seem to be compatible with the universe as conflict with science. - scientifically understood. Continuation of life There are some special beliefs about Jesus or renewal of life would not be much more that raise scientific objections or that, at least, astonishing than the existence of life itself. are not supported by science. These beliefs So, as we consider a theology for the include his divine conception, virgin birth, universe, what would be a proper view of the redeeming death, resurrection and ascension. Bible? These beliefs may be interpreted symbolically - Although the idea may be disturbing for as well as literally. If any of these beliefs are many, a scientific outlook would not include accepted literally, it should be emphasized that - belief in the Bible as wholly inerrant or these beliefs do not so much contradict science perfect. There would be no wish to interpret as exceed scientific expectations. the Bible literally all of the time. And there Some things that exceed current scientific would be recognition that the writers of the expectations may still be real. Scientists and Bible were probably very heavily influenced by others may discuss the degree of probability Senior Pastor: the tribal and cultural views of their times. But that something is true, but possibilities are there could be deep appreciation for the beliefs important for both science and theology. expressed in the Bible by men of faith if those There are questions about a theology for beliefs were very carefully interpreted. the universe that extend beyond the Bible. A theology for the universe should allow Why did God, as far as we know, restrict for distinguishing between various beliefs life in the universe, including intelligent life, to about God. Some traditional beliefs should our comparatively tiny planet? What is God’s be rejected because the scientific evidence is plan for the universe beyond our planet? Has Pastor: against them. These views include the belief God provided for any universes beyond our that God created the world less than 10,000 own? years ago. Whether or not the universe is A complete theology for the universe - exactly 13.7 billion years old, scientists have should include but needs to go beyond very reasonably established that the universe is careful consideration of the Bible. These extremely old. observations are far from being a full theology Also to be rejected is the belief that God for the universe. Yet they do indicate some of - instantly created adult humans. Scientists are the questions and problems as well as some not clear on the exact time of the appearance positive possibilities. BT of adult humans, but there is overwhelming Pastor: evidence that life started with very simple —E. B. (Ben) Self of Hopkinsville, Ky., is the forms. author of Ways of Thinking About God: - There are other traditional beliefs about The Bible, Philosophy, and Science God that do not contradict scientific views (Nurturing Faith, 2013).
November 2015 Feature | 35 Reblog
Selections from recent blogs at baptiststoday.org Making progress
By Tony W. Cartledge No wonder I couldn’t bend it. There’s little chance I will live long ecovering from any sort of surgery is a enough to flatten the cobalt chrome replace- process. I’ve now had four of them, all ment, which is working just fine. The only - involving moving parts. There’s some- pain I have left is from the incision, and that’s R thing artificial now in both shoulders and both diminishing. I can walk again without looking hips. like I’m constantly stepping in holes. It occurred to me that spiritual growth I’m hoping the knees still have some good Even so, the comeback trail isn’t immediate. works in much the same way. If we want to see tread left on them. There’s physical therapy to do, and ice to apply, progress, we need the daily discipline of doing Replacement of my right hip in Sept- and resting with the feet up to keep swelling what’s good for the soul as well as the body. ember didn’t come too soon. The surgeon said down. It’s a process, but there’s daily progress, That includes the intentional pursuit of both the weight-bearing portion of my femur — and confidence that I’ll soon be back up to full spiritual exercise and rest — and maybe a bowl which should be round — was worn down flat. speed — which isn’t very fast, but it’s steady. of chicken soup, made for someone else. BT
well. It allows for addressing only certain Redeeming the skewed church so-called sins. In American culture, evangeli- cal Christianity has been widely rebranded By John Pierce identifies “three skewed trends” in congrega- as a political ideology that reflects very little tions that deserve attention — and, yes, I of the life and teachings of Jesus. It is sim- he highly publicized, early fall visit of would add, reformation. ply astonishing to witness what gets called Pope Francis to the U.S. provided an One: The church as a modern “Christian” today — and what attracts those T opportunity to reflect upon the his- bureaucracy — overly concerned with man- who profess to be Christian. toric as well as much-needed, ongoing efforts agement, organization and enlargement. As a result, it is widely acceptable for at church reform — from the large, opulent This business success model must be those claiming to be Christian to be greedy, expression in Rome to the small, white- kept in check. We rightly organize, support racist and belittling of others, and to foster steepled ones on street corners near us. and work efficiently for a greater purpose than injustices through one’s personal and profes- It’s easy to get off track from the being well organized, financially sound and sional life. Just don’t drink and gamble, or church’s primary purpose and to allow lesser, efficient. These are means to a greater end. hold the “wrong” opinion on women’s roles, baser concerns to override the clearest of If our measuring stick becomes the gay rights, immigrants and other issues callings. Simply put, the narrow, hard path organizational condition of a bureaucracy, mislabeled as biblical truth. of following Jesus requires greater love, we will likely find ourselves to be successful Preachers know that there are only deeper forgiveness and broader acceptance but not particularly faithful. certain toes most congregants are willing to than most of us find comfortable. Two: The church as a source of indi- have stepped on. Like those who troubled Jesus so much, vidual fulfillment — overly concerned with Indeed, the mission and function of we’d rather work up neat lists of rules and personal satisfaction and appeasement. the church can get skewed without care- beliefs that make us feel good when exclud- Those of us with many ministers as close ful reflection and intentional redirection. ing others. friends see, hear and feel this reality often. It And defensiveness is often the roadblock to Of course, being comfortable and confi- is the congregational trap set for pastors — needed change. dent is a pretty good sign of having detoured who are expected to appease listeners (thereby Church reform in Rome may come best from the selfless, sacrificial Way of the keeping the bureaucracy sound) while some- from its papal leader. In congregations with- Christ. But our tendency is to give our best how proclaiming the Gospel. out such hierarchy, however, it comes best attention to other easier matters. It doesn’t work. Either the pastor gets in from bold, influential lay leaders who affirm The late theologian Edward Farley, who hot water or the Gospel gets watered down and free their ministers to preach, teach and taught for decades at Vanderbilt Divinity in order to appease. exemplify the counter-cultural, life-chang- School, published a book a dozen years ago Three: The church as a moralistic ing, grace-filled Way of Christ — even if it that rings a still-fresh warning. meter — overly concerned with detailed makes us uncomfortable and less confident. In Practicing Gospel: Unconventional codes of behavior and ethical legalism. Or, perhaps, because it makes us feel Thoughts on the Church’s Ministry, he This is part of the preacher trap as that way. BT
36 Guest Commentary By David Gushee, Religion News Service Warning: Anti-immigrant rhetoric can be deadly
Some of this year’s crop of politicians Step three: It is debatable whether it is surely not just Mexican) immigrants, as a reasonable to be concerned that undocumented group, in a very dangerous way. It invites all tell us that illegal or undocumented immigrants pose a threat to American culture “non-Mexicans” to look at all “Mexicans” in a immigrants pose a deadly threat to or the predominant use of the English lan- demeaning way and to treat them accordingly. guage. The reasonableness of such concerns Citizenship status gradually melts away our country. I say that anti-immigrant relates entirely to our vision of America. here as the central issue. It is skin color and rhetoric is the more dangerous threat. What kind of country are we or should assumed ethnicity and nationality that is the we be? A “white” country, or a multiracial problem. t has been deadly before, here and in other country? A predominantly or exclusively And some evidence is coming in that countries. It can easily become deadly again. English-speaking coun- brown-skinned, Hispanic, or “Mexican- I You can watch the rhetorical escalation try, or a polyglot nation? looking” people face routine and even up the ladder — or down the slippery slope, A European-colonial- escalating dehumanization and degrading choose your metaphor — toward danger. descendant nation, or a treatment today. A spirit is abroad in the land Step one: It is perfectly reasonable for multiethnic nation with that goes far beyond one candidate. those concerned about illegal immigration to people coming from all It is a proven pattern: When one group of express concern about our nation’s ability to parts of the world? people in a country is taught to look at another secure its borders, especially from those who To opponents of group of people in that country as inferior, might pose a real threat. (illegal, and sometimes immoral and dangerous, the latter group will As one who regularly waits in lines to pass legal) immigration, I say eventually pay a huge price. All kinds of indig- through border controls, I get it. In a nation- that if this is your con- nities, discrimination, and violence can be state world, borders matter. All nations attempt cern, say it loud and plain, and let us debate expected. Need I cite examples? to secure their borders. The United States has a the matter. So we have reason to be concerned about right and a need to secure its borders. Step four: It is not debatable but abhor- illegal immigration. But right now we ought Step two: It is also perfectly reasonable rent to express concern that undocumented to be more concerned about campaign rhetoric to be concerned about potential economic immigrants as a group are dangerous and inflaming racial, ethnic and nationalist fears in impacts of illegal immigration. It is reason- morally inferior. some very dangerous ways. All of us need to be able to fear the creation of a job market for This, of course, was assumed in Donald on our guard against it. BT undocumented immigrants that can undercut Trump’s infamous comment earlier this year: employment for American citizens. “When Mexico sends its people, they’re not —David Gushee is distinguished university It is reasonable to fear a drain on govern- sending their best. … They’re sending people professor of Christian ethics and director of the ment social services or health care spending. that have lots of problems. … They’re bringing Center for Theology and Public Life at Mercer Of course, if research demonstrated that drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists. University. He is the author or editor of 20 undocumented immigrants do not create more And some, I assume, are good people.” books, including Righteous Gentiles of the unemployment or cost more than they contrib- Notwithstanding the slight caveat at the Holocaust, Kingdom Ethics, The Sacredness of ute to tax dollars, this would resolve the concern. end, this comment dismisses Mexican (and Human Life, and Changing Our Mind.
When one group of people in a country is taught to look at another group of people in that country as inferior, immoral and dangerous, the latter group will eventually pay a huge price.
37
The Power of Orality Tom Long talks about preaching in challenging times
HATTANOOGA, Tenn. — “About “There is a sense that orality can take you Preaching “wisely,” he said, should every 60 years or so I think preach- places that a flat screen image cannot,” he said. emphasize how “life has purpose and value, but C ing has a nervous breakdown,” said Through presentations and dialogue, also form and shape” that goes beyond rules to Tom Long, to an October gathering of Baptist Long explored preaching as it relates to the wisdom. preachers in downtown Chattanooga. “…We biblical genres of parables, wisdom sayings and Concerning the role of laments, Long start looking around for the next thing.” laments. warned preachers: “On Good Friday, you don’t Long, a Presbyterian minister and the The “surprise” that comes from parabolic really want to go to Easter yet.” Bandy Professor Emeritus of Preaching sermons is missing in much preaching, said Lament, he said, properly startles listeners at Emory University’s Candler School of Long, noting however that Jesus used this who have been raised in an American culture Theology, preached and taught during the method. summarized as: “I was born an extraordinary annual preaching consultation sponsored by “Simply telling listeners that God loves person but have had some setbacks, but with Mercer University and Cooperative Baptist them is not enough,” he said of the con- hard work I’ve put them behind me and the Fellowship organizations. temporary narcissistic culture: “They aren’t future is bright.” “Narrative preaching is beginning to take surprised.” Long, who has researched and written on on water a little bit,” said Long of his own He called for enough “disruption” to show Christian funerals, said: “Lament is not the preaching style that he defends. The Gospel, how “the kingdom of heaven corrupts the cor- ultimate voice of the Bible, but praise only he said, is narrative. ruption of the culture.” becomes authentic when the lament is there.”
38 | Feature November 2015 Popular megachurches, with an over- in preaching and how far one can go in that. that simply separated good music from emphasis on positive thinking, tend to ignore This especially comes from people who bad music regardless of style. Are worship the biblical laments, he said. “But they are were trained to preach a generation or a half leaders doing better at that now? going to have to come to grips with the full ago when that wasn’t even in the picture and TL: I actually think there is a little progress range of human life.” now they have to learn a new language and on the worship wars. Different churches are Death “with a capital D” is not our friend they wonder what they ought to do. at different stages about this, but there is a and comes to every funeral, he said. Lament loosening up of hidebound traditionalists in is a proper response. “Yet it is our duty and BT: Can you say a little more about the worship. They are recognizing that we are in a delight to raise our fists and say, ‘O Death, challenge to preaching that comes from different generational setting. digital communication? where is your sting…?’” But there is also a maturing of the youth- TL: I think we are battling a cultural assump- oriented, contemporary worship. It burns out A CONVERSATION tion and a cultural preference. The cultural pretty quickly when it only runs on fizz and In an interview with Baptists Today, Long assumption is that the visual trumps the oral. high-energy music. responded to questions from editor John The preference is for the moving image — I think the incorporation of global music Pierce. This exchange has been edited for space something to delight the eyes. is really helping because there are deeply rever- and clarity. The old Jesuit scholar Walter Ong, who ent hymns and other musical compositions studied orality and literacy, once said that that come from all over the world that have a BT: You said some affirming words about there’s no form of human communication kind of musical appeal to younger folks — but the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship being more powerful than someone who loves some- aren’t standing up and shouting “Awesome” at “salt in southern Christianity.” We don’t one else telling the truth in love, speaking the the screen for two hours. often hear that from someone outside of truth. Orality has a power that literacy, in his CBF life. Will you say a little more about case, or visual art does not. BT: Two questions: What is the biggest how you as a Presbyterian perceive So I think the challenge is to figure out challenge you see facing the church right now? And what is the most hopeful sign? Fellowship Baptists? the appropriate use of the visual. It’s with us; TL: As a southerner, I watched with alarm as it’s appealing to our culture. TL: I think the huge challenge is that we have the Southern Baptist Convention drifted to the I don’t think we know all the rules yet, spent centuries building up Christian institu- hard right and was finally taken over and some but I think the big rule is something like: the tions and structures that are falling down. And marvelous institutions were deeply damaged. visual must always support the oral in preach- I happen to think that, to some degree, God is Take, for example, Southern Seminary. ing, not compete with it or replace it. the one who is tearing them down. People know that was a wonderful Southern So if I’m preaching on Corinthians and That’s a good thing to say that God is Baptist seminary but … it was one of the talking about the historic reality of meat being actually reconstructing the church. But it world’s finest theological schools and it was offered to idols, I might want to put a picture doesn’t minimize the pain. I’ve spent almost damaged. of excavated Corinth on the screen where you my whole ministry in theological education, Baptist life is so important to southern can see the little butcher shops next to the building up schools. religious life because of the dominance of it. shrines. Wow, the changes are dramatic in theolog- If the whole southern Baptist movement had It would be informative; it would support ical education. And a lot that I built up is now become hardened, like the dominant strain the proclamation of the Gospel. It is informa- in dust. I have some personal grief about that, was, it would have been hugely damaging to tive and supportive. and I think those of us raised in the church — the rest of us. I can imagine preaching a sermon on the the generation I am — have some grief about But there were these courageous people sacrifice of Isaac in Genesis 22 and putting all of these churches that are now empty. and many of them are found in the CBF who up Rembrandt’s depictions of Abraham as a So I think that is our big challenge: not said, “No, this is not the Gospel; this is not the young man and as an old man. They are quite only to live in a time of collapse and recon- way of Jesus Christ.” different. struction, but to get over our grief about what It was painful and a price was paid by As a young man, Abraham is going to do we loved that is now gone. many of those people, but the lesson was not God’s will and … the angel has to wrestle the But the hopeful sign — and again it’s con- lost on the rest of us. It was very encouraging. knife away from him. But when he’s an old nected to my vocation as a teacher — is when man, the knife is held reluctantly and the angel I look out at my classes and see the very cre- ative, very bright young people who are deeply BT: What do preachers call or write to you only has to touch his arm for him to drop it. about most often? It’s the changing and maturing understanding committed to the ministry and they have a of the will of God and tragedy. So art could nimbleness that I don’t have about what’s TL: A couple of things: First, most of the support that theological point, I think. happening in the church. emails I get from preachers are: “I remember They are willing to bet their ministries a story you told one time and I want to use it. BT: I recall you saying a few years ago that and bet their lives on highly experimental Could you give it to me again?” there is a tendency for worship leaders to structures. A lot of those will not work out, But beyond that I think it’s the anxiety of draw vertical lines to separate the styles of but some of them will, and they will be there preaching centered on the generational split — music they will or will not use in worship. in the building up of the new Christian com- and along with that the use of technical media You called for drawing a horizontal line munity. I’m hopeful of that. BT
November 2015 Feature | 39 !" #$%& '()*+) What is Nurturing Faith?
“Nurturing Faith” was first used by Baptists Today as the name of the Bible study curriculum written by Tony Cartledge. he Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are unique in the scholarship of a consis- Ttent writer, the depth of lessons based on Lectionary texts, and the presentation of the lessons within the news journal along with abundant teaching resources (including video) online. “Nurturing Faith” conveyed the intent of providing more-scholarly Bible study than most Sunday school materials yet also applicable to daily living. But the question was raised: “What Nurturing Faith Resources – Published other resources can add to that mission?” Nurturing Faith Bible Studies by Tony in collaboration with the Cooperative Baptist A unique approach to book publish- Cartledge – Found in the center spread of Fellowship and CBF of North Carolina, these ing soon emerged — along with the tag line: Baptists Today, and with group subscriptions resources continue to grow with new ones in “Something Good Is Growing.” Indeed, available, these studies also offer online teach- production. Nurturing Faith continues to grow as an exten- ing resources. sion of the publishing ministry that began more than 30 years ago. Nurturing Faith Bible Study Series by Nurturing Faith Experiences – Unique Nurturing Faith™ respects the intelli- Tony Cartledge – Short-term Bible studies group travel opportunities emphasizing adven- gence of its readers and their commitments to with background materials included are now ture and spiritual growth are offered each year. growing in faith. Books and other resources are available in book format. (See the ad on page 41 Previous trips included Israel/West Bank and collaborative efforts with authors, sponsors and for more information.) Yellowstone and Glacier national parks. organizations with shared values. So what is Nurturing Faith? It is a growing A creative team of writers, editors and Nurturing Faith Books – A broad array of designers has been assembled to produce the excellent books (devotional, inspirational, bib- way to extend the ministry of Baptists Today. varied Nurturing Faith resources available at lical, topical, biographical, fiction) is available Check it out! “Something Good Is Growing” NurturingFaith.net: in print or digital format. at NurturingFaith.net. BT
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mages of Lula Lake and its cascading falls A half-century later, however, the green- or rebirth. — atop Lookout Mountain where Georgia blue lake, falls and surrounding mountain land Walking within the reclaimed land of I nears Tennessee — were popular during the have been reclaimed thanks to the foresight and trees, mountains, soil, greenery, mushrooms postcard era. You can find them on eBay with generosity of the late Robert M. Davenport and and wildlife can clear the cobwebs of over- dates such as 1902, 1910 and 1924. the ongoing work of those charged with protect- loaded and distracted minds. It can give fresh Scenic views, cool water and mountain air ing this lovely natural resource. perspective to our own needs to be reclaimed made for a relaxing gathering space, especially Efforts to counter the impact of overuse, from whatever mars our very beings: anxiety, on Sundays when for many people anything dumping, mining and logging have resulted anger, fear or self-centeredness. more strenuous than lifting a fork was regarded in a refreshing experience of natural beauty Often, we need to be restored to our as sin. for those who walk the mountain trails today intended purpose. Reclamation is at the very Over time, however, the area began to show — as my daughters and I did over Labor Day heart of the grand and ancient biblical story — signs of overuse and other abuses. Then, on weekend. although too often it gets over-packaged and Easter Sunday 1966, the heinous murder of two The Lula Lake Land Trust was estab- mislabeled to serve some other personal, orga- teenagers there cast a shadow of fear and shame lished in 1994 according to the will of Robert nizational or nationalistic purpose. on the once postcard-perfect mountain setting. Davenport, who began quietly acquiring the Sadly, there is a tendency to reduce the By the way, the crime reportedly influ- mountain land decades earlier. Since his death Gospel message to a formula rather than a rad- enced the fiction writing of Cormac McCarthy the environmentally protected and restored ical reorientation. Too often it gets presented who was in Knoxville at the time and would land in trust has grown from 1,200 to more as mechanical rather than relational, trans- have read the news reports. than 8,000 acres (lulalake.org). actional rather than transformative, instant Although the murder suspect lived in the Also a new trail system now connects Lula rather than ongoing, and legalistically cumber- small community off the mountain in which I Lake Land Trust with beautiful Cloudland some rather than spiritually freeing. was raised, any discussions of the murders were Canyon State Park in Georgia, providing more Yet spiritual reclamation, flowing like shielded from my awareness as a 10-year-old. than 60 miles of total hiking trails across this mountain waterfalls, meets the greatest of (That was more easily done before social media part of Lookout Mountain. human needs — allowing that which is old and and nonstop, sensationalized news cycles.) This great work of reclamation is the destructive to give way to that which is fresh Easy access to the lake and falls on pri- result of seeing and seeking a better way. It and freeing. BT vate land was cut off, and the abandoned is rooted in acknowledging the need for space became a convenient dumping ground. change and then taking the patient, careful and —This article is adapted from a blog Figuratively, it was all downhill from there. blister-producing efforts that allow for renewal at BaptistsToday.org.
42 | Feature November 2015 Reclamation Good reading from Faith BOOKS
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MANNERS & MONEY: A MANUAL ON commit and support in a shared experi- HOPEFUL IMAGINATION PREACHING ETIQUETTE ence. There is no beginning or end, but a Mike Queen & Jayne Davis C. Lynn Brinkley process toward an intentional way of life. Today, churches are God has entrusted no longer the centers preachers with his BUILDING BRIDGES DURING of social influence in sacred word, his THE INTERIM their communities. church, and the John Lepper And, denominational sacred desk. Preach- Even though indi- organizations are not ers have an obliga- vidual churches have the repositories for tion to offer back to their own polity, his- all resources, services God excellence in $16.00 pb tory, demographics, and expertise that $16.00 pb Christian ministry $9.99 ebook size and leadership, congregations need to $9.99 ebook by conducting the pastoral interims have be effective. Leaders ministry of preaching “decently and in certain dynamics in of First Baptist Church, Wilmington, N.C. order.” Likewise, churches are entrusted common. Lay leaders $16.00 pb offer “hopeful imagination” to churches with honoring the time and energy that can build a healthy $9.99 ebook by telling their story of how their “Old preachers spend in preparation for speak- bridge between pas- First” church adapted to changing times ing/preaching engagements by providing tors by knowing what to expect and how and managed not only to survive, but also hospitable treatment and proper pay- to proceed with various tasks — assistance to thrive by approaching ministry in new ment. Lynn Brinkley addresses the issues offered in this helpful resource. and different ways. of preaching and hosting etiquette in a manual written for current and future LEADERSHIP IN CONSTANT CHANGE ministers, teachers, and churches. Terry R. Hamrick Change keeps coming. DISCIPLE DEVELOPMENT COACHING How will congregation- Mark Tidsworth & al leaders respond? Ircel Harrison What can they do to This coaching resource help their churches offers exercises and when old ways no training, but is not a longer work? Draw- method or program. ing upon scholarly Rather, it is a highly re- research and personal $16.00 pb lational movement that experiences that lead $9.99 ebook has the potential to $16.00 pb to practical helps, empower all Christians $9.99 ebook Terry Hamrick offers adaptive leadership to find their places in principles and tips on embracing missional the world. It locates the responsibility for qualities that can lead to discovering God’s the church’s mission in the hands, hearts vision for churches. and minds of all disciples. The coach and Order now at the disciple ask, listen, explore, design, nurturingfaith.net
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