"Joe Beam, as he introduces to the reader his motivation for conducting the above in-depth study, has specified that many within, and even outside of, our fellowship in Churches of Christ are 'struggling to understand the dynamics that are causing increasing isolation between brethren and churches. This is indeed a huge concern with many of us who are witnessing this 'movement (motion) within a movement.' There is an observable drifting apart; a polarization of God's people; a fragmentation of the family of God. In the fascinating field of psychological research and analysis, such a phenomenon would generate a quest among experts to determine the dynamics of such a drift. Bro. Beam correctly stated, 'We need a clear picture and common vocabulary so that we can understand the current dynamics of our brotherhood tension.' It was his belief that 'there may be a model for understanding the uneasiness plaguing our fellowship. Thus, he set about preparing such a model, and the fruit of his labor," complete with detailed explanations can be found at this link. A VERY interesting article. Check it out and let me know what you think!!
http://www.gracecentered.com/what_is_happening_to_churches_of_Christ.htm
2 comments:
It's a very interesting model - of course a wise person once said that "all models are wrong; some are useful," meaning that no model is perfect, but some can help to explain how things are, and I think this falls in to this latter category. I think this is written from an "Open" point of view, and in Beam's own logic will probably be rejected by a number of folks who are to the right of that view. To be honest, I couldn't find much to disagree with in the observations themselves. That's not speaking from a point of total authority, but I have maintained relationships with a lot of folks across the spectrum.
Interesting what he says about splitting into 3 groups. It makes me really concerned about churches that are floundering in between "Traditional" and "Innovative".
thanks Amy for posting this...
I wish we could all just sit down and figure out where we stand on the model, and then pray together, and decide to love each other, regardless of our "position". Instead of being scared of who is who in each group. I hope our generation can be the catalyst to unity.
I fear that someday we will be strongly judged based upon our "positions" - whether they be Inclusive or Exclusive. Perhaps it is this fear that is driving all this division.
So, Jesus' prayer on unity seems that much more needed.
Post a Comment