The Edge of the Inside » Missiology

We Need a Few Good People – Weekly Video

Todd Littleton — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:30:42 +0000

“You can’t handle the truth!” Saturday I watched A Few Good Men. Again. Some youngsters have a crush on Justin Bieber. I like Jack Nicholson, Kevin Bacon, and Kiefer Sutherland. There are not a few poignant scenes. Aside from provoking Colonel Jessup (Nicholson) to declare Lieutenant Kaffee (Cruise) could not handle the truth, there is a scene where Cruise and Moore are debating how to manage Kaffee’s (Cruise’s) new case. In a fever pitch of emotion trying to make his point, Cruise tells Moore, “I only believe what I can prove.” Moore had just told Cruise she believed in the innocence of the accused but had no proof. Classic. (My weekly video in the right sidebar on the home page offers another important clip that forms seed for this post.)

How do we proceed? Many people we encounter outside the Church, and make no mistake inside the Church, look for some kind of verification – either affirmation or a falsification. We in the Church have become very adept at shouting our affirmations. But, we seem to be singing in a barrel on many occasions. My last, admittedly snarky, post raised the question in a different way. At its heart I rejected the idea that any kind of transformation comes in a system where figure heads speak for the majority from a distance, detached and disconnected.

Our theological impulses must derive from a well thought out understanding of our own humanity, presence, embodiment. In short, we must do more than refer to the Incarnation in our Creeds and Confessions. We don’t quite know what to do with it. Skeptics just dismiss it as part of our mythos. And why not when it seems to have little real footing in the day to day, Monday to Monday living out of our faith. Incidents reported like the CNN piece that provoked my snark do little more than give a public forum to disseminate the idea that we do not think nearly as deeply as we pretend. See Ben Witherington III’s response here.

Back to Reiner’s work. The verdict is in. The worst possible scenario – dishonorable discharge. Pfc. Dawson had already noted he would rather sit in jail than face the prospect of “dis-honor.” In this final scene young Pfc. Downey attempts to figure out what the ruling means. He contends he was doing what soldiers do – follow orders. He insisted he had done nothing wrong. He followed the code. Pfc. Dawson turns to let him know the wrong was in following a code that superseded their commitment to fight for those who could not fight for themselves, the code. We have but one. Live in the Way of Jesus.

I could not help to see this latest news out of techno-church a colossal adventure in missing the Incarnation. You see it is not about presentation but presence – yours and mine with others who get bypassed on the way to spending others hard earned dollars for a way to extend an unreal presence. And, in our world it is the how of our presence and the what of our action that communicates the presence of Jesus.

Father Richard Rohr offers a way to think about the depths of living an embodied life in the Way of Jesus. Rather than look for the least possible cost and the path of least resistance in the codes we opt for rather than choosing “the” code. He suggests what he sees as the most radical of Jesus’ teachings (“the” code”).

Question of the Day:
Do we really want our leaders
to love our enemies?
The greatest and the summit of Jesus’ commandments and the most radical of all of his teachings is, “You must love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44). How many of us love other people who kick us around or those who make it hard for us? Do we even know how to do this? Is it something we desire to do? Let’s admit that our culture sees this as weak, capitulating, soft, dangerous, and “effeminate” for men—and is even seen this way by many women. Christian countries have never been known for obeying this commandment, to my knowledge. In fact, you would never be elected or admired if you even talked this way. We have a problem here.

We do not really like or understand love as Jesus teaches it. As Fr. Zossima says in Dostoevsky’s, The Brothers Karamazov: “Love in practice is a harsh and dreadful thing compared to love in dreams. It may very well kill you.”

~Richard Rohr
June 2010

Now, if we want to take embodiment, presence, our humanity seriously then we must conclude with Dawson, we have been fighting for the wrong people. Rather than fight for ourselves and putting ourselves out there for ourselves, we would more closely follow the Way of Jesus by putting ourselves out there fighting for others – those who cannot fight for themselves. This is a job sans holograms.

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What is the new “chortle?” – Missional?

Todd Littleton — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:19:04 +0000

“Missional” is making the rounds in the interwebs in anticipation of a consensus. I suspect pulling a new word into meaning requires antagonists and allies. After all, “missional” still is adversarial to spell check! If missional emerges from the clutches of its varied uses to become a standardized term, what will it be in 140 years? That is, what word will rescue the “mission of God” from its certain fall once “missional” goes out of vogue? Is hijacked? Or for some, the new liberal?

If an attempt at a consensus is to once for all nail language so we may cast this person or that person out for the “wrong” use of the word, then the attempt is really another “line in the sand.” She’s not “missional.” He’s not “missional.” If by missional we mean participation in the mission of God in the world then it should hold a wide enough swath to be used by a variety of groups. That is, unless one group thinks it has market on the mission of God over another group.

The phrase “missio dei” has itself fallen on hard times as some trace its use in recent Christian history to a move toward an unwelcome ecumenism and a diminishing of the Gospel. Warnings abound and parallels are drawn to say with Marx that history indeed repeats itself. But, for Marx this meant one thing and for those who point to a slippery slope it means quite another. Regardless of what one says about history and its recurrence we need to recover an awareness of the mission of God in the world – the missio dei.

Recently, Callid Keefe-Perry presented at the Theology After Google Conference at Claremont School of Theology. I wonder if for some of us “missional” is the new “chortle.” Watch the video and see if in some way “missional” language has had an impact on the way in which we both experience God in Christ and how we talk about God in Christ. If we are using a new word, as an adjective or verb, to describe the mission of God are we not then doing just what Callid suggests we should be doing, in spite of those who hunt for heresies? (To get the reference for “chortle” you will have to watch the video.)

Nude Justice – Bill Kinnon Gets Naked

Todd Littleton — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 16:06:51 +0000

You must run over and read the short post at Kinnon.tv. Bill exposes readers to what is often apparently missed in the clear reading of Scripture. Jesus describes the manner in which justice is expressed in the world by those who would follow his way in Matthew 25 – it is the work of the Gospel to set a sin wrecked world right. Standing to read from the Isaiah scroll in Luke 4 Jesus points to what he will do – the declaration of the Good News – set a sin wrecked world right.

Missing the connection between these two texts appears to give preference to a self-selected reading of the Scriptural narrative. An unnecessary bifurcation results. These sorts of false antithesis would be called out by some. Bill calls this adventure in missing the connection by exposing the wardrobe malfunction in our narrative reading.

Good job Bill.

Body of Obedience – Thoughts from the Edge

Todd Littleton — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:39:46 +0000

Scot McKnight considers the meaning of Jesus life, death, and resurrection to transcend a “single” theory. Instead, using the illustration of a full set of clubs, Scot contends we need to view the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus from the breadth of understanding found in the history of the church. You may read more in his little book, A Community Called Atonement.

Here are some thoughts on the Hebrews 10 passage from the RCL for this coming Sunday and the celebration of the Fourth Sunday in the Season of Advent. We often just live in our head. Jesus demonstrated a “body of obedience” given once for all. What does your following Jesus look like in your body?

(Not) Sponsors – The Upstream Collective

Todd Littleton — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:50:54 +0000

Would you like to go to Barcelona? Ed Stetzer offered a group of pastors the opportunity to join him on a “vision” trip to Western Europe. I had just finished an online course with David Fitch, “Readings in Postmodern Philosophy and Theology.” During our conversation at the end of that course, David shared his dream of pastors getting their minds around the philosophical and so theological shifts taking place in the US already witnessed in Western Europe. My curiosity was piqued by the opportunity to share conversations with missionaries in Western Eurpoe and I signed on to go.

There I met, among others, Caleb Crider and Larry McCrary. Great hosts. Outstanding people – all of them. Challenging conversations. Not long after returning home I determined to maintain contact with Caleb. Over the course of the next few months I learned of his heart to connect churches with people. In our denomination churches connect with the International Mission Board. If we engage with missionaries it is solely at our initiative and generally to get a regular prayer-gram. We need to pray for these folks without question. But, getting the vision of God for people everywhere only comes through connecting with people, not organizations.

Just more than a year ago Caleb and Larry launched The Upstream Collective. Our denomination likes to pride itself on being something of a “grassroots” cooperative network. Over time it has taken more the feel of a top down magisterium. National conventions, state conventions, and even local associations come across as though they know what is best for the local church. I know many in these various strata of SBC life. I know they do not want to project that image. Even still, it isÂ more often the case.

“Upstream” is intended to convey the mission of God moves “up” through the local church. So rather than tell a church what to do, what would be best, The Upstream Collective intends to put the mission of God back into the hands of the local church and “de-professionalize” the idea of “missionary.” It is not the jettisoning of existing relationships with the IMB. Instead it is a capturing of a new ethos among many who “want” to be involved but have always felt we have been asked to send our money and pray. Life on life connections come via videos and magazines.

Snow Hill had Caleb and Lindsey come lead us in conversations about church and mission in a conference we dubbed, “Church As Missionary.” This coming year Caleb will return with Larry and we will look at how we can take next steps with these experienced missiologists offering insights and helpful ways for us to live our what we believe is our part in God’s mission to the world.

Thanks Caleb and Lindsey, and Larry.

Fear the McLaren – Could there be something good?

Todd Littleton — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:06:06 +0000

Recently I ventured to the great northwest part of our state to participate in a one day conference. During the conversations about what it means for the church to be “for the world” a panel discussion broke out. Two SEBTS seminary professors, a state Executive Director and a Director of Missions comprised the panel. Our state Baptist paper editor moderated the discussion. You could well expect in a conference touching on the issue of contextualization the question of over-contextualization would come up and so the “emerging church.” The climate in the SBC is to shoot first and ask later. Chalk it up to our genteel southern ways.

The sentiment spreads across the Country as those once affiliated with the evil trio of Pagitt, Jones and McLaren drop off to form their own movements and networks – and of course because these fellows are doctrine averse, relativists, and theologically adrift in a new form of liberalism. Yes, there are two death knells that keep us from conversations with those whom we might disagree with, at least in my tribe. Label them liberals of some ilk and mention the need to listen to voices other than white males and you can be sure we will dismiss them faster than Baptists can get to the table for lunch.

Returning to said conference I found it interesting we should be wary of the dangers of Emergent Village and the emerging church, at least some in the “movement”, and yet should welcome conversations between Calvinists and non-Calvinists (the large amorphous designation that it is). Curiously I asked if we could be as charitable with those in the emerging church, even Emergent Village. For, gasp, I have shared meals with Doug, Tony and Brian. There are ideas the three have had, or positions taken, I could not agree with. Sometimes I will read something in one of their books and shake my head thinking, “Not sure I can follow that line all the way down.” But when it comes to critique of the Evangelical church, one need be careful to be dismissive.

Today, when I read Brian’s response to a question from a grad student who was grappling with More Ready Than You Realize I thought how can we summarily dismiss Brian or others because we heard someone label them beyond the pale. Why even Jim Belcher has been shot at for looking for a third way between “traditional” and “emerging.” Heretic! (Yes, that is the other designation I failed to mention that is a sure conversation killer.)

Here is the part that really caught my attention,

I’d also add that I do think moral standards change – but not in the direction of going down – just the opposite. That’s why Jesus said, “You have heard it said … but I say to you…” in the Sermon on the Mount. Over time, I believe God calls us to higher and higher standards of morality. Let me state this very clearly: the goal isn’t to lower moral standards, but to raise them as we grow more morally mature. So – before it was don’t murder. Now it’s don’t hate. Before it was only one eye for an eye. Now it’s seek reconciliation, not revenge. Before it was love your neighbor, hate your enemy. Now it’s love everyone – including enemies.

So – perhaps we can put this question to rest for good: the issue isn’t morality – with some “fer it” and others “agin it.” We’re all for morality, as we understand it. The issue is two-fold. Postmodern-leaning folks are concerned whether this or that preacher’s claims to have “absolute certainty” about this or that moral viewpoint of his are “absolutely justified,” and whether his confidence will increase the chances of behaving immorally. Modern-leaning folks are concerned whether leaving the door open to the possibility that “we” have been or are wrong will lead to moral collapse. If you let an absolutist system go, there will be nothing left, they fear.

I’d say there are dangers on both sides – the danger of excessive moral confidence on the one side and the danger of insufficient moral confidence on the other. I’m seeking a proper confidence … one that is aware of both dangers on both sides.
In my view, only God has absolute moral knowledge. Human beings have shown a remarkable propensity to misinterpret God, all the while claiming to speak for God on morality, which (sadly) often degenerates into speaking as if they were God. I hope that helps! (Feel free to share this with your class.)

By the way, I enjoyed my time at the one day conference. I found Nathan and Alvin deeply passionate about their subjects. Dr. J bleeds the hope for cooperation for the Gospel. And, my friend John who invited me, longs nothing more than to help churches live out the mission of God for the good of the world. It was time well spent.

Re-Enacting the First Century – ABQ Reflection Pt. 4

Todd Littleton — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 20:13:25 +0000

This is part 4 of my reflections from The Emerging Church Conference in Albuquerque and Phyllis Tickle’s presentation on The Great Emergence.

For some time the rage has been “church planting.” Statistical data is often used to support the contention new churches grow more rapidly than existing churches. And, in an ever-increasing consumer-celebrity culture the hottest preacher draws the biggest crowds. So, the pragmatic move is to get that popular communicator in front of as many as possible by any means necessary.

Anecdotal stories about supporting these new “latest and greatest” foster good introductions to faith – or so it goes. But, some of the longing for more “depth” leads some right “through” these large churches on their way to whatever is next. Inevitably a contentious dichotomy ensues. Older, established churches feel maligned as beyond hope and newer churches get little respect for no proven sustainability. The polarization is both un-necessary and un-fortunate.

Phyllis Tickle described this situation as indicative of major transitions in the history of the church. The new and the old of the same faith become adversaries rather than allies. Tickle contends this is in some measure a re-enactment of the 1st century. She referenced Ray Anderson who noted these transitions take on a Jerusalem-Antioch expression.

The Gospel Good News movement expanded beyond its city borders of origin. Word traveled something was going on in Antioch. Investigators were sent to Antioch from Jersualem to determine the veractiy of the movement. Despite some cultural differences and the natural skepticism that comes with new expressions, the guests determined a move of the Spirit was indeed taking place. And, according to the Scriptures, they (Jesus followers) were first called “Christians” in Antioch.

This week a large number interested in church planting will fill the Exponential Conference. I have friends there. Some involved in church planting networks and others hoping to provide training for those convinced church planting is their vocation. Those of us in “established churches” should applaud the move and disregard the often painful rhetoric that these new communities grow faster as if our work is somehow less important in the grand scheme of the Kingdom of God.

Instead, we should take a queue from young men like J.D. Greear. He has been providing a series on “church revitalization.” He offers some good insights and suggestions. I admit to thinking from time to time, “I should have written that!”

The pathological divisivenss need not be fostered by our uncharitable rhetoric.

All over the country there are stories of Jersualem and Antioch. And, if we are honest we do need each other. Unless some sort of metaphysical change occurs those new churches will one day be Jersualem for a host of new Christian communities around the world.

The story of Jersualem and Antioch reveals a love and appreciate for both new and old expressions. Leadership support came from Jerusalem. Financial aid came from Antioch. Rather than continue in the same world opposed, they found unity in the faith even if they did not exhibit uniformity.

What are your thoughts?

Where In the World is Ed Stetzer?

Todd Littleton — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:33:01 +0000

If you follow Ed on Facebook or Twitter then you know he has been in Europe. You may have read his blog and discovered the three posts on his recent travels. Last February I joined Ed and several other pastors on a similar trip to Barcelona. My way of thinking about missions continues to morph as I keep up with Ernest Goodman. I am glad Ed continues to take these trips and invites pastors along for the journey.

In his second post Ed notes the needs for team members in Budapest, Hungary. He sets it up by saying Hungarians are incredibly intellectual considering Christianity for the uneducated. Ed lists the needs,

1. In the arts. Someone who can speak the arts language and engage that culture.
2. In the business world. Someone with and MBA and business sense to create a business consulting firm.
3. In the university. The university is the magnet for the country– the ground is ready to be tilled and worked in student ministry.

I could not help but thinking about a phone conversation with David Fitch wherein he outlined one of the reasons for his recent course, “Readings in Postmodern Philosophy and Theology.” David considers familiarity and understanding with postmodern theory, philosophy, and theology to be key in reaching Europe and the ever post-modern, post-post-modern, post-Christian USAmerica. You should read David early and often at Reclaiming the Mission.

Again, take a look at Ed’s post. Send him a note telling he not only did a good job with the videos, but that he looks good in them too! Here is one worth noting here.

Counter to Current Church Culture Trends

Todd Littleton — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 21:26:33 +0000

My friend, Ernest, over at Missions Misunderstood weighs in on the new trend toward “multi-site” churches. I found his missiological perspective to represent a “counter-cultural” move with regard to church culture.

What do you think?

Learning from Practitioners

Todd Littleton — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 11:20:23 +0000

Cold milk. Tepid milk just does not do the job. Warm milk and Oreo cookies offers no real enticement for me. Growing up, and to this day, I like my milk cold. Refrigeration is a great modern amenity.

In college I worked summers as a part of a “Pull and Clean” team for Sears. We would receive a list of jobs each morning. Generally a “technician” had been out to service a window unit air conditioner. During the “cottonwood shedding season” it was not uncommon for the condenser coil to be plugged, often looking matted by the floating “tree lint.” Equipped with a wire brush, cleaning solvent, and a hose, we would clean these air conditioners. Soon they were cooling like new.

Equating refrigeration with milk was easy. Connecting refrigeration with air conditioners took learning a new vocabulary. “Refrigerated air” became part of our lexicon. Over time we learned from these “technicians” dust and lint found in any home could inhibit airflow around coils of refrigerators and freezers. Special brushes helped clean the lint and restore these appliances to good working condition. Central A/C units often needed this same maintenance procedure.

On our own we knew the effects of refrigeration. We did not understand how it worked until a practitioner/technician helped us understand the process. Seeing things from a different perspective often opened us up to learn ways we were not familiar with and shed notions that really did not fit.

Ernest Goodman writes a blog titled, “Missions Misunderstood.” He is a practitioner, a technician. Ernest has learned an important reality. When it comes to missional and churches partnering relationships matter – a great deal. In fact, after years serving in Western Europe as a missionary, he is convinced the way we (Southern Baptists) do missions (in our churches and mission sending organizations) inherently keeps churches at a safe distance and our missionaries safely accountable to organizational structures rather than the sending churches. You may read Ernest’s thoughts at Missions Misunderstood.