I just finished Beyond Foundationalism, by Grenz and Franke. It has left me scratching my head, not because I disagree, or struggle with their argument. I don't, but because of my own experience. They argue that Christian Community is a major part of our theologizing... I agree with them wholeheartedly...
My issue is that my primary community does not lie with in the church. The "Rat Pack," as we have been affectionately labeled is my source of identity, connection, and socialization. The church certainly is an important community in my life, but I have never and do not think I will ever experience it in the way that Grenz and Franke describe it this side of heaven.
The church requires that we put our best face forward. It doesn't do this purposely nor does it like that it does. It can't help it...I cannot be 100% real in the church, nor can anyone of pew mates. We all know this. We all play the same game. We make excuses and come up with reasons why, but it is the nature of the beast...
What does this mean? I don't know. I was talking to my mentor about it and he has dealt with the same problem for a lot of years now. He told me when I get back we will talk some more, because it is an issue...how can it not be...
Tom, Thanks... I hear you. I guess my struggle is that now I do have a group of friends that know absolutely everything about me, including the times that I stick my finger up my nose in the presence of a beautiful woman...
Posted by: Stephen Grant | 30 May 2007 at 01:38 AM
This post really resonates with me Steve. Years ago I offered a message to the youth group I lead that I called "Known only to God". The main point being that we only let people as far in as we are comfortable. The only one that sees all the way in is God. And even with this knowledge I still try to hide from Him. Part of me understands deeply Paul's conflict when he said "I long to be free of this body of sin and death." But until that time I've got my group of friends. And though we've known each other for years and shared many hard times we still find it awkward to be transparent. And then I've got the group of guys (you included) at the brass. And while we may not dive deep often, I know that I'm with brothers. And sometimes just being with people that are striving for the same goal that I am is comforting in it's own right. We miss you Steve. Be safe! Tom
Posted by: Tom | 29 May 2007 at 07:30 PM
This post really resonates with me Steve. Years ago I offered a message to the youth group I lead that I called "Known only to God". The main point being that we only let people as far in as we are comfortable. The only one that sees all the way in is God. And even with this knowledge I still try to hide from Him. Part of me understands deeply Paul's conflict when he said "I long to be free of this body of sin and death." But until that time I've got my group of friends. And thought we've known each other for years and shared many hard times we still find it awkward to be transparent. And then I've got the group of guys (you included) at the brass. And while we may not dive deep often, I know that I'm with brothers. And sometimes just being with people that are striving for the same goal that I am is comforting in it's own right. We miss you Steve. Be safe! Tom
Posted by: Tom | 29 May 2007 at 07:28 PM