Sideways Energy
Last week I had the joy of being called an apostate evangelist because of a book I had on my recommended reading list. I'm not even sure exactly what an apostate evangelist is, but I don't think it was a compliment. I just thought this was an opportunity to process how I process stuff like this.
For starters, I always try to stay positive on my blog. There is way too much sideways energy in the kingdom. If something says or does something heretical or blasphemous, then we need to call a spade a spade. But there are lots of Christians taking pot shots at other Christians. I've decided not to defend myself. I probably wouldn't have time for anything else. But I do want to set the record straight.
I have officially removed my recommended reading list from my blog. Let me explain why. I read a ton of books. I used to read about 150 books per year. I now read closer to 50-75 books per year. And my reading list includes lots of books by lots of people I have issue with theologically or personally. I love spiritual classics by people like Tozer or Chambers that I agree with lock, stock, and barrel. But I also like reading books that I don't totally agree with because it makes me think. And it's sort of disingenuous to not believe in something you don't even know about. I read lots of non-Christian authors as part of my cultural exegesis.
Long story short, I had some books listed that I enjoyed reading personally. They made me think in new ways or gave me insight into culture or even helped me understand why I don't believe what I don't believe. And while they are written by people who don't have a Christian worldview, they resulted in a better understanding of Scripture and a closer relationship with Christ. Yes, that's possible!
But here's the thing:I put them through my seminary filter. I'm able to digest them in ways that absorbs the nutrients and gets rid of the waste. But I'm afraid that my recommendations might be viewed as an endorsement of everything these authors stand for as writers and people. It's definitely not. So while I think it's laughable that someone calls me an "apostate evangelist" because of one book I've read, this is an instance where I've decided to error on the side of caution because I know that with visibility comes greater accountability. And if my recommended reading list is a stumbling block it's not worth it. Listen, while NCC is somewhat unorthodox in practice we are absolutely orthodox in belief by any historical standard. And Scripture is the final authority when it comes to truth.
I guess what I'm saying is this: I've learned to choose my battles wisely. And this isn't the hill where I want to fight. It's not important enough. What's so ironic is that I've taken it on the chin from several sides because of an author whose early writings I enjoyed but has become more of a syncretist whom I absolutely disagree with!
For what it's worth, I talked about not majoring in minors this past weekend. Paul warns Timothy against arguments that waste time and start fights. I'm just not going to go there. I don't get negative. And I don't defend myself. Life is too short. And the mission is too important.
One request. Can we put down our stones? We're so quick to stone one another while the world watches! It's an embarrassment. How can we love the world if we can't stop fighting with each other?
Trying to keep it real.
29 Comments:
Wise & very gracious!
This is awesome Mark. A hearty AMEN to this. I think there are apologists out there that work more like lawyers than doctors. Let me explain. Doctors see a weakness in your body and then offer you help to get healthy. A lawyer sees your weaknesses and argues with you to strengthen his position. I prefer being a doctor.
Nice Mark. I attended the #1 party school in the nation (at least at the time) from 2001-2006 (UW-Madison). Growing up in a rural conservative community in North Iowa, my views on everything were very narrow, but attending such a liberal university caused me to really search out what I believe, which involved reading opposing viewpoints. Shoot, Madison, WI is the home to the Freedom From Religion Foundation, so there are plenty of opposing viewpoints to go around!
Now that I'm the youth pastor at our church in Madison, I've had thoughts of "what if" I went to Bible college or seminary and receive some structured education, but after talking with some friends who've attended seminaries and bible colleges, I see a very narrow, close-minded, and even combative attitude towards many things in life and church. The saddest part, to me, isn't so much the ignorance and lack of knowledge, but the argumentative and defensive nature that these people have rather than a healthy respect for the person (in the midst of opposing views) and grace out of love on their tongue.
Do what you do brother! Way to be stronger man!
Your graceful leadership just continues to blow me away. I admire the breadth of your wisdom and your encouragement to those who read your blog to do the same. I believe that we should read and converse about wide subject matter to cause continual growth. But, I also understand your need to lead toward a positive and "stoneless" ground.
You are a very wise man, Mark. Continue to simply pray blessings upon them. Even in this attack, you are counted in esteemed company.
It's a shame you had to take that off your blog... has that dude read the book or taken someone elses opinion on it? Too many people have others thinking & and making opinions for themselves.
I may put a list back up, but it was about 100 books and I hadn't reviewed it in quite some time. So I might re-post it. But I just felt like it wasn't worth the energy.
Maybe I'll just put the Bible on my recommended reading list. That should be safe :) Of course, I better be careful about what translations :)
Gotta keep your sense of humor!
Mark
Well said, dude.
Although, I'd really like to see what you're reading! I just found your blog and feel like we're on the same page as far as culture and the Church is concerned...
Thanks for coining my new favorite term, "cultural exegesis"!
JMW
Brilliant post Mark!
Amen.
I think that literacy now days isn't so much being unable to read or write, but being unable to filter content...
Keep up the great work,
peace from down here in New Zealand.
Mark,
In response to your step of caution, I want to thank you with as much sincere, heartfelt appreciation that I can muster.
I understand very well how all kinds of books might contain bits and pieces of thought-provoking, insightful, and interesting nuggets that mature Christians can use to not only expand their thinking, but also enlarge their list of topics to study from scripture. That is one issue.
The second issue that I think always needs to be kept at the forefront of our minds, especially as Christian leaders, is the fact that not all Christians out there can read these same materials and be helped by them. In fact, they might actually be harmed by them. Without clear direction and guidance, they might swallow all kinds of stuff by seeing such materials through a lens of "If it's good for Mark and good for Richard, then it's good for me."
As I see it, some books -- specifically, books that contain serious doctrinal errors and heresy -- should absolutely be examined by individuals such as yourself, but then they need to be left inside your own walk and spiritual study room. Young Christians, new believers, potential converts, and seekers might not be ready to analyze such books with your discernment. Consequently, they should never be recommended openly and with very little qualification (e.g., against a very thorough backdrop of explanation outlining the serious flaws in them).
For myself, I keep in mind that the average lay Christian out there does not read books with my eyes, mind, heart, or spiritual maturity. So, as you so rightly put it, better safe than sorry. No one, I don't think, is going to be spiritually damaged by NOT having an extremely questionable book recommended to them.
So, once more, thank you for such a monumental step of maturity, integrity, and humility.
Mark, you are doing what God has called you to do in a bigger way than many ever dream. You'll always have critics but just like I heard from Memphis star Derrick Rose "the critics make predictions but don't play the game." I understand Memphis lost the big game but it doesn't change the truth of his statement. Regardless of who said it the fact that they have overlooked your anointing, your insight, your wisdom, your effectiveness and your ministry seems to be more of an issue. For someone to overlook all of the wonderful things and point to what they believe as negative is sad. Whatever you have read to this point, I am grateful you did. Keep doing what you do.
Brandon Shank
I really wish you would repost the list. I was just getting started reading them!
great thoughts...felt like taking an offering.
-charles
Yeah, Mark! I am so glad that I printed your list last month!
While I agree with your post Mark, & I am a bit disheartened. So much of our lives are governed by the few that disagree with this or that. Rather than standing for right we are often forced to bend to someone's legalism.
I'm really not comin' down on you. I get how it's simpler to error on the cautious side and this is no big deal.
As a fan & reader from MN I'd appreciate seeing your reading list, maybe with a simple key...
G = Good for Christians of all ages
PG = Pure Gold (available for those who search)
PG13 = Partial Gold (may not be suitable for young Christians who fear opposing viewpoints)
R = Restricted (read at your own risk, lots of confusion ahead!)
Anyhow, keep up the good work. I had the chance to visit NCC last June and was very impressed with everyone, even the recently crowned "AE - apostate evangelist"!
MIKE: Rather than standing for right we are often forced to bend to someone's legalism.
RA: I understand your frustration, but let's be slightly more slow to bring out the legalism label. I think what there is some degree of care and caution that needs to be taken when recommending various books to the church in general without those books having a rating system or having some thorough review that guards the hearts and minds of less discerning Christians (perhaps less mature in the Lord, or even seekers just trying to get a handle on what we believe).
I feel Mark was very wise, and I do hope in the future a list will be back up that reflects a more complete explanation of the contents of some of the more spiritually detrimental books that would only really be good for seasoned, biblically astute, readers. My 2 cents.
Thanks for being a leader who practices what he preaches. This is one more reason why I'll continue to read your post every day! I hope one person's opinion will not deter you in passion and creativity!
mark, i was disappointed when i read about others taking shots at you as well.
i'd love to grab a copy of that reading list if you're not going to be posting it again publically...
looking forward to seeing you at the nova experience, peace!
PM, I'm reading a chunk of books from your reading list and have found them to be incredibly eye-opening. I'm glad I had a chance to peruse the list while it was up.
Hey all,
I'll put a revised list back up sometime soon. I just realized I hadn't really reviewed it in a long time. So I want to go through, examine how I currently feel about the different authors and books, and then post it. I don't think I realized how many people have used the list :)
Mark
Mark, EXCELLENT and very well thought out blog post about Sideways Energy -- new book coming? ;-)
Amen! Thanks for modeling wisdom and courageous grace.
ugh...i just came on to get the next reading...i have read several of the books you have recommended and have like you said, eaten the chicken and spit out the bones...we do have to get real...you are a man after Gods own heart and I appreciate all that you have said and done according to the Word...please repost the list its nice to have pastor that keeps us reaching...
It's too bad you're no longer going to be posting your reading list. I, too, agree that one needs to read about things with which one does not wholly agree. How can you defend against other beliefs if you don't know what those other beliefs are? How can you be sure yours is the truth if it can't withstand questioning? In fact, I would posit that anything that cannot withstand questioning cannot be true. Sigh. So sad in this world when we become so narrow minded that we have to censor ourselves -- or each other. Admirable you're erring on the side of caution, but a sad commentary as well.
Mark,
your reason for removing the book list is the reason I don't tell everyone all that I read. You're right, we ought to at least be aware of what else is out there. I even read "The Secret" and didn't get demon possessed and am still even a Christian! There is this saying I heard once, "some people will complain even if you hung them with a new rope." The criticizers will find something to complain and criticize about, even to the end. Keep fighting the good fight. Too many don't know Jesus for us to spend time worrying over the malcontents. God bless you and your ministry!
Very well stated Pastor Mark. Sad to see Sainca engage in the "sideways" stuff you suggest that we avoid. I am a Christian attorney and legal training which teaches critical thought and "putting our minds in gear before we put our mouths (pens, keyboards) in motion" is not a bad thing. I love my brothers and sisters in Christ who are doctors and in the healing professions and see it as a blessing that some are called to be doctors, others lawyers.
Well said. It seems that people on both sides of the same issue are so eager to call the other side names and write them off. It is unfortunate that your reading list isn't on here anymore...I enjoy seeing what others are reading.
Mark...even if you were perfect someone would crucify you. I praise God for what you do! Keep up the good work. By the way I saw that you said you would repost the list, but is their any way you could email it out?
About two months ago, I looked your list over and jotted down some books I wanted to check out.
But since then I've lost my jotted notes.
So I'm looking forward to seeing your list again...
For what it's worth, I think books that are controversial often provoke the best discussions. The things we disagree with force us to think about what we truly believe.
An example for me would be everything Anne Lamott has ever written.
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