Brian McLaren

Brian McLaren’s New Book and the Use of the Word ‘Heretic’

Brian McLaren has written a new book, A New Kind of Christianity: Ten Questions That Are Transforming the Faith.  I’ve followed some of the blog chatter in response, and while there are some supportive and gracious reviews, too many have taken on a vitriolic tone.  Healthy, vigorous discussion of ideas has given way to name-calling [...]

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Baptism and Symbolism

In the life of a church, baptisms are wonderful snap-shots of God’s grace!  They’re all unique, and yet they all share certain things in common.  Here are my “Top 3″ symbols of baptism: Washing.  A new follower of Jesus understands that he or she is cleansed.  We believe that Jesus Christ died in our place [...]

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Can Contextualization Go Too Far?

A group of Christians is observing Ramadan this year.  This “holy month” for Muslims commemorates Mohammed receiving of the Quran and calls it’s adherents to fast.  Most notable among the Christians joining in this observance is author, speaker, and activist Brian McLaren.  He writes: This year, I, along with a few Christian friends (and perhaps [...]

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Lifeway Stores: We Do the Thinking for You!

I’ve not been inside a Lifeway “Christian” Store in a long time, but this pretty much seals the deal on me ever going in one again!  A friend told me about their new “warning labels” appearing on a handful of books. With the heading, “Read With Discernment,” the label reads: “This book may contain thoughts, [...]

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