I just bought a copy of D. A. Carson’s latest book, “Becoming Conversant With The Emerging Church.” It is suppose to be a reaction to the Emerging Church conversation (EC), but apparently is more a targeted attempt to discredit Brian McLaren. I plan on posting some comments and reactions to his arguments and concerns, so look for some posts soon.
At the start, though, I should probably admit I have already read much about this book. Many in the EC circles have criticized Carson for not doing his homework and writing a hasty project. From what I have read, the book seems overly simplistic, pedestrian, and a gross misreading and misrepresentation of McLaren and other EC thinkers. But since I get so tired of other Christians criticizing people and movements without even reading the primary sources, I thought it was high time I picked up the book and read it for myself 🙂
I am sure there will be words of caution that are valid, and will probably confirm some of my own concerns, but I am guessing it will reflect much of what I have read from others: a failure to fully appreciate the significance of the cultural shift from Modern to Postmodern and chicken-little responses to us who desire to approach this shift missionally. I do hope Carson proves me wrong…
be His,
jeremy
