Bible Question:
Could you please make a few statement/ observations regrading post modernism in the current church. Regards Aussie |
Bible Answer: Greetings Aussie! Since so many have questioned what post-modernism is, I thought it might be helpful to post a very brief definition of what post-modernism is. The best way to look at post-modernism is to examine what it is a rejection of. Post-modernism is a rejection of modernism/enlightenment/humanist thought. Modernism basically taught that reason is supreme and that given enough education and time, humans will evolve to their highest expression. Thus, modernism was very pro-humanity. Our problems were not really spiritual problems, they were problems of lack of eductation or opporotunity. The problem with modernism is that it didn't work. The world has progressed, becoming better educated and wealthier. But, man has become even more capable of inhumanity and violence. So, post-modernism rejects the optimism of modernism and takes a much darker view of humanity. It is also much more resistant to authority. Everything is not controlled by reason, but by chance. Everything is not rational, but relative. Here are a couple of web sites where one can read more on this issue: 1) http://www.episcopalian.org/pttw/html/pmod.shtml 2) http://www.bwanet.org/divisions/ee/postmodernism(percentage symbol goes here)20edgemon.htm I'm sure that there are better sites out there somewhere, but these would be a good intro to the topic. Now, how does this all relate to the modern church? 1) We are dealing with people who are resistent to authority. They don't want churches, pastors, Bibles, or even God telling them what to do or to believe. 2) We are dealing with people who do not believe in objective truth. A verse may mean one thing to you and something entirely else to someone else. 3) We are dealing with people who do not look at the bigger picture of serving others, but are totally self-absorbed. What is the chief end of man the ancients once asked! Their answer was 'to glorify God'. The answer today would be 'to feel good'. It is a very interesting topic, especially as it pertains to evangelism. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |