Emerging Diversity - Part 4 - Conclusion
Diversity Fuels Evangelism - Acts 2:1-6
Why should we pursue diversity with such passion? It would be a mistake to think it is about some misguided sense of politcal correctness or pragmatic balancing act. We would be equally mistaken to see this emphasis as an optional "side" issue that can be pursued if and when one is so motivated. There is a lot of rhetoric both within and outside the Christian world both for and against this diversity, so it is important to understand our own motivations in this process.
For me, there is no greater motivation to evangelize (next to loving obedience) than the promise that in every nation, culture, tradition, generation and individual, God has hidden some aspect, some truth about Himself, truths that can be discovered fully only as we enter into relationship with these people. This understanding naturally leads us into a form of missional community that is constantly celebrating the individuality of every person, as well as their Creator. Diversity is a direct result of humanity being created in the image of God.
Historically, missionaries from the west, while well-intentioned in their attempts to spread the Gospel, entered into countries and cultures with a triumphalism, THE message “from the West to the East”, thus alienating, even destroying, the way of life of the people who lived there. Even today we see the repercussions of such an approach to missions throughout the world, where many beautiful aspects of diversity have been lost in the name of “Christian purity”.
However, by understanding that God has equally invested in every person, that the message is “from God to Man”, we are now able to enter in as learners, humbly willing to receive, as well as give. In fact, missionaries to the frontier nations will tell you how important it is to be a learner before anything else when entering a new culture. While we do have so much to offer in the message of relationship, salvation and the Kingdom, this does not negate the powerful impact their cultures can have on our faith for the better, let alone to be able to properly communicate the Gospel to them in a relevant way. As the Australian Aboriginal artist, Lilla Watson once said, "If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together."
Danger of Syncretism - 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
One serious danger is trying to redeem the unredeemable. One would never attempt to take the practice of child sacrifice, slap on Christian terminology, and include it as a valid expression of our faith. Unfortunately, most of the challenges we face in this regards are rarely so clear-cut. Where do we draw the line? What can and cannot be redeemed within a given expression of diversity? Thankfully, we have clear guidance in God's truth. With the Bible as one of our important source, necessarily coupled with the discerning guidance of the Holy Spirit, we must be careful to in no way compromise the character and message of God in the name of diversity. To do this is called syncretism.
Richard Twiss, co-founder and president of Wiconi International and a member of the Rosebud Lakota/Sioux tribe, defines syncretism in his groundbreaking book, "One Church, Many Tribes" (Regal Books, 2000). He writes:
"Syncretism is a belief or practice, whether in an Anglo church on Sunday morning or in a Native ceremony, that attempts to replace or distort the historical doctrines of justification, righteousness, atonement, holiness, redemption, sanctification, salvation... Syncretism is anything that tries to replace, augment or add to the long-standing doctrines of historical Christianity... Syncretism is any belief or practice that says Christ's work is not enough."
It is important to separate the difference between the theological implications with what Twiss calls the "sociocultural forms and practices". There are those who will claim that the answer to these challenges are apparent and easy, but I believe this is a dangerous and (often) arrogant assumption. Given this ambuiguity, we must remember the grace and guidance of a good and loving God. So while discernment, sensitivity and humility need to be our constant companion as we strive to redeem culture within the biblical constructs given us, this concern should not hold us back from exploring the beauty and diversity that glorifies God.
The Glorious Cross We Bear - Mark 8:34-38
When we consider the ramifications of these challenges, it is not difficult to imagine the potential problems and conflicts we will inevitably face. For many, it would be easier to remain where we are, deciding, rather, to “choose our battles”. Sadly, this position is most often taken by those who have the least to lose and/or those who have swallowed the lies of their own inferiority or demonization. The reality for those who are willing to take up this challenge is that difficult hurdles, unfortunate mistakes and even occasional failure are inevitable. The novelty of the idea of diversity can quickly fade in the face of the hard reality of walking out these values.
But when Jesus calls us to follow Him, He is not calling us to a safe spirituality or a comfortable religion. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, when Jesus calls us follow Him, He bids us to come and die. To reach these goals is not simply a high calling to which some aspire, but rather the whole Church putting right of our human failure by taking up our cross daily. The fact is that we would not have to rise to this challenge if we had not failed in these areas to begin with. For the Body of Christ to achieve the righteous unity of every tongue, tribe and nation is not simply a lofty goal to which we strive, but the redemptive work of restoring Gods intention for His creation.
For we must not forget that on the other side of the cross is the wonder of the resurrection! What will emerge from the ashes will be a glorious bride, the Church, the Body of Christ. Our authority will be in our humility, our beauty will be in our unity, and our message of hope, salvation and Kingdom transformation will be heard in all nations, as we reflect the heart, nature and character of God in our glorious diversity. We have come so far! How much further we go depends on our willingness to take up our cross, not only as a generation, but also as the Church, and walk in obedience to God’s call.
emerging church
