Paradoxology: How Comfortable Are You With Theological Tensions?

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Seven Mistakes Every Church Should Avoid
Whether you agree with any or all of the "mistakes" mentioned in this article, it is certainly worth the read and can serve as a helpful springboard for discussion on the biblical/theological/historical nature of the Church.
Why men have stopped singing in church
A fascinating discussion is unfolding at churchformen.com regarding the disappearance of singing (especially by men) in most churches with a contemporary bent. Although I consider worship to be much more holistic and diverse than what the author is focused on, the discussion there is nonetheless a worthwhile read.
The Anglican-Episcopal Divide Widens Further
NT Wright offers a honest and somewhat heavy-hearted perspective regarding The Episcopal Church (TEC) in the U.S., and their decision to further formalize their decision to appoint to all orders of ministry, persons in active same-sex relationships. This marks a clear break with the rest of the Anglican Communion.
"I Am Second"- Incredible Personal Stories
Personal testimony stories are a dime-a-dozen on the internet. YouTube and a plethora of other sites offer them. But you will NEVER find striking personal stories about life and loss and struggle and victory and faith like you will encounter at www.iamsecond.com. This is a resource site you MUST visit for yourself and then bookmark.
Charles Wesley's secret code diary cracked by priest
An Anglican priest has unlocked the 270-year-old secrets of Charles Wesley's coded diary, throwing light on the turbulent relationship that he had with his brother John in the early years of the Methodist movement they founded... The “hidden” material offers an insight into Wesley's fierce determination to prevent the Methodist societies from breaking away from the Church of England, and disagreements with his more influential older brother.

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July 06, 2009

How Comfortable Are You With Theological Tensions?

Salvation as both an event and a journey.

Faith as both a private as well as a communal endeavor.

Apocalyptic literature as both eschatological and political in nature.

The promise of prosperity and the discipline of simplicity.

Freedom and responsibility.

These are just a few of the many theological tensions espoused in the ancient scriptures. Paradoxical? Yes. Enigmatic? Yes. Contradictory? Definitely not. And yet, I wonder...how comfortable are people really with such tensions? Is life somehow easier in a world where everything is good-bad,either-or, yes-no?

Are you comfortable with theological tensions? If not, why? If so, then share any thoughts or insights you might have as to what role these tensions play in your life and faith.

July 06, 2009 at 10:59 PM | Permalink