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It's not a bad picture. My initial reaction is that there is an element of reconcilliation happening. I'd like it better if the white guy would come down off the stage and stand (or better yet, kneel) with the black guy on the same level. I'm not necessarily talking about race here, but rather, the evangelical propensity for elevating "servants" to a loftiness that isn't biblical. We are all one in Christ.
Peace,
Mike
Posted by: Dr. Mike Kear | June 02, 2005 at 08:26 AM
I agree with Mike...there still seems to be in the pic the image of "one above the other". As a person who did many years of ministry behind an altar rail, separated from "real people" because of tradition, symbolism and clergy-centricity...I believe it is time for the clergy to get off their pedestals...give up their need for Christian stardom and let the church be the Church again...all brothers and sisters doing the journey of faith together AS equals before the Lord. By the way, thanks for your blog. One day, I'd love to meet you. I'm a friend of Benjy's and a fan of what God is doing in your church. Know that you are prayed for! In Jesus, Robin, YLI/APU
Posted by: Robin | June 02, 2005 at 09:31 AM
" I'd like it better if the white guy would come down off the stage and stand (or better yet, kneel) with the black guy on the same level."
Dr. Mike -- here you go: double-click here
Posted by: Chris Monroe | June 02, 2005 at 09:37 AM
As someone who would be classified in the Pentecostal fold, I say that the growth in Pentecostalism is great, but only so long as it promotes sound doctrine, unwavering discipleship, and keeps the emotionalism in balance with wisdom and knowledge. My fear, though, is that too many charismatics have gone off the deep end for Pentecostalism to remain "pure," so to speak.
Posted by: DLE | June 02, 2005 at 09:44 AM
Robin, thanks for the insights (and the encouragement). I'd enjoy meeting you as well.
Posted by: Chris | June 02, 2005 at 09:49 AM
"so long as it promotes sound doctrine, unwavering discipleship, and keeps the emotionalism in balance with wisdom and knowledge."
I'm with you there, Dan. Growing up in a pentecostal/charismatic setting, I really appreciated how my pastor (who had a PhD from Fuller)worked hard to counter the negative stereotypes (e.g. charismatics are simpletons and wacko's).
Posted by: Chris | June 02, 2005 at 09:53 AM
Chris, thanks for the secondary pic. It brought a smile to my face!
Peace,
Mike
Posted by: Dr. Mike Kear | June 02, 2005 at 09:56 AM
Oh, boy. It's another Rorshach Test.
Well, here are a couple of possible captions:
• Pastor, I'd suggest strengthening your underarm deodorant.
• I'll keep him distracted, while I pick his pocket.
• Hey, stop blowing hot air into my ear.
Posted by: Oengus Moonbones | June 03, 2005 at 06:30 AM
Hmmm? I never thought once of "race" or the thought of "I'm on the prayer team, you are one in need, let me pray for you".
I kinda thought the black guy is very tall, but on his knees (on the steps) and the pastor/elder is laying hands on him.
Although the guy in the suit looks like a church staff member; but who knows?
I've been in gatherings where people spontaneously pray and lay hands on each other. You may have a stranger lay hands on you and bless you, give you words from Holy Spirit. Everybody plays and participates on the same playing field.
Posted by: Matt | June 03, 2005 at 10:02 AM