j.p. serrano

It has been a while, here is what is on my mind.

Henry Nouwen wrote,

“Seminaries and divinity schools must lead theology students into an ever-growing communion with God, with each other, and with their fellow human beings. Theological education is meant to from a whole person toward an increasing conformity with the mind of Christ so that our way of praying and our way of being will be one.” (147 The Way of the Heart)

I am afraid that christianity has lost our way with theological education. From what I have been hearing lately, union with Christ is no longer its priority. Rather, it has become reason, apologetics, and logic. When we remove the primary goal of our studies, union with Christ, we shift to a core that is no longer stable and it will lead us astray. I have been hearing lately that knowledge rather than communion is the primary goal–I disagree.

According to Nouwen Theology originally meant “union with God in prayer.”

Today it has become about academic rigor. No wonder we produce Christians who make it their goal to beat up others with the Word, and try to reason or shame them to repentance. This is a fools effort. Only the Spirit can convict causing shame and guilt…it is not our place. Our place is to love.

peace.

I have been discussing with some people the “controversy” of woman in ministry.  I put controversy in quotes, because for me the issue is settled.  There is no doubt in my mind that women have the blessing of God through scripture, tradition, and communal witness, to exercise their gifts, whatever they may be.  This includes being a Pastor, Elder, Bishop, or any other role in the church.

I went to my first all seminary chapel today, and I was pleasantly surprised.  The preacher was Erin Default-Hunter–I could sit and listen to her for hours.  She is a fine preacher, with good theology, and a great message.  If you want to watch it for yourself you will need iTunes and a this link.  Her gifting for preaching is evident.  She is a reminder for me that there are good female preachers and poor female preachers, just as there are good male preach and poor male preachers.

David Scholer, may he rest in peace, has written excellent reader on the subject–Selected Articles on Hermeneutics and Women and Ministry in the New Testament.   If you all know of any other good books on the subject, let me know.

-jps