Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Contextualiztion

When I began reading about the C1-C6 spectrum I had already formed an opinion and was hoping to find evidence to support my conclusion. While my studies are far from over, I am surprised to find myself leaning in a different direction from where I started. My thoughts are a work in progress and I would love for my readers to join me in this discussion. Before I share those thoughts, I just want to outline the facts, to give you as much information as I can so that our conclusions are based on truth. If you have done research on contextualization please let me know if you see any holes in my arguments.

In recent years there has been much discussion on how to effectively take the gospel to Muslim countries. The C1-C6 spectrum appears to be at the center of that discussion. I have spent hours reading and have talked with people who hold different views on this subject. It has been insightful and challenging. Based on what I have been learning, I want to encourage you to remember a few things before you begin studying:

1. Let Scripture tell you the answers. My college minister use to always say this to me. It is easy to let our experiences and feelings determine our beliefs. Start with the Word as your foundation and go from there.

2. Be teachable. This is not a black and white issue. Consider all the information and don't let differences of opinion be devicive.

3. Muslims are not statistics or mission projects! They are a precious, unique people with whom we share a common bond - a need for Christ.
Important Terms and defentions:

MBB – Muslim Background Believer, this term refers to a follower of Christ who was formally Muslim.
Contextualization – To place a word or idea into a particular context; refers to the accommodating of words, phrases and meanings into understandable context for a particular culture.
Syncretism – The attempt to reconcile contradicting beliefs, often while melding practices of carious schools of thought. This term may refer to the attempt to merge and analogize several originally discrete traditions especially in theology or mythology and thus assert an underlying unity allowing for an inclusive approach to other faiths.
C1-C6 churches – The ‘C’ stands for “Christ-Centered Communities”. The numbers 1-5 reflect three main areas:
1. The language of worship.
2. The cultural or religious forms which are used in both public life and in their worship.
3. The self identity as Muslim or a Christian.

I received this digragm through an email from and IMB missionary.
It breaks down the general aspects of C1-C6 churches.


If you are new to this discussion, I hope that this little bit of information has been helpful. My personal thoughts are coming later, but some of the questions I have struggled with are: Is is ok for a Muslim to continue calling themselves Muslim? Is it possible to seperate religious and cultural costumes in Islamic countries?

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

And, still studying...

I have not forgotten to follow on the discussion about contextualization. The past week has been, as you know, stressful. I have found some good resources and look forward to sharing with you!

On Jordan's Stormy Banks I Stand

As I drove to work this morning, the lyrics of this old hymn greatly encouraged me.

On Jordan's stormy banks I stand,
And cast a wishful eye
To Canaan's fair and happy land,
Where my possessions lie.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.

O the transporting, rapturous scene,
That rises to my sight!
Sweet fields arrayed in living green,
And rivers of delight!

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.

There generous fruits that never fail,
On trees immortal grow;
There rocks and hills, and brookd and vales,
With milk and honey flow.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.

O'er all those wide extended plains
Shines one sternal day;
There God the Son forever reigns,
A scatters night away.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.

No chilling winds or poisnous breath
Can reach that healthful shore;
Sickness, sorrow, pain and death,
Are felt and feared no more.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.

When shall I reach that happy place,
I'll be forever blest,
For I shall see my Father's face,
And in His bosom rest.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I and bound for the promised land.

Filled with delight my raptured soul
Would here no longer stay;
Though Jordan's waves around me roll,
Fearless I'd launch away.

I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land;
I am bound, I am bound
I am bound for the promised land.


Words by Samuel Stennett

Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Studying

I am doing a lot of reading on contextualization and I want to make sure I have all the fact straight before I try to explain it on my blog. If you know of any good resources, please let me know.

Saturday, February 02, 2008

"These are a few of my favorite things..."

A few weeks ago, Glenna Marshall posted about things she recently learned about herself. I thought I would 'copy her' (hope that's ok Glenna:) and write a few things about myself that maybe few people know. I may regret this :)...

  • I like watching old reruns of sitcoms from my childhood like Full House, Fresh Prince and The Cosby Show.
  • I love cold, snowy weather and rainy mornings.
  • My favorite time of year is autumn.
  • I listen to Elvis and have a blanket with a giant picture of him singing.
  • Growing up, I loved watching The Monkees and had the biggest crush on Davie Jones.
  • I can sing the entire theme song from Fresh Prince.
  • I have read Elizabeth Elliot's The Savage My Kinsmen countless times.
  • Someday, I would love to have twins.
  • I much prefer going to a live play over going to the movies.
  • I love animals, music, getting up early on Saturday, and visiting friends in Chicago.


*Coming soon: methods of contextualization, music I recommend (just look at the list above...I obviously have great taste:)

Friday, February 01, 2008

Almost 1 Million miles...

This is my goal for my Jeep.