evaluating local theologies
a few thots from my recent reading...
a local theology refers to the manner in which a congregation gives attention to rooting its forms of gospel incarnation in the particular social context of its community. [Robert Schreiter; Constructing Local Theologies.]
“BUT, is this local theology, Christian?”
1. Cohesion
Does this theology give importance to the central truths of
the Christian faith, rather than peripherals?
Does this theology have a logical, cohesive fitting
together? Or do people constantly say, “yes, but what about this…?”
Does this theology resonate with the presence of the Lord in
word and sacrament?
When the community gathers to worship, does the theology fit
there?
Can we sing the theology and preach the theology?
Does this theology translate into practical actions that
produce change in lives?
What happens to those believers who follow through on the
implications of this theology? Do they grow and change, become more and more like Jesus?
Does this theology separate us, or cut us off from other
churches, believers?
Do we allow our theology to be critiqued by the wider body
of believers and churches?
Does our theology challenge us to move out beyond ourselves?
What contribution does our theology make to the wider body
of believers; to the world in which we live?
Excellent quetions - does your recent readings lead us to any discoveries, writings and/or metrics that might help answer this question?
Posted by: Mean Dean | May 24, 2007 at 06:18 AM