Archive for October, 2008
Always read the label: diagnosing me and my church pains
I’ve heard loads of excuses .. packaged with either spiritual or spiritual sounding sophistication . 
Paul Mayers gets to the point where some might prefer he doesn’t.
Symptom 1: I’d rather do something else on a sunday than going to church
My time is precious and valuable and church just doesn’t really fit into my life easily on a regular basis.Diagnosis: I find church inconvenient as I have to fit my life around it rather than it nicely falling into a time/place of my own choosing
Treatment:Practice going to church and welcome the inconvenience as a reminder that my life is not just about me doing what I want when I want.
Possible side effects: I have a growing awareness of how often in life I hate it when I’m inconvenienced – traffic queues, slow people with dragging suitcases on wheels, my kids losing the TV remote. I have yet to be tempted to deliberately join the longest check out queue to practice patience but I am swearing a bit less at my fellow motorists.
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Symptom 4: Church is an irrelevant in 21st century for me to have my faith in Jesus
I don’t need a church to help me maintain that faith given the level of resources available and accessible to support me as a christian in 21st century. What is most important therefore is follow Jesus in my life in the mission/call he has given me within my job, friends, family, interests etc.Diagnosis:My faith has telescoped down to involving me, Jesus and selected others. I am following a consumeristic faith where the Church will still be there if I get into trouble and I can still contribute via purchasing/accessing/creating resources.
Treatment:There are good reasons I dress my choices up in, it allows me to maintain a faith and can also allow me to do what else I am passionate about in my life. I can well find intergrating with a local church difficult as my choice can be limited and the people in it not on my wavelength. Challenge my consumeristic nature by choosing to deliberately get involved and create/give into a community or create that community if it does not exist?
Side effects:I am decreasing my pseudo-holy sounding reasoning – and facing up to doing what I do cos its what I want to do no matter how holy i dress it up to sound. I’ve found that increased participatation has led to more listening rather than spectating and complaining.
Forgive Us, O Lord: A Prayer for American Politics (via Tim Keel)
There are lines which are applicable over here too!
. Forgive us O Lord, for placing our hope in a person, a system, a government – rather than in you alone.
. Forgive us O Lord, for spending more time and energy thinking about the Empire than the kingdom.
. Forgive us O Lord, for claiming that God is only on "our side."
. Forgive us O Lord, for being more excited to speak to others about our candidate than about our Savior.
The Gift of Scripture and Song
Looks like a good combination! I’ve always had difficulty memorizing scripture . but song lyrics that’s easier .
Missional Theology for a Missional Church
After 8 years this still excites me . in fact, even more!
The church does not do mission, it is mission. By its very calling and nature, it exists as God’s ’sent’ people (missio = sending). Its worship, its proclamation, its life as a distinctive community, and its concrete demonstration of God’s love in acts of prophetic and sacrificial service are all witness to the good news whose sign and foretaste it is to be.
A Christus Victor AND Penal Substitution View of the Atonement?
This will capture the attention of some friends
Well, to my surprise, my answer seemed to hit a nerve and the moderator (a professor named Adam) jumped in and pressed me further on my view of the atonement. This then got us talking about the Penal Substitution view of the atonement and my problems with it. Among other things, I don’t think it’s particularly helpful, or biblical, to think that the Father had to vent his wrath against sin on Jesus in order to forgive us. (For other criticisms, see my response to the Penal Substitution view in the “Jesus: Atonement” category of the Q & A section of this web site). We bantered back and forth a bit, but it’s the discussion I had with Adam after the debate that I found especially enlightening.
It turned out that Adam, who had defended the view that Jesus’ work on the cross appeased the Father’s wrath, agreed with me that the Father wasn’t wrathful toward Jesus. It’s just that God’s wrath against sin was expressed by him delivering Christ up to the Powers in our place. Sin was judged and Christ was our substitute – hence,Penal Substitution. Adam informed me that this is basically the view of Karl Barth, expressed in his Church Dogmatics (which I will now certainly have to look into). Well, I replied, if that’s what you mean by the Penal Substitution view of the atonement, consider me a card carrying member!
And notice, this version of Penal Substitution is not only compatible with the Christus Victor view of the atonement (the view that the main thing Jesus did on Calvary was defeat the devil and free us from his oppression): it actually presupposes it. So, without retracting any of my criticism of the view that God needs to vent his wrath against Jesus in order to forgive us, maybe I can now espouse a Christus Victor Penal Substitution view of the atonement.
Happy Reformation Day everyone!
Tonight at 8pm we’ll be spending some time at the Father’s House (BLC Premises) to consider the relevance of Martin Luther’s life and thought for our own context in Malaysia.
Here are some question for starters . please allow me to throw in some quotations from Luther (and here) to get our brain juices bubbling!
- What are the historical resources we can tap on as we confront the issues of our day as Christians and the Church in Malaysia?
Religion is not ‘doctrinal knowledge,’ but wisdom born of personal experience.
Superstition, idolatry, and hypocrisy have ample wages, but truth goes a-begging.
If you are not allowed to laugh in heaven, I don’t want to go there.
Whatever your heart clings to and confides in, that is really your God.
- In what ways do we see similarities and differences, what could be ways forward?
If you are a preacher of mercy, do not preach an imaginary but the true mercy. If the mercy is true, you must therefore bear the true, not an imaginary sin. God does not save those who are only imaginary sinners. Be a sinner, and let your sins be strong (sin boldly), but let your trust in Christ be stronger, and rejoice in Christ who is the victor over sin, death, and the world. We will commit sins while we are here, for this life is not a place where justice resides. We, however, says Peter (2. Peter 3:13) are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth where justice will reign.
War is the greatest plague that can afflict humanity, it destroys religion, it destroys states, it destroys families. Any scourge is preferable to it.
When schools flourish, all flourishes.
- What kind of “reformation” is needed for Christians and the Church in Malaysia today as we are faced with much uncertainties and challenges both internally and externally in all social, cultural, political, theological dimensions?
When I am angry I can pray well and preach well.
We are all ministers of the Gospel. Some of us just happen to be clergymen.
A theologian is born by living, nay dying and being damned, not by thinking, reading, or speculating.
Pray, and let God worry.
- How can we discern God’s will and know Him in the midst of our struggle to be faithful to the Gospel here and now?
Faith is a living, bold trust in God’s grace, so certain of God’s favor that it would risk death a thousand times trusting in it. Such confidence and knowledge of God’s grace makes you happy, joyful and bold in your relationship to God and all creatures. The Holy Spirit makes this happen through faith. Because of it, you freely, willingly and joyfully do good to everyone, serve everyone, suffer all kinds of things, love and praise the God who has shown you such grace.
Peace if possible, truth at all costs.
Everything that is done in the world is done by hope.
I think I might watch the movie Once again soon This is one very memorable scene. I remember May Chin telling me, “Wow, she walked pretty far to get those batteries!” Worth a whole song I guess .
I’m so excited to get my copy today! Check out the Voice website for more information. I love the subtitle, “The Liberating King and the Church” partly because the word “liberating” has been buzzing in my mind for quite a while. The idea of bringing scholars and writers/artists together for this Scripture project is a step forward in making the message and the voice of the Scripture known to more people who might have otherwise missed it And even for those like me to hear the Voice afresh!
Once I dig deeper into my “fresh copy” I hope to share more of the treasures which has emerged .
It was a delight to hear Hishamuddin Rais during the PJ Candlelight Vigil on Sunday. As an Ex-ISA detainee he’s got the credibility to say stuff we need to hear. And indeed his short speech here on “freedom” is worth every second of the video. I thoroughly enjoyed his blog Tukar Tiub especially during the last Permatang Pauh by-election and it’s worth putting on your RSS feeds. In the midst of the humor, a serious message cuts through. He or she who has ears let them hear .
This video clip gives a glimpse to the atmosphere to Anil Netto’s summary of the event in his post Message from PJ vigil: Remember RPK on 7 Nov. It was good to be there, our presence is important and ultimately makes a difference.
It’s been quite a while since I mentioned the movies I’ve enjoyed lately on this blog. This is one delightful accident I stumbled upon in Speedy. It’s worth every RM19.90 . The award winning song Falling Slowly has stuck on me even until now after hearing it for the first time last night with May Chin.
There were many scenes in the movie which brought some memories back of my childhood times in the UK and especially Leicester. The houses, the streets, the clothing, the people and the life as well.
Once you get through the advertisement, enjoy a live performance of the song at press conference.
I discovered this late . but it’s indeed a great song. The movie Once was pretty good too . very raw and real. The Oscar speech especially by Glen Hansard and especially Marketa Irglova is worth a listen too!
Below is the version in the movie .
Many thanks to Faith and Theology for this series.
Good stuff . enjoy!
Faith
1. Faith
2. Theology
3. Gospel
Gospel
4. Israel
5. Jesus
6. Crucifixion
7. Resurrection
Creation
10. Creation
11. Creatures
12. Humans
Salvation
13. Deity
14. Descent
15. Ascent
Community
16. Spirit
17. Church
18. Freedom
19. Forgiveness
20. Mission
End
21. Completion
22. Glorification
I got a copy of this book years ago at the Lutheran World Federation HQ, and I scanned through it here and there. But last week was when I got to dig into some gems. Sometimes when it comes to books the relevance of it comes more because we are at a different stage of life and thought, and also the fact that the context we are living in has changed tremendously and thus we see some light.
For those who prefer a regular book review go here. Below is an excerpt:
“For Altmann "liberation" provides the same key to understanding Luther’s doctrine of grace as has "acceptance" for so many North Atlantic Christians under the influence of Paul Tillich. He lays out the various approaches to Luther in modern scholarship and critically focuses on their usefulness and limitations. While Luther’s approach to society is not without its difficulties and ambiguities, it also challenges the passivity of Latin American Lutherans and the narrowness of all churches.”
Granted Malaysia and Asia has a different context with Brazil and Latin America, but in relation to North America and Europe I’ve found interacting with them refreshing.
“Throughout Latin American History, the church has been predominantly an instrument of domination. In this historic hour, can we be an instrument of liberation? . when the church is willing to enter into its prophetic mission, to engage in transformative action, it is drawn into the conflicts that characterize our present situation both outside and within the churches.” (p. 69)
I wonder whether in our Malaysian context the temptation is more on the church has been predominantly an instrument of being dominated or allowing domination by certain powers out of our fear of being drawn into conflicts. Especially since we may see ourselves as a minority within a minority without power and limited influence.
Often, we are forced to speak out when we are pushed into a corner due to questions of basic religious freedom and practices. But in the wider scheme of things, there might be a sense of powerlessness or we say our hands are tied. Now, I feel it’s only fair to say I’m speaking out of the experience of the Protestant churches and our Roman Catholic friends have a different track record on voicing their concerns and playing a more prophetic role.
But the ground is moving, and to be fair there is an increasing openness both in clergy and laity to engage the issues. The overall socio-political climate has changed especially maybe to the surprise of many that the power of the ballot evident in the recent March 8th General elections set into motion changes which we are still monitoring from politicians to the public.
We have a mix of newer church leaders especially in higher positions whom would have a more critical stance when viewing how the church can and should respond. Of course, many church members have already taken the plunge in terms on personal involvement. But we are still working through a more integrated posture of how each of us in our different spheres of influence may play our role.
“Luther never meant to make the church and the state autonomous entities. It was the responsibility of the political authorities to achieve economic, political, and social reforms that would also affect the church; and it was the task of the church to confront political authorities with God’s will. The so-called two kingdoms can be distinguished regarding their tasks and their means, but they overlap in time and space. Furthermore, they have a common foundation – God is the Lord of both – and a common goal – human well being.
Church and state limit and bind each other reciprocally. The state limits and regulates the church as a social institution (for example, in matters of property); the church proclaims God’s will to the state (for example, criticizing it’s arbitrariness or calling on it to work for social, political, and economic transformation). Luther himself felt compelled to address the political authorities often. Whether his economic, political, and social demands that fell into each category – the reformer could never be accused of, and never sought, political neutrality or abstention.” (p. 71)
While this has immediate relevance even for us in Malaysia, the additional challenge is more on the role of other religious communities. And in our case the role of Islamic Institutions both government linked and non-government organizations.
From the perspective of the church, we can and must voice out our perspectives whether through the widest body of representation like Christian Federation of Malaysia or even a local church (and everything in between) depending on issues. I noticed in the case of the recent ISA detentions even different Muslim groups voiced out their positions . While having a unified voice is an ideal, but at times our silence maybe too loud. The MCCBCHST CALLS FOR THE REPEAL OF THE ISA was sorely need to at least make some needed noise!
It would be good at some point where all religious communities can have the space to provide input in their views on “What God’s will is” proclaimed to the state. It’s one vision we need to work harder on. But this would require and demand much from each faith community internally and our relations externally with “others.”
But as we work on that, the ruling government and the loyal opposition needs to be kept in check less they use religion for their own political mileage. I’m not naive to think that this temptation is not ever present. But it’s one reality we will need to face as we cross different bridges coming our way.
Altmann highlights an interesting point clarifying that Luther was no doormat theologian. This is shown in Luther’s 1530 interpretation of Psalm 82.
“According to Luther, this is a political psalm. This first verse describes God as “standing up",” that is, as a judge in the midst of the congregation, to judge the "gods",” that is the political authorities, the princes. The judgment of them takes place from within the congregation; that is, the church transmits the judgment of the Word of God concerning political authorities.” (p. 79)
There are moments where one does get the impression politicians in power do operate in a “god-like” manner. Notice, I didn’t say “godly” manner! There seems to be an air about them in the decisions they make, and no matter how much noise is shouted from the ground, they do not appear to be listening. In fact, more than once ordinary folk and even informed citizens are talked down upon as mere pawns in the political game.
Perhaps in Luther’s time, the Church even in it’s early days of reformation wasn’t as marginalized as today whether by secularism or in our case in Malaysia as a minority faith community. But then I wonder is there a place for the Church is “transmit the judgment of the Word of God” and what would it sound like and look like?
“Luther understands 82:2-4 as a description of the political office. Each ruler should have these verses written “in his room, over his bed, at his desk, and also on his clothes.” Luther distinguishes three tasks of a ruler: (1) to guarantee the free, critical, and prophetic preaching of the gospel; (2) to defend justice and the rights of the weak and abandoned; and (3) to guarantee the order, peace, and protection of the poor.” (p. 79)
All three areas highlighted above draws us to consider the role of the government in terms of religious freedom, the judiciary, good governance and welfare of all (especially the poor). These are the hot topics we face daily depending on which hot button is pushed by any particular episode.
In our 21st century post-colonial developing country sophistication, and after 50years of Independence we are still caught in the whirlpool of these issues in Malaysia. In parliament yesterday, a “I’m a Muslim first, a Malaysian second” member of parliament showed how much work we need to do in the mindsets of even the so called “educated.” Questions still abound in the recent appointment of the Chief Justice of Malaysia and many are wondering what has happened to the so called “Judicial reforms” promised. The use of the Internal security act on powerless individuals and the arrest of a child sows seeds of doubt “the guarantee of order, peace and protection of the poor”.
It’s strange how words written hundreds of years ago by a German Augustinian monk turned reformer of the church and I would add ripples which reformed even society has so much relevance in a south east Asian young postcolonial nation. I admit, there is a certain simplistic connection I’m drawing but then again this is an exercise in creative critical thinking .
“Luther sets the true preacher, who does not defend his own interests and who does not compromise himself for fear of personal consequences or the persecution he may have to suffer, “So then, this first verse, ” Luther writes,
. teaches us that to rebuke rulers is not seditious, provided it is done in the way here described: namely, by the office to which God has committed that duty, and through God’s Word, spoken publically, boldly, and honestly. To rebuke rulers in this way is, on the contrary, a praiseworthy, noble, and rare virtue, and a particularly great service to God, as the Psalm here proves.” (p. 80)
Of course, Luther during his time has not come across the various laws and acts which deals with defamation and sedition in Malaysia!!! But that does not wipe out the deeper challenge he brings with his exposition of Psalm 82, and once again reminds the Church and her leaders the public nature of our faith and message. In a climate of much fear and distrust, we are confronted with what are we going to do? How shall we stand up and speak up? Not just for ourselves and our interests but for the interests of others . Easier said than done? Sure, but if that’s the excuse for being indifferent and apathetic then we seriously need to pause and reexamine ourselves.
After the pause, may we draw courage from Luther’s example in life and his radical attempts to work things through in his time, to act rightly and be empowered as a faith community to think and work together to play our part in inviting others to have a foretaste of the “Shalom” promised to us from the future. We won’t get the full course yet, but a preview tasting is most welcome.