Post #57 Pagan Christianity?

I am reading a book that has been on my shelf for quite some time. It is written by trend tacker, George Barna and house church pioneer, Frank Viola. The focus is on the ancient roots of Christianity--the roots that actually have no biblical basis--the roots that take foot in the ground of the other faiths and religions that have been assimilated by Christianity over the past 2000 years.

The introductory chapter starts with the following quote:

There is perhaps nothing worse than reaching the top of the ladder and discovering that you're on the wrong wall.
-Joseph Campbell, Twentieth-Century American Writer

This is an appropriate place to start this book. The assumption is not that Christianity in message is the wrong wall, but perhaps Christianity in method might be. The way we have been living out the lessons and examples of Jesus may be counterproductive to what He intended with those lessons and examples. It is not that Christianity is in question, it is the possible misrepresentation of Christ that is.

The writers describe a silent revolution in which devotees are leaving old, accepted ways of "doing church" for even older approaches. They explain,

The heart of the Revolutionaries is not in question. There is ample research to show that they are seeking more of God. They have a passion to be faithful to His Word and to be more in tune with His leading. They ardently want their relationship with the Lord to be their top priority in life. They are tired of the institutions, denominations, and routines getting in the way of a resonant connection with Him. They are worn out on the endless programs that fail to facilitate transformation. They are weary of being sent off to complete assignments, memorize facts and passages, and engage in simplistic practices that do not draw them into God's presence.

The writers then tell us what this book is really all about:

This book will challenge you to consider making more significant changes in they way you practice your faith. Altering the ways in which we worship is no simple task. When people suggest significant changes in some of the hallowed practices, cries of "heretic" can be heard coming from all directions. Such protest is common largely because people have little knowledge of the true foundations of their faith.

And finally, Barna and Viola conclude,

That's where this book comes in. Rather than foster continued resistance to methodological innovations, it's time that the body of Christ get in touch with both the Word of God and the history of the church to arrive at a better understanding of what we can and should do--as well as what we cannot and should not do.

The writers follow this introduction by examining several aspects of "church", deeply analyzing the origins and primary practices that birthed the traditions and sacred cows of today.

The following list highlights the proceeding chapters:
-Have we really been doing it by the book?
-The church building
-The order of worship
-The sermon
-The pastor
-Sunday morning costumes
-Ministers of music
-Tithing and clergy salaries
-Baptism and the Lord's Supper
-Christian education
-Re-approaching the New Testament
and finally,
-A second glance at the Savior

It is important to note, that although I might disagree with some of the things the writers have to say, I do believe it is important for leaders in the church and followers of the faith to understand where our traditions come from and why they became traditions. It is healthy to examine our lives.

As I finish each chapter, I will post some thoughts. Constructive comments are welcomed.