One of my friends posted a link to this article on Facebook a couple of days ago:

http://www.esquire.com/features/best-and-brightest-2009/shane-claiborne-1209

I was surprised to see that much real estate being given to a Christian in a secular magazine, but I think this is an excellent article. The author glazes over the reality of sin and hell somewhat, but I think he accurately puts his finger on a lot of what’s wrong with the church today, and our call to be salt and light in a world filled with darkness. He’s also convicting when he says “We have given the atheists less and less to disbelieve.” We need to show that Jesus’ power is life- and heart-transforming, and not only that, but it’s the /only/ way to achieve that transformation.

That was an interesting article.  I think much of the criticism of the church is rightly placed at our feet.  I think you brought out two good critiques of the article. The first was the glazing over sin and the second was the same for Hell.  I agree that we have given atheists less to disbelieve but is the author guilty of the same thing.  I like these articles which attempt to reach out to unbelievers but we must remember that the Gospel is offensive and any attempt to make it less offensive might not be the gospel.  We are telling people they are sinners and they need to repent and trust Jesus.  When I was told that I was a sinner I did not take the news very well.  I imagine that others would feel the same way. 

I appreciate this guys love for the lost.  We need more of us as Christians to feel the same way. 

Thanks for the post.  Thoughts????

In Christ
Brad

“We need to show that Jesus’ power is life- and heart-transforming, and not only that, but it’s the /only/ way to achieve that transformation (Kyle).”

Good Point!!!