Posted: 02/26/2006 My Journey In and Out of the Emerging Church
Jason Carlson
A new dangerous movement is sweeping through the Christian church in America and around the world. This movement is called The Emerging or the Emergent church. In this provocative DVD, Jason Carlson will tell of his personal journey into and out of the Emergent church. Jason will explain what he learned, witnessed and expierenced during his time in the Emerging church. Are you currently active in church ministry? Are you a believer concerned about the future of the church? Do you have a son or daughter attending one of the strange new churches? If so you must view this timely and biblically based session on the Emergent church.
The growing influence of the so-called emergent church movement has generated much interest and debate in recent times.As a columnist for the Christian Worldview Network, people often ask me for my take on the emergent church movement.Thus, the purpose of this article is simply to offer my humble perspective on the emergent church movement, based upon my unique firsthand interactions with many of its leaders, many of whom I count as friends in-spite of my disagreements with them.
My initial entrance into the emergent church conversation came about six years ago while I was a student in seminary.One of the key figures in Emergent, the official title of the organization that is the primary voice for the emergent church movement, Doug Pagitt (Pastor of Solomon’s Porch in Minneapolis), is a close friend of mine.Doug had a profound influence on my life during his time as my youth pastor when I was in high school.Between my years in youth group and my entrance into seminary, Doug became intimately involved with many of the key movers and shakers who would eventually form the organization, or “generative friendship” as they call it, which is now Emergent.During these formative years of Emergent, actually back then it was called The Terra Nova Project, Doug invited me to many of the early gatherings of this group, it was at these events where I was introduced to and spent much time with people like Brian McLaren, Tony Jones, Pagitt and others.
During my interactions with my friends from Emergent, I was challenged both intellectually and spiritually through what I encountered, and I was really forced to wrestle with what I believe and hold dear.Over the course of about three years of fairly regular interaction with members of Emergent and participation in many of their gatherings and events, I became increasingly concerned over what I believe are serious deviations from biblical truth taking place within the Emergent “conversation” (how they refer to the movement).Many other commentators have drawn attention to these dangers within Emergent, but here are some of the key errors that I observed, errors that eventually led to my disengagement with the movement:
- A highly ambiguous handling of truth.
- A desire to be so inclusive and tolerant that there is virtually no sense of biblical discernment in terms of recognizing and labeling false beliefs, practices, or lifestyles.
- A quasi-universalistic view of salvation.
- A lack of a proper appreciation for biblical authority over and against personal experience or revelation.
- Openness to pagan religious practices like Hindu Yoga and incorporating them into the Christian life and Christian worship.
- Openly questioning the relevance of key historical biblical doctrines such as the Trinity.
- An uncritically open embrace of the Catholic and Orthodox churches.
- An unbridled cynicism towards conservative evangelicalism and fundamentalism.
- A reading of scripture that is heavily prejudiced towards a social gospel understanding.
- Little or no talk of evangelism or saving lost souls.
- A salvation by osmosis mentality, where if you hangout with us long enough you’re in.
- And many other things that I won’t get into…
Needless to say, today I no longer actively participate in the Emergent conversation.While I do maintain my friendships with many people involved in Emergent, I cannot openly participate in or support this movement due to my spirit’s uneasiness with the errors I listed above.I am not ashamed to call the people I mentioned above my friends, but friends don’t always have to agree; and sometimes the best thing a friend can do is to point out the error in the other’s ways.So, for now you could call me a friendly critic of Emergent.
How did I make it out of my time in Emergent to return to a solid Christian worldview?I owe it all to my parents who raised me with a deep appreciation and respect for God’s word and the truth it reveals.For as far back as I can remember, my parent’s trained me in a biblical Christian worldview.I was taught from a very young age to test all things by God’s word and I was regularly exposed to the writings and teachings of great Christian apologists and theologians like Josh McDowell, Norman Geisler, Ken Ham, and Walter Martin.Through reading solid Christian scholars and attending numerous high quality Christian worldview-training conferences, like Worldview Weekend, I was equipped with the tools I would need later in life to discern truth from error.
Parents, you cannot take lightly the influence that a godly, biblically based upbringing can have on your children!Each generation will be faced with their share of trials, tribulations, and errors which threaten the integrity of the church, but when our young people are raised up with a firm foundation in God’s truth, they will be able to discern truth from error and will have the tools they’ll need to overcome any challenge to their faith.
If you would like more information on Emergent and the emergent church movement from a solid biblical perspective, I would highly recommend D.A. Carson’s excellent book, Becoming Conversant with the Emergent Church.
My Journey In and Out of the Emerging Church
Jason Carlson
A new dangerous movement is sweeping through the Christian church in America and around the world. This movement is called The Emerging or the Emergent church. In this provocative DVD, Jason Carlson will tell of his personal journey into and out of the Emergent church. Jason will explain what he learned, witnessed and expierenced during his time in the Emerging church. Are you currently active in church ministry? Are you a believer concerned about the future of the church? Do you have a son or daughter attending one of the strange new churches? If so you must view this timely and biblically based session on the Emergent church.
Disclaimer: Worldview Weekend, Christian Worldview Network and its columnists do not necessarily endorse or agree with every opinion expressed in every article posted on this site. We do however, encourage a healthy and friendly debate on the issues of our day. Whether you agree or disagree, we encourage you to post your feedback by using the feedback button.
An Ex-Catholic's Warning about the Emergent Movement
Posted On: 02/20/08 03:02:34 PM
Age 51, LA
The Lord spoke to me, early teens while sitting in a Roman Catholic Church waiting for Mass to begin, "there's something wrong here, get out of this church", I had never read a bible or met a born again Christian, ever! From age 24 to 28 I studied and questioned after God's Word & "biblically" born again at 28. Began studying Scripture & Roman Catholicism shortly after, amazed at the level of contradiction between the two, continued by studying other denominations that "profess" to be Christian, Jehovah's Witnesses, the Mormons, Name It/Claim It, Health/Wealth Charismatics, any "infant baptizing" denomination, etc., etc., suspicious of Rick Warren, angered by the acceptance of "The Passion" movie, then introduced to a book by Brian McLaren a couple of years ago, "red flags went up". I was appalled at the "subtle" introductions to Roman Catholic rituals: incense, icons, labyrinths, candles, "stations" of prayer, pictures, prayer walks, praising the Catholic Desert Fathers & nuns who were "pagan" mystics, as well as, many New Age/Hindu/Buddhist, etc. teachings. Brian McLaren is playing right into the hands of the Roman Catholic hierarchy, for all to come under the banner "control" of the pope & Holy Mother Church, still believed to be "THE ONLY ONE TRUE CHURCH". Be warned, this is truly the end-time deception spoken of in Scripture. As one of the remaining "True Remnant", I will not go down without a fight! Addie K. Miller Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 02/22/07 12:07:31 AM
Age 57, MO
I found the 11 min. video almost enviously energizing (in places) and i so wish we didn't have to accept the "packaged meals" he described in churches today-- why can't more of us who are supposedly true believers think more out of the box as these in Solomon's Porch?! I do realize & agree there is little to unite with as any true believer might want to in their particular community. Sometimes, i think conversation would be EXCELLENT in the middle of a sermon (NOT all talking at once mind you)- it would keep some power-lusting pastors on their toes as well as those they are speaking to. People learn best when there is interaction, not just being preached at... and "the spirit of the prophets would be subject to the prophets" so i somewhat look forward to the day when some of the emergent church's methods spill over... in my wildest dreams. I can't help but think it a bit overdramatic to say this movement is "dangerous" -- except that it is obviously unbiblical in a lot of its understanding (lack of) and yes, all those points you make are pretty blatantly glaring - VERY little salvation (the one girl even admits that we're all pretty screwed up - and seems content to leave it at that!) I so love the LIGHT that the scriptures shed on our lives! I'm just a tiny bit concerned that some of the "radical methods" might be thrown out, just because the group is so unbiblical - but i can't help but think that Jesus would be going to coffee houses and parks and bringing in harvest or planting seeds there at least! I especially agree with the girl who says Jesus would be more liberal than conservative if he were here in flesh now. I saw a bumper sticker to that effect in our neighborhood and after the initial shock wore off, tend to agree. Jesus might not be seduced into trying to feed masses in Africa (but then again, he might) and would probably definitely see through the politics of global climate change & environmentalism... but he just might recycle! Well, enough said, you get my idea... lets throw out the dirty bath water and try to salvage some of the more positive aspects of this movement - FOR JESUS sake. Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/25/07 08:50:59 AM
Age 51, IA
Why don't the evangelical, conservative, protestant churches embrace non-participation in carnal war and non resistance to violence like the Mennonites and others do? These doctrines seem to be clearly taught by Jesus and the Apostles in word and deed. I think that the Kingdom of Heaven is worthy of our ambassadorship to the kingdoms of this world. Perhaps many are uncomfortable with the way that many church groups wrap the Bible in the American flag and are searching for a more heavenly expression of the body of Christ. Thereby becoming easy targets to groups like Emergent with their mystical talk. Click here to reply to this post
Re: Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 02/22/07 12:12:34 AM
Age 57, MO
I have done some thinking through of the pacifist thoughts, since Jesus spoke so strongly about that issue & i did train my homeschooled children with some Menonite teachings... However, God seemed to show me that He allows wars for judging nations, but He wants us as INDIVIDUALS to turn the other cheek. But the purpose of governments is to protect their citizens, and part of the need for protecting others is war, sad to say. Scripture also gives place for defending the needy, tho not defending ourselves. Click here to reply to this post
Re: Re: Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 05/12/07 09:23:17 AM
Age 84, OH
I have not heard of "The Emergent Church" probably because our Pentecostal churches don't flock with the mainline churches. This description sounds like the old FCC or the current NCC ecumenical program. If Christ is not in the parts, He is not in the assemblage.
We already have the Church Militant fellowship and family. I feel right at home in a Mennonite or Baptist church enjoying the fellowship of my brothers and sisters in Christ.
Frank Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/24/07 06:00:18 AM
Age 56, AR
We need to get the showmanship out of the church, meaning the choir director who brings it in, and the Pastor who allows it, and bring back the hymms of the faith. We should not accommadate anyone in message or doctrine who does not appreciate the simplicity of the gospel. If you watch the shows that the "new" kind of church has, it really is appealing, but there is no message to convey, except they can sing, and stir up your emotions to make you think you are praising God. This kind of church makes you really appreciate it when you do have a Godly Pastor who is totally devoted to the truth of scripture.
Brenda Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/21/07 10:45:49 PM
Age 54, SC
Thank-you for your informative article regarding the EC. It was especially helpful since I just read an article from the Christianity Today website concerning the EC (and, needless to say, defending their position). As I read the article, some of what was said certainly sounded convincing, i.e. comments about ministering to post-moderns, with post-moderns etc.I also read another article about Tony Campolo in our local paper since he was scheduled to speak in a (southern) Baptist church here. After reading your article , it helped to clarify some of the fuzzy thinking I was having as I tried to be objective as I read Mr. Campolo's "mission" - self-proclaimed drum major for the EC. He prefers to call himself a "red-letter Christian" than an evangelical, which is pretty much what the EC is claiming to do - living out the Words of Christ. While it sounds admirable, it isn't anything that other Bible believing Christians don't try to do but the heresy that arises is in elevating the "words of Christ" over other Scripture. It's either all inspired by God or none of it is. And while EC's prefer to decline to discuss gay marriage, abortion and other "conservative" issues, no denomination can simply lift out of scripture what they believe to be the "priorities" and ignore the rest of the teachings of the Bible. It is tantamount to false teaching which will result in bad fruit. Thank-you for a well-written perspective on a fairly confusing topic. Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/18/07 11:39:04 PM
Age 68, MA
The lack of critical thinking revealed in some of the feed back is discouraging. The author plainly stated it was not an in depth analysis, so don't expect it to be such. Do your own research for pete's sake. And God forbid we should name names ! Let's see... Gal 2:11 "But when Peter came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed." How dare Paul name names.
And that business about Jesus not throwing grenades at the Pharisees. Jesus wasn't into "can't we all just get along". He told the Pharisees that they were whitewashed tombs, and of their father the devil.Those words were definitely verbal grenades.
And the babble about building upon the positive views of these mixed up people. " A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump." Why sort through the garbage when you can get wholesome food elsewhere ? Hanging around compromise will gain you nothing.
Try reading Spurgeon, Taylor, Torrey and Tozer. Most important, read the plain Word of God. It is the "power of God unto salvation." Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/17/07 11:56:29 PM
Age 51, GA
Seems to me, the real emerging church we ought to be concerned with, usually has spires on top and thinks muhammed was really a prophet of God. Or the more frightening church that has already emerged and taken over our schools, and much of society - secular humanism. Swiping at other Christians is pretty easy work. Where in the book does it say we should dedicate our efforts to apostasy hunting? If their not against us, their for us, right? Maybe you're accomplishing something, I can't tell. I believe this apostasy was going to happen anyway, at least according to my copy of the book. Go forth and spread the gospel, is the true call. Go forth young man, go forth... Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/17/07 08:00:51 PM
Age 61, TX
Thank you for your very informative article. Your personal experience with the Emergent Church carries a lot of weight. I was especially surprised by the key errors you listed, and would like to know more. The Emergent Church is a deviation from Scripture. Satan inaccurately quoted Scripture to Jesus, but it sounded so nearly correct that many don't realize it's not. When it comes to the Bible, it's either right or wrong. There's no room for gray. The beginning of tolerance in religion has done so much to destroy soundness in many denominations and certainly in some of the newer versions of religion. Acts 1:16 says "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes..." Gal. 1:6-10 "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel--which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!....Am I now trying to win the approval of men or of God?...If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." I looked up the word "different" used in verse 6. If my reference is correct, the original Greek translation would be "heteros," meaning another totally different kind. To be "heterodox" is to be a heretic! I'm the first to admit that Satan is having a heyday with organized religion today, but if any group in heretical in one area, why would anyone trust them in any area? I think it's partially due to the degradation of morals, and the "lite" version of Scripture is a feel-good religion for the sector who puts themselves and their desires at the core of the universe, rather than God. I appreciate your courage to speak out, and hope you're greatly blessed. Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/17/07 05:40:00 PM
Age 58, VA
This watering down, turning, and twisting of the the Word was recognized back in the early 70's with "love one another" over not pointing out blatant sins. The mistake we make is focusing on, really, loving ourselves more than God and others. We don't want anyone to think bad of us. It is too late for that, provided we have been crucified with Jesus. Click here to reply to this post
Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/17/07 11:55:14 AM
Age 65, WA
Dear Jason, Your dad taught me so much. I went to his meetings in Bothell Wash confused on lots of issure's. I bought all of his tapes on religons and the main one's on Catholic's, Mormon's and JW etc. He cleared my mind and I can truly say according to G-d's word, as all he teaches lines up with scripture which is the only truth. It also speaks of apostasy and how we will see it, but Satan's slimy big lie is out there and many are believing it. Churches who have forever warned all of us as kids and now I am 65 and see them embracing the "other Jesus" Paul warned us of. The world is in the chruch, Jesus in the box or wafer and Catholic's have signed them up under their umbrella and the POpe said the Catholic Church worships the same god as Muslims..Hello!! We know prophecy that G-d comanded us to know..so how can they be so deceived..it is because Preachers are not teaching the word and will receive double punishment in that day...along with their prosperty gospel and the church bringing in the Kingdom? No, My G-d said, My kingdom is NOT of this world, but most think they replaced Israel and that they are Israel. they have a rude awakening. as they walk over scripture. Genesis 12:3 tells us those who take Israel lightly or do not bless Her or are silent..are cursed. G-d doesn't change no shadow of turning. He is the same yesterda today and forever !! Matthew tells us that the church would be judged on how they treat her and are against Almighty G-d if they are against Israel or try to take the land , called by His Name. Do they really think G-d is a Covenant breaker? If so, why trust the cross? They need to go read Ezekiel 38 and 39 and the romans and Isa real slow !! Only the Holy Spirit can open their eyes. Man never saved anyone and G-d said it would be like the days of Noah when He took the church..but the one world religion , gov and constution that is coming into play is Satan ran and is against G-d's Word. The tower of babel is what is being built that G-d tore down becasue of violence. Because they refused the truth, G-d said He would send a lit and they would believe it. Apostasy means truth is out. He also said, from such turn away. they are not friends of G-d and a friend of the world is enemy of G-d..think on that Jason. Birds of feather flock together, ever see a eagle fly with crows.?? They think Rev is fulfilled and most think they are little gods..Most are praying and worshiping Mary as the pope said,,,call on Mary to appear..no Jesus..Hello world,,you are in apostasy, trun back..Even the President calls our G-d Allah an says all religions have their own way to heaven...a lie so big the world is excepting it..as it is written..the old New Age,moon god, all occult..from Satan himself.. I have family that is beliving the lie as Satan has words so twisted from truth that they don't see it...And I was even more surprised that Baptist who have always led and knew the word would not except such satanic words...Church Smith Sr. is or has to be devistated that his son is part of the purpose driven church. Warren the next Billy Graham,,HARDLY..remember Satan is a liar, has only a little time left and is going around to steal, kill and to destroy souls.. Click here to reply to this post
Re: Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 04/25/07 03:39:59 PM
Age 25, FL
Yo,
After reading your response to the article it obvious that you're jargon isn't only about the Emergent church crisis. Your Eschatogical stance is clearly dispensational and along with the Emergent Church crisis is the crisis of Dispensationalism. Heck, Darby has left the Doctrine of the United states stranded in Arminian Captivity with Pelagian influenced at the heart of American Evangelism. This issue like the Emergent Church Heresy all came aboard in the 20th Century. I'd love for you to reconcile Ezekiel chapters 38-49 in correspondance to Hebrews 1-10 and see if your Eschatology is legitimate. Our Gov't and their foreign policies and allies have been dismantled due to this absurd thought that we must protect Israel or the World will come to an end. Mean while, 80% of the people in Israel are Atheist and they are as Godless as America. This I believe is the most Cancerous effection of bad doctrine and sprouts from this Epistemology leads to things such at the Emergent Church, Prosperity Gospel, and Relativism. I really enjoyed the article and hopefully one day we'll have an Article giving us sound Apologetics against Emergent Renegades. Hail King Jesus, seal Click here to reply to this post
Re: Re: My Journey Into and Out of the Emergent Church
Posted On: 01/18/07 06:56:29 PM
Age 52, NC
I was wondering why the above writer does not say(write) the name of God?
It seems wrong to look at a supposed spelling of God's english name and see a dash in the middle.
Just wondering the rationale.
No offence meant. thank you. Click here to reply to this post
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