I mean that with all sincerity and admiration.

Newsweek’s Religion Editor, Lisa Miller, picked up on Jennifer’s recent book, Unprotected Texts, The Bible’ Surprising Contradictions About Sex and Desire and parlayed it into an article, titled, “What the Bible Really Says About Sex.”

Sensing God needed someone to defend the bearded old man’s sexual honor, Al Mohler drew his pistol with “What the Bible Really Says About Sex…Really?” Sadly, yet predictably, Mohler’s argument can be boiled down to “Librals are stoopid.”

Though clearly biased, Jennifer Wright Knust is anything but stupid. More importantly, she never condescends to the personal attacks so prevalent among theological populists like Mohler. In Unprotected Texts she provides an accessible survey of the complexities of sexuality, family, gender roles, and the sexually charged political power struggles found in Jewish and Christian scriptures. Her writing is crisp and energetic, instructional and engaging, and even, at times, personally touching in a way that scholars often attempt, yet rarely accomplish.

It’s a good thing too, because if you lean towards a conservative hermeneutic, Knust is likely to ruffle your feathers. She attempts to dismantle virtually every pillar of conservative family-values, including the ideal of the nuclear family (a modern myth), the exclusivity of male-female marital sex (the exception, not the rule), the high value for marriage (Jesus and Paul barely tolerate marriage), male and female roles (the bible contradicts itself depending on the cultural milieu), and the sinfulness of homosexuality (it’s complicated).

In fact, that pretty much sums up Knust’s arguments about the Bible and sexuality: it’s complicated:

The Bible does not offer a systematic set of teachings or a single sexual code, but it does reveal sometimes conflicting attempts on the part of people and groups to define sexual morality, and to do so in the name of God (p17).

Mohler is right about one thing: these arguments are nothing new, and proclaiming so is where Lisa Miller, in particular, stumbles in her Newsweek article. Still, while this perspective of scripture as a complicated and conflicted dialectic may be old news to scholars, it is still frighteningly rare among everyday folks.

Frightening, I say, because a divergent hermeneutic – where the bible is acknowledged to be a variety of irresolvable divergences – is almost certainly correct. One simply cannot take scripture seriously (as Knust puts it) and fail to notice that it often argues vigorously with itself. Historically, it’s the attempt to force scripture into a seamless and systematic convergence of unquestionable control that leads people to malign and maim others in the name of God.

As I’ve argued before, being intellectually honest enough to live in the tension of irresolvable divergence is an important means of reflecting genuine Christian humility, or, what Leslie Newbigin called a “proper confidence.”

That doesn’t mean I’m with Knust on everything in this book. Her bias leaves little room for a nuanced interaction with opposing views and the overall effect is that certain speculations appear to be well-grounded facts when, in fact, they’re little more than modern academic fancy (i.e. the assertion David and Jonathan’s relationship was sexual).

Moreover, internal conflict in scripture doesn’t necessarily preclude congruence. Indeed, it would be difficult to imagine having a proper confidence in Christ, much less Christianity, without a sense of congruence within certain themes. Yet, Knust offers almost nothing to identify the internal congruences of scripture (except the congruence of conflict). She seems content to commend the golden rule as the highest expression of scripture without explaining exactly why this ethic warrants preservation in the midst of so much textual excising.

Still, Knust’s book represents an important perspective in a world that seems to be increasingly prone to religious extremism in the form of sexism, misogyny, and violence. There are practical, real-life implications at stake: people still get literally and figuratively stoned in this world for speaking or acting in ways contrary to entrenched social and religious mores.

As Knust herself says in the introduction: “sluts should live” (p17).

(I received a galley copy of Unprotected Texts free of charge by the publisher in return for agreeing to review the book. I was not asked to offer either a positive or negative review.)

Technorati Tags: Al Mohler, Gender Roles, Jennifer Wright Knust, Scripture, Sex, Sexuality, Unprotected Texts

They’re not necessarily the most visited or the most commented. They’re just the one’s that earned me a little ire, prompted stern private emails, and caused people to unfriend me on facebook. In no particular order.

Enjoy.

• Bonding vs Bridging Communities: Fear & Retribution in Fundamentalism
• 5 Arguments Against the Use of Marketing and Media in Church
• Men Are In Charge Because the Bible Says So
• Why The Bible Is Insufficient For Mission
• The Prostitution of the Gospel Through Marketing
• What About God As The Monster? An Open Letter To Brian McLaren
• Does It Matter If We Know Jesus?
• Al And Tipper Gore And The Advent of Term Marriage
• Pat Robertson Falls From the Ladder of Being (And So Do We)
• Vineyard Churches at the Crossroads

Technorati Tags: Top 10

Sorry to leave this on a contact form not a comment. I didn’t want to start a nasty comment fight so I thought this would be best. I saw [the] article a while back and the picture disturbed me. I ignored it, as usual dismissing it, excusing it. I’m just being upity again!

But then I stumbled across it again and I just had to ask. What on earth made you pick a picture of domestic violence taken from rural Africa? Sorry to be a pain but I just can’t fathom why you would have chosen this particular picture and I just had to ask. Sorry!

Jana

Here’s my reply:

Hi Jana,

Thanks for being willing to ask. I chose the picture because it perfectly captures the spirit of male power inherent in patriarchy. When men exert power in the world it is typically through verbal, physical, or political threats, coercion, or violence. I find that highly disturbing, and I needed a disturbing picture to capture the essence of patriarchy.

So, why does it disturb you? Do you think it’s an inappropriate picture for that post?

Thanks,
Jason

Jana’s response made me realize I’d missed the point:

Hi Jason,

Yeah you are right the image definitely captures the image which you talk about in the piece. And I am in total agreement with your points. What disturbed me was why did you pick this one out of an African rural context? How many of your readers can identify with this scene? I found these with a quick search. Seem to convey the same.

http://runninginheels.co.uk/articles/domestic-violence/
http://objectifythis.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/dolce-and-gabbana-rape-ad.jpg
http://www.topnews.in/files/Sexual-violence-women.jpg

Now I am not trying to accuse you of racism or anything like. But by using the image you did, all you did was reinforce the idea that violence against women is something which those barbarians do. Because your readers won’t identify with that African villager at all. Why use a picture of an African man when there are plenty of pictures of men from your own culture doing the same?

I hate racifying things. But sometimes I feel a bit of a duty to say something which I know a lot of us BAME’s are thinking! “not again” “not another shot of a dark skinned man doing something barbaric”. Probably should have just left you alone but felt compelled to say something.

Thanks for listening!
Jana

Frankly, I hadn’t considered any of that.

That’s a fair critique Jana. To be perfectly honest I chose that particular picture 1) because it was dramatic, and 2) because you can’t really make out anyone’s face – and I’m somewhat cautious about showing people’s faces on my blog if I don’t know them, particularly when they’re portrayed negatively. BUT, I never thought about the racial or cultural messaging. I should have – which is not quite the same thing as saying I shouldn’t have used the picture, but it’s very possible that upon reflection I wouldn’t have used it, if for no other reason than to avoid perpetuating negative stereotypes about blacks and black Africans. There’s an interesting, complicated, and very important discussion in there somewhere. Either way, I do appreciate you bringing it to my attention.

Regards,
Jason

And, our last email:

Hi Jason,

Yes I never thought that you would have chosen the picture with the express purpose of putting across that message. And I realise that it’s hard to find appropriate images especially when you are trying to meet so many criteria (not sexist, not racist, hides faces, communicates the point etc.). The last thing I would want is to suggest anything else. Race and gender issues are so interwoven and overlapping so it all very complicated. But I think you are right, there is an important (though complicated) discussion in there and it is just waiting to be had.

I heard something is going on over on your side of the Atlantic with regards to race in the church, that things are changing and shifting? In any case the race issue still exists (Obama or no), and we have to have a global discussion for a global church.

Thanks,
Jana

Friday Later I’d like to complicate this topic with some thoughts about race, violence and the Kingdom. But until then, I’d be interested in your thoughts – with the caveat that any comments on this sensitive topic need to be appropriate. Otherwise, they will be edited or deleted.

Technorati Tags: Critique, Kingdom of God, Race, Violence

In my quest to unpack all the burdensome, self-righteous Christian culture I had acquired in my 20s, I suppose I have packed a whole new bag of burdensome, self-righteous judgment of those who have somehow maintained a functional relationship with Christ while listening to the mind-dulling positive, encouraging tones of CCM and soul-robbing venom of talk radio.

“A whole new bag of burdensome, self-righteous judgment.” Exactly.

Technorati Tags: Matt Self, Self-Righteousness, Transparency

Yesterday Michael passed away. He was, hands down, the best Christian writer on the internet.

I don’t remember why I first stumble across the Boar’s Head Tavern – it was sometime back in 2004 or 2005 (an eternity in internet years) – but I found a lively, witty, sometimes biting and sarcastic, but most importantly, intelligent conversation about Christianity. The writer in that group who caught my attention was Michael Spencer, and his personal blog, internetmonk.com, soon became a favorite haunt.

He was prolific, writing a staggering volume of breathtakingly insightful, piercingly true, and emotionally wrenching prose. As a preacher he stood for the unadulterated gospel of radical grace by Christ crucified and risen; As a pastor he stood for the first-order of faith over pedantic theological bickering; As a thinker he stood for the open and honest inclusion of life’s pain, hardship, and failure. Altogether I think he may have been the best example of a postmodern theologian; a deep and honest thinker whose theology consistently cut triumphalism and foundationalism off at the knees because it was rooted in the clear-eyed practice of real life ministry.

And when he wanted to he could even be funny.

His writing has profoundly shaped my faith. His skirmishes with the “fighting fundy’s” and neo-Reformed of the blogosphere we’re epic, and made me cheer. He modeled a way of interacting with hostile commentors that was fair and balanced, yet ruthlessly intolerant of hijacking agendas. He introduced me to Robert Capon.

Finally, in his wrestling with cancer these past few months he, yet again, vividly demonstrated how grace is the power that overcomes our greatest enemy, and steadfastly modeled how the weakness of God is stronger than the strength of men, the infection of sin, and the fear of death. He remained, up to the very end, a teacher – and a very fine one at that. For that, Michael, I thank you.

It’s true, of course, that Michael is better off, that we should rejoice for his present place of comfort with God, and that we will see him (and perhaps be taught by him) again. But we are most definitely not better off – not by a long shot – and in the meantime we should also grieve his loss alongside our hopeful rejoicing. But more than anything please be in prayer today for Michael’s friends and family, for none feel that loss like they do.

UPDATE: Andrew Jones excellent post remembering Michael reminded me that Michael’s first and only book, Mere Churchianity, is coming out in September and can be pre-ordered now on Amazon. Please buy this book today. You won’t regret it.

Other bloggers remembering Michael:

Mike Bell (“Chaplain Mike” the current host at internetmonk.com)

Elle Pyke

Trevin Wax

Scot McNight

Frank Viola

Andrew Jones

David Fitch

David Hayward

Technorati Tags: death, eulogy, Grace, iMonk, Internet Monk, Michael Spencer

Things changed in December. With my employer in a financial crisis, and nearly $8000 in debt to me for back wages, I walked away from my job and jumped back into school to finish my M.A. I now work part-time and go to school nearly full-time, both of which have afforded more opportunity and inspiration to write. Since January I’m writing about 40 posts a month.

I’ve enjoyed writing more, but quantity doesn’t necessarily equal quality, so I’m looking for your help. I’ve been experimenting with a variety of content the past few months – poetry, devotional meditations, literature reviews, blogging through books, writing parables, and hosting guest bloggers. I’d like to know what you’ve enjoyed and what kind of features you think I should explore moving forward. So below are a few ideas for new features I’m thinking of exploring. Please let me know in the comments which old and new ideas you like best, and feel free to add your own suggestions:

New Feature Ideas:

• Movie reviews
• Blogging through Old and New Testament books
• Interviews with other local Christian leaders involved with missional work
• Interviews with diverse Christians about their faith, gifts, experiences, etc.
• More guest blogger posts on Christian leadership, mission, discipleship, etc. (topic suggestions?)
• Blogging from Christian gatherings such as the upcoming Nurturing the Prophetic Imagination Conference at Point Loma Nazarene University, Catalyst West Coast, and The National Outreach Convention, etc.
• Blogging pop culture events from a missional perspective, such as ComicCon, The Latino Film Festival, the San Diego Film Festival, and The Sundance Film Festival.

Thoughts, suggestions, ideas?

Technorati Tags: Blogging, Pastoralia

Quite a lot has happened since then in Matt’s life that caused him to stop blogging in 2007 2006. I won’t get into that here because it’s not my story to tell, but his absence has been more than understandable. Still, perhaps selfishly, I’ve missed his voice and I’m sure others have too.

Today Matt decided to tentatively start writing online again and he’s looking for dialogue partners. Do me a favor: put him in your RSS reader or bookmark his address (click here). And comment from time to time. You won’t be sorry.

Technorati Tags: Blogging, Christianity, Friends, Matt Self

• My favorite thread of the year happened this week when Michael at Phoenix Preacher expressed his dismay over J.I. packer’s endorsement of Gayle Haggard’s book. Then Michael, feeling convicted, bought the book and read it, and soon opened his blog to Ted Haggards response. Finally, Michael reflects on the whole experience here.
• The Handmade Revolution, a fantastic initiative started by friends here in San Diego was featured on KPBS. I’m proud of these guys. They’re the real deal
• Michael Spencer speaks about dealing with cancer. Please consider pre-ordering his forthcoming book, Mere Churchianity. It’ll help his family and, besides, it’s going to be very good. Bill Kinnon’s always-good thoughts here.
• From David Fitch, 8 things you should notice at a missional church, and 5 steps to seeding a missional community.
• Ed Stetzer fired a bit of a shot toward Missional folks this week and JR Rozko thoughtfully pushed back.
• More demise-of-the-Vineyard discussion going on at Jason Clark’s blog, Deep Church.
• Jamie-Arpin Ricci takes Christianity Today to task over their review of the book Introverts in the Church.
• Emerging mummy realizes she’s not emerging anymore.
• New friend Mike Todd starts an important discussion on the Palestinian Question.
• The Pentagon is looking to create immortal synthetic organisms. No, seriously. The apocalypse has arrived.
• The Apple iPad isn’t even out yet and it’s already changed the publishing industry. Maybe that’s a good thing or a bad thing, but either way if you’re a reader you’re life is about to change. Don’t believe me? When was the last time you used a CD for music regularly?
• Io9 asks, In the future of eating, could we put ourselves on the menu?
• In the wake of the recent asinine Supreme Court campaign finance decision a corporation announces it plans to run for office.

Enjoy!

Technorati Tags: Christianity, Links

• Darryl Dash confesses to flunking Kingdom Economics. Nice job Darryl.
• My new Vineyard friend Ray Hollenbach asks, Is Obedience Possible?
• The digital Jason Evans practices walking as a spiritual discipline. Sounds like a Phil Dick novel to me.
• In the wake recent proclamations of the death of the Emerging Church, of Jamie Arpin-Ricci posts some very helpful thoughts as usual.
• On to the latest Missonal uproar. Bill Kinnon fired a beautifully snarky shot, Dan MacDonald claims Mercy = Missional and Vice Versa (and I largely agree), and Rick Meigs provides a nice running catalog of several good responses.
• JR Rozko stays out of it so far, be he did post an excellent piece on how existing traditional churches can become missional. A hugely important topic.
• On to a couple fantastic stories in a local rag, the San Diego City Beat: First, The $140 Million Foreskin and the (ahem) short follow up piece.
• Finally, a couple of excellent religion-related articles from Io9: First, the delicious little piece, Is Vat Grown Meat Kosher? and second, Digital Maps Reveal Hidden Geographies of Sex and Religion. Oh yes, you read that right.

Technorati Tags: Bill Kinnon, Dan MacDonald, Darryl Dash, I09, Jamie Arpin-Ricc, Jason Evans, JR Rozko, Links, Ray Hollenbach, Rick Meigs, San Diego City Beat

Technorati Tags: Slavery, Steven Hamilton, Vineyard Churches