What if...

Notes from the Pastor...

Throughout January I was involved in the online continuing education course “Disciples History and Polity” through Phillips Theological Seminary.  Through course readings, class assignments, and online discussions we investigated the context and formation of the Stone-Campbell movement along with its contemporary interpretation in worship practice and church governance by means of its three related traditions: Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Independent Christian Churches, and Churches of Christ.   I found the following narrative compelling to our congregation.

When you read the writings of Barton Stone, Thomas and Alexander Campbell, and Walter Scott you find within each a deep understanding and application of Scripture.  Eugene Boring says, “From the beginning, Disciples tradition has been public and populist, encouraging the investigation of the Bible in the clear light of [contemporary ideas].”  Yet in a concise survey of Disciples congregations today one finds a great lack of Biblical literacy.  Assumptions on why Biblical literacy has declined include: aversion to fundamentalism and televangelism, proliferation of affordable books of other genres, and the growth in easily accessible visual stimulating entertainment.  Consequently, while we have never thought of the Bible as only a book for private devotion, we have become individuals and congregations lost to the ebb and flow of culture with no “rule of
faith” to rudder our journey in community life.

It leads me to envision what First Christian Church Ruidoso will be like when we adopt a desire to know Scripture.  How will our individual lives be changed when we read the Gospels at the family table?  I wonder how appealing our congregation will become when we celebrate our existence as a safe place where diverse views can be discussed openly.  What will it look like when we become a church that is a sign and anticipation of what God intends for all creation?  Not simply a campaign for peace and justice, but a demonstration of shalom in the way our members live with one another, encouraging spiritual development, and providing credible and compelling affirmation and care to one another.  I am reminded of John Wesley’s prayer:
“What we need is a desire to know the whole will of God, with a fixed resolution to do it.”                      

Grace,
Pastor Ryan