I've rediscovered Watchman Nee. I first read his stuff when I was a young Christian and wanted to explore and learn quickly. It was too much, then. I was too young to appreciate him and his work. I also didn't like Red Wine and Stilton, bought that's changed too. Something to do with growing up.
The book I'm reading at present is 'The Normal Christian Church Life'. It is simply stunning. No words I can use can amply portray my appreciation of this book. And I'm only a third-way through. It is awesome. All my life I have sought to find, and contribute to, biblical church. I have read millions of words and explored many an avenue. I am now at the point of near despair and frustration. I am a thirsty man in a dry and arid land. So God by His grace, brought me to the metaphorical feet of Frank Viola. His writing on the church is wonderful, almost too good to read. He has recommended I read this book by Watchman Nee, and he is absolutely right.
Ifthis book were to be read by all believers who love their Bibles a lot, and their Lord a lot more, and laid down their preconceived notions, we would have a church on our hands which would change this nation.
More will come from my dancing fingers.
Monday 21 June 2010
Sunday 6 June 2010
I watched, very moved, the service from Whitehaven yesterday. Sky News, bless 'em, gave the whole hour at 6-00 to broadcasting this without any comment. Respect. No BBC broadcast at all.
This morning I was reflecting on this church activity and began to see that this brief hour represented a picture of the church and her engagement with a needy world.
About 300 people gathered in the town square. There were a few seats, but most stood, watching. There was a canvass gazebo-like construction for the church dignitaries so they could shelter from the rain. They sat on a raised platform facing the congregation. One by one church leaders did their bit. Readings, poems, prayers, homily from the Bishop, hymns sung, musical solo and recital, candles lit. Very British, reassuringly amateurish. After one hour precisely, they finished their service. Trooped off the platform and disappeared into the nearby church building. The people, wandered off, holding onto one another, huddled in groups, solemn and tearful. Their faces strained and expressions fixed. Sad and despondent. I wanted the religious leaders to go and meet people. To shake hands, hug, embrace, individually pray with folk, cry a little - engage! It didn't happen.
Sunday by Sunday, we meeting in our buildings sheltered from the elements. People sit and stand and watch as religious rituals take place. Music, recitals, prayers, readings, talks. The people listen. The religious leaders peel off and go home. A handshake at the door. The audience returns to the business of the week.
It's going to change, folks. It has to. The church cannot go on doing what it does.
This morning I was reflecting on this church activity and began to see that this brief hour represented a picture of the church and her engagement with a needy world.
About 300 people gathered in the town square. There were a few seats, but most stood, watching. There was a canvass gazebo-like construction for the church dignitaries so they could shelter from the rain. They sat on a raised platform facing the congregation. One by one church leaders did their bit. Readings, poems, prayers, homily from the Bishop, hymns sung, musical solo and recital, candles lit. Very British, reassuringly amateurish. After one hour precisely, they finished their service. Trooped off the platform and disappeared into the nearby church building. The people, wandered off, holding onto one another, huddled in groups, solemn and tearful. Their faces strained and expressions fixed. Sad and despondent. I wanted the religious leaders to go and meet people. To shake hands, hug, embrace, individually pray with folk, cry a little - engage! It didn't happen.
Sunday by Sunday, we meeting in our buildings sheltered from the elements. People sit and stand and watch as religious rituals take place. Music, recitals, prayers, readings, talks. The people listen. The religious leaders peel off and go home. A handshake at the door. The audience returns to the business of the week.
It's going to change, folks. It has to. The church cannot go on doing what it does.
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