Tuesday, October 21, 2008

A Critique of "A Christianity Worth Believing"

Recently I have written a critique on Doug Pagitt's theology of sin from his book A Christianity Worth Believing. I have met Doug a few times, have mutual acquaintances, sat in on a theological discussion about the book at Western, and think he's a fantastic guy for what it's worth. All that to say, I disagree with his theology of sin on a few levels which is apparent quickly.

You'll probably find this Doug (crazy Google Alert) so I'd love to hear your thoughts on some of my critiques or where I may have misunderstood you. I am not setting out to misrepresent what you have said so feel free to correct (if your schedule allows)! At the outset I will admit this critique is lacking because I did not spend time at the beginning with what I saw as strengths or what I enjoyed. It is certainly not because I don't see any. I appreciated much of what you said and the pastoral heart that is obviously behind your book. In any case, I'll probably see you in February at NPC with Bob and Chris.

A Critique of Doug Pagitt's Theology of Sin


If anyone wants a PDF of this, just email me and I'll send you a copy. It's much easier to read than Google Docs!

5 comments:

Carter Blake said...

GREAT article! I am in the middle of reading the book right now and I am coming to the same conclusions which is distressing, because I was actually excited to read this book. I hope this "view" of sin and other traditional orthodox beliefs are indicative of where the Emerging Church is heading. Because if so, they are on a very slippery slope to universalism an other classical heresies.

Troy Hamby said...

GREAT article! I am in the middle of reading the book right now and I am coming to the same conclusions which is distressing, because I was actually excited to read this book. I hope this "view" of sin and other traditional orthodox beliefs are indicative of where the Emerging Church is heading. Because if so, they are on a very slippery slope to universalism an other classical heresies.

bill said...

GREAT article! I am in the middle of reading the book right now and I am coming to the same conclusions which is distressing, because I was actually excited to read this book. I hope this "view" of sin and other traditional orthodox beliefs are indicative of where the Emerging Church is heading. Because if so, they are on a very slippery slope to universalism an other classical heresies.

Kelli Bagby said...

haha. nice Bill.

Dustin said...

oops, that was supposed to be me.