What I’m reading

I ask this question of most people I know: what are you reading? It can create a certain amount of anxiety because no one can possibly keep up with the really good books that others declare as “must reads.”

But, here – to help others wade through the innumerable options, perhaps – are a few of the books I have recently read.

Brian D. McLaren. A Generous Orthodoxy. Zondervan, 2004.

This book has generated a lot of response, both positive and negative. The negative reviews I have read illustrate for me the alarming rise I see of evangelical gatekeeping. The combined impact of religious-based terrorism and fear-based fundamentalism is convincing some people to not read broadly or engage in respectful dialogue so as to learn.

McLaren begins by declaring that he is writing to reach non-Christians and disaffected Christians in a postmodern world. Once you wade through his apologies and explanations, you reach his review of “the seven Jesuses I have known” (Conservative, Protestant, Pentecostal/Charismatic, Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Liberal Protestant, Anabaptist, and the Jesus of the oppressed). At the end of his survey, he does not promote a fruit smoothie of all these traditions, but rather, says that each tradition should bring its best to the banqueting table around which we should be feasting and fellowshipping.

The second part of the book unpacks the long list of adjectives (missional, evangelical, green, emergent, and 18 more) in the book’s subtitle. Longing for this idealistic dream of community, McLaren declares himself “depressed-yet-hopeful.” McLaren’s book is not about giving correct conclusions, but rather about encouraging right processes so we can keep on finding better conclusions.

Donald Miller. Searching for God Knows What. Nelson Books, 2004.

Miller journalled his leaving of the church in Blue Like Jazz and his gradual return with the help of Pastor Rick and Tony the Beat Poet. This book continues his journey. It’s written with style and content that is connecting with many of all generations who have felt what Miller feels, but never knew how to describe it, let alone talk about it. Miller uses imagery and short story technique to give us a fresh look at our yearnings to connect with God and with one another. He moves us away from a formulaic approach to faith, and towards an unpredictable, sometimes chaotic, understanding of relationship with Jesus.

Here are few others I’m currently reading:

• David Murrow. Why Men Hate Going to Church. Nelson Books, 2005. This I would include as a “must read” if one is interested in understanding current culture and church.
• John Hick, The Fifth Dimension: An Exploration of the Spiritual Realm. Oneworld, 1999. Less academic than his other writings, but challenging; Hick’s theory of religious pluralism is currently the most popular form of religious pluralism.
• Dallas Willard and Randy Frazee. Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ. NavPress, 2005. This book is feeding my soul!
• Patrick Lencioni. The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive: A Leadership Fable. Jossey-Bass, 2000. This book is another “must read” for all in leadership. I find Lencioni one of the most helpful authors on the subject.

Paul Wartman is president of Columbia Bible College, Abbotsford.