It is to this task that New Testament scholar and author Scot McKnight turns his attention in his latest book, A Fellowship of Differents: Showing the World God’s Design for Life Together. In this thematically arranged work, McKnight argues convincingly that our Christian lives are formed by our experiences in and with the church. Thus, the shape of the church is of profound importance to understand and embrace because, like it or not, “churches determine the direction of our discipleship.”
McKnight obverses that all too often the church is organized around the principle of “likes” and becomes a gathering of those who are similar in theological persuasion, socioeconomics, race or any other organizing principle (missional, liturgical, contemporary, etc.). But he argues that this kind of homogenization, though definitely easier, short-circuits the divine purpose of the church Paul proclaims in Ephesians 3:10: God wants to “use the church to show the powers and authorities in the spiritual world that he has many different kinds of wisdom” (CEV).
The main image McKnight employs – perhaps surprisingly – is a salad bowl. Looking at key texts in the New Testament, he argues that the church is a fellowship of difference and differents all tossed together in one, big, mixed-up, not-always-happy family.
McKnight rightly acknowledges this kind of fellowship is hard work. He traces the necessary virtues and practices he sees laid out in Paul’s writings that must be present in the church both historically and today in order to achieve this kind of community.
He begins with the necessity of grace that is “both a place and a power” to transform hatred and divisive suspicion into love. This is not just a concept, but a series of commitments and actions undertaken by the “differents” inside the church. After all, “love is a great idea until the one you are called to love happens to be unlike you.”
McKnight contends that “we often attend church for ourselves” which prevents us from thinking of it as a rugged communal commitment we make to each other. This covenant has staying power, can help us look past personal preferences and draws us to love those who are different around us. “We don’t love others for who they are now” he argues, “but for what God will make them in the kingdom.”
This is no mere tolerance, however, but a deep and foundational commitment to “transcend our differences while remaining different as we live with one another. Our difference is not eliminated, for difference is the vitality of our fellowship.”
The apostle Paul is driving at the same point when he acknowledges a diversity of opinions but calls the church toward something higher and greater as he instructs us to “aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up” (Romans 14:19b NLT).
Much in this book will resonate with Mennonite Brethren readers. There is a healthy discussion of what it might mean for a community to “plan in light of God’s Scripture-soaked mission, but…be open to the Spirit’s interruption.”
When it comes to engaging in the political realm, the influence of John Howard Yoder’s thinking is prevalent in the discussion.
Those who are planning on attending the study conference this fall will want to read Chapter 12 (“Sexual Bodies in a Church”) as preparation to wrestle with themes of struggle, loneliness and shame in our discussion on healthy sexuality.
Overall, there is a clarion call to unity – not uniformity – which should resonate well with those who see our national family as a fellowship of diverse individuals, churches and conferences who despite our differences remain committed to a shared life and confessional identity together.
Living together in the salad bowl has its challenges to be sure, but if we can allow for healthy “differents,” perhaps the Mennonite Brethren in Canada can play a wonderful part in showing the world God’s design for life together.
“When it comes to engaging in the political realm, the influence of John Howard Yoder’s thinking is prevalent in the discussion.
“Those who are planning on attending the study conference this fall will want to read Chapter 12 (‘Sexual Bodies in a Church’) as preparation to wrestle with themes of struggle, loneliness and shame in our discussion on healthy sexuality.”
Richard – Thanks for your comment. It’s a bit difficult to see how a person could view those two paragraphs being back to back as creating a connection as there is none implied either by the author, the Herald, not even by the grammatical structure. They are different categories and topics altogether.
Yoder’s legacy on sexual abuse and the carnage this has created in the lives of those affected is indeed dreadful and it’s unfortunate scope is widely understood and acknowledged. As a denomination, we are indeed having a study conference on the topic of healthy sexuality. Yoder’s thinking on politics and peace has indeed influenced many, including McKnight. But to imply from that those three things are linked and that the Herad or this author is unaware of them is a bit of a stretch.
It is wise, however, to make sure that people who are not already critically aware of the issues surrounding Yoder’s legacy are properly set up to engage with his work so thank you for including the link.
Hi, Brad. I appreciate your judicious response. My comment was simply intended to point out what I considered to be an ironic juxtaposition, and to offset what could be taken as a positive mention of Yoder.
I did not state, nor did I mean to imply, any deliberateness or culpability on your part (or the MB Herald’s part). Thanks for reinforcing my view of Yoder.
Archetypal symbols in ancient myths as well as the folktales, nursery stories, and fairytales of the Middle Ages are the blueprints of modern fantasy literature. This book explores the modern dreamscape of present-day fantasy, using the ancient myths and traditional fairytales as guides and shining the light of psychological insight onto every symbolic figure and theme encountered.
Chapters are dedicated to all of the significant archetypes: heroes and princesses, fairy godmothers and evil witches, wizards and dark lords, magic, and magical beasts are all explored. The analyses and interpretations are informed by classic psychoanalytic studies; the works of fantasy literature examined in this book include the most popular and influential in the genre.
If you’re not sure which NHS service you need, you can call 111 at any time to get free, confidential advice. An adviser will ask questions to assess your symptoms and then provide the advice you need or direct you to the best service for you in your area.
Pharmacists are experts in many aspects of healthcare and can offer advice on a wide range of long-term conditions and common illnesses (such as coughs, colds and stomach upsets). You don’t need an appointment and many have private consultation areas so they are a great first option. Your pharmacist will say if you need further medical attention.
If you have a minor injury or illness (such as an infection or vomiting and stomach aches), and it can’t wait until your GP surgery is open, then you should attend your local walk-in centre, minor injuries unit or urgent care centre. You don’t need an appointment and waiting times are often much less than Accident and Emergency departments.
The Minor Injuries Unit based at the Victoria Infirmary in Northwich is open 9am – 10pm throughout the festive period with the exception of the following dates:
To find information on your local healthcare services, including opening times, please visit www.nhs.uk/staywell.
The local Clinical Commissioning Groups have released information regarding the opening hours of local GP practices and Pharmacies, and these can be viewed by following the links below.
Age 61 of Horseheads, passed away peacefully at home, Friday, November 2, 2018, after a five month hard fought battle with cancer. Mike was born in Elmira, son of the late James and Mary Ellen (Biddle) Hall. He was also predeceased by two granddaughters, Mary and Justina McCormick. Mike is survived by his loving wife Margaret "Maggie" Taylor; children Michael Hall, Tedi Marie Hall both of Oklahoma, Mitchell Benson of Louisiana and Connor Hall of Horseheads; stepson Justin McCormick of Horseheads; granddaughter Claire McCormick of Lodi OH. Also surviving are several extended family members and many friends. Mike had worked at several jobs both in and out of the Elmira area. Until his illness he was most recently employed by Air Flo Manufacturing in Elmira Heights. Mike was an avid race car fan who enjoyed taking his son Connor to many of the local and regional race car tracks. Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Mike at McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water St., Elmira, on Friday, November 9, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow.