The Shift
Have You Noticed the Shift in Global Christianity?
If you’ve been paying attention to the world of faith and spirituality, you might have noticed that Christianity is undergoing some significant changes. It’s as if the landscape of global faith is being redefined right before our eyes. But what does this mean for believers and the Church at large? How do we adapt and innovate for the future?
Consider the concept of the "500-Year Rummage Sale," introduced by Phyllis Tickle. Every 500 years or so, the Church undergoes a thorough re-evaluation, discarding what no longer serves its purpose while making room for fresh ideas and new ways of practicing faith. This isn’t just about tidying up; it’s a complete transformation.
What’s This Rummage Sale All About?
Phyllis Tickle's idea illustrates how the Church experiences major shake-ups every five centuries. Imagine Christianity hitting the reset button. Around 500 A.D., the end of the Roman Empire sparked new beginnings with monasticism. Jump ahead to around 1000 A.D., and you see the Great Schism dividing the Eastern and Western Churches. Fast forward to the 16th century, and we have the Protestant Reformation, which questioned Catholic authority and emphasized personal faith.
Today, we find ourselves on the brink of another significant shift. We are grappling with questions about authority, community, and practice in our rapidly changing world. Many are moving away from traditional church structures, engaging in the process of deconstructing faith, and eventually, reconstructing it. We, as a whole, may not yet be ready for the reconstructing phase, but we should be laying the groundwork for it.
Deconstruction: Breaking Down to Build Up
The younger generation appears to be spearheading this movement, stepping away from what they perceive as outdated institutions. They’re not just abandoning traditional structures; they’re seeking something real, something that resonates with their experiences. They’re taking apart long-standing beliefs, not to destroy but to rebuild them stronger. This phase of "deconstructing faith" is viewed by some as a threat, but for others, it’s a breath of fresh air and renewal.
This journey of deconstruction involves stripping away clichés and getting back to the core essence of the Gospel. It’s a chance to rediscover a faith that truly speaks to people's hearts and lives.
Deconstruction as a Prophetic Call
There’s something inherently prophetic about this wave of deconstruction. Throughout history, prophets have called for change, justice, and a return to what truly matters. This generation’s quest for authentic faith is a prophetic call to address issues within the Church, such as inequality and exclusion.
By confronting these challenges, the Church can revitalize its mission and connect more deeply with individuals who are searching for a genuine spiritual journey.
Reconstruction: Crafting a New Path Forward
As the dust of deconstruction settles, there emerges an exciting opportunity to reconstruct the faith community around principles that resonate with today's seekers. This reconstruction phase is about innovating the new—a journey toward what some might describe as Presence-Based Spirituality. This framework emphasizes an authentic faith experience that moves beyond traditional Bible studies and sermons, focusing instead on a deeper, heart-centered connection with the divine.
Presence-Based Spirituality involves cultivating an authentic experience of faith that fulfills the soul's longing for connection and meaning. It invites believers to embrace mystery and awe, encouraging them to practice listening, remain humble, and stay curious as they seek to understand God’s movements in their lives and the world around them.
Embracing Mystery and Tension
In this time of transition, embracing mystery becomes essential. It’s about living in the tension of unresolved questions and being comfortable with that uncertainty. This can be particularly challenging in a world that often demands certainty and clear answers. Yet, the beauty of faith is found in the questions, in the unknown, and in the journey of discovery.
Faith communities can cultivate an environment where mystery is welcomed and where individuals can explore their spiritual questions without fear of judgment. By doing so, they nurture a space where growth and spiritual depth can truly flourish.
Practicing Listening and Solidarity
Listening is another critical aspect of this new spirituality. It involves listening to God, to each other, and to the world around us. This practice requires adopting a posture of stillness and attentiveness, making room for the divine whispers that often go unnoticed in our busy lives. It is through this stillness that we are guided to truly know God.
Moreover, standing in solidarity with the oppressed and hurting naturally follows from this listening posture. It’s about recognizing the suffering in the world and choosing to stand alongside those who are marginalized and struggling. This commitment to justice and mercy not only transforms the Church but also aligns it more closely with the teachings of Jesus.
Bringing Back Empathy and Desert Spirituality
In our fast-paced, often disconnected world, empathy is a trait that's sorely needed. As part of this reconstructed faith, the Church can lead the way in reviving empathy within interpersonal relationships and community interactions. This involves actively seeking to understand and share in the feelings of others, fostering a culture of compassion and support.
Desert spirituality from the 4th century is pivotal in this process of reconstruction. Drawing inspiration from early Christian monastics, it highlights simplicity, contemplative prayer, and solitude as paths to deepen one’s connection with God. This approach encourages believers to escape the noise and distractions of modern life, seeking peace and clarity in quiet moments. Just as desert spirituality once challenged the institutionalized church, it may be time for us to initiate a similar disruption, breaking away from the distorted forms of Christianity prevalent today.
Community and Innovation in Worship
Reconstruction is not just about individual change; it’s about reimagining community life and worship. Joshua once said, "Choose this day whom you will serve," and the word "serve" in this context is akin to "worship." This suggests that worship is not merely about singing or sitting in a pew listening to sermons. Instead, it’s about living out the Gospel of Jesus daily. This generation longs to witness an evidential faith—a faith that is not just spoken about but visibly lived out in action and truth.
Worship, then, becomes an active lifestyle that extends beyond Sunday services. It encompasses acts of service, justice, and love that reflect the teachings of Jesus. By embracing this broader understanding of worship, faith communities can inspire and engage believers in ways that are meaningful and transformative.
Preparing for the Future
As we contemplate what lies ahead, it is essential to remain open to the unfolding journey. Rather than seeking immediate answers, we are called to dwell thoughtfully on the questions and be patient, allowing God to reveal His plans in His own time. Walking humbly with God involves actively engaging with the world through acts of justice and mercy, rather than standing idly by.
Preparing for the future might involve walking in the desert much like during the Exodus for 40 years or sojourning outside Jerusalem for 70 years, pondering how we’ve arrived at this point and what God is showing us. The question arises: "What does new wine skin look like for the new wine?" Instead of being the priest at the temple who might reject the Ethiopian Eunuch, denying entrance to the sanctuary, it’s time to be like Philip—willing and ready to be surprised by the Lord. Philip was open to baptizing someone unexpected, even at the Eunuch's insistence, because it wasn’t Philip's idea; it was the Eunuch's desire to be baptized. Are we ready to be surprised by the work of the Holy Spirit?
By engaging with these questions and remaining open to divine surprises, we prepare ourselves to participate in the unfolding story of God in our future. As we journey together, let us be open to exploring new possibilities, willing to embrace change, and committed to living out a faith that is vibrant and relevant for today’s world.
Final Thoughts
The shift in global Christianity presents both challenges and opportunities. By embracing the process of deconstruction and committing to thoughtful reconstruction, the Church can emerge stronger, more vibrant, and more relevant in the 21st century. This journey requires courage, creativity—practicing faith outside the four walls of the church—and a deep commitment to the transformative message of the Gospel.
As we navigate this transition, let us listen to the prophetic voices calling for change, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work together to build a future where Christianity is a powerful force for good in the world. Are we ready to be surprised by what God is doing? As we seek new ways to serve and worship, let us remain open to the unexpected, trusting that the Holy Spirit is at work, guiding us toward a future filled with promise and hope.
