I just finished reading, "Jim & Casper Go to Church," and have some rather strange feelings right now. I am glad I am having these feelings, as I have to admit, I have been guilty of "doing church" for me, and for my own comfort through the years, rather than asking what "really, would Jesus want the church to be?" In truth, I am not sure I have "had feelings" other than "as-it-always-has-been" when it comes to church "services," and whether or not we are really "connecting" with those we define as our "target."
Jim Henderson, a Christian who wants to know more about how non-Christians perceive what we call "church" on Saturday or Sunday, hires an athiest, Matt Casper to travel with him across the country (including trips to Portland and Seattle!). They explore many mega-churches, and some others that are not so mega, and both of their observations are quite thought-provoking. Casper asks some amazing questions, desiring clarification on things we (Christians) have taken for granted for perhaps a long time.
I see that Jim is being criticized (in real life, following this book) for not giving Casper more "background information" as to what he did- or did not see at each of their visits, and Casper, I am sure has been critized for his comments (interpreted by some as slams) on the church. Nonetheless, they did what Jim set out to do: find out what a "missing" person thinks --point blank-- about those churches he was asked to visit, and print them for all to see.
Wow...lots to ponder.
1 comment:
I've heard about this book. I think Pastor Mike mentioned it. Sounds great. Interesting. I better get a copy! (thanks for the book review)
Post a Comment