Some thoughts on the churches...

Brian McLaren was asked about how to evaluate denominations (and non-denominationalism). Here is his response...definitely some things to think about:

Here are five elements - in random order, because all are essential - I'd consider in choosing a denomination (or nondenominational association):

1. Hand/Mission: Is this denomination more oriented toward maintenance, self-benefit, or the common good of the world? In what ways is this denomination practically expressing its commitment to join God in bringing blessing to the world? Is the denomination more dominated by tradition/the past than by mission/the present and future.

2. Heart/Spirituality: Does this denomination promote personal and communal encounter with God, the neighbor, and the other and enemy, or is it preoccupied with correctness, numbers, politics, and institutional maintenance or aggrandizement?

3. Head/Theology: Does this denomination create space for vibrant theological reflection, imagination, and investigation? Or does it suppress theological curiosity in order to unquestioningly support a predetermined set of conclusions? Does it expect the Spirit to continue to guide us into truth?

4. Backbone/Structure: What kind of support and accountability does this denomination provide to support its staff and members in mission? How nimble and flexible is the structure?

5. Open arms/Ecumenism: Does this denomination wall itself off from other Christian communities, and other faith communities - or does it use its structure as a bridge to facilitate collaborative relationships? And is this denomination interested in welcoming me?

Some denominations might score well on 3 and 5, but not so well on 2 and 4, for example, so every choice would involve weighing strengths and weaknesses. As for going the non-denominational route, I would have to ask these same 5 questions but in slightly different ways.