Postmodernism

Sometimes it is important to add your voice to a subject. Your unique view might give valuable insight that touches on points that others do not. Sometimes you write about something because it helps you to clarify your own thinking. But, often you just point the way to someone else because they have covered it well and it is important to help expose the good work of others. My own writing on post-modernism only touches on its affects within the Church, and what I like to call pseudo-church. It does not address the philosophy, approaches, and arguments of post-modernism and post-modern Christians (if that is not an oxymoron).

If you are interested in getting a handle on post-modern thinking and its effects on Christianity, I would suggest you start with a rich series of articles by Douglas Wilson over at Blog and Mablog. Doug is the editor of Credenda, a “bimonthly periodical exploring all areas of life from a biblical, classical Protestant perspective.” One of Doug’s categories at this Blog and Mablog site is post-modernism and I recently read all the postings (you have to start at the bottom of the listing. The first post is from 12/27/2004). I was well educated and challenged by his thoughtful, though often confrontation postings (confrontation bothers me not in the least).

Too often we allow a sort of pseudo-piety to prevent us, as Doug says, calling a “son of bitch” just that, and as Jesus so directly pointed out, a little son of the devil should never be confused of with a child of God (John 8:42-47). So, while I forewarn you that you may have some of your sensibilities tested, your presuppositions challenged, you will be rewarded with a fuller understanding of what is dangerously afoot. Paul demonstrated that he was not ignorant of the wiles of the devil (1 Corinthians 2:11), and I believe neither should we, especially if we aspire to preach or teach or write in the Lord’s service. Greg’s writings on post-modernism will help you remove that ignorance. Recommended most highly.

Update: I thought that I would add that I feel a kinship with Douglas Wilson. While I am not a ordained, I have preached and taught and tried to fight the good fight. In so doing many of my experiences have mirrored his, but I lacked the insight he has. Maybe you too can see a little of your journey in Doug’s engagement with post-modern Christianity.