As I stated in my previous post, George Barna and Frank Viola's recent collaborative project, Pagan Christianity, has created some lively discussion and debate among bloggers, particularly those who serve in full-time vocational ministry. This is to be expected. The book simultaneously engages multiple targets that impact them and their future: like sermons, pastors, church buildings, ministers of music, tithing, clergy salaries, and Christian education. Continue reading →

With so much heated rhetoric flying around the blogosphere regarding the newly revised and updated Pagan Christianity by George Barna and Frank Viola, I thought some readers might like to read the Publisher's Preface, written by Tyndale House, especially noting the statements I have underlined:

Dear Reader,

Perhaps you wonder why a publisher of Christian books would release a book that questions so many common church practices. Please be aware, however, that the authors are not questioning the validity or importance of the church. Instead, they are asking us to thoughtfully consider the source of our churches' traditions and then ask how those practices square with Scripture and the practices of the first-century church. Many in the church hold to tradition, even if it is not grounded in Scripture, and these same people wonder why the church seems to be losing its relevance and impact in the contemporary world.

Tyndale does not necessarily agree with all of the authors' positions and realizes that some readers may not either. At the same time, we stand united with Frank and George in our desire to see the church operate according to biblical principles and be a full expression of God's grace and truth. Furthermore, the authors raise important questions based on their careful research, study, and experiences, and we believe these questions should not be ignored. Our aim is for you to consider their conclusions and then pray seriously about your response.

The Publisher

I just received my copy of this book today, so I may be sharing a few pertinent quotes and insights as I make my way through its pages over the next several weeks (or months if I take the footnotes seriously).