Too Academic?

I have been getting, for me, some difficult feedback about my preaching; it is being described as too academic.  On the one hand I appreciate the criticism because it is better than someone saying "I liked your sermon."  On the other hand it tells me that I have not connected with the congregation and that, of course, would be a problem.  What really bothers me though is the sub-text I am hearing; namely, there is to be a division between the Church and the Academy.  The language and deep theological reflection that we are encouraged to used in Seminary needs to be left behind or altered for the church.  This points to one of the problems, I think, we have in the Church - not in my preaching.  I do not believe there should be any division between the Academy and the Church or between my training and my practice.  In short, the Church is not academic enough.

I don't know if I need to demonstrate this is the case or not, but one simple example.  Some of the richest theological thinking around the Trinity was done by Gregory of Nazianzus and they were sermons preached in and to the local church which he pastored.  He had more than 5 orations on the subject.  Today, this would be forbidden!  The doctrine of the Trinity is too complex and it would be too boring for people.  Deep down, I suspect, what is being said is it doesn't matter!  Who cares if people don't have an understanding of the Trinity? or the Incarnation? or any of the other matters which might be preached on.

I have spent the last 3 years having a very focused conversation on the question "what is the nature and mission of the Church?"  It has become clear to me that the Church in North America has come off the rails and most in the Church do not have any clear or biblical understanding to answer this question.  A big reason for this, I believe, is that our preaching has shifted from forming the people of God through deep biblical and theological reflection to using the Bible as a treasure trove of simple answers about how my life could become better; that is, "how can God make me happier?"

I suspect that the feedback is acurate - I am too academic or too theological, but I'm convinced I am no where near academic or theological enough.  My conviction and hope is to become more academic and theological and to encourage the Church - the men and women who are Christ followers - to be so too.

A Change of Pace

I certainly haven't given up on reading, but I am sensing right now I need to reflect on life rather than on books-hence the change in blog title!  After going full tilt for 6 years I am now slowing down again and it is creating tension in me.  What to do now?  What to do next?  These have been questions for me for quite a while but I no longer have an insane schedule to fill the space.

Of course, I know the answer already - wait.  This is a time for patience as my new church examines and gets to know me.  This is also Sarah's time to pursue her calling.  I must wait.

But my waiting cannot be a putting off until tomorrow.  I am called to be present and active today.  So I know that what comes tomorrow needs to be consistant with today.  So what shall I do today?  Good question.  I have to reflect on that.