Lesslie Newbigin proposes a unique understanding of election (to service, not privilege; to mission, not just salvation; to be agents of the salvation of the whole world, not receivers of salvation denied to the masses) that leaves issues open. In fact, he suggests that it is improper and disobedient to try to speculate on the eternal destiny of others. Our approach, he implies, should be predicamental: we should focus on ourselves - believing, following, doing the will of God, joining God in his mission, coming to the light, etc.
-excerpt from the book I was reading on the plane home.
I really enjoy Newbigin—so often I think we miss the mark in American churches where it’s all about getting the 1,000th member or converting “the sinners”…
This reminded me that the only person I can truly change and affect my desire to follow Christ is myself.
I’ve been looking at these kinds of issues lately. You should read some John Howard Yoder and Stanley Hauerwas… definitely thinking along the same lines.
I like this.. well said
nice…..quote, though the concept of election still makes me uncomfortable for how it used…it sets up paradigms we replicate socially…you’re in, I’m out…I’m better, you’re worse…I have power you don’t. Though, can we look at our power, and wonder how to let others participate with their power for the Kingdom of God to be sown on earth? and if we only look at ourselves will we miss how our power may be impacting or hurting others…just babbling now, again, though provoking quote.