I recently commited to re-review a book I recommended in a blog I wrote on behalf of Matthew’s Cafe. The book: “Blue Like Jazz” written by Donald Miller. I was impressed by his prayer given at the Democratic National Convention. It was featured in a blog I entitled: “7 out of 13.”
The endorsement caused concern from several who believed I was recommending a writer whom they believe is abandoning Christianity as defined in the Word, and is closely align to what they see as a new hertical movement, “the emergent movement.” Many who are calling for changes in the church are being questioned as not subscribing to the actual truth, teaching and life of Christ.
I committed to re-read and give my response in 30-days. I have decided to re-tract the recommendation and blog post for two reasons:
[1.] While I do not fully agree with those who argue that Miller is preaching a “different gospel,” there is enough within the book that cold be misunderstood, and miscontrued that it is not worth those who look to me being led astray by teaching different from the Truth of God’s Word. For those who challenged me, I did follow-through and check what I am recommending according to the Word of God. It is the same act that the Bereans performed in the New Testament, and as my brothers and sisters in Christ. I respect your desires to see me “hold to the truth,” That is my commitment, and will always be the commitment of my life.
[2.] In regards to the blog entry, I also realized that I broke with a rule that I have held through the years. In the past when suggest or recommend reading this is more challenging or edgy, I usually give the reader some “pre-conditions” or filters by which to read. I typically state the areas I do not fully agree, or where the writer might be off. I did not offer those disclaimers for Blue Like Jazz.
I read more widely maybe than most. I do not read only what I agree with. I make it a habit to NOT embrace everything I read. I hope that is the same habit that you employ. Every writer has his or her bias or areas where they move out of balance. Although writers should not move beyond the Truth according to the God’s Word, it is also not honest to think that each of us does not have our blind spots. We do. Even those who love the world of apologestics.
I will always be committed to the authority of Scripture and aligning myself only to that which stands for truth. And, I do not want to recommend reading that which has the potetnial of causing others to drift into false belief and truths. For that reason… I offer the re-traction of my recommendation. And I do apologize if I have caused any to be misled by Miller’s writings. In the days ahead, I will work to hold to the two safeguards are well in place in the books and resource I may recommend.
For myself, personally, I see where and what Miller is trying to do, and therefore it is a read that I appreciated. I would NOT recommend this to the “new in the faith.” In the New Testament, I believe that Jesus was aware and even read concerning the false teachers of his day. How else could he have combat their beliefs. And Paul sought to call into question the religious, and the thinking of his day. How else could be have had the dialog with the Greek thinkers of his day, later chapters of Acts, without have read that which was not the truth?
Food for thought.
Terry
