Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church, summary

As I said in the beginning, the emerging/emergent discussion is not happening in my context. However, in reading Carson's well-written book I realize how the teachings have permeated into our practice and theology. That is not all bad, but Carson's book gives me the tools to rightly and biblically consider where the 'pendulum swings' too far to one side or the other.

Carson's treatment of epistemology, while having no direct application at this point, will definitely serve as a foundational tool for understanding ministry and theology in my current church context. I hope to revisit and rethink that on a regular basis.

I also feel much more confident beginning discussions with those who have emerging/emergent leanings in my denomination. I have not known in the past whether to throw out the baby with the bath water, or to embrace this new shift in theology. Carson helps me see that the emerging church, while my brothers and sisters in Christ, need both affirmation and critique in what is being taught.

At the end of the day, this book will be helpful in understanding where the church is headed as post-modernism becomes stronger and stronger. I do believe that the emerging church is and will continue to be on the rise. People my age (31) and younger seem very persuaded by the movement, and so, if I hope to be a voice in the church, I need to understand the conversation, and for that, I thank Dr. Carson.