Listening to the beliefs of Emerging Churches

I have recently finished a very interesting book. Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches is both interesting for its content and for its approach.

First the approach. The approach is to take five pastors from a broad spectrum of Emerging Churches and ask them to write about theology. Each paper is then critiqued by the remaining four writers. This is a very engaging style in that really allows you to compare the differing approaches and identify the differences.

The content is interesting as the five pastors are very successful in building strong vibrant jesus following communities. But some of them are poles apart in their theology and their method. In fact some don't even agree on what theology is.

Academically it is a fascinating book. Ironically, it is of little use in being and growing as a Jesus follower. It is ironic as this is the most important priority of all these pastors.

Anyway, aside from that, well worth a read if you are interested in the emerging church or church development.