The Church Transforming: What's Next for the Reformed Project?

by Michael Jinkins, Susan R. Garrett (Introduction)

In this book, theologian and author Michael Jinkins probes the present state and future of the Reformed faith. Addressing increasing division over scriptural authority, ordination and marriage of gay and lesbian people, and other social issues, Jinkins looks at some of the hallmarks of the Reformed faith and discusses how these can be viewed anew. Topics covered include scriptural interpretation, the place of Christ, living in community, the life of the mind, unity versus schism, and spirituality and mystery. He concludes by showing how the Reformed faith is not a castle to be defended but a living treasure of great gifts.

168 pages, Paperback

First published June 25, 2012

Reviews

[Edward Bellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good, thoughtful response to the current state of the reformed church. Highly recommend this book for officers and teaching elders in particular. I learned a lot.

[Joe Henry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Michael Jinkins is President and Professor of Theology at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. I heard him speak in a lecture series last fall at our church and picked up this book, which I gathered was the basis of his lectures. As a speaker, I found him engaging and stimulating, and I felt that I had met a kindred spirit. To be honest, however, I kept wondering if/when he would ever get beyond just defending the notion that a life in faith should seek to be well informed and must embrace critical thinking. I didn't feel that he ever got much beyond that, either in the lectures that I heard or in the book. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop--to hear more of what he could tell me about who was this Jesus, about what would it mean to be a follower of Jesus, and is that even possible. He didn't get there for me in the lectures or in this book, so I was mildly disappointed. But, in fairness, I reckon he did meet his objectives. And is it so bad if I left, wanting more?

Here's a sample quote:

"There are forces in our culture that thrive on reductionism, superstition, and hatred--forces that works overtime to promote ignorance in the name of piety and the advancement of fear and anxiety in the name of devotion. There are forces in our culture that despise critical thinking, especially when it comes to religious faith. These forces appreciate the value of propaganda and the kind of religious training and indoctrination that marches in step. But they look upon genuine theological education as a threat to faith.
. . .
"The cost could hardly be higher to our society and to the world if we opt for an uneducated church." p.93 in Chapter 6, "Theological Education and the Reformed Project"

[Robert Lowry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book is vintage Michael: concise, theologically rich, brimming with hope for the church and unabashedly challenging to the forces of "keeping things like they are." This solidly Reformed book explores the ways our traditions can inform our journey in a rapidly changing church culture. We Reformed Christians are uniquely equipped to meet the challenges of the church. Michael lays out the first steps in our shared journey forward. If there was a way to give six stars, I would!

[Andrew Ward · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found it difficult to follow at times honestly, lots of words to get thoughts across.