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How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church
In today's highly-charged social and political environment, we often don't know how to talk well with others--especially people whose backgrounds differ from our own C. Christopher Smith, coauthor of the critically acclaimed and influential Slow Church, addresses why conversation has become such a challenge in the 21st century and argues that it is perhaps the most needed spiritual practice of our individualistic age.
Smith likens practicing conversation to the working of the human body. Bodies are wondrous symphonies of diverse, intricate parts striving for our health, and our health suffers when these parts fail to converse effectively. Likewise, we must learn to converse effectively with those who differ from us in the body of Christ so we can embody Christ together in the world. In community, we learn what it means to belong to others and to a story that is bigger than ourselves.
Smith shows how church communities can be training hubs where we learn to talk and listen to each other with kindness and compassion. The book explores how churches can initiate and sustain conversation, including working through seasons of conflict; suggests the contours of a spirituality that can foster conversation; and features stories from a diverse range of congregations that are learning to practice conversation.
Smith likens practicing conversation to the working of the human body. Bodies are wondrous symphonies of diverse, intricate parts striving for our health, and our health suffers when these parts fail to converse effectively. Likewise, we must learn to converse effectively with those who differ from us in the body of Christ so we can embody Christ together in the world. In community, we learn what it means to belong to others and to a story that is bigger than ourselves.
Smith shows how church communities can be training hubs where we learn to talk and listen to each other with kindness and compassion. The book explores how churches can initiate and sustain conversation, including working through seasons of conflict; suggests the contours of a spirituality that can foster conversation; and features stories from a diverse range of congregations that are learning to practice conversation.
224 pages, Paperback
Published April 16, 2019
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June 6, 2019
Summary: A discussion of how substantive conversation can be central to the growth and transformation of our churches and the people who are part of them, the ground rules and spiritual practices that enable such conversation, and how conversation might be sustained as conflict arises.
C. Christopher Smith believes that one of the reasons many of our churches are struggling and many people are heading for the exits has to do with the lack of the capacity for substantive conversation about things that really matter. Just as our physical bodies are an ongoing conversation between our various members, so our social bodies, including churches, require ongoing and deeply connected conversations for both individuals and our collective bodies to thrive. Yet we live in a society where people have lost the capacity to talk about any serious matter where they might differ and we have become isolated in echo chambers of those who think like us. Sadly, conversation in the church often is little more than polite chit-chat about sports or recipes, or where we are going out to eat afterward. This happens in a body that is an earthly echo of the mutuality and conversation of the Triune God who is "God with us."
Smith and his church have been practicing substantive conversations about ideas and practices that deeply matter in their congregation for over a decade. It was messy at times. People became angry. Some left. They learned how to set up ground rules to enable the speaking of truth in love. They developed practices to prepare for those conversations. They learned how to address conflict that can threaten to shut down conversation. This book is the distillation of that experience.
He begins by treating the subject of conversational dynamics, dealing with questions of group size, formal and informal conversation, how often a group meets, who facilitates and how to foster coherent conversations. He explores what to talk about, and not talk about, particularly when a group is learning conversation. He highlights three methods that have been developed to facilitate conversation: Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, and World Café, giving brief explanations of each method and providing additional resources in an appendix.
Perhaps one of the most important parts of the book is the section on "Spirituality for the Journey." Smith focuses on prayer as a means of being attentive to God first and throughout, including Quaker practices of silent, listening prayer. He helps us see the connection between the messiness of real life and our honesty about that, and the messiness of our conversations. Good sustained conversations have a high capacity for messiness. Finally he speaks of how we might prepare ourselves heart, mind, and body for conversation.
Conversation is critical in remembering and telling our story and discerning its next chapter. Often understanding our history and identity helps us discern how we might proceed on questions of how we might pursue our mission. The toughest season of conversation is conflict, which Smith believes is inevitable and can be healthy. Using the analogy of broken bones, he talks about acknowledging our fractures, aligning the fractured parts (our "like heartedness in Christ"), and supporting and healing the fractures.
His final chapter fuses the idea of conversation and dance and the picture of being drawn into the dancing conversation of the Triune God. His conclusion focuses on his church, Englewood Christian Church, and how conversation has eventuated in action creating a vibrant set of community ministries in the Englewood, and a church community that is integrally a part of the community in which it is situated.
The book includes numerous examples from different churches, including an appendix of examples of conversational ground rules different churches have set, and the governing principles at which a church arrived out of extended conversations on how to relate to LGBTQ+ persons joining their community in a denomination with traditional convictions.
Smith dares us to believe that the church could be the place where we recover the art of serious conversation, the kind that has the capacity to cultivate respect among people who differ, to live with messiness that defies neat resolutions, and to persist to the shared understanding that enables people to act creatively and missionally in their context. He shows how it has taken shape in real congregations, which makes it the most valuable sort of guidebook, one born out of years of trial and error and learning.
________________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
C. Christopher Smith believes that one of the reasons many of our churches are struggling and many people are heading for the exits has to do with the lack of the capacity for substantive conversation about things that really matter. Just as our physical bodies are an ongoing conversation between our various members, so our social bodies, including churches, require ongoing and deeply connected conversations for both individuals and our collective bodies to thrive. Yet we live in a society where people have lost the capacity to talk about any serious matter where they might differ and we have become isolated in echo chambers of those who think like us. Sadly, conversation in the church often is little more than polite chit-chat about sports or recipes, or where we are going out to eat afterward. This happens in a body that is an earthly echo of the mutuality and conversation of the Triune God who is "God with us."
Smith and his church have been practicing substantive conversations about ideas and practices that deeply matter in their congregation for over a decade. It was messy at times. People became angry. Some left. They learned how to set up ground rules to enable the speaking of truth in love. They developed practices to prepare for those conversations. They learned how to address conflict that can threaten to shut down conversation. This book is the distillation of that experience.
He begins by treating the subject of conversational dynamics, dealing with questions of group size, formal and informal conversation, how often a group meets, who facilitates and how to foster coherent conversations. He explores what to talk about, and not talk about, particularly when a group is learning conversation. He highlights three methods that have been developed to facilitate conversation: Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, and World Café, giving brief explanations of each method and providing additional resources in an appendix.
Perhaps one of the most important parts of the book is the section on "Spirituality for the Journey." Smith focuses on prayer as a means of being attentive to God first and throughout, including Quaker practices of silent, listening prayer. He helps us see the connection between the messiness of real life and our honesty about that, and the messiness of our conversations. Good sustained conversations have a high capacity for messiness. Finally he speaks of how we might prepare ourselves heart, mind, and body for conversation.
Conversation is critical in remembering and telling our story and discerning its next chapter. Often understanding our history and identity helps us discern how we might proceed on questions of how we might pursue our mission. The toughest season of conversation is conflict, which Smith believes is inevitable and can be healthy. Using the analogy of broken bones, he talks about acknowledging our fractures, aligning the fractured parts (our "like heartedness in Christ"), and supporting and healing the fractures.
His final chapter fuses the idea of conversation and dance and the picture of being drawn into the dancing conversation of the Triune God. His conclusion focuses on his church, Englewood Christian Church, and how conversation has eventuated in action creating a vibrant set of community ministries in the Englewood, and a church community that is integrally a part of the community in which it is situated.
The book includes numerous examples from different churches, including an appendix of examples of conversational ground rules different churches have set, and the governing principles at which a church arrived out of extended conversations on how to relate to LGBTQ+ persons joining their community in a denomination with traditional convictions.
Smith dares us to believe that the church could be the place where we recover the art of serious conversation, the kind that has the capacity to cultivate respect among people who differ, to live with messiness that defies neat resolutions, and to persist to the shared understanding that enables people to act creatively and missionally in their context. He shows how it has taken shape in real congregations, which makes it the most valuable sort of guidebook, one born out of years of trial and error and learning.
________________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 23, 2022
An exceptional book worth reading for every Christian who is interested in and concerned with genuine spiritual growth in the Church and ways to go about achieving this within the life of our church communities. Here are some excerpts of note from the book that I thought were meaningful and helpful in putting things into perspective:
"Immersing ourselves in the scriptural story is not simply a matter of teaching Scripture; many churches do that. How we teach Scripture matters. The Bible is not just a dusty history book or a book of moral teachings; it is the one story that gives meaning and order to our lives....The challenge then is to teach Scripture in a way that allows it to come alive for us, causing us to increasingly see ourselves as belonging to its story.
...
In addition to regularly teaching Scripture, special events throughout the church year can reinforce our identity as God's people located within the scriptural story. Every year the ancient Israelite people had a cycle of feasts that helped them remember the ways God had guided them throughout their history. Each feast told a particular story that was essential to the formation of Israel's identity as the people of God.
...
In recent years our church in Indianapolis has established a tradition on Holy Saturday--the day before Easter--of waking through our garden and of listening to gifted storytellers guide us through the scriptural story, from creation to the death of Jesus. This journey reminds us of the unity of Scripture, a single story of God's love for creation, which is our story as it was also the story of Israel and the story of our ancestors in the Christian faith. Likewise, we observe the seasons of Advent, reflecting on the meaning of God's drawing near t us in Jesus, and of Lent, remembering Jesus's suffering and death. These seasons, which are not celebrated in many sister churches within our particular church tradition, orient us to the story of Scripture and form us into the life of Christ."
- pgs. 134-135
"...Ever since the time of René Descartes, who famously endeavored to set aside his knowledge of everything that had gone before him, the modern age has been marked by its aversion to history, and memory. Four hundred years later, this resistance to history has become commonplace. Too often, we have forgotten the stories of those who have gone before us: in our families, in our places, and in our faith.
...
We may have spent our season away in the big city of modernity, so to speak, but our survival now hinges on our capacity to remember--to reconnect to the stories and the wisdom of those who have gone before us--and to draw on these memories to illuminate our way in the present and into the future."
- pgs. 137-138
"Reconnecting to the scriptural story begins with preachers and teachers who consistently teach Scripture,...,as a single story in which our church community (together with all our ancestors in the faith) is enmeshed. Good preaching and teaching will help us see ourselves in ancient Israel, in the disciples of Jesus, in the churches of the first century that were the recipients of the New Testament epistles, and in our church ancestors over the past two millennia....Like ancient Israel, we are probably more unfaithful than we are faithful....Like the Jewish Christians of the early church, who operated from a place of privilege, we become so attached to our traditions that we cannot see the transforming hand of God at work. Too often, our motivating desire is to force others into our traditions or, if they resist these traditions, to banish them from the people of God."
- pg. 140
"...The two crucial distinctions between a religious community and a real community are time and place. While a real community exists and shares life, throughout the days and weeks, a religious community exists only during specific windows of time when it gathers for worship or, other religious activities.
...
Another crucial difference between real and religious communities is the scope of their economy. The economy of a religious community is largely focused on growing its membership, sustaining its institution, paying its staff, maintaining its facilities, and keeping its utilities running. The economy of a real community is much broader, encompassing all the resources of its members and concerned with their flourishing. Real communities are intimately engaged in the health, housing, education, employment, diets, and recreation of their members."
- pg. 165
"Another key for our churches in bringing the daily spheres of life closer together and in fostering a more robust community life, is the work of learning t orchestrate the vocations of all the members of our church community....If our church body is to be healthy, each person will have a function, a role to play in the sensing, discerning, and moving of our body. The challenge, of course, is imagining a way of life in which every person's gifts and skills can be meaningfully engaged in the life and work of the church community.
...
...To begin to orchestrate all our members into the dance of Christ's body in this place, we need to imagine our life together as bigger than the worship service, as overflowing our church building into our neighborhood."
- pg. 175
"Immersing ourselves in the scriptural story is not simply a matter of teaching Scripture; many churches do that. How we teach Scripture matters. The Bible is not just a dusty history book or a book of moral teachings; it is the one story that gives meaning and order to our lives....The challenge then is to teach Scripture in a way that allows it to come alive for us, causing us to increasingly see ourselves as belonging to its story.
...
In addition to regularly teaching Scripture, special events throughout the church year can reinforce our identity as God's people located within the scriptural story. Every year the ancient Israelite people had a cycle of feasts that helped them remember the ways God had guided them throughout their history. Each feast told a particular story that was essential to the formation of Israel's identity as the people of God.
...
In recent years our church in Indianapolis has established a tradition on Holy Saturday--the day before Easter--of waking through our garden and of listening to gifted storytellers guide us through the scriptural story, from creation to the death of Jesus. This journey reminds us of the unity of Scripture, a single story of God's love for creation, which is our story as it was also the story of Israel and the story of our ancestors in the Christian faith. Likewise, we observe the seasons of Advent, reflecting on the meaning of God's drawing near t us in Jesus, and of Lent, remembering Jesus's suffering and death. These seasons, which are not celebrated in many sister churches within our particular church tradition, orient us to the story of Scripture and form us into the life of Christ."
- pgs. 134-135
"...Ever since the time of René Descartes, who famously endeavored to set aside his knowledge of everything that had gone before him, the modern age has been marked by its aversion to history, and memory. Four hundred years later, this resistance to history has become commonplace. Too often, we have forgotten the stories of those who have gone before us: in our families, in our places, and in our faith.
...
We may have spent our season away in the big city of modernity, so to speak, but our survival now hinges on our capacity to remember--to reconnect to the stories and the wisdom of those who have gone before us--and to draw on these memories to illuminate our way in the present and into the future."
- pgs. 137-138
"Reconnecting to the scriptural story begins with preachers and teachers who consistently teach Scripture,...,as a single story in which our church community (together with all our ancestors in the faith) is enmeshed. Good preaching and teaching will help us see ourselves in ancient Israel, in the disciples of Jesus, in the churches of the first century that were the recipients of the New Testament epistles, and in our church ancestors over the past two millennia....Like ancient Israel, we are probably more unfaithful than we are faithful....Like the Jewish Christians of the early church, who operated from a place of privilege, we become so attached to our traditions that we cannot see the transforming hand of God at work. Too often, our motivating desire is to force others into our traditions or, if they resist these traditions, to banish them from the people of God."
- pg. 140
"...The two crucial distinctions between a religious community and a real community are time and place. While a real community exists and shares life, throughout the days and weeks, a religious community exists only during specific windows of time when it gathers for worship or, other religious activities.
...
Another crucial difference between real and religious communities is the scope of their economy. The economy of a religious community is largely focused on growing its membership, sustaining its institution, paying its staff, maintaining its facilities, and keeping its utilities running. The economy of a real community is much broader, encompassing all the resources of its members and concerned with their flourishing. Real communities are intimately engaged in the health, housing, education, employment, diets, and recreation of their members."
- pg. 165
"Another key for our churches in bringing the daily spheres of life closer together and in fostering a more robust community life, is the work of learning t orchestrate the vocations of all the members of our church community....If our church body is to be healthy, each person will have a function, a role to play in the sensing, discerning, and moving of our body. The challenge, of course, is imagining a way of life in which every person's gifts and skills can be meaningfully engaged in the life and work of the church community.
...
...To begin to orchestrate all our members into the dance of Christ's body in this place, we need to imagine our life together as bigger than the worship service, as overflowing our church building into our neighborhood."
- pg. 175
April 5, 2019
The church is a mirror for our culture, and this has become incredibly evident in the way we talk to one another. At any given time in the last decade, there has been a denomination embroiled in conversations about LGBTQ inclusion (or exclusion), and oftentimes if not every time as a result of those 'conversations' and decisions, significant portions of the various denominations end up leaving, sometimes forming new entities, sometimes becoming independent, always feeling hurt and jaded at the way so-called Christ-followers treat each other while discussing hot-button issues. And this inability to converse not only happens at denominational levels, but it happens at state meetings, in local congregations, and around the dinner table. We have become skilled at addressing our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ as if they are the opposite party in a political debate, or as if we are a 24 hour news cycle pundit and they are our poor interviewee, rather than considering the other as a person created in the image of God following the same savior. At the heart of this problem is the simple truth that we no longer know how to talk to one another.
C. Christopher Smith, in his new book "How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in Church," makes the same observations in the form of a question: "How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?" The answer, according to the author, is that we as churches need to practice having conversation with one another again. Smith brings a particular background to this subject as the church he participates in, Englewood Christian Church in Indianapolis, has been practicing intentional conversation with one another over the last 20 years. So it is from the stance of theologian and practitioner that this book is written, and it serves both as a treatise for the Biblical practice of conversation and a practical guide for forming a congregation around conversation.
There is no lack of real life example of the benefits and pitfalls of engaging fellow believers in subjects centered around Scripture, culture, mission, and politics, and while "How the Body of Christ Talks" could have easily turned into a back-patting memoir about how his church is a model of Biblical conversation, Smith is pretty transparent about how difficult this process has been for their church and isn't shy about the losses accrued over their mistakes. And it is that very vulnerability that makes his argument so appealing. Because while there are books coming out every day touting the newest and best way to revitalize a church, their sanitized stories and shiny new methods ring hollow. On the other hand, "How the Body of Christ Talks" reads genuine as it gives a theological framework for the practice of conversation, shares practical advice on how to guide said conversations, and then offers the readers an opportunity to be flies on the wall of their fellowship hall as he exposes the grittiness of those conversations. And so the reader is given real life scenarios as to how these practices might play out and a warning that real church conversation is messy, beautiful, and necessary.
And not to undersell the value of the book as a whole, but one of the most valuable aspects of the book is the Appendix on 'Sample Conversational Ground Rules.' If you are a leader in a church preparing to have a conversation on a difficult subject, this is absolutely a must read.
Smith asks the question, "Do we really desire to be united with our brothers and sisters in the body of Christ?" If your answer to this question is 'yes' then you need to read this book. And if you hope for conversation to transform your church's conversation so that it no longer sounds like an extended Facebook argument, then I would advise you read this as a leadership group and consider putting into practice some of the conversation principles he writes about, especially establishing ground rules rooted in Scripture and mutual respect for one another. We have been given the example of Holy community in the three persons of the Trinity. How might the church truly be able to change the world if she lived in a way that faithfully followed that example? The full answer may be long and complex, but it must certainly involve God-honoring conversation with one another.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of How the Body of Christ Talks in exchange for an honest review.
C. Christopher Smith, in his new book "How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in Church," makes the same observations in the form of a question: "How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?" The answer, according to the author, is that we as churches need to practice having conversation with one another again. Smith brings a particular background to this subject as the church he participates in, Englewood Christian Church in Indianapolis, has been practicing intentional conversation with one another over the last 20 years. So it is from the stance of theologian and practitioner that this book is written, and it serves both as a treatise for the Biblical practice of conversation and a practical guide for forming a congregation around conversation.
There is no lack of real life example of the benefits and pitfalls of engaging fellow believers in subjects centered around Scripture, culture, mission, and politics, and while "How the Body of Christ Talks" could have easily turned into a back-patting memoir about how his church is a model of Biblical conversation, Smith is pretty transparent about how difficult this process has been for their church and isn't shy about the losses accrued over their mistakes. And it is that very vulnerability that makes his argument so appealing. Because while there are books coming out every day touting the newest and best way to revitalize a church, their sanitized stories and shiny new methods ring hollow. On the other hand, "How the Body of Christ Talks" reads genuine as it gives a theological framework for the practice of conversation, shares practical advice on how to guide said conversations, and then offers the readers an opportunity to be flies on the wall of their fellowship hall as he exposes the grittiness of those conversations. And so the reader is given real life scenarios as to how these practices might play out and a warning that real church conversation is messy, beautiful, and necessary.
And not to undersell the value of the book as a whole, but one of the most valuable aspects of the book is the Appendix on 'Sample Conversational Ground Rules.' If you are a leader in a church preparing to have a conversation on a difficult subject, this is absolutely a must read.
Smith asks the question, "Do we really desire to be united with our brothers and sisters in the body of Christ?" If your answer to this question is 'yes' then you need to read this book. And if you hope for conversation to transform your church's conversation so that it no longer sounds like an extended Facebook argument, then I would advise you read this as a leadership group and consider putting into practice some of the conversation principles he writes about, especially establishing ground rules rooted in Scripture and mutual respect for one another. We have been given the example of Holy community in the three persons of the Trinity. How might the church truly be able to change the world if she lived in a way that faithfully followed that example? The full answer may be long and complex, but it must certainly involve God-honoring conversation with one another.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of How the Body of Christ Talks in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2019
We live in a time where true conversation is rare. People discuss talking points and fail to engage in an actual give and take of ideas in order to find some sort of common ground. That’s why How the Body of Christ Talks is so timely.
The foundation of this book is that the church needs to recover the practice of real conversation in order to help heal the divides that are growing not only in our culture, but in the church itself. In order to show how this is possible, Chris does two things really well.
First, he offers up practical methods and numerous resources for engaging in conversation as a church. In almost every chapter, he offers up a concrete way for churches to pursue the answers of tough questions together or how to come together and discern how to engage pressing cultural issues. As a pastor myself, I know that this will be a valuable resource to be able to turn to when I’m looking for guidance in how to lead important conversations in the church.
The second is that Chris offers numerous real life examples of how these methods have played out. He isn’t just offering theoretical ways of conversing, but instead he shows the reader that it has been done successfully in other churches and organizations.
If you are a leader, you should pick up this book. I know that you will find this book to be a useful resource in leading others through the process of having real conversations together.
The foundation of this book is that the church needs to recover the practice of real conversation in order to help heal the divides that are growing not only in our culture, but in the church itself. In order to show how this is possible, Chris does two things really well.
First, he offers up practical methods and numerous resources for engaging in conversation as a church. In almost every chapter, he offers up a concrete way for churches to pursue the answers of tough questions together or how to come together and discern how to engage pressing cultural issues. As a pastor myself, I know that this will be a valuable resource to be able to turn to when I’m looking for guidance in how to lead important conversations in the church.
The second is that Chris offers numerous real life examples of how these methods have played out. He isn’t just offering theoretical ways of conversing, but instead he shows the reader that it has been done successfully in other churches and organizations.
If you are a leader, you should pick up this book. I know that you will find this book to be a useful resource in leading others through the process of having real conversations together.
June 29, 2019
Communication is a word I hear a lot as a pastor. We just don't do a good job of communicating. Usually, that means, people don't know what's going on, despite the fact that church services begin with a time of announcements, people receive a monthly newsletter, the congregation has a Facebook page and a Facebook group, Twitter, a website, and simply word of mouth. But we still have a communication problem. There are books and resources that speak to this reality, but that's not what Chris Smith has in mind with his book "How the Body of Christ Talks."
What he offers here is a prescription for "recovering the practice of conversation in the church." He roots this prescription theologically in the doctrine of the Trinity, more specifically a doctrine of the "social Trinity." For those of us who are attracted to a social Trinity, which emphasizes the relational nature of God's inner being (through perichoresis), this makes great sense. While I found his use of the doctrine compelling, there were a couple of occasions where I winced. This was especially true when Chris spoke of the three persons of the Trinity as three beings. That's not generally the way even social Trinitarians speak. It looked like he is embracing tri-theism rather than Trinitarianism. That qualm aside, I believe that he is correct in rooting his vision of the body of Christ talking in the Trinity.
The book is divided into three parts -- after he sets the theological foundations of the book. Part 1 is titled "Setting Out on the Journey," and has three chapters. The first is focused on "learning the dynamics of conversation." These dynamics include group size, group homogeneity, and finally the "virtues and challenges of formal and informal conversations." Much of the book focuses on more formal conversations. That is, conversations that intentional and regular. This chapter followed by one that explores topics. What are we going to talk about, especially early on? Here the key is building a foundation for ongoing conversations (at Englewood Christian Church, they developed a habit of weekly conversations using a time slot once designated for Sunday evening services). He suggests that groups stay away from abstract conversations and jumping into controversial topics. The point here is developing habits of conversation, and this requires setting ground rules (he offers possible ground rules in Appendix A). Finally, Part 1 closes with a conversation about the "healing potential of conversational methods." Here the focus on specific formats such as Appreciative Inquiry and other formats that have been used successfully by groups, both sacred and secular. Part 1 is about practical issues. What do we need to do to build relationships that conversational -- especially in formal ways.
Part 2 focuses on spirituality. There is a chapter on conversation as a "prayerful way of being." There is a chapter on "abiding in the messiness of life." That is a helpful chapter because many of our important conversations occur in times of difficulty. The question is, how do we have fruitful conversations in these messy times? This messiness involves sin and human finitude. He writes "although we may take pains to avoid it, conversation will inevitably be messy; rather than trying to steer ourselves around that messiness, we would do better to learn to abide patiently in the midst of it." (p. 110). The final chapter in this section is focused on preparing ourselves for the conversations we engage in. This involves our hearts and our minds, as well as our bodies. In this situation, he is focused on eyes and ears, that need to be attentive, as well as the need for rest.
Part 3 focuses on sustaining the conversation. It is good to remember that Chris is writing this book after experiencing more than two decades of intentional conversation that has transformed his urban congregation. To sustain this vision of conversation of the long term requires attention and work. It also involves cultivating a sense of mission and identity. Who are we as a congregation? What is our makeup? The point here is that we all have stories. Stories play an important role in this book. Chris returns time and again to the stories of his congregation -- not to brag, but because these stories are illustrative of the vision he wants to share with us. Not only are our congregational and individual stories important, but the biblical story is foundational. Our stories are to be woven in with the biblical story. It also involves remembering the stories of God's work in history and our congregation's history. As a historian, I value heritage. We needn't be limited by it, but we need to recognize how the past forms us and prepares us for the present and future. The ninth chapter in the book is one we ought to have expected. How do you conversation in the midst of conflict? Some of us are a bit conflict-averse. We'd rather not get sucked into conflict, but conflicts happen. Sometimes they center important issues, like sexuality and race and sometimes theology. Conflict may be inevitable, but Chris seems to think that if we develop strong habits of conversation we can weather these conflicts more successfully. We can experience healing of our fractures. In this chapter, he tells of an evangelical congregation struggling with the question of the full inclusion of LGBTQ folks. The congregation sits in the midst of a community with a significant LGBTQ population. The congregation wasn't of one mind about to respond. This was compounded by the congregation being part of a denomination that was less than welcoming. The question was what to do, especially since it appears that the denomination owned the building. Chris tells us some of the steps they took to stay together, though I'm not quite sure how it all worked out -- especially relating to the denomination. The point is, having a strong foundation in conversation will ease the pain of conflict. It might not resolve everything, but it gives a better foundation. The final chapter in part 3, invites us to enmesh ourselves in the dance of community. Here Chris brings the Trinity back into play. The focus is on coordinating gifts and skills and passions so that the congregation can thrive.
The conclusion focuses on the witness of a congregation that has embraced conversation. None of this is easy, but the practices seem to be beneficial. It's rooted in theology, and not just secular practices. We can learn from business and other group experiences, but for the church, there needs to be some theology involved.
Overall this is a most helpful book. It's not a quick fix. It's not five easy steps to creating meaningful conversation. There are tools, like Appreciative Inquiry, that can be helpful, but first you have to commit yourselves to the conversation. It's a bit scary to move beyond reading to implementing. Yet, that's the purpose. I should note that Chris wrote an e-book some years ago (2012 to be exact) that covers similar ground, just not as in depth as here. That book is titled The Virtue of Dialogue: Conversation as a Hopeful Practice of Church Communities. If you found that earlier book helpful, you will find this one even more so.
What he offers here is a prescription for "recovering the practice of conversation in the church." He roots this prescription theologically in the doctrine of the Trinity, more specifically a doctrine of the "social Trinity." For those of us who are attracted to a social Trinity, which emphasizes the relational nature of God's inner being (through perichoresis), this makes great sense. While I found his use of the doctrine compelling, there were a couple of occasions where I winced. This was especially true when Chris spoke of the three persons of the Trinity as three beings. That's not generally the way even social Trinitarians speak. It looked like he is embracing tri-theism rather than Trinitarianism. That qualm aside, I believe that he is correct in rooting his vision of the body of Christ talking in the Trinity.
The book is divided into three parts -- after he sets the theological foundations of the book. Part 1 is titled "Setting Out on the Journey," and has three chapters. The first is focused on "learning the dynamics of conversation." These dynamics include group size, group homogeneity, and finally the "virtues and challenges of formal and informal conversations." Much of the book focuses on more formal conversations. That is, conversations that intentional and regular. This chapter followed by one that explores topics. What are we going to talk about, especially early on? Here the key is building a foundation for ongoing conversations (at Englewood Christian Church, they developed a habit of weekly conversations using a time slot once designated for Sunday evening services). He suggests that groups stay away from abstract conversations and jumping into controversial topics. The point here is developing habits of conversation, and this requires setting ground rules (he offers possible ground rules in Appendix A). Finally, Part 1 closes with a conversation about the "healing potential of conversational methods." Here the focus on specific formats such as Appreciative Inquiry and other formats that have been used successfully by groups, both sacred and secular. Part 1 is about practical issues. What do we need to do to build relationships that conversational -- especially in formal ways.
Part 2 focuses on spirituality. There is a chapter on conversation as a "prayerful way of being." There is a chapter on "abiding in the messiness of life." That is a helpful chapter because many of our important conversations occur in times of difficulty. The question is, how do we have fruitful conversations in these messy times? This messiness involves sin and human finitude. He writes "although we may take pains to avoid it, conversation will inevitably be messy; rather than trying to steer ourselves around that messiness, we would do better to learn to abide patiently in the midst of it." (p. 110). The final chapter in this section is focused on preparing ourselves for the conversations we engage in. This involves our hearts and our minds, as well as our bodies. In this situation, he is focused on eyes and ears, that need to be attentive, as well as the need for rest.
Part 3 focuses on sustaining the conversation. It is good to remember that Chris is writing this book after experiencing more than two decades of intentional conversation that has transformed his urban congregation. To sustain this vision of conversation of the long term requires attention and work. It also involves cultivating a sense of mission and identity. Who are we as a congregation? What is our makeup? The point here is that we all have stories. Stories play an important role in this book. Chris returns time and again to the stories of his congregation -- not to brag, but because these stories are illustrative of the vision he wants to share with us. Not only are our congregational and individual stories important, but the biblical story is foundational. Our stories are to be woven in with the biblical story. It also involves remembering the stories of God's work in history and our congregation's history. As a historian, I value heritage. We needn't be limited by it, but we need to recognize how the past forms us and prepares us for the present and future. The ninth chapter in the book is one we ought to have expected. How do you conversation in the midst of conflict? Some of us are a bit conflict-averse. We'd rather not get sucked into conflict, but conflicts happen. Sometimes they center important issues, like sexuality and race and sometimes theology. Conflict may be inevitable, but Chris seems to think that if we develop strong habits of conversation we can weather these conflicts more successfully. We can experience healing of our fractures. In this chapter, he tells of an evangelical congregation struggling with the question of the full inclusion of LGBTQ folks. The congregation sits in the midst of a community with a significant LGBTQ population. The congregation wasn't of one mind about to respond. This was compounded by the congregation being part of a denomination that was less than welcoming. The question was what to do, especially since it appears that the denomination owned the building. Chris tells us some of the steps they took to stay together, though I'm not quite sure how it all worked out -- especially relating to the denomination. The point is, having a strong foundation in conversation will ease the pain of conflict. It might not resolve everything, but it gives a better foundation. The final chapter in part 3, invites us to enmesh ourselves in the dance of community. Here Chris brings the Trinity back into play. The focus is on coordinating gifts and skills and passions so that the congregation can thrive.
The conclusion focuses on the witness of a congregation that has embraced conversation. None of this is easy, but the practices seem to be beneficial. It's rooted in theology, and not just secular practices. We can learn from business and other group experiences, but for the church, there needs to be some theology involved.
Overall this is a most helpful book. It's not a quick fix. It's not five easy steps to creating meaningful conversation. There are tools, like Appreciative Inquiry, that can be helpful, but first you have to commit yourselves to the conversation. It's a bit scary to move beyond reading to implementing. Yet, that's the purpose. I should note that Chris wrote an e-book some years ago (2012 to be exact) that covers similar ground, just not as in depth as here. That book is titled The Virtue of Dialogue: Conversation as a Hopeful Practice of Church Communities. If you found that earlier book helpful, you will find this one even more so.
April 24, 2019
Despite the fact that we live in an age where we are technologically tethered, many of us feel disconnected. Collectively, we have lost the requisite skill to carry on a conversation, particularly with people who are different than us. Online, we mute the voices that challenge us. Offline we flock with birds of a feather. We are a fragmented people,simultaneously more connected than previous ages, and yet typified by a profound sense of alienation.
C. Christopher Smith is at the forefront of helping the church recover the art of conversation. He is a part of Englewood Christian Church, in the Englewood neighborhood of Indianapolis, which has hosted weekly congregational conversations for over 2 decades. Smith also has enriched conversation in the wider Church around the themes of community, reading and the common good. He is the author of Slow Church (with John Pattison), Reading for the Common Good,and as the editor of the Englewood Review of Books—a print and online journal that reviews books which they flag as valuable for the people of God. His newest book, How the Body of Christ Talks, is designed as a practical guide to help the church recover the art of conversation.
In chapter 1, Smith begins by laying out 'the theological roots for conversation,' (e.g. the mutual indwelling of the Trinity, a culture of reciprocity, the Christian practice of hospitality and the biblical vision of unity in diversity, the church's role in incarnating Christ, and need for intentionality). These 'big ideas' cast a vision for a Christian dialogue and conversation.
In part 1, Smith gets practical, describing how churches can delve into the practice of conversation. In chapter 2, he desribes the dynamics of conversation (e.g. the size of the group, the degree of homogeneity, and the virtues and challenges of formal and informal conversations). In Chapter 3, Smith discusses what topics we should talk about as we convene a conversation. He suggests that when churches start practicing conversation, they don't start with 'abstract matters or highly charged topics,' even if these are things that are worthwhile to discuss down the road. Instead Smith suggests that one possible starting point for conversation 'might need to be about why we should talk together, thus creating a space for listening carefully to those who are hesitant, confused, resistant to the idea of conversation.' In Chapter 4, Smith turns to the healing potential of conversation and reviews three models for structuring the conversation (Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, and World Cafe).
In part 2, Smith discusses the 'spirituality of conversation' highlighting practices which will nurture our conversations. Chapter 5 explores conversation as 'a prayerful way of being' and describes how the prayer practices of corporate prayer, silence, listening prayer, binding, praying without ceasing and expectancy prepare us to be able to engage well with one another. Chapter 6 explores how we can abide with others through the messiness of life. Chapter 7 invites us to prepare our whole selves for conversation (hearts, minds, body).
Part 3 describes ways we can sustain the conversation, mindful of our church's mission and identity (chapter 8), how to stay engaged and engage well through conflicts and disagreements (chapter 9), and how to emesh ourselves in the dance of community (chapter 10). A conclusion invites the church to bear witness through conversation and communion in the midst of our fragmented age.
Throughout the book, Smith weaves together stories of his church and other churches who are practicing conversation. Granview Calvary Baptist in Vancouver is highlighted as a church that engaged this conversation around LGBTQIA community with some members affirming and others taking the traditional stance (and their denomination's stance). While the differences between 'the sides' remained important, through their conversation they were able to make a statement on human sexuality which both sides could affirm. Other churches and intentional communities share their wisdom in setting ground rules and framing conversation (these are included in an appendix).
One of the things I really appreciate about Smith's work, is how he weaves together thoughtfulness and practicality. We are at a culture moment where we are ideologically and politically divided. Smith describes the nature of conversation and gives good suggestions for pursuing an ecclesially rooted conversation which will enrich both our churches and our wider communities. This book will be fruitful for churches and intentional communities as they seek to listen and speak well together.
Notice of material consent: I reviewed this book with an electronic advanced review copy provided by Net Galley. The book is good and I am also procuring my own physical copy.
April 19, 2019
Too often in our churches, we come to service, maybe attend a class or Bible study or small group, but never actually stop to have real heart-felt, honest to goodness conversations about topics that are impacting our church, our community, and our nation. Or maybe if you do have the rare opportunity to engage in conversation, you worry about saying something that others may disagree with even when it is a topic that there may be multiple Christian viewpoints. In his most recent book How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church, C. Christopher Smith has written a resource which blends theology, spiritual disciplines, and communication theory into a must-purchase book.
Smith roots his book in a marvelous discussion of the Trinity. He emphasizes that the Trinity is a model for Christian community and that community doesn't happen without conversation. Smith provides numerous examples of churches that engage in conversation most specifically the congregation in which he is a member. He is able to speak from experience regarding concerns that individuals may have regarding "what abouts" and "what ifs" for beginning this practice and provides three specific models for conversation. The discussion on the three conversational models is useful not only for churches but for any organization. Moving on from "how-to," Smith focuses on why churches should have conversations and emphasizes this practices is a spiritual discipline. The final section provides information on positive outcomes that may emerge from this practice as well as how to work through potential conflicts.
This book is highly recommended as a resource for ministers and church leaders to read and implement. Beyond churches, anyone who is interested in communication or spiritual disciplines or works with groups in any way will find this an interesting and useful book to read as well. Many may feel intimidated by the idea of having a church conversation that doesn't have a specific agenda or outcome in mind but How the Body of Christ Talks provides a a roadmap for implementing this important discipline.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book How the Body of Christ Talks via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Smith roots his book in a marvelous discussion of the Trinity. He emphasizes that the Trinity is a model for Christian community and that community doesn't happen without conversation. Smith provides numerous examples of churches that engage in conversation most specifically the congregation in which he is a member. He is able to speak from experience regarding concerns that individuals may have regarding "what abouts" and "what ifs" for beginning this practice and provides three specific models for conversation. The discussion on the three conversational models is useful not only for churches but for any organization. Moving on from "how-to," Smith focuses on why churches should have conversations and emphasizes this practices is a spiritual discipline. The final section provides information on positive outcomes that may emerge from this practice as well as how to work through potential conflicts.
This book is highly recommended as a resource for ministers and church leaders to read and implement. Beyond churches, anyone who is interested in communication or spiritual disciplines or works with groups in any way will find this an interesting and useful book to read as well. Many may feel intimidated by the idea of having a church conversation that doesn't have a specific agenda or outcome in mind but How the Body of Christ Talks provides a a roadmap for implementing this important discipline.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book How the Body of Christ Talks via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
October 22, 2019
I didn't like How the Body of Christ Talks. I'm not saying it is a terrible book, just wasn't what I was hoping for and I didn't agree with certain things. Not a book for me...
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
April 2, 2019
The people of the world are connected more now than they ever have been before. Through globalization, transportation, and technology the entire world is connected. You can now communicate with someone anywhere, anytime via cell phone calls, video calls (FaceTime, Skype, etc.), social media, text messaging, and email. This should have ushered in the Golden Age of Communication.
Yet, if you look around you, you will see alienation everywhere. The traditional places for socializing (like the barber shop and the salon) are dying. Civic Clubs and fraternal orders are becoming a thing of the past.
Due to humanity’s natural tribalistic tendency, people interact almost solely with those who are inside their homogenous social group. This tendency is amplified in the world of social media. Newsfeeds simply become echo chambers.
Smart phones, tablets, computers, and smart speakers constantly provide entertainment and distraction. It becomes easier to turn on, login, and tune out than to pay attention.
Politics continue to divide us. The right demonizes the left, the left demonizes the right, and the extremists demonize everyone.
Surely, the Church is above all this, right? Wrong!
C. Christopher Smith’s new book, How the Body of Christ Talks asks the question, “How can our churches initiate and sustain practices of conversation?" He confronts this problem of alienation and offers solutions to how the Church can once again start embracing the spiritual discipline of conversation.
For Smith, conversation is at the center of the Christian faith: “We have been created by God to live this conversational life with God—a life of ceaseless prayer—and with those humans with whom God has surrounded us. Conversation should not be reduced to something fun that we do on occasion, nor is it a tool to get things done. Rather, conversation is at the very heart of our being, as humans created in the image of the Triune God, who exists as a conversational community.”
The book begins with a theological basis for conversation. Smith beings (naturally!) with God. According to the doctrine of social trinitarianism, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in communion with each other. The members of the Trinity indwell one another (“mutual presence”), share freely among one another (“an economy of reciprocity”), and are “bound together in diversity.” Smith then traces the theme of God’s desire to dwell with humanity through the pages of Scripture from the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem.
From there, the book is divided into three parts: “Setting Out on the Journey,” “A Spirituality for the Journey,” and “Sustaining the Journey.”
Smith is not an armchair theologian pontificating on the value of speaking and listening. His church, Englewood Christian Church, has done the hard work of making conversation part of their communal life. On Sunday nights, the church holds conversations. In “Part 1: Setting on the Journey,” Smith uses his community’s experiences, sharing their successes and failures to provide church leaders a practical “how-to” on making conversation an essential part of the church’s life. Pastors and church leaders will find this section extremely practical.
In “Part 2: A Spirituality of the Journey,” Smith speaks about the spirituality that is necessary in order to have productive conversations. Here he explains how conversation is a spiritual discipline, why silence and listening are essential, and how conversation is often messy and requires preparation of the heart, mind, and body.
Finally, in “Part 3: Sustaining the Journey,” Smith speaks about finding your congregation’s role in the grand story of the Church and bearing witness throughout the journey.
The book ends with three appendices with practical resources for church leaders.
Books like this usually either give well-intentioned lip service to an idea or they are simple “how-to” manuals. Smith manages to make this book both thought-provoking and highly practical. Church leaders will find How the Body of Christ Talks immensely helpful.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of How the Body of Christ Talks in exchange for an honest review.
Yet, if you look around you, you will see alienation everywhere. The traditional places for socializing (like the barber shop and the salon) are dying. Civic Clubs and fraternal orders are becoming a thing of the past.
Due to humanity’s natural tribalistic tendency, people interact almost solely with those who are inside their homogenous social group. This tendency is amplified in the world of social media. Newsfeeds simply become echo chambers.
Smart phones, tablets, computers, and smart speakers constantly provide entertainment and distraction. It becomes easier to turn on, login, and tune out than to pay attention.
Politics continue to divide us. The right demonizes the left, the left demonizes the right, and the extremists demonize everyone.
Surely, the Church is above all this, right? Wrong!
C. Christopher Smith’s new book, How the Body of Christ Talks asks the question, “How can our churches initiate and sustain practices of conversation?" He confronts this problem of alienation and offers solutions to how the Church can once again start embracing the spiritual discipline of conversation.
For Smith, conversation is at the center of the Christian faith: “We have been created by God to live this conversational life with God—a life of ceaseless prayer—and with those humans with whom God has surrounded us. Conversation should not be reduced to something fun that we do on occasion, nor is it a tool to get things done. Rather, conversation is at the very heart of our being, as humans created in the image of the Triune God, who exists as a conversational community.”
The book begins with a theological basis for conversation. Smith beings (naturally!) with God. According to the doctrine of social trinitarianism, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in communion with each other. The members of the Trinity indwell one another (“mutual presence”), share freely among one another (“an economy of reciprocity”), and are “bound together in diversity.” Smith then traces the theme of God’s desire to dwell with humanity through the pages of Scripture from the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem.
From there, the book is divided into three parts: “Setting Out on the Journey,” “A Spirituality for the Journey,” and “Sustaining the Journey.”
Smith is not an armchair theologian pontificating on the value of speaking and listening. His church, Englewood Christian Church, has done the hard work of making conversation part of their communal life. On Sunday nights, the church holds conversations. In “Part 1: Setting on the Journey,” Smith uses his community’s experiences, sharing their successes and failures to provide church leaders a practical “how-to” on making conversation an essential part of the church’s life. Pastors and church leaders will find this section extremely practical.
In “Part 2: A Spirituality of the Journey,” Smith speaks about the spirituality that is necessary in order to have productive conversations. Here he explains how conversation is a spiritual discipline, why silence and listening are essential, and how conversation is often messy and requires preparation of the heart, mind, and body.
Finally, in “Part 3: Sustaining the Journey,” Smith speaks about finding your congregation’s role in the grand story of the Church and bearing witness throughout the journey.
The book ends with three appendices with practical resources for church leaders.
Books like this usually either give well-intentioned lip service to an idea or they are simple “how-to” manuals. Smith manages to make this book both thought-provoking and highly practical. Church leaders will find How the Body of Christ Talks immensely helpful.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of How the Body of Christ Talks in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2019
This is a fantastic resource, especially in the social and political climate we find ourselves in. There are many books and resources that explain the need for us to love and appreciate each other but few that give practical steps on how we can begin talking and by extension healing and uniting.
In an environment where churches and relationships are being divided and people seem to be reciting cable news talking points as thoughtful parts of dialogue, the ability to respectfully listen and even change is being lost. Churches could and should be places for healing and restoration. Chris Smith provides helpful steps and practices that can help us begin this hard, necessary and beautiful work.
In an environment where churches and relationships are being divided and people seem to be reciting cable news talking points as thoughtful parts of dialogue, the ability to respectfully listen and even change is being lost. Churches could and should be places for healing and restoration. Chris Smith provides helpful steps and practices that can help us begin this hard, necessary and beautiful work.
February 21, 2019
How the Body of Christ Talks is a timely book given our current cultural tendency to not listen and to make (often false or negative) assumptions about one another. Smith's thesis is: "How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation.?" The work that C. Chris Smith and his church (Englewood Christian Church community) have done is not only admirable, it's inspirational. The book is incredibly practical as well as deep and thoughtful. It would be a great resource for community groups, churches, or neighborhood associations.
May 17, 2019
In How the Body of Christ Talks, Chris Smith explores conversation as an ecclesial practice. Smith draws upon his experience participating in a weekly discussion group at Englewood Christian Church, and also points to the examples of other churches who have practiced regular times of dialogue, from Quaker assemblies to Lutheran congregations. He also points to communities like L’Arche or Le Chambon who have exemplified practices of conversation or related practices such as hospitality. He thus does not discuss conversation as an abstract concept, but demonstrates how it is embodied within particular communities and locales.
He notes that we, as humans, are social beings. We learn language and we learn to communicate in communities. We are thus, as Charles Taylor argues, language animals. Smith laments, “As our social networks become homogenized, we lose the capacity to talk, to work, and to be with those who are different than us.” It is thus important for us to find ways to talk with those of different social backgrounds, political persuasions, etc. This is especially true for churches.
While Smith draws upon insights from social sciences, he also argues churches must orient themselves theologically for the work of conversation. He says, “We are creatures in God’s story, and we function best when we are guided and oriented by our knowledge of who God is and of the story of God’s action in creation.” Churches are thus called to be in communion with one another—to intentionally live lives of reciprocity. In living like this, the church witnesses to God’s work through Christ and the Spirit in the world.
Part 1, “Setting Out on the Journey,” discusses the need to learn how to converse with one another. Each community, depending on their size and demographics, may have different needs. He offers insights for how churches can make space for both formal and informal dialogue, respond to resistance, create a proper environment for conversation, and ensure that members discuss issues in a Christlike manner. He then turns to offering suggestions for what churches should discuss. While abstract issues or charged topics might be of interest, Smith cautions churches against beginning their conversations with those topics. He says instead that churches might want to begin with a discussion of why they should meet for regular times of conversation. Smith also argues that churches should set ground rules for their discussions. In order to help develop those, Smith points to three conversational techniques—Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, and World Café.
In Part 2, “A Spirituality for the Journey,” Smith focuses on some practices/habits that accompany and train the church in its work to dialogue with one another, such as prayer, silence, and listening; abiding with God and with one another through the messiness of life; preparation, notetaking, and reflection. These various practices can help churches resist consumerism and bring about reconciliation.
Part 3, “Sustaining the Journey,” begins by looking at how the early church sought to bring Jews and Gentiles together into one community and their practice of dialogue in Acts 15. He does this within a framework that sees Scripture as a guiding narrative for the church. Smith also includes chapters on conflict resolution and living in community with one another.
The book then closes with some appendices that a) provide some guidelines for group dialogue, b) provide additional resources on conversational methods, and c) a sample agreement on sexuality by Grandview Calvary Baptist Church in Vancouver, BC that arose out of dialogue.
There are some dangers in rooting our need to dialogue with one another within a social doctrine of the Trinity, as Smith does. While he is correct that we should be in fellowship with God and one another, this does not require us to argue that we should be in community as God is in community. As Mark Husbands has argued, “The Trinity is not our social program.” At the very least, Smith should indicate that the dissimilarity of trintiarian relations to human fellowship is greater than the similarity—that there is an ontological difference between God and creation. Apart from that distinction, social trinitarianism can move dangerously close to tritheism.
Despite this caution, How the Body of Christ Talks is a worthwhile read. It offers an apology for conversation as an ecclesial practice, while also offering practical suggestions for how churches should begin and maintain the practice. It would be of interest to those in vocational ministry, but also to those who teach Sunday School classes, small groups, or classes within Christian colleges and universities that want to cultivate better conversational practice.
He notes that we, as humans, are social beings. We learn language and we learn to communicate in communities. We are thus, as Charles Taylor argues, language animals. Smith laments, “As our social networks become homogenized, we lose the capacity to talk, to work, and to be with those who are different than us.” It is thus important for us to find ways to talk with those of different social backgrounds, political persuasions, etc. This is especially true for churches.
While Smith draws upon insights from social sciences, he also argues churches must orient themselves theologically for the work of conversation. He says, “We are creatures in God’s story, and we function best when we are guided and oriented by our knowledge of who God is and of the story of God’s action in creation.” Churches are thus called to be in communion with one another—to intentionally live lives of reciprocity. In living like this, the church witnesses to God’s work through Christ and the Spirit in the world.
Part 1, “Setting Out on the Journey,” discusses the need to learn how to converse with one another. Each community, depending on their size and demographics, may have different needs. He offers insights for how churches can make space for both formal and informal dialogue, respond to resistance, create a proper environment for conversation, and ensure that members discuss issues in a Christlike manner. He then turns to offering suggestions for what churches should discuss. While abstract issues or charged topics might be of interest, Smith cautions churches against beginning their conversations with those topics. He says instead that churches might want to begin with a discussion of why they should meet for regular times of conversation. Smith also argues that churches should set ground rules for their discussions. In order to help develop those, Smith points to three conversational techniques—Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, and World Café.
In Part 2, “A Spirituality for the Journey,” Smith focuses on some practices/habits that accompany and train the church in its work to dialogue with one another, such as prayer, silence, and listening; abiding with God and with one another through the messiness of life; preparation, notetaking, and reflection. These various practices can help churches resist consumerism and bring about reconciliation.
Part 3, “Sustaining the Journey,” begins by looking at how the early church sought to bring Jews and Gentiles together into one community and their practice of dialogue in Acts 15. He does this within a framework that sees Scripture as a guiding narrative for the church. Smith also includes chapters on conflict resolution and living in community with one another.
The book then closes with some appendices that a) provide some guidelines for group dialogue, b) provide additional resources on conversational methods, and c) a sample agreement on sexuality by Grandview Calvary Baptist Church in Vancouver, BC that arose out of dialogue.
There are some dangers in rooting our need to dialogue with one another within a social doctrine of the Trinity, as Smith does. While he is correct that we should be in fellowship with God and one another, this does not require us to argue that we should be in community as God is in community. As Mark Husbands has argued, “The Trinity is not our social program.” At the very least, Smith should indicate that the dissimilarity of trintiarian relations to human fellowship is greater than the similarity—that there is an ontological difference between God and creation. Apart from that distinction, social trinitarianism can move dangerously close to tritheism.
Despite this caution, How the Body of Christ Talks is a worthwhile read. It offers an apology for conversation as an ecclesial practice, while also offering practical suggestions for how churches should begin and maintain the practice. It would be of interest to those in vocational ministry, but also to those who teach Sunday School classes, small groups, or classes within Christian colleges and universities that want to cultivate better conversational practice.
April 28, 2019
Chris is a gift to the Church. He knows who he is: an admitted book nerd (may his tribe increase!). He understands where he lives: an urban neighborhood that has changed dramatically over the decades. He deeply knows the church he belongs to: one that has stayed through the changes rather than fleeing to pursue suburban utopia. And he has experienced the difficulties of very different people learning how to talk about their differences.
I can't think of a more timely subject. Social media has morphed from cute cat videos to an acerbic battleground where everyone who disagrees is instantly maligned as a moron, bigot, or deceiver. We can do better.
If you have to label me, I'm a middle-aged white male conservative Protestant evangelical Christian pastor. That's far from everything I am, but you get the idea: when you read that list, you immediately imagine I'm either with you or against you.
Chris challenges us to go deeper, because Christ's Church includes a vast array of characters. Like it or not, we're family. Forever. We've been fighting for far too long. And it sure looks like it's getting worse lately.
"How the Body of Christ Talks" is heavily grounded in research. Rather than trying to win over the reader primarily through dramatic stories, Chris' approach is to lay out the facts, references provided, and then offer a story that fleshes out how one might move forward. Some of the stories come from the church where he is a member. Others come from churches in other parts of the U.S. who are likewise learning how to intentionally engage in conversations, including on difficult subjects.
Along the way, Chris also offers examples of a few systematic approaches to congregational conversation. Due to the complexity of talking about differences, these systems provide tracks to run on that make it more likely to advance together, rather than crash into one another with the concomitant casualties so prevalent these days.
"How the Body of Christ Talks" is not an easy read, but it is worth reading. I suspect Chris & I have some differences in doctrine. Of course I think my view is right. Ah, yes, that's why we need books and conversations like this! Chris is comfortable bringing the reader into his experience, without pretending to have everything perfectly figured out. If you're open to learning from fellow Christians who disagree with you, recovering the practice of conversation in the Church may serve you well.
I can't think of a more timely subject. Social media has morphed from cute cat videos to an acerbic battleground where everyone who disagrees is instantly maligned as a moron, bigot, or deceiver. We can do better.
If you have to label me, I'm a middle-aged white male conservative Protestant evangelical Christian pastor. That's far from everything I am, but you get the idea: when you read that list, you immediately imagine I'm either with you or against you.
Chris challenges us to go deeper, because Christ's Church includes a vast array of characters. Like it or not, we're family. Forever. We've been fighting for far too long. And it sure looks like it's getting worse lately.
"How the Body of Christ Talks" is heavily grounded in research. Rather than trying to win over the reader primarily through dramatic stories, Chris' approach is to lay out the facts, references provided, and then offer a story that fleshes out how one might move forward. Some of the stories come from the church where he is a member. Others come from churches in other parts of the U.S. who are likewise learning how to intentionally engage in conversations, including on difficult subjects.
Along the way, Chris also offers examples of a few systematic approaches to congregational conversation. Due to the complexity of talking about differences, these systems provide tracks to run on that make it more likely to advance together, rather than crash into one another with the concomitant casualties so prevalent these days.
"How the Body of Christ Talks" is not an easy read, but it is worth reading. I suspect Chris & I have some differences in doctrine. Of course I think my view is right. Ah, yes, that's why we need books and conversations like this! Chris is comfortable bringing the reader into his experience, without pretending to have everything perfectly figured out. If you're open to learning from fellow Christians who disagree with you, recovering the practice of conversation in the Church may serve you well.
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July 2, 2019C. Christopher Smith, editor of the Englewood Review of Books, has been an advocate for the spiritual practice of conversation based on the long-running Sunday evening conversations at his home congregation, Englewood Christian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. In a new book, Smith takes his advocacy further with an extended analogy of the physical body as an image of conversation. “We are conversational bodies,” he says, “created to live most fully and most healthfully in conversation.” (6)
How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church is a deep dive into a neglected means of grace. It might seem simple to say that we just need to talk more, but Smith knows that even church people are being shaped by new ways of being that have made holy conferring difficult. “How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?” (8)
Patiently, Smith lays out the case for recovering the practice. First, he explores the theological roots of conversation, noting the social nature of the Trinity and three facets related to God’s way of being: mutual presence, an economy of reciprocity, and the interplay of being bound together in diversity. The church exists as a continuing incarnation of God’s presence, something Smith emphasizes by revisiting verses like 1 Corinthians 6:19. “The grammar of these references is often obscured by the quirks of the English language and the prevailing individualism of our modern age: ‘Your [plural] body [singular] is the temple of the Holy Spirit.’” (22)
In subsequent sections of the book, Smith lays out a comprehensive vision for fostering conversation in congregations. He rejects the notion that conversation is simply a tool to be employed as needed to solve problems. Conversations are, instead, constituent of who we are, “constantly structuring and restructuring the world in which we live.” (83) Therefore, it’s important that we have healthy conversations that cultivate trust and relationship.
Read my full review on Heartlands: https://alexjoyner.com/2019/07/01/can....
I received a review copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church is a deep dive into a neglected means of grace. It might seem simple to say that we just need to talk more, but Smith knows that even church people are being shaped by new ways of being that have made holy conferring difficult. “How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?” (8)
Patiently, Smith lays out the case for recovering the practice. First, he explores the theological roots of conversation, noting the social nature of the Trinity and three facets related to God’s way of being: mutual presence, an economy of reciprocity, and the interplay of being bound together in diversity. The church exists as a continuing incarnation of God’s presence, something Smith emphasizes by revisiting verses like 1 Corinthians 6:19. “The grammar of these references is often obscured by the quirks of the English language and the prevailing individualism of our modern age: ‘Your [plural] body [singular] is the temple of the Holy Spirit.’” (22)
In subsequent sections of the book, Smith lays out a comprehensive vision for fostering conversation in congregations. He rejects the notion that conversation is simply a tool to be employed as needed to solve problems. Conversations are, instead, constituent of who we are, “constantly structuring and restructuring the world in which we live.” (83) Therefore, it’s important that we have healthy conversations that cultivate trust and relationship.
Read my full review on Heartlands: https://alexjoyner.com/2019/07/01/can....
I received a review copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2019
In How the Body of Christ Talks, C. Christopher Smith reveals to readers the sacrament and vital function of conversation within Christian communities. He draws upon experience and stories from his own church’s initiation into healthy, deep, faith-based conversation, as well as stories from a variety of other religious communities. Weaved throughout the book is also a passionate vision of the church’s role within its surrounding community. Smith presents an expansive view of the church’s position in the community that is both exciting and challenging.
Smith gives guidance on moving carefully but determinedly from a state where conversation is lacking or too shallow, to gradually approaching more challenging topics and making larger decisions as a healthy body. Far too many churches fall into the traps of sticking to shallow discussions to avoid conflict or limiting what’s permitted in conversation to fit an imposed and often top-down unity. Smith reminds us that while we come together to find common ground and faith, homogeneity leads to brittle social structures that can be restrictive and easily shattered. His examples of the conversations some churches worked through together were difficult at times, as an LGBT person of faith, to read yet more stories of the trouble some have in finding love and acceptance toward people like me. However, Smith clearly expresses the need to prioritize the well-being and wholeness of oppressed and abused people as we engage in these conversations.
As a Quaker, I recognize some of the problems discussed around lack of deep conversations about faith, and I appreciated that Smith draws upon Friends’ communities and practices in parts of his writing. His approaches are not reliant on clergy or church hierarchy, leaving space for a wider range of religious communities to follow his advice. He also shows a deep respect for discernment within a whole community that feels deeply compatible with Quaker process. I believe that following Smith’s advice around conversation, combined with an openness to prophetic witness, could bring a renewed health and vigor to religious bodies of any tradition.
Smith gives guidance on moving carefully but determinedly from a state where conversation is lacking or too shallow, to gradually approaching more challenging topics and making larger decisions as a healthy body. Far too many churches fall into the traps of sticking to shallow discussions to avoid conflict or limiting what’s permitted in conversation to fit an imposed and often top-down unity. Smith reminds us that while we come together to find common ground and faith, homogeneity leads to brittle social structures that can be restrictive and easily shattered. His examples of the conversations some churches worked through together were difficult at times, as an LGBT person of faith, to read yet more stories of the trouble some have in finding love and acceptance toward people like me. However, Smith clearly expresses the need to prioritize the well-being and wholeness of oppressed and abused people as we engage in these conversations.
As a Quaker, I recognize some of the problems discussed around lack of deep conversations about faith, and I appreciated that Smith draws upon Friends’ communities and practices in parts of his writing. His approaches are not reliant on clergy or church hierarchy, leaving space for a wider range of religious communities to follow his advice. He also shows a deep respect for discernment within a whole community that feels deeply compatible with Quaker process. I believe that following Smith’s advice around conversation, combined with an openness to prophetic witness, could bring a renewed health and vigor to religious bodies of any tradition.
June 1, 2019
Smith begins with his own church's experience of Sunday evening conversations. It was a bumpy ride, he says, but ultimately grew to a place of trust and maturing conversation. He argues the need for conversation and that the church is the best place in which to learn the skill. His desire is that this book be a sort of a field guide to the path.
His focus for the book is this question: “How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?” (164/2922)
Smith gives a theology of conversation using the Trinity, for example, as a model. He explores three conversational techniques, giving examples of their use, and provides additional resources in an appendix. He gives examples of ground rules or agreements and covers other factors, such a group size, facilitators, and kinds of topics to begin with and what kinds for later conversation. He helps us understand the spirituality that will draw us deeper into conversation, drawing on the Quaker and other traditions. He also gives good information for dealing with conflict.
Smith says that ultimately every community will have to decide how conversation will take place. There are no universal rules to follow. He provides resources and suggestions but each church will need to work out the process for themselves.
This is a book suitable for church leaders. Smith's writing style is academic in nature and I doubt laypeople would persevere through the text. The best use of the book, I think, would be for pastors or church leaders who desire to see conversation developed in their church with a view to expanding it to include the community in general. The material in the book would be a good resource for a sermon series.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
His focus for the book is this question: “How do we learn to talk together in our churches when we have been formed by a culture that goes to great lengths to avoid conversation?” (164/2922)
Smith gives a theology of conversation using the Trinity, for example, as a model. He explores three conversational techniques, giving examples of their use, and provides additional resources in an appendix. He gives examples of ground rules or agreements and covers other factors, such a group size, facilitators, and kinds of topics to begin with and what kinds for later conversation. He helps us understand the spirituality that will draw us deeper into conversation, drawing on the Quaker and other traditions. He also gives good information for dealing with conflict.
Smith says that ultimately every community will have to decide how conversation will take place. There are no universal rules to follow. He provides resources and suggestions but each church will need to work out the process for themselves.
This is a book suitable for church leaders. Smith's writing style is academic in nature and I doubt laypeople would persevere through the text. The best use of the book, I think, would be for pastors or church leaders who desire to see conversation developed in their church with a view to expanding it to include the community in general. The material in the book would be a good resource for a sermon series.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 7, 2019
This is a timely, needed, beautifully-written, and refreshing resource on the overlooked practice of "conversation" in the church.
Many books that are about having healthier conversations reek of corporate-self-help advice (which can be helpful in the right context), but Smith takes an intentionally deeper and more-thoughtful approach. He lays out the need, driven by our fractured cultural moment, and also provides a rich theological framework (argued from the basis of the social trinity), as well as practical tools for sustaining healthier conversation-practice as we move forward.
For my part, I loved how Smith leveraged the metaphor of the physical "body" throughout the entire book. Using comparative examples like growth, maturation, development, and injury, he makes a powerful argument for conversation as the center of our ongoing practice as we seek to be Christ's faithful body in the world. I found it thought-provoking, inspiring, and encouraging. This is an easy recommendation for ministry leaders and involved lay people in our cultural climate.
Many books that are about having healthier conversations reek of corporate-self-help advice (which can be helpful in the right context), but Smith takes an intentionally deeper and more-thoughtful approach. He lays out the need, driven by our fractured cultural moment, and also provides a rich theological framework (argued from the basis of the social trinity), as well as practical tools for sustaining healthier conversation-practice as we move forward.
For my part, I loved how Smith leveraged the metaphor of the physical "body" throughout the entire book. Using comparative examples like growth, maturation, development, and injury, he makes a powerful argument for conversation as the center of our ongoing practice as we seek to be Christ's faithful body in the world. I found it thought-provoking, inspiring, and encouraging. This is an easy recommendation for ministry leaders and involved lay people in our cultural climate.
August 12, 2019
Smith, co-author of Slow Church, has written a plea and a primer for the discipline of ongoing formal conversation in churches.
He suggests that in conversation we can develop patience; learning to disagree virtuously -- neither avoiding each other or becoming confrontational.
While his key point is that “How we talk is more important than what we talk about,” he does offer lots of suggestions for topics of conversation and methods of facilitating conversation.
Smith believes that informal conversations in the narthex or parking lot tend to sort churches into groups of the like-minded, but formal, structured conversations can unite those who are very different from one another.
His advice is to start small -- conversations that are neither abstract or controversial, allowing more difficult conversations to emerge in the context of growing trust.
This is a useful and insightful book.
A lot of churches would be well served if they learned how to talk.
He suggests that in conversation we can develop patience; learning to disagree virtuously -- neither avoiding each other or becoming confrontational.
While his key point is that “How we talk is more important than what we talk about,” he does offer lots of suggestions for topics of conversation and methods of facilitating conversation.
Smith believes that informal conversations in the narthex or parking lot tend to sort churches into groups of the like-minded, but formal, structured conversations can unite those who are very different from one another.
His advice is to start small -- conversations that are neither abstract or controversial, allowing more difficult conversations to emerge in the context of growing trust.
This is a useful and insightful book.
A lot of churches would be well served if they learned how to talk.
October 20, 2022
In How the Body of Christ Talks, Chris Smiths considers the fact that we have, by and large, lost our ability to talk to own another in deep and meaningful conversations. On the surface, this seems preposterous - of course we can talk. However, upon further reflection most readers will realize just how seldom they engage in depth, thoughtful, and reflexive conversations with others. While this is the case across culture, Smith argues that within the church this should not be. Working from a high view ecclesiology and appreciation for the local church, Smith uses both theory and firsthand accounts from his Englewood Christian Church to consider the need for the church to be a place that hosts and encourages deep and meaningful exchanges of ideas. He is far from pollyanna about the idea discussing often the inevitably of conflict, but he provides an important lens to see how talking through our differences makes the church stronger and more beautifully reflects the presence of Christ.
April 16, 2019
Whenever I read a nonfiction book that has a Christian audience in mind my primary concern is whether omissions of biblical concerns will keep a large swath of potential readers away from a message we all need to hear. What I appreciate about Chris Smith’s new book is that when providing a case for conversation it starts at the beginning, with God in conversation with Himself. This gives a firm foundation to the exploration of why it’s important to be a Church in conversation, what that means, and what it looks like. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all Christians. Hopefully conversation will catch on and lead towards the healing our culture needs.
August 20, 2023
Smith does a great job highlighted the need and benefit of creating space to talk and communicate healthy as a church community. Truly holding conversation within the body of Christ is a much needed and vital component and are modern face communities.
Smith is compelling adding in many practical and helpful tactics and tips for establishing healthy communal conversations. The back end of the book begins to drag about 3/4 of the way through, but the first 3/4 of a book are packed with great insights. Smith uses a lot of stories and creative imagery to help share his points.
Smith is compelling adding in many practical and helpful tactics and tips for establishing healthy communal conversations. The back end of the book begins to drag about 3/4 of the way through, but the first 3/4 of a book are packed with great insights. Smith uses a lot of stories and creative imagery to help share his points.
February 17, 2021
A valuable corrective to what I would call a "stage-centric" nature of many churches, at least in my own experience. I feel like before reading this book, I had some sense of what I believed was missing in my church's practices around fostering authentic community. After reading this book, I have a sense of what kind of practices might foster the kind of change I would like to see. In other words, I already had a sense of the "what," and then the book gave me a sense of the "how."
April 17, 2021
I know I have a lot to learn about conversation, especially when there is disagreement. I read through this book during the covid-19 pandemic, when disagreement about how to respond, both within braoder society and within the church, are running wild.
A lot of practical things that stirred ideas for me about how we navigate and move toward a future as a faithful church of Jesus that is united around Christ and able to have healthy disagreement on issues around the other beliefs we hold to.
A lot of practical things that stirred ideas for me about how we navigate and move toward a future as a faithful church of Jesus that is united around Christ and able to have healthy disagreement on issues around the other beliefs we hold to.
April 10, 2019
A theological and practical guide for cultivating the skills of conversation in your church. My full review: https://medium.com/park-recommendatio...
July 17, 2019
An interesting read on the way forward in difficult situations as a church. The focus on how to TALK to one another in a culture that is often polarized and disagrees was refreshing and eye opening. While I didn't agree with all of the author's takes, I do think this is a thought provoking read all pastors and church leaders should read.
May 22, 2019
I read about 1/2 of this book and decided I could not finish it because it was not for me. I am not a pastor and I think this is the person who should read this, so I am going to send it to my son who happens to be a Navy Chaplain. I know he will enjoy it and put it to good use.
January 10, 2020
Fascinating consideration of the social view of the trinity in chapter 1 as a foundation for considering the conversational nature of the church. Contains several helpful ideas for conducting conversational groups in church.
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December 22, 2022Speaks
This was a very good read on creating a good church and fulfilling a good church community.
I enjoyed this book and was particularly drawn to the book as I am involved in few community events and groups in my own church.
3.8/5
This was a very good read on creating a good church and fulfilling a good church community.
I enjoyed this book and was particularly drawn to the book as I am involved in few community events and groups in my own church.
3.8/5
September 25, 2019
3.5 for me. The book went in a different direction when I expected as it developed. A number of good points! Looking forward to discussing this.
January 2, 2026
A beautiful blend of theology and practicality, not that these two ideas are in any way diametrically opposed to one another. Smith does a fantastic job of starting us off with the social aspects of the Trinity, and how it relates to us as the church. His straight forward writing style is easy to read and follow, but then at times he words something which catches you off guard with its poignancy.
“Just as God is Triune, three beings existing as one in an eternal conversation, the divine life that God invites us into is a prayerful conversation- God and humanity whirling around each other.. Our most important work as the community of God’s people is to discern the direction of God’s leading together and then to bear witness to the existence and nature of this dance, inviting others to join with us in following in God-breathed rhythms.” p. 92
My favorite section in this book was chapter 8, entitled Cultivating a Sense of Mission and Identity. Smith offers so many detailed examples of how churches can articulate their purpose as a local church, as well as how it fits into the universal church at large.
I also highly recommend Reading for the Common Good: How Books Help Our Churches and Neighborhoods Flourish by the same author.
“Just as God is Triune, three beings existing as one in an eternal conversation, the divine life that God invites us into is a prayerful conversation- God and humanity whirling around each other.. Our most important work as the community of God’s people is to discern the direction of God’s leading together and then to bear witness to the existence and nature of this dance, inviting others to join with us in following in God-breathed rhythms.” p. 92
My favorite section in this book was chapter 8, entitled Cultivating a Sense of Mission and Identity. Smith offers so many detailed examples of how churches can articulate their purpose as a local church, as well as how it fits into the universal church at large.
I also highly recommend Reading for the Common Good: How Books Help Our Churches and Neighborhoods Flourish by the same author.
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