Proclamation within the Limits of Language

Language and Thought, Inquiry & Interpretation, Culture & Irony, History & Hope

If postmoderns are skeptical of language, interpretation and tradition then how are we to proclaim the gospel? Read scripture? How are we to be church with postmoderns?

The Postmodern Turn

The Postmodern Turn against Reason

On page 49 White lays out 4 options within Postmodernism. How do you communicate the truth of the gospel to those young people who would fall under nihilism? Relativism? Constructivism? Pragmatism?

Truth, Power and Morality

There is so much in this chapter and I could not come up with one question. Therefore, I’ll simply ask you to tell us what you think about the content of this chapter.

The Self

How do premodernism, modernism, and postmodernism describe “the self”? How might each of these understandings of the self influence the ways in which we approach ministry? Do you think our practices of ministry are influenced by a particular understanding of “the self”?

Why bother with postmodernism?

Here is how it will work. I will post questions according to the following schedule. You comment to any or all of the questions as you are able. Be sure to check back every now and then so you can reply to one another's postings.

April 6th
Why read about Postmodernism? AND Premodern and Modern Minds
April 13th
The Postmodern Turn against Reason; Truth, Power and Morality; AND The Self
April 20th
Language and Thought; Inquiry and Interpretation; Culture and Irony; History and Hope
April 27th
Epilogue

Why Read about Postmodernism?

White discusses “. . . three main concerns that thoughtful Christians have when they confront postmodernism. . .” (pg. 17). What are these and which one do you think is most critical for those who are in ministry with youth?

Premodern and Modern Minds

Would you say your church has pre-modern or modern tendencies? Give some examples. What are the benefits or pit-falls of these tendencies?