Is there a way forward? What way will we take? What will be the long-term ramifications? These are questions being asked of denominations today and specifically The United Methodist Church this week at their Special Session of the General Conference. As I research the viability of flourishing denominations in the 21st Century I must consider Vincent Miller\u2019s work Consuming Religion as he addresses the direct implications consumerism is having on today\u2019s religion. He describes the development of the relationship between religion and commodification over time beginning with the culture in general and how consumers are urged to consider products as important to the shaping of their identity and overall well-being and happiness. Objects are also used to define subcultures and group identity. This has direct bearing on how people relate to groups and find a sense of belonging. <\/p>\n
Miller shows how the influence of consumerism over time strengthens individualism and has direct bearing on communities of practice: <\/p>\n
This fragmentation of traditions does not automatically mean a loss of religion\u2019s prophetic challenge, it does, however, certainly corrode the broad coherence of systems of doctrine, as people pick and choose from the offerings of religious traditions to produce their own synthesis. Thus, believers are less likely to be confronted by the complex interrelations of beliefs, values, and doctrines. In s situation of such fragmentation, it is simply harder to see the political demands of the gospel because people encounter it not as a coherent narrative or system, but as a set of discrete elements of meaning\u2026Particular beliefs survive, but they are less able to inform action. <\/p>\n
Miller goes on to describe the challenge for denominations in this regard and why the \u201cnon-denominational\u201d church has risen in prominence in recent decades. While we could blame denominational rigidness and institutionalism, we must also give honest attention to Miller\u2019s exposition of history and the effects of consumerism while therapeutic models of religion were taking shape, not inherently wrong in itself, we must look at the long-term effects. Are there correlations in history that we can learn from?<\/p>\n
I go back to the special session of the UMC this week as an example. The report of the commission \u201cOn a Way Forward\u201d begins by giving historical context and then describes the \u201ckey foundational ideas and first on the list, \u201cOur Common Core.\u201d As I read this I wondered how many would even question if this is truly still their \u201ccommon\u201d core. In our movement our founder is often quoted as using the reference, \u201cIn the essentials unity, in the non-essentials liberty, and in all things charity.\u201d Early in our history I doubt that any would question what the essentials are, I am not so sure today. I am profoundly respectful of and prayer for the process the UMC is undertaking and I watch with great interest as I continue my research.
\nMiller provides wise insight for the Church to consider. How might we engage what is, not waste time decrying the effects, and use it wisely for transformation and community without losing our moorings through generations of Church history? The book of Proverbs teaches us to go after wisdom, knowledge, understanding, discernment, and discretion as if they are fine silver, hidden treasure. The opportunities for the Church to be salt and light in today\u2019s culture are limitless and we must heed Jesus\u2019 instructions, \u201cI am sending you out like sheep surrounded by wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.\u201d <\/p>\n
There is a way forward. May we be wise and discerning like the sons of Issachar, they understood the times and knew what Israel should do. God grace the special session of the UMC today and may they hear your voice and may they model the prayer Jesus prayed for His Church, may they be one.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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