The writers describe it as follows:
An Evangelical Manifesto is an open declaration of who Evangelicals are and what they stand for. It has been drafted and published by a representative group of Evangelical leaders who do not claim to speak for all Evangelicals, but who invite all other Evangelicals to stand with them and help clarify what Evangelical means in light of “confusions within and the consternation without” the movement. As the Manifesto states, the signers are not out to attack or exclude anyone, but to rally and to call for reform.
As an open declaration, An Evangelical Manifesto addresses not only Evangelicals and other Christians but other American citizens and people of all other faiths in America, including those who say they have no faith. It therefore stands as an example of how different faith communities may address each other in public life, without any compromise of their own faith but with a clear commitment to the common good of the societies in which we all live together.
When I read through the document and found it to be extremely interesting and insightful and would invite you to have a read and let me know your thoughts. I would add that it could be addressed to other "world" citizens as well as American citizens, however, some topics covered are particularly relevant in the US context. I feel that it's not an attempt to promote another type of religion other than Christianity, but to clarify some core beliefs, attitudes and actions. As with anything of this nature there are strengths and weaknesses, but a couple of things I was really impressed by are the defining features and also the confession of our failures and weaknesses.
The link for the source is at http://www.anevangelicalmanifesto.com and there is also a study guide available.
2 comments:
hey,Phil - que onda?!:) thanks for sharing the link....similar attempts have been made to define evangelicalism (there's a book edited by JI Packer, written by core evangelical today's leaders - can't remember the title though)....I think this one is quite short and succint...love it! I think it's a must read for all self-confessed evangelicals to read, because sometimes even though we might confess to be evangelicals, we don't really know what we believe in (which is quite ashamed). And although we call ourselves evangelicals, we often fail to uphold the values that we think/confess to believe, so this is a good reminder:)
Btw, what do you think of Nooma DVDs (in terms of the gospel content and clarity in communicating the gospel message)?:)
Hola!!! Great to hear from you! Great question... we've just actually purchased the set of NOOMA's for our ministry here. At this stage I've only watched two and a half so I can't comment extensively... yet. From what I've watched and thought about, I think they are a great resource, and particularly good at providing a catalyst for dialogue and discussion. Sometimes, there are points that can come across a little vague which could be clarified, but I think that this is where a context that involves discussion and listening is the best for them to be used. They are presented in a way that is accessible for young people with a church background as well as those who don't yet know Jesus, but are searching for meaning. I think when used in the right context they are very effective! Have you had any experience with them or thoughts?
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