Religion in the news: Interview with Brian McLaren

By Rachel Zoll - Associated Press
Friday, May 09, 2008 - Web Link
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May 8, 2008

NEW YORK (AP) — Author Brian McLaren is among the most influential American religious thinkers of the last decade.

His break with rigid orthodoxy and embrace of new worship styles is at the center of what is called the emerging church — a movement that has gone viral. The emerging church reclaims ancient practices and prayers and creates new ones, while re-examining Scripture to learn how modern-day Christians should live.

Since no particular denomination is dominant in the view of McLaren and evangelical thinkers like him, their views have been embraced by a wide range of religious groups, including both conservative and liberal Protestants along with Roman Catholic congregations.

Emerging church leaders have earned praise as innovators, especially in their ability to inspire young people. Yet, many conservative Christians remain suspicious of the movement and its approach to theology. Emerging thinkers contend that evangelicals and others have been too influenced by the broader culture in their reading of Scripture. The emerging church says this has marginalized important Bible teachings and hurt the faith.