I'm thinking that it might be helpful if we pause a bit and linger with Dr Willard for just a little while. He has been a very significant evangelical figure in the current discussion about apologetics, spirituality, evangelism, and discipleship. Whether we agree or disagree with him, he is still an important voice in our time. I would like you to re-read the article that you read last time and respond to it in a slightly different way.
This time:
1. Pretend that you are a conservative Bible believing Christian raised in a "Bible Church." Create a list of at least five things that from your perspective make you feel UNCOMFORTABLE with what Dr Willard is saying or how he is saying it. Elaborate on each item on your list. Then, make a list of five things that he is saying with which you strongly AGREE.
2. Pretend that you are a Buddhist. (If you need to do a little extra research on what Buddhists think or believe make sure that you do so.) You just read what Dr Willard said about Buddhism. In at least ten well written sentences explain your reaction to his message.
3. Pretend that you are one of the millions of Westerners who under the influence of postmodernism claims to be "spiritual but not religious." Do you think that you might be able to connect to the gospel according to Willard? What about his story approach to evangelism? Does he have anything significant to say to you? Why or why not?
After you have completed this assignment, which includes responding to all three writing prompts, embed it in an email (NO attachments please) and send it to me at bboydston@piu.edu.
If you want to read more by Dr Willard visit his website dwillard.org. There are lots of links to recordings of his talks, as well as his writing.
