McLaren explores simpler spirituality

By R. Wayne Hagerman and ChristianWeek | May 11, 2011

Brian McLaren is no lightweight when it comes to the deep, probing, contemplative aspects of the Christian faith. He has been a prolific writer on such issues touching Christians in recent years. In this newest book, McLaren takes the reader deeper still, yet into a simpler realm of functioning as a Christian also.

Here is his argument: "This is a book about getting naked - not physically, but spiritually. It's about stripping away the symbols and status of public religion - the Sunday-dress version people often call 'organized religion.' And it's about attending to the well-being of the soul clothed only in naked human skin. As a result, it must be a vulnerable book, tender in tone, gentle in touch. You won't find much in the way of aggressive arguments here, but rather shy experience daring to step into the light. It's an honest book, and I hope a practical one too, perhaps with some awkward parallels to what they used to call a 'marital manual'."

In a nutshell, McLaren sets out to strip away the outer frills of Christianity, which in his opinion no longer work or meet the needs of inquiring humanity hungry for God. Using 12 simple words as starting points or benchmarks, he proceeds to describe in great detail his own quest for depth and simplicity with God.

As I read this book, I was drawn more deeply into the uncomplicated nature of conversation with God, and the four seasons of relationship, which McLaren believes we were designed for. The 12 words he suggests as chapter headings provoke the reader to encounter God in new ways, or maybe old ways as the ancient mystics also taught. If applied, really applied, this is a great model for becoming spiritually real before and with God.

I enjoyed this book except for a few theological difficulties, which could make it difficult for the average Christian to read. For example, McLaren's views on creation and evolution only serve to complicate and distract. Also, his references to the contributions of other religions like Islam also serve to sidetrack the reader, and may cause some to judge him unfairly and lay this great book down before they have opportunity to benefit from it.

My advice to any prospective reader is to overlook or understand his references that may be contrary to orthodox Christianity, and permit him to lead you to deeper, simpler, real relationship and conversation with God.