Dr. Monte Cox from Harding University kicked off the Pepperdine Lectures last night with a stimulating discussion of whether or not Jesus is truly at the center of our churches and our spirituality. Rick Achtley spoke this morning along a similar theme: urging us to exchange our “Jesus PLUS” faith for a “Jesus ONLY” faith. Both Monte and Rick urged Churches of Christ to find their identity in Jesus alone and in no other issue or agenda. Regarding the whether or non churches should focus on what makes them distinctive, Rick said, “Just live for 24 hours the way Jesus lived and tell me if there’s not something distinctive about you and your church.”
I also attended a class by Gary Halloway (who will be at Highland in the Fall) on “Spiritual Practices for the Busy.” It’s based on a new book he’s written called “You Might Be Too Busy If…” Gary does a wonderful job make spiritual practices accessible.
About 30 came to part 1 of my class on postmodernism today. They were very engaged in the material and asked lots of questions afterward.
I went to lunch at a taco shack in Malibu with a good friend from Oakland, CA named Woody Square. It was great to catch up with him.
I’m headed to a class right now taught by the Let’s Start Talking folks in which they will unveil a new series (the Sycamore Series) designed to help churches share Jesus with postmodern non-Christians. Sounds promising.
The day began with a run on the Pepperdine track which overlooks the ocean and with some time of contemplative prayer. It was physically and spiritually refreshing!
