Myth or Method in Religious Education

Last updated on: May 29, 2014 at 8:11 am by Guest Contributor

Myth or Method in Religious Education 2014-05-29T08:11:00-05:00 Guest Contributor

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In a failed economy, at a time when several studies show interest in religion on the decline, why would anyone devote time, energy, and money to studying theology? I would love to write an article with definitive, bulleted reasons why religion is still important, making a case for why we need people to devote themselves to serious consideration of faith and tradition, but I consistently find such an approach stunted. Making a case for religion is a tired exercise. I’d prefer to suggest that religious studies be reconsidered, to look at the leaders of religion and put our questions to them instead of the straw-man we make of religion in toto because what we are seeing is a divide between myth and method. If religion continues to hold apathetic, even at times antagonistic attitudes, then as theologian N.T. Wright has so famously said, “I’m not surprised you don’t believe in that god. I don’t believe in that god either.”

Every day, the world doubles over with social, economic and political systems dictating our behaviors and ethics. Given how prominent these systems are and how little our religious leaders actually discuss them in informed ways, is it any wonder so many become disillusioned and leave the faith of their childhood? I have no moral issue with this kind of exodus. It is warranted. I am sympathetic to it and understand it, as I am sure you do as well. A faith that has turned itself from the concerns of our world and our neighbor is hardly worth having. In turn, it is not unreasonable to expect more from our clergy and even God. I suppose this is the thing so many are afraid to articulate – we must ask the facile god that our leaders have presented to “grow up” and act like a god (cf. Gen 18:25).

More than anything, these were the ideas that compelled me to begin more serious theological consideration. There has been an absence in theological thought, a neglect to consider the issues of our time and this dilemma requires new minds.

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