From the President

Somewhere along the way of my growth and development as a 20-something person of faith, I incorporated into my thought life a principle that has guided my decision making for four decades now. It has never led me down a wrong path, even though it has placed me in the midst of the thorns and thistles of uneasy conversation and debate.

This principle I am referencing comes from a document known as the Woodward Report, a report that defends Yale University's policy on the open exchange of ideas. In part it reads:

"The history of intellectual growth and discovery clearly demonstrates the need for unfettered freedom, the right to think the unthinkable, discuss the unmentionable, and challenge the unchallengeable."

For me, Jesus is the epitome of this principle of unfettered freedom. The Bible declares: "So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed [John 8:36]; "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death [Romans 8:2]; and, "For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery" [Galatians 5:1].

And if Jesus is the epitome of this principle, then the church is the vehicle to proclaim it to the world and to live it out in every expression of its life. Not to do so places the church and world in the very throes of sin, death, and slavery. To live by this principle and to proclaim it in its fullness will fill the pews in our churches, spread the baptismal waters over a new generation of Disciples, and resurrect a church that has become fearful of controversy.

When the gospel of unfettered freedom is proclaimed people will find that they can "think the unthinkable, discuss the unmentionable, and challenge the unchallengeable." This principle will help replace the pomp and circumstance and predictability that has become commonplace in much of the church's life, with a new spirit of freedom, exchange of ideas, and openness to the movement of God's Spirit. If you and your congregation are ready for some excitement, for some fireworks - trust me, there will be some fireworks - and for real, down to earth growth and engagement, try freeing yourself up. I think you will be surprised at what God can do!