When Lutheranism isn’t enough

A reader pointed out that a Lutheran congregation in Nebraska is hosting a “Beth Moore” simulcast. Beth Moore is a Christian evangelist and writer who was the next big thing a few years ago. Issues, Etc. had a great critique of her theology a few years ago. Fighting for the Faith also looked at her recently.

If you’re not familiar with her, here is a portion of a Presbyterian critique of one of her books. It ran in Modern Reformation four years ago:

Although she wants to be theological and Christ-centered, too much of Moore’s material is about her take on her experience with God. Her writing tends to be undisciplined and shallow. She is far too willing to gloss over uncomfortable theological implications in favor of feel-good stories and quick explanations. Knowing God comes through experience; most sin is the result of failing to believe and be delivered; repentance is rarely mentioned. Her bent toward mysticism permits her to circumvent traditional theological interpretations and indulge in explanations of her own design that are more reasonable and satisfying to her sensibilities.

Basically she says, don’t let theology and doctrine confuse you when you can figure it out with God for yourself in a way that works for you. Unfortunately, people who use her materials can’t help but absorb some of that reasoning. Even more troubling is that they think they’re doing Bible study when they are really getting a heavy dose of mysticism, storytelling, psychology, and prosperity gospel. In the introduction to Believing God, Moore shows her true, but mistaken, agenda when she says, “I know I’m going to make it to heaven because I’ve trusted Christ as my Savior, but I want to make it to my Canaan on the way. I want to finish my race in the Promised Land, not in the wilderness. You too? Then we have to cash in our fear and complacency and spend all we have on the only ticket out: BELIEF.”

So why would a Lutheran church have a simulcast of a non-Lutheran touting non-Lutheran doctrine? I don’t know. Here’s the announcement from Holy Savior in Lincoln:

Beth Moore Simulcast Event

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Kiss your insecurities good-by and discover the joy of living with confidence!

Join Beth Moore for a day that will transform and liberate you!

And they’re not the only LCMS church that’s doing this. Here’s another one in Trenton, Michigan.

Get this — the senior pastor at that parish is John Bush and he’s on the Board for Communication Services that oversees KFUO. You can’t make this stuff up!

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