Last week I had the joy of being called an apostate evangelist because of a book I had on my recommended reading list. I’m not even sure exactly what an apostate evangelist is, but I don’t think it was a compliment. I just thought this was an opportunity to process how I process stuff like this.

For starters, I always try to stay positive on my blog. There is way too much sideways energy in the kingdom. If something says or does something heretical or blasphemous, then we need to call a spade a spade. But there are lots of Christians taking pot shots at other Christians. I’ve decided not to defend myself. I probably wouldn’t have time for anything else. But I do want to set the record straight.

I have officially removed my recommended reading list from my blog. Let me explain why. I read a ton of books. I used to read about 150 books per year. I now read closer to 50-75 books per year. And my reading list includes lots of books by lots of people I have issue with theologically or personally. I love spiritual classics by people like Tozer or Chambers that I agree with lock, stock, and barrel. But I also like reading books that I don’t totally agree with because it makes me think. And it’s sort of disingenuous to not believe in something you don’t even know about. I read lots of non-Christian authors as part of my cultural exegesis.

Long story short, I had some books listed that I enjoyed reading personally. They made me think in new ways or gave me insight into culture or even helped me understand why I don’t believe what I don’t believe. And while they are written by people who don’t have a Christian worldview, they resulted in a better understanding of Scripture and a closer relationship with Christ. Yes, that’s possible!

But here’s the thing:I put them through my seminary filter. I’m able to digest them in ways that absorbs the nutrients and gets rid of the waste. But I’m afraid that my recommendations might be viewed as an endorsement of everything these authors stand for as writers and people. It’s definitely not. So while I think it’s laughable that someone calls me an “apostate evangelist” because of one book I’ve read, this is an instance where I’ve decided to error on the side of caution because I know that with visibility comes greater accountability. And if my recommended reading list is a stumbling block it’s not worth it. Listen, while NCC is somewhat unorthodox in practice we are absolutely orthodox in belief by any historical standard. And Scripture is the final authority when it comes to truth.

I guess what I’m saying is this: I’ve learned to choose my battles wisely. And this isn’t the hill where I want to fight. It’s not important enough. What’s so ironic is that I’ve taken it on the chin from several sides because of an author whose early writings I enjoyed but has become more of a syncretist whom I absolutely disagree with!

For what it’s worth, I talked about not majoring in minors this past weekend. Paul warns Timothy against arguments that waste time and start fights. I’m just not going to go there. I don’t get negative. And I don’t defend myself. Life is too short. And the mission is too important.

One request. Can we put down our stones? We’re so quick to stone one another while the world watches! It’s an embarrassment. How can we love the world if we can’t stop fighting with each other?

Trying to keep it real.