Society of Vineyard Scholars

I just returned from the First Annual Conference, here are some reflections:

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I was very blessed by several papers in particular. Matt Croasmun's delightful juxtaposition of the Johannine gospel with the Synoptics (proposing that we lay John's gospel over the top of the Synoptics much like watching a movie with the director's commentary turned on). Jared Boyd's paper demanding that we name specific evils as a necessary first step in working to eradicate injustice. Jason Clark's paper exploring ecclesiology and consumerism. Steven Burnhope's deliciously intelligent, and timely paper exploring various Scriptural metaphors for the Atonement, and more specifically, how those theories were rooted in the surrounding culture of the biblical authors. Subsequently, (aside from prompting me to deeper awe at the marvelous repository of wisdom and power that is the Bible) we are compelled by the Scriptures themselves to engage culture from Scripture with freedom and fluidity...

Of course, I was blessed by each paper! The above just touch more on areas of personal interest, but I felt a little intimidated to be set alongside any and every of the presenters!

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I wasn't sure what to expect, but certainly was not expecting the Spirit's presence during the paper presentations! I was moved to tears by many of the papers, and heard God's promptings during many of them as well.

There were times of worship and prayer, as well as prophecy. I was greatly blessed by all of this. There were even some specific prayers that arose directly in response to some of the papers and/or discussions...

I was humbled by the amazingly intelligent people doing playful things, remarkable things, necessary things. I look forward to being able to read through several of the papers when they become available.

I was able to make some new relational connections that I believe might possibly be quite significant personally...

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I was also extremely blessed at the overall attitude and posture of the people.

The Movement we belong to is a phenomenal one! I am overjoyed that God connected me with this people at this time! I have always been encouraged by what I know of the movement, but (even though I am a Vineyard Church planter) my connection to the movement is largely through my sending pastor and the church community who sent us...

...so this was really my first Vineyard event above the local level, and I was so blessed to see how much I share the values of this community, and even more, how much it seems there is a real hope for a next generation of Vineyard leaders to put their finger-prints on the movement...