Pr. Bryan Wolfmueller gives an oral presentation on the first chapter of his book "Has American Christianity Failed" at Old Main on University of Colorado, Boulder campus. March 9, 2017.
For 64 years I was caught up in revivalism, pietism, mysticism, enthusiasm. I was becoming more and more bewildered, confused and angry. I am so very thankful to becoming Lutheran and reading God's Word and taking it for what he states. No more confusion...just sad that I was not Lutheran long ago.
This was a great presentation of how revivalism, pietism, mysticism and enthusiasm are contrary to the truth of God's Word! Thank you Pastor Wolfmueller for all you do in the name of the Lord.
Great summary presentation of your terrific book with the same title. (One should really buy a few for your christian friends and give them away as gifts!) And, I'm sure I share this opinion with other "Wednesday What-not" subscribers: Thanks for trimming your nose hairs!
Our confirmed youth Sunday School class is reading and studying this book. They loved him at Higher Things this year in Lawrence KS, his plenary and sectional classes. They are excited to learn more from this great pastor and teacher. This video is helpful for them AND their parents.
I am a hymnologist speaking to other respectful Non Lutherans who may be listening. Non Lutherans don't share the experience of singing alongside others in an ambient space as Lutherans typically do. May I suggest an analysis of the acoustics of our worship spaces? Most briefly, please seriously consider tearing out the carpet, and getting rid of unnecessary padding in the chairs or pews or walls of the sanctuary. Deflect if you must, but don't deaden. Consider why people like singing in the shower. Consider what congregational singing, singing alongside, MEANS theologically. At times sprinkle the choir and those familiar with the songs among the pews. Stop leading (bullying) the singing with microphones. I like Bryan's approach and spirit, and here he has a great deal to say to all of us. Take the implications into the realm of the music ministry.
48:30 this is spot-on. however the ELCA would tell us bible-believing types that we are making the Bible our God. See how that works? They accuse us of creating an idol, when they have actually created the idol. I came to this conclusion that you make that you might as well not have the Bible if you can't believe it. This was in 1988 or 89. I was still a member of the ALC/ ELCA. I came to know unequivocally that I had to leave this now apostate body. And I haven't looked back since then. Listening to 2 ELCA sermons online recently by two different pastors, I observed that exactly ZERO gospel was proclaimed in them. It was ALL law about how we have failed to take care of the poor and what we need to do better. It covered 1st and 2nd use of the law. The other sermon was all about the stations of the cross that he walked and prayed in Jerusalem along the Villa De Rosa. He did not take the glaring opportunity to say why Jesus was hung on the cross. Thus was also a vapid sermon with neither law or gospel, but a reflection of the stations of the cross being a prayer method. So very sad.
