Perhaps they will not be welcomed, but here are some sober essays on Tim Keller's theology. Having given a welcome to his reflections on work - see blog on 'Every Good Endeavour' - I feel a responsibility to take notice of criticisms of more fundamental elements of Keller's thought. Tim Keller, ordained in the PCA, was the founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, which has grown remarkably since into a major ministry. He is a very influential figure in the evangelical world: he both epitomises it and shapes it. It is a bold effort then to get a book like this published and EP Books are to be commended.
Keller's style is unashamedly philosophical. He is trying to reach a post-modern generation, particularly young professionals, and therefore seeks to jettison theological jargon. The problem emerges as to whether he (i) succeeds in 'translating' biblical terminology into his language correctly, and (ii) succeeds in conveying the truth through it. The authors of this book, led by Iain D Campbell, address this in the following areas of concern: the doctrine of sin, hell, the Trinity, creation, the church, and Mission. Quite a list! But Keller is handled very carefully on these matters by all contributors - perhaps too gently if the charges against him are fair. My conclusion is that there is a case to answer, and it will be interesting to see if Keller bothers with a rebuttal. But if avowed fellow evangelicals, fellow Presbyterians, find clear cause to sound a warning note against such a successful(?) fellow minister and brother, then something must indeed be up!
'Engaging with Keller' ed. Iain D Campbell & William M Schweitzer, p/b published by EP Books. RRP £9.99. Our price £8.49.
Jeremy
There aren't many sizeable books around which concentrate totally upon the subject of Work - even though it takes up much of our waking hours! But Keller has brought 25 years of developed thought and teaching and distilled it here. His claim to be heard is based on the development of his ministry at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. Being located at the centre of the business district in New York led him into many discussions with city workers about a distinctively Christian understanding of work and what it is for. He finds it rooted in Genesis and God's original plan for man - to be in his image and to work. To cultivate the earth as a vocation. Work therefore has dignity and purpose, and cultivation embraces cultural efforts and the building of human society. It is the fall of man into sin that makes work to be a very different experience: pointless, fruitless, selfish and even idolatrous. At this point the gospel which changes a believer's heart, changes his viewpoint on work. Keller proposes a 'toolkit' of principles so that everyone can reflect on their own particular work, apply it, and seek to faithfully serve the Lord. eg. biblical understanding gives realism, but not cynicism, and it is balanced by hope. There is much practical wisdom in this section. However in general I found the first part of the book to be better than the last. For instance I like how Keller cites Luther as seeing that God designs his providence to be (in part) mediated through man's labour. Thus we rightly thank God for our daily bread - but there is a lengthy production process before it comes to our table.
Is this a must-read book? Well, no, in short. It is helpful but I feel Keller is stronger on his philosophy than his bible exposition. It contains an over-elevated view of 'common grace'. It extends redemption to all things, not just the realm of man's salvation. Now I realise this is a popular concept nowadays, but would urge caution. One other gripe is that Keller always seems to bend over backwards in order to be PC and 'with it'. This rather distorts his good endeavours!
'Every Good Endeavour. Connecting your work to God's plan for the world.' By Tim Keller, published by Hodder & Stoughton, h/b with dust jacket. RRP £12.99. From us £8.99.
Jeremy
