Sunday, August 19, 2012

Vineyard Theology, the here and now



 

Wimber and his theology of the "Kingdom" was largely attributed to the work done by the theologian "Eldon Ladd". Lately I've been reading Quaker literature; Wimber himself was when he became a Christian a member of the Quaker movement. In America it is evangelical in nature (In Quaker language 'programed', but shares a strong inheritance with the Australian equivalent (Non-programed).

In many ways Quaker theology is very hard to pin down, especially in the 'non-programed' tradition due to the idea that they don't believe in doctrine and the dogma that surrounds it. One of the questions in their FAQ is do Quakers believe in an afterlife. The answer is some what avoided but the reply is somthing like: Quakers would rather have a greater emphesis on what is happening now on earth and our testimonies should be a witness to this. (Testemonies include integrigty. Wimber often spoke on 'Authenticity'!) In other words the 'here and now".

It is also interesting that during a Quaker meeting that 'Waiting' on the Spirit is integral. In the 'non-programed' tradition, that is all that happens. Often an hour of just waiting. Very much like during a Vineyard session of worship waiting during a lull in the music for the Spirit to speak.

So my conclusion is that I think a lot of Wimbers theology came firstly out of a place of practice, through his involvment in the Quaker movement. That he lived the 'Kingdom Theology' prior to finding the 'Eldon ladd' theology which fitted with his practice.

 

Some Quaker web sites::

Quakers Australia

Quakers England

2 comments:

steven hamilton said...

scott...I have come to the exact same conclusion as I have re-engaged the Quaker roots of the Vineyard. I think it all began in practice/praxis and Ladd gave him language with which to better engage the theology of his practices...

Scott said...

George Fox certainly has had some influences.... It is interesting to note that George Fox university has a few of my heros, as honorary lecturers. Alan Hirsch, Brian Mclaren.