"All growth requires death to cherished idolatries and an embrace of what at first seems like the watery firmament of change. This brilliant tour de force exposes our addiction to modernism and all its rascal offspring and then throws us tumbling into the arms of Jesus. Raschke is a holy, tender, and earthy man who loves the Jesus who walks the pages of the Bible, trounces the arrogant, and gives his kingdom to 'sinners.' The Next Reformation is a demanding book, to be read over many months, through spirited conversation, and with a deep sigh of relief that both fundamentalism and liberalism meet their (re)maker."--Dan Allender, president, Mars Hill Graduate SchoolAuthor of The Wounded Heart, The Healing Path, To Be Told: Embracing our Stories, Shaping our Future"Raschke offers a broad overview of the postmodern situation and addresses particular concerns as they relate to the changing context, including ministry and worship in the church. The fact that such proposals come from an acknowledged authority on postmodern thought will make the book attractive to both students and pastors."--John R. Franke, Biblical Seminary; coauthor of Beyond Foundationalism "Sooner or later it was bound to happen: a thoughtful professional philosopher with Christian faith would engage the emerging/postmodern church conversation.
The right person for the job, Carl Raschke, has risen to the occasion. Intelligently written for those already knowledgeable and accessible to those needing an introduction, The Next Reformation will become a primary trailhead for thoughtful people who are embarking on the faith journey into postmodernity." --Brian McLaren, pastor (crcc.org) and author (anewkindofchristian.com)"Raschke has produced a creative and provocative textual pastiche that weaves together a constructive interpretation of theology, a critical investigation of history, a dynamic reflection on church growth strategy, and a poignant spiritual autobiography. In doing so, he reveals yet again why for over twenty-five years his voice has been so prominent in proclaiming the redemptive quality of the 'end of theology.' A quarter of a century ago, he announced that deconstructive theology was 'the dance of death upon the tomb of God'; in The Next Reformation, he extends an invitation for all to join the 'choreography of the Spirit' and dance with the graceful Lord. With evangelistic fervor, postmodern whimsy, and a definite prophetic abruptness, he censures traditional evangelical theology for being unequally yoked with a nonbiblical, foundationalist epistemology that not only undermines faith, Scripture, and ecclesiology but also establishes a hedgerow against the free flow of the Spirit's mighty wind.
His pronouncement of a new Reformation will irritate many wallflower evangelicals, but it may also motivate a few to get on their feet and move to the rhythms of a postmodern celebration of Christ's freedom and love."--B. Keith Putt, professor of philosophy, Samford University"With deep passion and matching erudition, Raschke compellingly argues that postmodernity not only has something to teach evangelicalism but also calls it to a new Reformation. Masterfully drawing on postmodern thinkers, Raschke exposes the idolatry of modernity and points readers back to faith. Even those who disagree with his vision for the church will have to take it seriously."--Bruce Ellis Benson, associate professor of philosophy, Wheaton College; author of Graven Ideologies: Nietzsche, Derrida, and Marion on Modern Idolatry.