Telling the World It's Own Story

This was my article review of Richard John Neuhaus's Telling the World It's Own Story. It is an outstanding piece. Read it if you get a chance. I wrote this back at Bryan College in Contemporary/Cultural Apologetics.

“Even when we are against the world, we must be for the world” (1). I think this sums up the article well. Neuhaus is arguing that the world still needs us and that it is really at a time when people are wanting spiritual help. It is somewhat of a call for the unity of anyone holding Jesus Christ as their personal savior to be aware of the need for Christ in the world. This needs to be done not in an imposing way, but in a proposition. No cramming allowed. Finally, he calls all Christians to follow faithfully who we are; we are the children of the promise who are to persevere.

“When finally our Lord Jesus comes in glory, he is not going to need any PR agents or press releases. Everyone will know, and every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. He will manage it” (3). This makes me examine the whether the need missionaries in the tribes that have not heard or really do not stand a chance to hear of Christ in comparison to the atheist in college is greater than some other ministry anywhere else in a more modern society. I guess the need is the Gospel. Period. But there still seems to be some urgency of reaching those with less of a chance. I am in dilemma.

“I want to tell you the story of the world, which is the story of your life. Let me propose it to you as a lover proposes to a beloved” (6). This is quite a way of putting it. It definitely does seem to be the most effective. I know you can easily back it up scripturally. It really places weight on the whole ‘be holy as I am holy.’

“‘Settle for nothing less than moral and spiritual grandeur’” (7). This hit me hard with all the junk in my life. I have and am struggling with pornography and the like. Anytime I think rationally, spiritually, or biblically about sin, it is so stupid. But when the temptation is there, it is so easy to throw off holiness as meaningless. Even in other areas, why can’t I be content with being blameless before God and putting to death the deeds of the flesh? I long for it. I really do. I also do accomplish in some areas, but not all; so annoying. Then again, I know there are times when I don’t long for it. Therein lies my problem.