Transforming Theology: Feminist Issue?

From ReClaiming Church, p. 18: We are left with an increasing sense that no one knows, or much cares, who or "what" God is. The church cannot call for ultimate devotion to such an uncertain entity.

I'm not convinced this is just a "feminist" issue as the author claims. I think the narrowed vision of God occured as part of an effort to make Christianity palatable for Americans who just want their faith to enhance their lives and bring them prosperity. I think the real culprit is the sell-out to a consumeristic culture that requires little and promises much. We have consistently left out the cost of following Jesus. We (as the church) haven't done a very good job of painting the whole picture or encouraging people to seek after God as a priority.

This is evident in my youth ministry. Parents and students say they want to learn to be followers of Jesus. Give them a choice between a prayer retreat, mission trip and soccer camp, and they'll choose soccer camp every time. Encourage your students to take a year off after high school to do short-term mission work and watch what happens! I guarantee the parents won't be thanking you. And heaven forbid if you might even insinuate that basketball, the marching band or a student's full schedule of AP courses might be harming that child's soul...

In effect, we have watered down the vision of God because we want people to like our church, to like our services and to give money to pay our bills. Challenge the people, turn things upside down, suggest that maybe some of their thinking is a bit off... people leave and go to the church down the street. There's always another church ready to offer a nicer, safer vision of who God is so that you don't have to do anything that might be uncomfortable or even hint at real sacrifice.