Can the Church/World dichotomy be removed?

Craig Carter, in a book where he attempts to integrate the thought of J.H. Yoder, claims that, “Yoder believes that the church-world distinction is essential in order of the gospel to be experienced as good news” (Carter, Craig. The Politics of the Cross, 186). But I wonder if this distinction or split between church and world is necessary. Are there ways of conceiving of ‘evangelical’ ecclesiology that don’t require such a distinction – that in fact see the essentially worldliness of the church, and churchliness of the world?

The problem with trying to envision this kind of difference is that it requires either an outright rejection, or at least a significant re-reading of the New Testament (e.g. John 1), and certain portions of the Old (e.g. all this stuff about being called to be different from the surrounding nations). It would seem that within the Biblical tradition, the separation between the people of God and the world are foundational.  But, is this the only way to read the tradition?  Or, have we become too accustomed to one way of reading the text without being open to different voices?

But, I’m not questioning whether religious people or communities should be in some ways distinct or different. Instead, I wonder if Christians need to see themselves as different and distinct over and against the world? Are there other ways in which to form group identity?

I know that if I were to move in this direction I would have to radically reformulate how I preach, teach and encourage the church to be the church.  But, in a polarized world, I feel draw to move away from a posture that posits a stark church/world separation to a more generous appreciation for the good in the world.  I wonder if I am being led to a form of Augustinian realism?  Maybe!  That would be a be odd for an avowed Anabaptist, now wouldn't it?

Comments

[Richard]

I am sympathetic to the sentiment you express and certainly think the overtly dualistic Church/World distinction (as evidenced, for example in Schleitheim) is harmful to the Church's witness. There are aspects of Bonhoeffer's later theology (particularly that which he developed while theologising about his own resistence work) that do tip their hat in this direction, although I must admit i am not wholly convinced by them. As long as Hubmaier is still ranked among the anabaptists i think your status as an Anabaptist is probably safe though!