This hopefully is the start of a series of reflections on William Temple, former Archbishop of Canterburry. This post serves as an introduction to my desire for Temple. Reflections on his works to come.
I came by Temple in my first visit to Archives Bookstore in Pasadena. An incredible find, might I add. I picked up a book and was immediately struck by his writing.
Temple's primary concern is the witness of the Church. It is not a missionary, soul-saving witness, but rather a mission of engagement. The Church, as the redeemed people of God is to engage culture in all avenues and act on the convictions that God gives them.
He is not quite so relative to say that all individuals should represent the Church in their associations, allowing for a relative Church who conforms to anything, but states that Church members must follow the call of God in whatever association they belong.
Associations are not antithetical to the Church as some may see, but rather the individual Christian, must act the Christian in the association. Temple is not so pompous as to think that there is only one correct way or method of thinking. He is open, allowing for God's revelation to speak beyond certain human structures.
I look forward to enhancing my understanding of Temple as time goes and I certainly look forward to sharing his work with you. His thoughts seemed to die with him, but this need not happen. His philosophy, though rooted in timely illustrations, can easily be translated to the present, and I seek to do so. Dr. Wendy Dackson has made much work out of developing Temple's works and makes them relevant to the Church today by deciphering the philosophy from the illustration. I recommend checking out her articles and if you can afford it, her book (I can't afford to yet, and haven't).
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