Religion is a tricky subject. Many assume that they know what it means while others have decided to reduce religion to fantasy in order to dismiss it.
The hope is to move from an either-or model of ‘true’ or ‘false’ to a “web of meaning”.
My theory is that at least 5 elements contribute the web of meaning. This moves us away from an either/or model of ‘antiquated myth’ or ‘divine revelation’.
5 elements are:
- Experience
- Formation
- Event
- Mystery
- potentially something Real
This last one is always the most difficult. Those who are sure (fundamentalist, foundational) dislike the ‘potential’ qualifier. Those who dismiss religion are suspicious of the potential of something ‘real’.
Once we get rid of the false either/or choices we are free to think about what is going on in religion.
I look forward to your comments, questions and concerns.
Bo Sanders: Public Theology 
August 19, 2015 at 3:32 pm
Bo, I like it. Marc and I were brought up to be creatures of certainty, but that’s gone. And here we are, still talking about God (whoever he/she/it is) and wondering what it’s all about.
Looking forward to next week’s. Love you, buddy.
September 1, 2015 at 3:06 pm
This is such an interesting conversation and I am glad that more of us are feeling free to exchange ideas. Thanks for the affirmation and support friend. -Bo
September 1, 2015 at 3:28 pm
Me too.