Two Dunkers and a neo-Jungian psychoanalyst are having an e-mail conversation about postmodernity and one Dunker cracks a joke that gets the other Dunker thinking.
The question: How many post-Christendom theologians does it take to change a light bulb?
- None. Its not a task for theologians, stupid! Changing lightbulbs is the missional responsibility of the hermeneutical community of faithful disciples who gather in non-violent humility to light up cities with their good deeds (Matt 5:14).
--Chris Marshall, associate professor of theology and restorative justice, Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand) - No theologians are needed, but a community of believers who think and change light bulbs theologically, which is to say Christologically, I mean eschatologically, sorry doxologically, no harmartologically, and...wait...where's the bulb?
--Christian Early, associate professor of philosophy and theology, Bible and Religion Dept., EMU - First, they would say you are asking the wrong question. Instead, focus on the reason the light went out. i.e., "How many post-Christendom theologians does it take to bring light where the light went out?" Then you will get answers like, "Many, to redesign the electrical system and the building, or perhaps tear the building down aand rebuild the city."
--Valerie Luna Serrels, MA student at EMU's Center for Justice and Peacebuilding - It all depends on what you mean by "change."
--Ted Grimsrud, professor of theology, Bible and Religion Dept., EMU - Two. One to criticize the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution that produced it, and the other to urge the Church to never forget its craft of being Church as they change lightbulbs in the world. (The lightbulb doesn't get changed. This pleases the theologians.)
--Brian Gumm - Four. One to change the lightbulb and three to celebrate the Eucharist, which is the condition of possibility of lightbulb-changing.
--James K.A. Smith, professor of philosophy, Calvin College
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