Will there be a test?

Over the last several classes we have explored the history and doctrine of Methodism. (I don't want to get into the details of the denomination too much as this blog isn't about becoming a Methodist for anyone other than me). But I will say I think it is interesting that it seems most people don't chose their church based on the doctrine of the denomination. And I find it fascinating that people belong to a denomination for a lifetime and don't really know the history or the resulting influence on the doctrine of the denomination. ( I am gonna work on a separate posting about that all together...)

During the history lessons, I took copious notes. I was trying to capture each detail as I was enthralled with what I was learning. Our teacher assured us we didn't have to take notes or write it down because there wouldn't be a test...And I knew he meant a paper/pencil test. But the thought that kept occurring to me was, "there will be a test." There may not be a test to become a lay pastor but I think there is a pretty good chance there will be a test. For most of us, life brings many tests ...test of faith, test of religion, or church, or beliefs... And I believe what I am learning is preparing me for the tests I am sure to face particularly around organized religion and church. I am not saying I am above tests of faith because I am certainly not. But the more challenging tests for me right now center around organized religion. I am still trying to discover and understand what the role of the church is and should be in my spiritual life. For some people, going to church is their spiritual life and for others like me, my spiritual life has not been connected to a church at all. I feel the constant need to remind folks that unchurched doesn't mean un christian or unspiritual. People seem to think becuase you are new to church that you are new to God. Not the case here...long time believer and of strong faith just put the faith and belief in God and not a church. So careful not to assume new people are new christians. I am sold on God, it's the church that I stuggle with...
I have struggled with organized religion and church for a long time. I know I will continue to struggle with these concepts. I have long thought that joining a church meant subordinating my beliefs to the way of the "church" or the people that make up the church. As I do not believe any church or denomination has the exclusive right to the one best way to worship God or the one correct interpretation of the bible. ( And every religion, denomination, and church has a different interpretation) And there in lies my struggle, many churches and denominations position themselves as not only the best way but the only way. Which would mean all the rest of us have it wrong.


So I am discovering that there is room for me under this "big tent" as Methodism is sometimes called. I am not sure it is always meant as a flattering statement as the joke seems to be you can believe anything and be a Methodist. Though, that is not true. I believe "big tent" reflects the Methodist slogan "open hearts, open minds, and open doors". For me "open minded" and "church" have not always belonged in the same sentence.

Personally, I love the "big tent" concept. "Big tent" as explained by our teacher means there is room for everyone in God's church, room for a variety of beliefs and perspectives. Of course there are shared beliefs around the core doctrine like the holy trinity, old and new testament, Jesus as our lord and savior, etc. But beyond the core doctrine there is room for individualism, specifically on the social issues. That doesn't mean you can believe whatever you want. It does mean that we can all read the same bible and perceive different things and that is okay.

So there may not be an exam but there will surely be a test and I am trying to prepare.