Summer 2008

I don't think I would describe Peter Rollins as a polarizing figure, but he is certainly provocative. He is a native of Belfast, Ireland, a writer, a speaker, a quasi-pastor-type, and a PhD-toting theologian. His book, How (Not) to Speak to God is a little thing, not even two-hundred pages long, put it packs a big punch.

It is a book that made me dance, curse, stand and shout in agreement, and at times cast it aside as sacrilege. At times I thought it was the best thing written in the last thirty years, and at other times a useless rag I wouldn't leave behind as bathroom reading material. Still, Rollins' book is a must read for those seeking to stretch their faith.

In the Introduction of How (Not), Rollins makes this statement, a statement that convinced me to lay down my $15 on the counter, take the book home, and keep reading. He says:

“The territory I thought I was helping to chart was actually discovered a long time ago by my ancestors. It is both frustrating and comforting that no matter how fast I run, those who have long since died have already arrived at where I am attempting to go.”

Seekers after Christ have been “leaving Salem ” long before Roger Williams, Ronnie McBrayer, or Peter Rollins. And when our names and bodies are left in the dust, those seekers will continue. “Leaving Salem ” is simple shorthand to describe the journey of faith that longs to leave religious manipulation, coercion, and complication behind for the gracious beauty, unfathomable depth, and simplicity of Christ.

At times this feels like a lonely journey. The mobs flock to mega-churches, not the spiritual wilderness. Yet Rollins reminded me that a great cloud of witnesses has already walked this joyful path. Yes, it is joyful. Those who leave Salem aren't angry. This isn't about shaking a fist at organized religion, “Christian” or otherwise, and saying, “See what you did to me! See how awful you are!” No, it is a journey of joy and love as we chase after Jesus to find a lost Zion.

So press on my friends. Cling to the Christ for which all other things are considered loss.

You are never alone.

Ronnie McBrayer

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