Brad and Debbie Ellgen

Last week I read “Vintage Jesus” by Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears. I really liked the book as it gave a really clear picture of the orthodox Jesus which has been part of church history for the last 2000 years. The book seems to be written in a real “in your face” style which made me laugh, but at the same time didn’t leave much room for those who have a different view than his own. I am almost sure that Mark Driscoll and I could sign the same doctrinal statement, but he seems much more certain about many things than I do. I am really glad that people like Mark are writing and leading the church today. There is a place for this kind of writing and preaching and I thank God for him. I am softer and I think there is a place for that as well. The part of his book which I will always remember will be his section “Jesus was funny” starting on page 39. He writes, “Sadly, the Catholic Church in which I was raised and served as an altar boy missed the punch line when Jesus called Peter the Rock and, rather than a good laugh, ended up with the papacy.” This is really funny. I wonder how many of the “problems passages” in the life & teachings of Jesus are really jokes he told. I have NEVER have considered this possibility before but I really think Mark is on to something. But like so many solutions it raises a really hard question, “when can you know for certain that it was a joke”. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants to know Jesus better. And to those who don’t know him but would like to, it is very compelling.