In this episode we begin to look at a sort of formula for summarising some of the key features of a shalom vision–the key values or reference points–a “structure and shape” for engaging the world with a shalom sensibility. Before that, however, we talk about two other things. First, Noel and I talk about our different ways of approaching the Bible/scripture and our contemporary situation. And then we talk about an “applied theology” program called Workshop that Noel taught in for nearly 30 years.
We start (2:00) with exploring our differences. We both share a Jesus-centred and world-embracing shalom perspective, but with differences in approach and style. We both wish to be deeply biblical (radically rooted in the scriptures) and widely contemporary (inclusive of cultural development), with a “resonance” between these two poles. Our differences: Noel moves from the biblical text out into the modern world; Tim moves from the modern world back to the biblical text. Noel is a biblical theologian first; Tim is a philosophical theologian. Tim wants the modern context to have a degree of autonomy and integrity before coming to the scriptures. Noel, in contrast, begins at the other pole, in the “ancient sacred”, before moving out into wider cultural and philosophical engagement, trying to find a “street theology.”
Around 7:30 we divert into some background history–the emergence of the shalom theme in response to the charismatic movement, the emergence of organic house churches and small groups, and the need for spiritual and theological formation and education. Thus was “Workshop” born, a year-long education program in “applied theology for everyday people”, an alternative to full-time, year-long, formal training at theological school or long-distance and solitary learning. The programme was expansive and inclusive, with an ethos that encouraged a journeying, questioning, challenging faith. It became a “safe place where terrible things [could] happen.” After 30 years and 5,500 participants, the programme came to a close, but gave birth to our podcast.
After the break we (finally!) return to our shalom theme, exploring a sort of formula Noel developed when teaching in Workshop. 20:35: Noel has always taught shalom perspective through images and pictures, on the one hand, and catchy phrases and memorable formulae. He notes, as examples, “shalom shock,” and “meekness zealot,” and “shalom activist.” But then turns to 1 shalom vision; 3 shalom requirements; 4 shalom relationships; and 6 shalom responses. Each of these is expanded on from 25:00-34:00. These emerged organically out of Noel’s study of the biblical material.In a phrase, ‘shalom is a single overarching vision of infinite, wholistic, totally integrated – meaning-filled – harmonious, dynamic relationships’.
