The Difference Between Modernism And Postmodernism

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There is a war raging in Christianity between modernism and postmodernism. Basically in a purely modern society, Christianity becomes a derelict in God’s own creation. Christians yearn to do away with old traditions and rush in the new movement. Many intellectuals define modernism as a period of skepticism, little faith, tons of sin, and “a religion without religion present (28).” The forefather, postmodernism hails out of Paris, France; therefore, it carries heavy French “philosophical influences (19).” The postmodernism movement is like a “chameleon that takes on whatever characteristics” one desires from it (19). Is postmodernism a monster or savior of sorts? James K.A. Smith attempts to disclose the answer to this very question in his book, …show more content…

Smith attempts to find the best in each theory of philosophy and uses that good to show two sides to the story. The author searches to find the best in each theory as a Christian would search to find the best in another human being. Postmodernism challenges Christians to readopt ancient church traditions. Smith believes that a balance between the old and new would be the perfect solution. The ancient tradition of Easter is still the same today as it was centuries ago. Most churches show the highest number of baptisms during the Easter period. “The association of Easter with baptism is very ancient.” The symbolization of new clothing during Easter Sunday signifies the beginning of a new life in Christ. Easter Sunday is a busy day for all churches, and even the secular world recognizes this day by attending annual services. Easter is a tradition for whatever reason mankind still celebrates in the same manner today. It is evident that Smith desires us to learn from our past mistakes and use that to build a more solid foundation for postmodern Christianity. Publishers Weekly sums up Smith’s whole purpose of this book by stating, “postmodern Christianity’s most powerful contribution could be a return to ancient, postmodern church traditions and liturgy” (Publishers Weekly (2006, January 30). Just like Paikea in the Whale Rider, Christians must take the risk of learning to ride whales (135). At times, this book is a hard pill to swallow, but in the end Smith wins his argument it is my belief that Smith wins his argument and we as Christians must return to ancient traditions for the survival of

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