Postmodernism and Christianity?

Question

Does postmodern philosophy in combination with Christianity completely rule out rationalism when it comes to defining doctrine and keeping order in churches? For example, a church is claiming that the Holy Spirit is causing people's hair color to change. Can the postmodern Christian rationally examine these seemingly anti-biblical claims and refute them, or does the philosophy rule that out? Or, to give a more realistic example: a church claims that God is telling them Universal Salvation is a correct doctrine. Can the postmodern Christian examine this claim with the Biblical texts? If not, then perhaps we should seek a better alternative to both modernism AND postmodernism. Is there such a thing?

What I am getting at is this: will postmodernism in combination with Christianity result in many people reverting back to pure, unwarranted, superstition?

What do you think? Provide examples, also.

Answer 1

I think a lot of people cling to pure, unwarranted superstition regardless of postmodernism. Though I will grant that a system such as religion that discourages rational thought certainly creates a lot of fertile ground for other superstitious beliefs.

I also think the bible is so open to interpretation that it can be used to justify nearly any view. For instance, it was cited in support of both the pro- and anti-slavery sides in 19th century America.

Answer 2

What are the CORE BELIEFS of Christianity?

1. Men & Women are the sons and daughters of God.
2. Salvation is possible through the actions, life and death of Christ.
3. We should treat others as we would like to be treated [treat others with empathy.]
4. That the realms of Religion and Government are separate ["give unto Caesar...."]

One could add other concepts to the list but these are essential New Testement concepts.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postmodernism
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postmodern_philosophy
http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/postmodernism/

"Postmodernism" in my view is primarily an Aesthetic View and in part rejects the Rational position of "Modernists" it does not excape the "Modernist" position. [Rejecting "Rationalism" is also an historical position of Christianity. Christians are to act on the basis of faith as opposed to a Rational set of beliefs. ]

Regarding the Holy Spirit changing hair color... I always thought hair color change had to do with L'Oreal, Clairol or someother brand !

I think you are trying to mix Apples and Mangos....

You will hear many rediculous ideas as you go through life... allow yourself to look at the world honestly and don't accept the filters of distortion.