One of the most influential people in the last 50 years was the late theologian/philosopher Dr. Francis Schaeffer. His five volume set of books occupies a prominent place on my bookshelves. Time and again I go back to his works for perspective on culture, philosophy, theology, and the essence of the Christian faith.
Schaeffer's rise to prominence occurred in the late 60s and 70s -- years when I was still growing into the person that I now am. I don't think I heard about him until I was in college and even then people referred to him in hushed tones -- "he's so heavy and hard to understand." Others were dismissive saying that his methodology in apologetics was like "carpet-bombing the enemy." Read him for yourself and come to your own conclusions.
During the fall of 2007 his son Frank Schaeffer released a book entitled Crazy for God. It is a memoir of his parent's life and work founding L'Abri (French for The Shelter) and their attempt to speak to the student unrest of their day. One might expect a glowing work from the son of such prominent people but no, Frank Schaeffer airs their dirty laundry for the world to see (including some of his own). So much for the commandment to honor one's parents.
I have only read excerpts of "Crazy for God" and frankly, I was shocked. There are others who are in a much better position than I to comment on Frank's book. Os Guinness was a personal friend of Francis and Edith Schaeffer living with them for a number of years. He was also a close friend of Frank's as well. He has written a thoughtful response to "Crazy for God" posted at Christianity Today (see the link below). One hopes that Frank will read the review and take to heart these words from Proverbs 27:6 "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy."
Fathers and Sons - Books & Culture
2 comments:
Wow, Os Guiness's review is amazing for its combination of firmness and sensitivity.
I remember my pastor in the 1970s, Wesley P. Walters of Marissa Presbyterian Church, would sometimes mention Francis Shaeffer from the pulpit. I was too young to understand his significance then, but those sermons were the reason I took an interest in Shaeffer years later.
I agree. Guinness does a fine job of correcting a wayward brother while still leaving the door open for reconciliation. Much to learn from his methodology.
Though Schaeffer's works are a bit dated (reflecting events and cultural trends from 40 years ago) there is still much value in reading them.
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