Living Journey

Ok, I was just browsing and came across a site called ‘The Journey’ and found that they use Midrash, or should I say claim to use Midrash.

This is how they have explained Midrash:

Midrash is a Hebrew word that simply means “commentary.” We believe that it’s healthy for people of all worldviews and spiritual beliefs to have their ideas and philosophies both challenged and encouraged in a safe, open forum by people who are like-minded or may think differently.

We also acknowledge that we live in a world drenched in God, so pointing out how and where he is already at work or revealing himself to those around us is very natural. We engage various aspects of popular culture: music, theatre, arts, and politics, seeking to have relevant dialogue with people of all backgrounds and beliefs. All events are free and open to the public, different perspectives and opinions are always welcome as we consider many aspects of a given topic or film. @The Journey

Ummm, how about no! This is not midrash! They say they use Midrash for a commentary on culture.

Here is a link for a more detailed look at the correct way of handling midrash; Yacov J Prasch’s sermon called Midrash The Way The New Testament Writers Handled The Old Testament’.

Even Wikipedia is quick to point out that it is the exegetical interpretation of scripture! Not a commentary on Culture!

Midrash Commentary is not this:

DISCUSSION:
Tuesday, May 1st @ 8pm
Sex in Our City

Whether it’s a commercial for beer or shampoo or video games, sex sells. So much so, that we now have entire classes on it in US High Schools and a whole week dedicated to sex on local college campuses. Are you a sucker for anything sold with sex? Is this messing people up? Is it a bait and switch? Are they lying? Come join us for a conversation on sex selling out our society.

 

DISCUSSION:
Tuesday, May 8th @ 8pm
The Church of Bono

{More information to follow…}

 

THEOLOGY AT THE BOTTLEWORKS:
Wednesday, May 16th @ 7pm
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly: The American Legal System

This large and lively discussion is filled with hot conversation on important subjects of our times. This month’s topic is The American Legal System: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. We’ll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of our legal system. Is it equitable and just? Do you get the justice you deserve, or that you can afford? Is our system as good as it gets? Free and open to anyone.

(Note: No discussions this week) @Midrash - Commentary on Culture - Conversations you should have!

Just high-jack the term, change it, make it sound hip and create enough hype and then people in ignorance will be using terminology that has morphed so far away from its original meaning that it will seem that we are all speaking the same words, while graciously nodding in agreement, but in all reality it is a different language because there’s a different meaning.