Christianity Today published its list of the “Top 10 News Stories of 2011,” which includes the following explanation: “The events, people, and debates of the past year that have shaped or will significantly shape, evangelical life, thought and mission.” The list is available online (here as a quick loading web page or here as a pdf including the graphics printed on p.9 of the January 2012 edition of the magazine). The list includes two pastors and one decision regarding qualifications for consideration for ordination to pastoral ministry:
- #1 Rob Bell’s attempt to “legitimize universalism” and departure from Mars Hill Bible Church
- #4 Evangelical giant John Stott’s passing (1921-2011)
- #10 The PC (USA) amending its constitution to allow noncelibate gay and lesbians to serve in ordained ministry
So What?
Christianity Today is well known for its conservative Evangelical theological stance, which it affirms anew in the latest edition with a special article noting how Billy Graham’s original vision continues to guide the organization today and into the future. As such, it is no surprise that two Evangelical pastors made this year’s top ten. It is, however, a surprise that the mainline Presbyterian Church’s (USA) decision to adopt a more inclusive policy relative to ordination was included.
Based on the stated reasons items were chosen, does #10’s inclusion surprise you? Why or why not?