Ronald P. Byars Knihy

What language is most appropriate for worship? Should it lean toward the colloquial, perhaps targeting those attending a worship service for the first time? Or should it be a language with deeper roots, the language of a community that, for the most part, already loves the God to whom worship is offered?Ronald Byars argues that the communal speech that truly honors God is, in fact, biblical language, which encompasses a vast range of forms -- poetry and prose, song and proverb, parable and narrative. Byars explains how biblical language becomes liturgical language that pushes us beyond what we already think we know, requiring us to think anew about death and resurrection, beginnings and endings, and the life of faith.  What Language Shall I Borrow?  is an instructive, eloquent reminder not to retreat from biblical language and images but to fully embrace them in our worship today.

The book explores the unease within mainline churches regarding their diminishing influence in society, arguing that attempts to regain traditional status are misguided. It emphasizes the need to rediscover the essence of Christian hope through the teachings of Christ, including his incarnation, healing, vulnerability, and resurrection. The author advocates for a preaching and worship style that embraces the challenging aspects of the faith, reflecting confidence in a triune God and encouraging believers to truly listen and follow the Good Shepherd.

The book explores the identity crisis faced by mainstream American Protestantism, highlighting its struggle to define itself beyond fundamentalism and skepticism. It critiques the tendency to prioritize questioning over affirmation, which weakens its foundations amidst cultural pressures. To regain a credible identity, the author advocates revisiting the rich traditions of Protestantism for a more authoritative voice. The emphasis is on revitalizing local congregations through effective preaching and worship, addressing the need for thoughtful theological repositioning in contemporary society.