tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4777750410141759635.post-46974815652475993452007-09-06T13:15:00.000-04:002007-09-06T13:15:00.000-04:002007-09-06T13:15:00.000-04:00I must raise an argument here. <BR/>The reason that Theology on Tap is held at Mitch's Tavern is not because of the great beer, or the great service, but for the sense of community. As followers of Christ we are to live in community with one another and also live in such a way that this community is approachable to outsiders. <BR/><BR/>Research (and by research I of course mean Barna) has shown that while people buckle up when asked about God in may places, for some reason there is something about a tavern atmosphere which allows the theological conversation to flow freely. It is for that reason that we meet there. <BR/>There is no requirement that anyone order a beer. There is no requirement that anyone order anything at all - the room is paid for, so someone could come just for the conversation/debate and feel no pressure at not being a consumer.<BR/>Not for love of beer, or any excessive drinking of beer do we gather there, but because we feel compelled to take the love of Jesus Christ to Raleigh. In doing so, we know we will face hard times, scrutiny, and painful criticism. <BR/> I am deeply saddened that some of this criticism is from our own brothers and sisters in Christ.<BR/><BR/>As a deep lover of the same God that you love, I invite you to come to Vintage21 at any time with me. I think that there you would find an active and vibrant community of genuine people living their faith. Perhaps you would find that theologically, we do in fact, disagree, but it seems to me that you are using a watered-down news article to make some pretty strong accusations.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013700105159882920noreply@blogger.com