MatterCon Recap 6: Breakouts & Bands

Last week I was at MatterCon ’09: A Theological Creativity Event featuring Pete Rollins and presented by Shechem Ministries at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, TX.  I am recapping the event by publishing my notes for your fondest enjoyment.

The Friday afternoon breakout session featured Fort Lewis College philosophy professor Justin McBrayer and artist Graeme Lowry discussing Romans 13 and the church’s and churchpersons obligation to government or authorities.

Justin discussed three ways to reconcile our obligation to government:

1. Fudge on what submission means: "there is a difference between submission and obedience."
2. Differentiate obligations: a legal obligation to do something and a moral obligation not to do something.
3. First Glance: all things equal, you have an obligation to the government; but, when there is disequilibrium, our most important obligation trumps the lesser obligation.

Which lead to the question: Is it true that everyone has an obligation to submit to church leaders?

Graeme picked up on this and led a discussion that led to a humble understanding that at some times the artist may sabotage their own involvement in a community.

After a dinner break Bill Mallonee played a concert that included a Wendell Berry quote, so I felt justified and happy.  He is a great singer songwriter to, focusing on how his minimalism can convey emotion through changes in volume and strong lyrical storytelling.  It was a great set. To find out more about Bill Mallonee I suggest reading this Christianity Today article.