Microsoft Word - ChristianityNotReligionBkMSS.doc

In light of the continuing erosion of the positive
connotation of the term “Christianity,” the author seriously
questioned whether the articles in this volume should even
be published. Perhaps it should be entirely rewritten to
avoid the word “Christianity” altogether. But others who
have read the articles have encouraged publication,
believing that the term “Christianity” and the import of the
material in these chapters will be understood by a majority
of the intended readership of North American Christians (at
least for the present time). Admittedly, a few decades from
now this book may be an anachronistic anomaly when the
term “Christianity” by the process of language evolution no
longer has any positive connotations. By that time genuine
Christians who wish to share the reality of the living Lord
Jesus will have to find a word that conveys the meaning of
what – better Who – they are referring to. Perhaps that
designation will simply be “Christ Jesus,” as the brethren in
Los Angles preferred to refer to the reality that is always
singularly HIM.
In a final word it should be noted that these chapters
were first prepared as separate studies over a period of
several years. Their assembly together in the format of this
book does not flow as smoothly as if they were written