 Tracy grew up in the church, but when her identification as queer contradicted her Evangelical upbringing, she decided she no longer fit within that tradition. Through the teachings of Richard Rohr, she found a spiritual home with the practice of contemplative spirituality. Tracy’s experience mirrors that of many millennial ex-Evangelicals who have discovered a spiritual mentor and teacher in the Franciscan priest, author, and founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC), Richard Rohr. The CAC website describes Rohr as “a globally recognized ecumenical teacher bearing witness to the universal awakening within Christian mysticism and the Perennial Tradition.” Rohr’s teachings are gaining influence, especially among millennials who grew up in the Evangelical church. He is particularly influential in the progressive Christian movement and is referred to as a spiritual father, hero, and mentor by well-known progressive voices. He is endorsed by progressive leaders like Rob Bell, Jen Hatmaker, William Paul Young, Michael Gungor, and Brian McLaren, to name just a few. As Rohr gains popularity, it becomes increasingly more important for church leaders to be aware of his teachings and their widespread influence. In this article, I’ll take a look at Rohr’s view of the Bible, the cross, and the gospel. Richard Rohr’s view of the Bible Historically, Christians have believed that the Bible is the inspired and authoritative Word of God. Following Jesus’ own example, Christians have affirmed over the centuries that the Scriptures are internally coherent, without error, and infallible. However, Rohr holds a much different view of the Bible:
Rohr interprets the Scriptures using what he calls the “Jesus Hermeneutic.” He writes:
Contrary to what Rohr teaches, Jesus never ignored, denied, or openly opposed the Old Testament Scriptures. In fact, as I argue in this paper, Richard Rohr’s “Jesus Hermeneutic” not only fails to offer any legitimate Scriptural support, but taken as a whole, the biblical data gives us an entirely opposite view of how Jesus handled the Scriptures. The truth is Jesus never once declared or implied that the Scriptures were anything but fully truthful and to be obeyed. Jesus affirmed the Old Testament to be the inspired, authoritative, historically reliable, inerrant, infallible, imperishable Word of God—and that it was all about himself. Richard Rohr’s view of the cross Historically, Christians have believed Jesus died on the cross for our sins, taking our deserved punishment upon himself. This is not only affirmed in Scripture, and taught by Jesus himself, but it goes back to the earliest creed in Christianity, which pre-dates the New Testament by about twenty years. However, according to Rohr, the idea of a God who would require the blood sacrifice of his son is “problem-oriented.” Of the atonement, Rohr writes:
According to Rohr, Jesus didn’t need to die on the cross. It’s your “false self” that needs to die, not someone else. He refers to substitutionary atonement as a “strange idea” that leads to a “transactional” theology. Contrary to Rohr, Scripture teaches substitutionary atonement, Jesus affirmed it, along with early Christians. Richard Rohr’s view of the gospel Historically, the Christian gospel is the proclamation of the good news of salvation. This has been understood through the lens of God’s redemptive acts throughout history. It began with the creation of the universe and mankind. After sin was introduced into the world by the rebellion of Adam and Eve, God provided a means of redemption and reconciliation through the atoning work of Jesus on the cross. Those who accept this provision of salvation will be given eternal life with God. But for those who reject this gift of grace, the Bible describes their eternal punishment separated from God's love and goodness. However, according to Rohr, the idea of a God who “doles out punishment” is unhealthy, cheap, and toxic. He does believe Jesus died, was buried, and was resurrected. However, he separates Jesus and Christ into two separate entities, with Jesus being nothing more than a “model and exemplar” of the human and divine united in one human body. And in Rohr’s view, Christ is a cosmic reality that is found “whenever the material and the divine co-exist—which is always and everywhere.” He implicitly denies the deity of Jesus. He writes: “We spent a great deal of time worshiping the messenger and trying to get other people to do the same. . . . [Jesus] did ask us several times to follow him, and never once to worship him.” This “Cosmic Christ” is a New Age idea that Rohr is promoting as “Christian.” Rohr also believes all religions share the same core truth and are all paths to truth (perennialism). He openly affirms panentheism, a view of the nature of God that teaches God is in all, all is in God, but God also transcends the world. This carries troubling implications for his view of the Trinity and the nature of Christ. He said: "The Universe is the body of God….yes, it’s the second person of the Trinity in material form." He denies original sin, the atonement, the exclusivity of Christianity, and he has an unorthodox understanding of heaven and hell, and the literal second coming of Christ. Rohr's views stand in stark contrast to the historic Christian view of the gospel. Through his books and his highly popular teachings on the Enneagram, Richard Rohr is rapidly gaining influence in the Christian church. But church leaders would do well to be aware of what Rohr actually teaches about the Bible, the cross, and the gospel. Faithful Christians should avoid his teachings at all costs. 135 Comments 11/24/2020 05:06:05 am Thanks so much Lisa for this concise "introduction" to Rohr. After dealing with some of the other names of people influenced by him (with a dismissed staff person) this article gives me the shivers to know of this man's influence. Instead of leading people to the True Savior, he is leading them to a false one which surely lead them astray and keep them lost. Your book is a phenomenal read and it is my recommendation for 2020 Book of the Year. (I was right about Rebecca's book in 2019). I have loaned my copy to someone and just now bought them their own copy. Thanks for your honesty in writing about your struggle. Stella Golden 2/11/2021 06:51:31 pm It such a shame Alisa that Western Christianity cannot appreciate the evolution taking place. We have lost so many many young people because WC cannot keep up with what is happening in our world. It has not always been that these are our beliefs and if you don’t believe them, then you are not a Christian! It would be nice if it were just that simple! Believe this and now you are a Christian. Nothing is that simple and in attending to control or confined the human spirit, we lose sight of who this God of creation truly is! And please don’t tell me that thus God is going to punish me for thinking this way! He is so much bigger than any way we try to explain Him and Thank God for that💜 Roy White 2/13/2021 09:06:12 pm Respectfully Stella, what about Jesus and the words from the inspired writers has changed? What do you mean "Western Christianity"? Is there an "Eastern Christianity"? Tim 5/21/2021 03:17:57 pm Stella...you're wrong. What Alisa pointed out is true. The thing about Alisa is by God's grace, she has wisdom and discernment. I sense you lack both wisdom and discernment which is why folks such as yourself fall for such fallacy from Richard Rohr. The reason Richard Rohr is so popular because he preaches a Jesus of his own imagination. If Richard stood on Jesus is the way the truth and he died for our sins (John 14:6 & John 2:2) which He is there is no way he would be this popular; or let along on Oprah. Any person filled with the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:24) knows Oprah in her current state is all about an "aha" moment. A guy like Richard Rohr is full of those deceptive "aha" moments. Stella...please examine yourself to see if you're of the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5) based on your fruits you're either someone who think you're a Christian, a new Believer or lack of wisdom of discernment. Because a growing Christian with wisdom and discernment will automatically discernment the falsehood of Richard Rohr. However, mouth professing Christians will never pick these things up. Again, Stella examine yourself to see if you're of the faith. Because Alisa is not the enemy hear she is the doing God's work by pointing out falsehood. Thanks Alisa for your article. Dennis Vacante 6/30/2021 09:39:24 pm Right on, Stella. What many "conservative" Christians forget is that the heart of the Gospel is love. Their notion of a God who punishes everyone who does not believe as they do leaves the Gospel as something less than good news. Dennis Vacante 7/7/2021 11:59:23 am Stella, I'm so glad that you appreciate Fr. Rohr's insights. Sometimes people tend to cling to traditions that are not reflective of the truth revealed in the Bible. It doesn't take a whole lot of reflection to see past traditions and church teachings evolve as God's continuous revelation enlightens the church. You are so right in stating that God is so much bigger than any way we try to explain him. Look at how, at one time, it was heresy to believe the planets revolved around the sun. Today we take that for granted. But there were many who were labeled heretical, such as Galileo, who was imprisoned because of that belief. We now can ponder the infinite wonder of God's creation through the Hubble telescope. How great is our God! Ken 2/13/2021 02:49:15 pm Oh My goodess! Such umbridge over standard Franciscan theology. Franciscan theology developed more or less in parallel with the atonement theology of Aquinas. but you show your ignorance of church history if you think that Rohr has invented this. Franciscan theology has been accepted as a parallel and legitimate understanding of the meaning of the Cross. Rohr and Franciscan's in general are in good standing with Roman Church authorities. Please don't let yourself be so intolerant of the diversity which God obviously loves very much. adam 2/15/2021 02:15:59 pm Spot on Ken! Amen Keith Williams 5/8/2021 01:19:31 am Stella and Ken, it was so refreshing to read your comments and to observe other Christians are realising the anthropomorphic characteristics we have conferred on God. We have, over centuries, accepted this reduction of an all encompassing and loving deity to a paranoid and narcissistic and oh so very human entity. Tim 5/21/2021 03:51:30 pm Ken..Richard Rohr is a fraud. He does not stand with God. Ken, what faith are you of? How can you still believe Richard Rohr is legit after reading the believes of Richard Rohr? Do you not know God is not the god of confusion? Richard Rohr is saying the word of God is not to be taken serious. How can you still think he's legit after reading his exact words? Ian Huntington 5/25/2021 05:04:07 pm I was raised an Evangelical fundamentalist believing the teachings to the point that after college, I attended a conservative evangelical seminary. It was during my second year in seminary studies that my belief in biblical inspiration changed. With that change, the whole evangelical house of cards collapsed, original sin, the illogical blood atonement, belief in Satan and the concept of hell, all, I clearly saw as feeble, fallible concoctions built on questionable interpretation and conjecture. The seminary expelled me as I am certain you would support. Dennis Vacante 6/8/2021 09:45:23 pm Ian, I agree with everything you wrote. I think that dualistic thinking is what causes us to fall into the very thing that Jesus spoke most harshly against...and that is judging others! I find it interesting that in almost all of the accusations people have made against Fr. Rohr, very few, if any, were willing to pray for insight or pray for Fr. Rohr. All that they do is throw accusations and judgements against a man who is a dedicated Franciscan priest with years of studying sacred scripture and with additional insights in human psychology. When I listen to Fr. Rohr I find his teachings very challenging. His call is similar to that of Jesus. Open your heart. You may find it challenging but it will help you grow in your understanding and love of God and others. Perhaps that is why he is attacked. It is easier to attack him than to look into our own hearts and grow. 11/24/2020 09:15:33 am Wowwww! THANK YOU for explaining what Richard Rohr believes and teaches. I've hears a couple of Christian friends mention his name - and they also have read Madame Guyon's old books on contemplative prayer. Do you know about her? Kim 3/5/2021 11:25:59 am This is actually a very simplified explanation of what Rohr Believes and I don't think it does it justice. I would recommend listening or reading a little more before dismissing entirely. Alejandro De Miranda 4/30/2021 09:52:00 am If you want to know what Richard Rohr believes, listen to him or read his books and decide for yourself instead of just accepting someone else's opinion. 11/24/2020 09:22:22 am Thank for for this, Alisa, and all the work you do with Progressive Christianity. This article is a great resource I will use often! Noah 11/24/2020 09:24:37 am Very well thought out, pointed analysis. We need to keep calling these heresies out as they continue to come along and lead people away from the Lord. 1/17/2021 08:06:33 am I think with time you will look again at the principles of what he is saying. When you look deeply at the so called origin of sin for example, you will find it does not make sense. How do we go from being perfect to committing sin. Where did the sin come from? When you get to understand this more, it blows your mind and shows you who Jesus really is and also who you are. At that point you will no longer be a slave to sin but KNOW you ARE God's Child, you always were: you just didn't know it! Peace X Amelia 1/28/2021 03:42:08 pm Human beings were never "perfect" but created in the image of God, meaning that we were to reflect His character traits---love, kindness, humility, generosity, self control, patience, etc., We were always given the free will to choose. In the garden, Adam and Eve chose to listen the authority of another entity over that of the Lord. They listened to that creature's twisting of God's words, his lies of promises of forbidden knowledge, and turned their backs on God's authority. Keith Williams 5/8/2021 01:45:43 am Early, I could not agree more. If God created Adam and Eve as perfect beings, how could they have fallen at the first hurdle? Perfect beings would always make perfect choices. Peter Snyder 11/24/2020 09:34:11 am Thanks for the summary. While spiritually a disaster, the intellectual dishonesty of Rohr and others is also very frustrating, as is their desire to still be known as Christian. If they are so convinced that what they teach is true, they should just be honest and let it be known that they have a new religion that claims a false Christ. But Satan is too crafty to allow them to do this. Julie Anderson 4/29/2021 10:31:49 am I really have to laugh when someone disagrees with something, they throw in the word satan. If your religion is full of fear and judgement, and fights to keep our patriarchal society, then you might want to reevaluate. Ross Caruso 5/31/2021 09:15:45 am I will pray for you Julie. You are missing the point big time. I am so sorry to say that. I hope and pray the Holy Spirit shows you that yes Satan is very real and that is exactly why Jesus died on a cross so that we would not have to be in a state of hell. God the Father does not send us to hell, we do it to ourselves by not accepting His love. I have my own pride and rebellion, yes. I will continue to submit and obey our might Lord Jesus Christ. Keith Williams p 5/8/2021 02:08:40 am Amelia, how could God have conferred His character traits of love, kindness, humility, generosity, self control, patience, etc, as you describe them, and then abandon both 'self control ' and 'patience' at the first hurdle? Tim 5/21/2021 03:59:02 pm @keith Williams....the moment you added Christianity next to islam, I knew your comments is coming from someone without a relationship with Christ (God). Your problem is you're equating God in the way you view humans. What is your faith, if you don't mind me asking? What is your purpose on this forum? Keith Williams 5/25/2021 10:47:24 am It is this narrow interpretation of Christianity that is 'equating God' in the way humans are viewed. Ross V Caruso 5/31/2021 09:26:44 am I will pray for you Keith. I understand where you are coming from. Put simply God is all those things Patient, Kind, Loving and SO much more. He is our Father and creator. I would say ask for the Holy Spirit to help you to truly surrender and trust. That's where you will find His Love. Remember we are man and He is God. He can do whatever He wants because He is all Just and merciful. 11/24/2020 09:41:48 am Thank you again, Alisa, for a powerful post. You have been selected for a time such as this to bring awareness to the Progressive Christianity movement, among other false teachings. Thank you. I would love to send you my new Bible study on Revelation. If you would message me your address, I would LOVE to do that. Here's the link to it, but I would love to send you a complimentary copy. You've blessed me so much with your teaching, I would love to bless you.... https://www.amazon.com/Revelation-Message-Church-Sheryl-Pellatiro/dp/B08DBHD759/ref=sr_1_1?crid=52Q4PSLEZRQE&dchild=1&keywords=sheryl+pellatiro+revelation&qid=1606232440&sprefix=sheryl+pellatiro%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1 Doug smith 11/24/2020 11:00:50 am Excellent. God is using Alisa to expose Progressive Christianity as not Christianity at all. It is in the same family as LDS or JW. It uses similar Christian words but redefines them . Ross V Caruso 5/31/2021 09:19:05 am Yes I fully agree. I realize apologetics is not for me. I get way toooo angry. Thank yiu Alisa for speaking the TRUTH about Christ and the sacrifice He had made for us through His Son Jesus Christ. Ian Huntington 7/7/2021 05:30:50 pm Doug Smith, “God is using Alisa to expose Progressive Christianity as not Christianity at all.” Really? Undoubtedly, you and your sympathizers believe that your particular biblical interpretation and theology is the only true one. Perhaps it was directly revealed by God to the early Christians and you are the fortunate heir of this narrowly known truth? David Hernandez 11/24/2020 10:18:58 am Thank you for your email. Very timely. I feel like a giant wave is approaching the church. Thank God we will prevail in the power of the Holy Spirit. Marcia Montenegro's book on the Enneagram has 2 chapters devoted to RRohr. Tim Williams 7/8/2021 02:07:38 pm @Ian Huntington, Jesus said the way to the Father is narrow (Matthew 7:14). Yes, God is merciful, but we must repent of our sins, or we will experience the wrath of God. Ian, you mentioned you are a progressive believer? That is an oxymoron, to be honest. Do you even know what progressive means? Let me school you on the meaning of progressive. A Progressive is a person advocating or implementing social reform or new, liberal ideas. New? Is God not the same God yesterday, today, and forever? (Hebrews 13:8, Malachi 3:6). Now let us take a look at the meaning of liberal, shall we? A liberal is willing to respect or accept behavior or opinions different from one's own; open to new ideas or a supporter of policies that are socially progressive and promote social welfare. Ian Huntington 7/12/2021 10:03:46 am Tim Williams, thank you for asking people to pray for me and others like me. I appreciate that even though it is a backhanded way of putting my beliefs down. Sheree 11/24/2020 10:40:10 am Thank you for exposing yet another false teacher. I just read Another Gospel and am sharing it with a friend as well. I wondered where the "emergent" church had gone...oh, now they are "progressive!" Keep speaking truth! God bless! Chantelle 11/24/2020 01:47:50 pm I'm so thankful you are writing about this and shedding the truth and light. I got swept up in the enneagram and have since repented of my time spent in something that is rooted in the occult. I have some good friends that deconstructed their faith and turned to Richard Rohr. Thankful for you speaking and sharing God's truth! Jane Gruber 11/24/2020 03:02:49 pm Thank you for this information, Alisa! Very well written and as always, based on the Truth. I appreciate you sharing your studies with us. Steve Muse 11/24/2020 03:50:57 pm Thank you for writing this article. Rohr is one of many over the years that continue to bring the same message and so many Christians open the door letting the lion in to be devoured. The names are endless that the Church has embraced over the years to their detriment. John Noack 11/24/2020 09:54:37 pm It appears that Evangelicals, who like to claim that every propositional statement in the Bible is inerrant and that all of the actions and conduct in the Bible are infallible, have turned a blind eye to three biblical texts. Psalm 96:10 informs us, as it did the Reformers, who were using it to oppose the cosmic helio-centric view of Copernicus, that “the Earth is firmly stablished; it cannot be moved”. However, we now reject this statement on scientific grounds, as being false and we accept that the Earth both rotates daily around its axis and it revolves annually around the sun. PJ Trimble 12/1/2020 09:47:16 pm I was thinking about this comment when I was purchasing small birds for my sacrificial blood offering at my church, which certainly SEEMS positioned in the center of my world. Keith Williams 6/30/2021 02:20:35 pm Small birds are no good PJ. In fact, the very use of them is an abomination upon the face of the earth. I recommend the well-tried and tested black and white Cockrell. Wayne Ballinger 1/12/2021 10:02:40 pm The Evangelicals have created their own demise. I know my brokenness and their god is far too small for me. As the son of a Church of Christ pastor (retired) , I will introduce legislation throughout the U.S. in 2021 ELIMINATING the tax deduction (501 C3) for ALL churches based upon their 'Hate' speach (according to the culture). Rachel Shallenberger 2/12/2021 09:36:52 am Go for it. Tax exemption is not why we give or do anything. You're a "puny human" (to quote Hulk). God is your Creator. Do what you want. I hope you see the truth before it's too late, though! And He's not an "American" God, he's the God of the entire world. Keith Williams 5/8/2021 02:23:00 am John, you are a breath of well needed fresh air. This monumental denial of the unloving nature and savagery of many accounts in the Old Testament is mind boggling! Keith Williams 7/12/2021 01:48:42 am John Noack 11/25/2020 10:47:39 am I looked into Rohr's teachings, too. It's intensely disturbing that anyone would promote him as Christian. Almost like saying Carlos Castanada wrote from a Christian worldview... Mike 11/25/2020 03:45:45 pm You piqued my interest in the opening paragraphs and had me locked in by the end. I've only read some of Rohr's work and listened to several years of homilies but I will definitely seek out more. I hope you will as well in an effort to see past your narrow view of God and the scriptures. There is so much more there that you seem afraid to see. Dean Love 12/4/2020 09:41:22 am Mike Your claim that those who praise Alisa because she confirms what they already believe, misses a crucial point. What they already believe is what the Scriptures actually teach about Jesus and what He in turn taught about Himself, eternal life and damnation, etc. Alisa simply confirms what the Scriptures teach, which if language means anything, is pretty clear. Don 4/30/2021 09:29:25 pm Amen, brother! Keith Williams 6/30/2021 02:05:11 pm Well said Mike. I agree that the hell and damnation brigade should be relegated to mythological history. However, within the U.S. bible belt, I'm sure this type of literal thinking will linger on for a few more decades. Brian Shaw 11/26/2020 09:40:12 am Richard Rohr is a heretic! The 2nd century heretics taught that Jesus and Christ were different persons. Irenaeus taught this in Against Heresies, Book 3, Chapters 16-18. Stephanie Dennis 11/27/2020 11:03:06 am Thank you thank for revealing these false teachings that have been around since the beginning and have been condemned as heresy in the early church. The progressive “Christians” question over and over again why the church is losing young people and older people alike and it is not because we hold to the Truth of the Gospel but because of false teachers leading people astray. I am thankful for your voice and your new book. Brian Shaw 11/27/2020 06:16:48 pm Thank you! It is not my book, nor is it new - written in the 2nd century A.D. Wade 11/30/2020 12:37:47 pm I love Richard Rohr's teaching....wish I had known of him 40 years ago! PJ Trimble 12/1/2020 09:39:10 pm Amen to that ! Ian Huntington 7/14/2021 10:03:11 am Wade I too wish I had been introduced to the Christian understandings of Father Rohr as a young man instead of the narrow, judge-mental, sin preoccupied, blood sacrifice theory demanding, evangelical understanding. I loved God as a young man and wanted to serve him. I tried hard to accept my evangelical teachings but just couldn’t accept it’s glaring contradictions and theological deficiencies. As a young man in seminary I repeatedly begged God to change me into what I thought I should be. I would prostrate myself on the chapel floor after everyone else had safely left. One night, while lying on the floor in supplication, God spoke to me saying,”Get up, there is nothing to change! My love is sufficient for you! Go!” WG 12/1/2020 10:35:05 am Alisa, thank you for this post and the defense of the faith in Christ alone. Garry Turner 12/2/2020 06:52:28 am Thanks for all your work in this area, Alisa. It is much appreciated. CARMEN NAVARRO 12/14/2020 01:17:35 pm Hi Alisa, stephen argent 12/15/2020 09:53:30 am thank you for this review of Richard Rohr and his teaching, After reading your response I am drawn towards his perspective even more. Lynn 4/25/2021 06:45:38 am Amen! Eva 4/28/2021 06:58:21 pm Same for me Stephen. Kathy Hoppe 12/21/2020 03:29:13 pm I respectfully disagree with your analysis which is not based on fact, theological education, or a personal conversation with Richard Rohr. Many of your own summations about Christian theology represent only a part of Christianity. My husband & I have personally met Richard. The first thing one discerns is the presence of the Holy Spirit. I think to critique a theologian one should be more educated and check one’s facts. adam 2/15/2021 02:29:05 pm Amen spot on! Seems like in a lot of the comments people don't understand Catholic history or the work of the Franciscans over the last 800 years. Apologies 4/13/2021 03:49:18 pm Have you met Alisa? I think to critique her one should be more educated, check one's facts, and have had a personal conversation with her. That seems to be the golden standard before someone is allowed to publish their own opinion. Dean Love 12/21/2020 04:45:28 pm Kathy; Alisa's "summation" of Christianity was narrowly focused on addressing the areas where some of Richard Rohr's teachings directly contradicted what Jesus said about Himself, eternal life, salvation, the OT scriptures, etc. In my opinion, she demonstrated a full knowledge of the facts related to those subjects and how Mr. Rohr's beliefs deviate from those facts. Agnieszka 1/9/2021 02:40:37 am I send you love and light so your false, narrow believes may crumble and you may open your heart and mind to the Truth. 1/10/2021 10:54:46 am Hi Agnieszka Agnieszka 1/14/2021 08:51:44 am Hi Padraic, 1/14/2021 04:43:41 pm New Age/old age? There is a widespread theory in Astrology that after the Age of Pisces (Fish) there is the New Age of Aquarius. And since early Christianity used the symbol of the Fish for Christianity they think that the Age of Christianity is basically over and it is time for a new messiah and new age. They believe every 2,000 years or so there is a new guru/Buddha/Krishna to teach the world new enlightenment. It is a very clever plan but bogus imo, the seeds of it were planted a very long time ago. There is a guru who claims to be the real messiah and the new Buddha/Krishna and the Muslim Mahdi, he claims to be the one man to unite all religions in himself. Julie 1/9/2021 10:42:32 pm I am currently reading one of Rohr's books and am enjoying listening to another perspective. I grew up in conservative tradition and over the years have benefitted greatly from listening to others. Having our constructs challenged is a healthy thing. I am thankful I am not in the same box I started in and believe that is God's intent. I'm not sure why you have decided you have the corner on the truth and thus should instruct Christians to "avoid" the teachings of this man or others. 1/10/2021 11:00:09 am Julie Agnieszka 1/16/2021 07:24:10 am Dear Padraic, James 1/17/2021 04:16:25 pm Very helpful analysis, based on Rohr’s own words and a robust inquiry using scripture, logic and history. Thanks for sharing, Alisa. 1/19/2021 03:01:05 pm Departing from God and following the ways of Satan is established in Genesis and revisited throughout every story in scripture. In the Garden there are only two powers available for man to serve. And today, as it has been since Eden, there are only two powers – God or Satan. This truth is restated in the story of Noah and those in the flood – the population of the earth divided into two groups. If Adam and Eve were placed in the story of Noah, they would not be in the Ark with righteous Noah. Adam and Eve would be in the water. Their sin was sexual for it was a sexually perverse generation in the water at that time and so it is today. Then the land was filled with violence as our land is today. Keith Williams 7/12/2021 02:31:37 am So, Marilyn, it is right to slaughter, not only the 'sinful' but children both born and unborn. Sex in almost any form, seems to be an anathema to God and should be punishable by death. I wonder why that is. He seems comfortable with murder and extreme violence. Mark 1/22/2021 07:29:04 pm I was on the internet and found this article about a man whom I credit with bringing me back from a dark place into the Light of The World - Jesus Christ. His name is Father Richard Rohr, OFM and he is one of only a small handful of true Christian Mystics (along the lineage of Father Thomas Merton, OFM). From the age of 15, he has dedicated his life (63 years as a priest) to the Perennial Tradition and in service to Christ through his work with the poor, alcoholics and drug addicts, prisoners and the forgotten (Matthew 25:34-36) 1/28/2021 06:06:57 am Mark, most telling is your insistence that Richard Rohr should educate us. You don't have to dig very deep to see that Rohr makes bold pronouncements that spring from his own ego (I am better than God) and then finds a way to twist Scripture to fit his views. Ian Huntington 7/12/2021 10:33:42 am Trevor, I know that nothing I could write here would lead you to see differently. When one is convinced that he is right, he only accepts that which confirms his belief. Jennifer 3/4/2021 08:45:47 pm Mark- Ian Huntington 7/14/2021 09:11:15 am Jennifer, while I heartily agree with Mark’s overall statement, I do agree that the wording, “the way back to Christ”, could be better stated. Clearly, the teachings of Father Rohr have been and continue to be highly instrumental in Mark’s reconversion to Christ. I can say the same for myself. An understanding and conversion to the difficult teachings of Christ is the path to understanding God. That is what makes our beliefs Christian. Keith Williams 7/12/2021 02:55:07 am Mark, your response to Alisa was both scholarly and compassionate. Father Rohr's writings point to a way in which we can evolve our understanding of what it means to be a Christian. I agree, Evangelicals need abandon the 'toddler' stage of their journey towards transcendence. The true God who resides in all of us is far greater than the limited, anthropomorphic God of the Old Testament. 1/28/2021 06:02:21 am I am encouraged to know that I am not the only one having to refute Rohr to the Christian mainstream. How he has wheedled his way in is a mystery since he clearly promotes a different gospel. Yes, he is a wolf among sheep and there are many loose these days like him, who would change the Word of God into a lie. It is good to speak up and say why these people are wrong. Most troubling to me, is that they routinely make bold statements as if true, then back that up with misquotes and proof texting from scripture. You need to know your Bible and understand your faith to fight back. Earl 2/7/2021 04:31:56 am Hi Trevor, Victoria 3/6/2021 02:14:36 pm “It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in; who brings princes to nothing, and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness.” Moira 4/5/2021 09:58:02 am But the writings of the Bible are not those of a toddler or toddlers. Things change, some for good and some not. But truth doesn't. What changes, at least for me, is a greater understanding of the scriptures as I age, as I change. Earl 4/9/2021 07:00:58 pm With all due respect Moira, there are many writings from thousands of years ago that we now understand more fully. With modern knowledge however, we are able to better understand what was happening at the time. That is why I use the toddler analogy. I hope we have moved forward greatly with the benefit of years of hindsight. We should and in many cases do see things clearer than in those times. I think if Jesus came today he would challenge us just as he challenged the Jews of his day. So maybe we are the “Pharasees” of today, holding on to doctrine and tradition and missing the essence and spirit of what the Bible is saying. I pray we will see ourselves in his truth. Peace X Sharon 2/6/2021 04:52:57 am It's interesting reading the above comments for and against Richard. We can only see the world through the glasses we wear. Sometimes when we take them off we actually see better or see a thing differently. Sometimes our glasses need changing. Rhor like the writers of the bible or any book gives his perspective. God is bigger than what or who we perceive him to be. What Rhor is asking us to do is open our God given minds. The bible has in many writings that do not speak to a loving God.if we continue to follow it slavishly we will continue to want to dominate each other and continue to cause much suffering. Tony 2/13/2021 11:29:34 pm Clearly Richard Rohr has never experienced the transformational reality of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. I pray that he does before it’s too late. In view of the Roman Catholic Church’s observance of both the Apostles Creed and the Athanasian Creed I find it extraordinary that they would tolerate his line of teaching. I would not want to be Richard Rohr when he one day stands before the Lord. Ian Huntington 6/7/2021 07:59:09 am Tony, in all humility I would tell you that if anyone has ever experienced the in dwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives, it is Richard Rohr. Tim Williams 7/8/2021 02:10:13 pm @Ian Huntington, Jesus said the way to the Father is narrow (Matthew 7:14). Yes, God is merciful, but we must repent of our sins, or we will experience the wrath of God. Ian, you mentioned you are a progressive believer? That is an oxymoron, to be honest. Do you even know what progressive means? Let me school you on the meaning of progressive. A Progressive is a person advocating or implementing social reform or new, liberal ideas. New? Is God not the same God yesterday, today, and forever? (Hebrews 13:8, Malachi 3:6). Now let us take a look at the meaning of liberal, shall we? A liberal is willing to respect or accept behavior or opinions different from one's own; open to new ideas or a supporter of policies that are socially progressive and promote social welfare. Tim Williams 7/12/2021 12:10:28 pm @Ian, quoting you, "I left evangelical Christianity at age 28. I am very glad to be done with it. I chose to become Episcopalian where I am free to study higher biblical criticism, Christian mysticism, Buddhism and to struggle with my own understanding of God, Christ, salvation. Tim Williams 7/12/2021 12:13:28 pm @Ian, Now I don’t know much about this mysticism you have attached to your created view of Christianity. But I will quote someone who knows this subject. Shirley Berg said, “ I’ve always loved Ted Dekker, but now I’m starting to get uncomfortable. Sin is not really sin, just a misperception, so genuine, heartfelt repentance isn’t really needed, especially since God won’t be judging anyone, His wrath is nothing to fear, everyone gets saved in the end, etc., etc. I’ve read the whole Bible through more times than I can remember, and these things are not sound theology! And who needs the cross and atonement if we are just misperceiving?” Ian, is this what you believe? To believe that we must step away from reasoning. When we look at our world system, this thinking does not align because it doesn’t make sense. What makes you think it will make sense in God’s Heaven? Ian Huntington 7/14/2021 10:26:29 am Tim, thank you for your lengthy replies. I appreciate your sincerity. Chelsi 2/15/2021 04:23:43 pm It's interesting that out of all the teachings of Rohr, this is what you take away from it. From what I've read by him, he more talks about the LOVE of God and how it lives inside all of us versus the need to follow a "structure". Do you truly think saying a few words such as, "Jesus come into my heart" is what gets you into heaven? I think it's more about our personal actions and how we treat others, which is what Rohr teaches most. Brian 3/18/2021 04:47:54 pm Jesus speaking - "On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’" Matthew 7:22-23 Rhomz 3/5/2021 09:07:08 am A friend suggested R.Rohr to me so I googled and found this commentary and would like to thank you for being clear and concise. I was religious and spiritual as a kid (1960s)with 12 years of Nuns and Brothers. But what did I know? From your commentary R.Rohr is apparently everything really believe in now and wish I go back in time with his thinking. Mike 3/5/2021 01:29:15 pm Thank you for continuing to bring the important work of Rohr to people who might have missed it because of their narrow view. You are doing great things in helping people expand their world view and welcome people like Rohr into their lives. I recommend downloading his homilies; they're a great listen. Steven De Bernardi 3/21/2021 03:12:31 pm As a former Evangelical inner city pastor and chaplain I find the insights of Richard Rohr to be well centered in a biblical hermeneutic and Christology that is faithful to sound scholarship and yes...and appreciation for the Perennial Tradition. And I understand why it is difficult for those who hold to a inerrantist-infallible interpretive understanding of how to read the canonical texts to enter into the light that comes by leaving the cave of that particular point of view. Best regards from a Separatist of that Tribe. And please do better to Love God and Love your Neighbor. As for me and my house...Paz y Amor. Todd Graves 6/30/2021 10:01:45 am Thank you Steven and God bless. :) Jane 3/22/2021 09:35:00 am Surely ‘you will know them by their fruits’. If R. Rohr encourages people to be kind, just, fair, forgiving, peaceful, thoughtful, loving, prayerful, then this is helping God’s kingdom come. Ed 3/24/2021 09:38:20 am Richard Rohr is essentially an introductory teacher to Theosophy (of Mde Blavatsky) where ultimately you discover that god from them is in fact Lucifer if you keep probing deeper and deeper into that system. A front runner for the coming one world religion within a new world government. Truth and lies mixed together just as Eve was beguiled (seduced) with by the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Nancy Anders 3/28/2021 08:40:24 pm Is that so? Parker 3/24/2021 08:48:26 pm BUT WHAT ABOUT TRACY!? WHAT ABOUT HER AND HER HOMOSEXUALITY!? YOU STARTED YOUR THESIS WITH TRACY BUT NEVER GAVE US ANY CLOSURE! DID SHE RETURN TO THE LORD!? Nancy Anders 3/28/2021 08:37:18 pm Everyone who wants to dismiss Richard Rohr’s perspectives on the basis of this article just needs to explore him for themselves. Nothing to fear there. Creating fear of Rohr is the point here. He is no threat to a rich spiritual life unless that life is based on rigid self-righteousness ...and fear. Keith Williams 5/25/2021 11:10:51 am Well said Nancy. It would seem that 'rigid self- Andie 3/30/2021 08:03:15 am I wonder if it occurs to followers of Ms. Childers that it was people like them, locked in their own theology and certainty, with their boundaries and power threatened by expansion, who demanded the crucifixion of Jesus? Dean Love 3/30/2021 11:08:29 am Once one reads Richard Rohr's words and then reads the words of Jesus and His apostles, one immediately recognizes the difference. Rohr's words contradict the teachings of Jesus and His apostles so frequently that one is left wondering how he can still claim that what he teaches is Christianity, and how so many people can believe him. Andie 4/15/2021 07:52:46 am I find it interesting that so many people claim to have the only truth in their theology and are so quick to dismiss others’ experience of God. Moira 4/5/2021 09:53:08 am What does this mean? I just can't get my mind around it. And in Rohr’s view, " Christ is a cosmic reality that is found “whenever the material and the divine co-exist—which is always and everywhere.” Suzanne 6/2/2021 12:46:27 pm God created us in His divine image & likeness out of love, which is what He is, Love. Our Christian mystics all agree that God dwells within us which Jesus also told us, saying “the Kingdom of God is within” & to seek out that “pearl of great price” within ourselves. He himself spent long nights in silent prayer & contemplation. When we pray like this we find ourselves voyaging deeper into our own soul, through the “mansions” that Teresa of Avila wrote about, until we are fully awakened to the vast, unspeakable & overwhelming sweetness of God’s love for us personally, as well as his infinite love for all beings. This knowledge is so much bigger than anything we can, as finite human beings, explain, that words are inadequate. Richard’s ability to convey this enormous love & mercy that God gifts us, is in itself a gift to an arid religious insistence on following the rules. Jesus himself rebelled against all those man made rules that the Jewish religion had established & I’m sure he sighs over how restrictive & exclusionary much of Christianity is. Tim 6/7/2021 09:56:02 am @Suzanne...if you think Richard Rohr teaching is aligned with the gospel, it clearly shows you lack wisdom and discernment. I suggest you examine yourself to see if you're of the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Suzanne 6/2/2021 03:11:21 pm Exactly. Wonderful. Moira 4/5/2021 10:07:32 am "people like them, locked in their own theology and certainty, with their boundaries and power threatened by expansion, who demanded the crucifixion of Jesus?" People like them? Not the same at all. Author is not refusing to recognize Jesus as the son of God. And, "What part of Jesus’s life encourages fearing and disparaging others and seeking enemies?" Read the scriptures re: what Jesus said and did to the money lenders in the temple. Andie 4/15/2021 08:10:28 am I am referring to people who are so certain of their own truth and are threatened by another’s experience and insight. Remember that Jesus was a threat to the religious establishment of the day because he taught another way of seeing? John Jacobson 4/9/2021 06:20:17 pm We need more people like Richard Rohr who seek to follow Jesus, rather than use the Bible as a weapon to separate people from the Kingdom. Julie 4/11/2021 01:14:06 pm I praise God for Richard Rohr and people with open minds! Janet Lynn Ash 4/12/2021 05:07:58 pm I could not believe what i read from my Sunday Bulletin from mass..it was from The Daily Meditations from Richard Rohr... he said we don't pray to Christ!! How can he say such a thing?? I have never,ever been so upset by reading something so shameful and disturbing in my Sunday Church Bulletin!!!! William 4/24/2021 01:42:42 pm What Rohr wrote was: Alejandro De Miranda 4/30/2021 09:48:36 am So much fear! So much dualism. This deplorable article is precisely the type of attitude and thinking that Rohr tries to dismantle. Your egos feel threatened by his teachings (a good thing) and you equate your egos with who you are so you feel threatened. Open your minds to a nondual perspective. Christian mysticism offers a more expansive, fuller, and intimate relationship with Christ; amd Richard Rohr by no means started it. He is simply another one pointing to this way of being amd thinking. I pity those who listen to the garbage in this article. Tim 5/21/2021 04:26:23 pm Alisa is on point. Richard Rohr is false. Now that I have the wisdom and discernment of God, it baffles me that anyone how anyone could still think Richard Rohr is true after reading the fallacy of this man's teaching. You either do not have the Spirit of God (Romans 8:24) or you are a new Christian. For those claiming Christianity shouldn't be black or white or God is vast and therefore has many interpretation is lacking God given common sense. Richard Rohr has twisted the word of God because it's sweet to the ear. One of the way you know a teacher is false is when Oprah Winfred enjoys their altered teaching. Do you think Oprah is open to having true men of God on her show such as Charles Stanley? Of course not, Oprah wants a person like Richard Rohr, Joel Osteen, TD jakes because these men have universal teachings. News flash folks, God does not accept universal teaching. Christ died for the sins of the world. However, we must accept Christ to accept his sacrificial gift. Alisa is speaking the truth, listen to hear. Christ talked about the broad and narrow path. Men such as Richard Rohr, Joel Osteen and TD Jakes teachings will lead people down the broad path. This is why they are so popular (James 4:4). As I said true men of God like Charles Stanley, Michael Youssef, etc. may never be welcomed on Oprah because their teachings if based on the true gospel; the narrow path (Matthew 7:13). The devil has so deceived many people in our culture to where folks would view what I just stated as hateful. Fleshly speaking we want a God with no restriction; yet life is full of restriction. You know how you cannot be approve for a credit card, apartment, house, driver license without some form of restriction. Those who want a God with no restriction, restricts who they are married to, having children with and who they invite to their home. Where do we think we got that from? Remember we're made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The reason we have these restriction is because this is how God is. Therefore, anyone who thinks they can enter the kingdom of God without accepting Christ and repenting of their sins is in for a shock of their lives. The devil knows God will not accept a person who rejects his sacrificial lamb and refuses to repent. Don't be deceive, read your Bible ask Christ to come into your life and fill you with his Holy Spirit. Pray for wisdom and discernment it is the best weapon to deception. Ian Huntington 5/25/2021 06:06:53 pm Thank you all off you who are defending Father Rohr’s orthodox Christian teaching against the narrow, arguments of those hooked on a faulty but prevalent blood atonement interpretaron of biblical texts. Tim 5/27/2021 07:30:42 am I am learning on my journey of life that people who say "avoid" those teachings or people are usually afraid of losing something. My question to the author and those who disagree with the teachings of Richard Rohr is this: what are you afraid of losing? Are you afraid of losing followers? Are you afraid of losing the power and privilege your view holds? Are you afraid of being wrong? Are you afraid people will go to hell instead of heaven when they die? Tim 5/28/2021 02:06:30 pm May I ask, what is your religion? The Bible verse you mentioned has no connection to your response. Let me explain the word of God to you because the fact that you cannot see the fallacy in the teachings of Richard Rohr (2 Corinthians 11:13-15, 2 Peter 2: 1-3) shows your lack of discernment. The purpose of this article by the author (Alisa Childers) is to warn those without discernment: such as yourself. If you want to know what love is, you are looking at it. Love is when you see a hole (false teacher Richard Rohr) spiritually speaking and warn others about the dangers so they can avoid it. You see, your view of love is faulty; it is what the world believes love should be. Our world says when Christ delivers us, we are to keep it to ourselves. Christ says to go and show love by sharing the gospel to the world that includes pointing out false teachers like Mr. Rohr (Mark 16:15). It’s crazy how you think the author is afraid; the fact you mentioned “afraid” doesn’t even make sense because true Christians are bonded by the Holy Spirit to continuously warn others even when they mock us. What you’re doing is mocking (2 Peter 3:3). I don’t know the author personally but what I do know is what she pointed out can only be grasped by a believer in Christ. All she is doing is showing love by warning the unsuspected (you). Timothy 5/30/2021 07:43:38 pm I find much of the bible to be challenging. It's rarely a simple thing for me. Often more questions, it seems, than answers...at least not easy ones. Tim Williams 6/7/2021 10:33:29 am Here's the thing folks, Jesus said many, will say Lord, Lord, and He will say I knew (Matthew 7:21-23). And we must also read John 3. In John 3, Jesus tells Nicodemus you must be born-again to enter the Kingdom of God. So how can we know if you're born again and not mouth professing Christians? 2 Corinthians 5:17, we know we are born-again because the Holy Spirit will dwell within us (Romans 8:14). Not everyone is children of God, folks only those filled with the Holy Spirit. However, we are all created by God, now this is true. But we know we are born-again because, as 2 Corinthians 5:17 noted, our mind will be renewed, and once that happens are desire will be towards Godly things. When we sin, we will experience conviction like never before. The truth is those who are not filled with the Holy Spirit will never experience this truth. Andie 6/16/2021 07:09:27 am Why is Alisa the ‘true Christian’ and Fr. Richard isn’t? Why must you insist that everyone have the same experience and understanding of God...(which is of course YOUR experience and understanding)? Tim Williams 6/18/2021 11:24:53 am @Andie, yes, the 12 disciplines all had a different experience. However, they all held to the same message. Every true Christians have different life experiences. Again, we all hold to the same message which is Christ is thy way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) and there is no other way to God outside of Jesus Christ. And we must tell people to repent of their sins to accomplish this; we must be led by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:24). You who believe one can profess Christ with their mouths but live a life that does not reflect Christ or speech that aligns with the devil are delusional. The Kingdom of God has order, but somehow you who have created God in your image and twist the Bible (by calling those who follow the gospel, Pharisee) by the way the Pharisee did what you are doing. If you cannot see that Richard Rohr's teachings are false even after all of the evidence, then the problem is your itchy ear (2 Timothy 4). Andie 6/21/2021 09:26:50 am @Timwilliams Tim Williams 6/21/2021 02:06:05 pm @andie, your very response explains why you admire Richard Rohr. Your words are empty and full of fluff. No disrespect to you Andie, I knew you were the type of person who would not confront others with the truth of God by calling homosexuality and abortion a sin. Haven't you heard, such were some of you (Laura Perry, Walt Heyer, Charlene Cothran, Stephen Black, Angel Colon, and Luis Javier Ruiz, Bevelyn Beauty or Star Parker) read 1 Corinthians 6-9:11? If these men and women who Christ delivered were only around people such as yourself, they would forever be in bondage to their sins because you do not know true Love. Your definition of love is all fluff (emotionalism). "I do hope that you choose not to injure those you encounter in life by telling them that their very creation is flawed?" Wow...who did this to you, the media or education which one? Telling the truth injures people? You know what? Since The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrew 4:12) than it is supposed to injure us, that is a good thing. Using your logic, a heterosexual male or female with the proclivity to commit adultery is flawed? or could it be due to our falling nature? (Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 3:23, Romans 7:18, Galatians 5:19-21, Colossians 3:5). We are all sinners Andie; our nature is flawed because of the sins of Adam. Using your logic, serial killers, thieves or liars are flawed because they were created by God? Do you see why you are into Richard Rohr? You and Mr. Rohr pick and choose which verse to follow in your Bible. If you and Mr. Rohr's world emotionalism rules, truth is to be disregarded. Hey Andie, what I am trying to convey is I am human like homosexuals and other sinners. All I am saying is we can believe God is love all we want (God is love); however if we do not repent of our sins, we do ourselves a great disservice, which will eternally cost us. Andie...you're living in deception like Mr. Rohr. Turn from your sins and embrace the truth. Alisa is not the enemy, neither am I. You are allergic to the truth. Spend time reading the entire Bible. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes; so you can understand His word and not be lead astray by your emotion. Andie 7/8/2021 06:18:26 am @TimWilliams Tim Williams 7/12/2021 09:30:54 am @Andie, I reject the Christ you are offering. The one who does not call sin but is full of fluff. That is not the real Christ. I will continue to pray for you because you Andie have created your own Christ. End of discussion. Andrew 6/29/2021 09:51:26 am I am currently in Bible college, majoring in Bible and Theology. In several of our class textbooks, the authors have cited the teachings of Richard Rohr. Thank you, Alisa, for this article; I will pray for the Lord to give me wisdom and discernment so that I can see and avoid false teachings. Mr. Rohr's teachings are unbiblical, and I would even go so far as to say that he teaches heresy. May God give us wisdom to discern what is true and what is false. Gordon Hackman 7/4/2021 11:20:42 pm Thanks for this article Alisa. I loved your book and I appreciate your exposing the false teachings of Rohr. I have friends who like him and it concerns me. Ian Huntington 7/8/2021 07:52:02 am Gordon Hackman, I quote you, “Anyone with a basic grasp of sound doctrine would immediately see that what Rohr teaches does not align with historic, biblical Christianity.” |
Spirituality, Mind-Body, Gender, Ecology, Ageing, Peace, Scrapbook (in English and Korean)
2021/07/19
Alisa Childers I Blog
Alisa Childers I Blog
