Metamorpha

Although the title Metamorpha implies change, Kyle Strobel's first offering is not another typical book about fearing change . . . nor is it dogmatically formulaic in its approach to dealing with the constant state of flux we live with daily.

Within these pages, he warns that, "When we begin to think we have the Bible, or God, or life figured out, 'The Word stops living and becomes a book of proof-texts. This becomes dangerous because when it comes down to it, 'people take precedence over programs and models.' We can't pretend to have all of the answers or have the perfect programs. We need to question things, even when it shakes the core of our faith. There's no reason to be afraid."

Although emergent in thought, the author doesn¹t recklessly deconstruct the tenets of our faith and its history to ground zero; instead he invites the reader to view the Bible, the Holy Spirit, and community through a different lens. "Informers," as he calls them, are used by Christ to shape us into his image.

The line between emerging and evangelical ideologies is straddled, but not to the point of conflicting distraction. Side-by-side comparisons of how "solidified" and "developmental" churches respectably respond to change is also included.

As the part-time drama director in my church, I help select sketches (along with the pastoral staff) that will help facilitate transformational moments for the body of Christ. It is Strobel¹s belief that developing a biblical worldview (vision of life) is key to transforming our ways of how each one of us relates to the world and adapts to change. Metamorpha is not a destination but a journey. Authentic spiritual formation can be a reality in our lives.

The book doesn't overflow with brand new concepts but it was well worth the read. Anyone with the desire to match up their belief systems with their actions should pick up and read a copy of Metamorpha.