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| In Blue Like Jazz, Miller takes an unconventional approach to outreach |
In recent years, various Christian churches have come under criticism for outreach that has been more exclusive than inclusive. Likewise, Donald Miller’s
Blue Like Jazz takes churches to task for being too negligent of certain segments of society (e.g. "liberals and homosexuals"). He argues that many Christian churches have neglected these people to their own detriment. In fact, a more openly-accepting approach has helped Miller's own church be successful in attracting people from various walks of life.
In a concise essay, compare and contrast Miller’s style of outreach with that of Christian denomination of your choice (e.g. Mormons, Evangelicals). Cite specific evidence from
Blue Like Jazz, but also from at least two other sources regarding another church—this needn’t be a traditional one, but can be nontraditional, along the lines of Miller’s church. In your analysis, consider what all churches do to expand their bases in traditionally nonreligious communities? As well as what the consequences might be for a church that is too narrow in its recruitment of new members? Again, use specific examples from Miller’s book to support your thesis.
Requirements:
- MLA format, including parenthetical citation
- 3-page minimum
- Include a works cited page, including at least two sources regarding another church's approach to outreach
The best papers will:
- Stay within the parameters of the prompt
- Have a concise thesis
- Clearly support their thesis with solid evidence and a logical structure
- Properly cite evidence using MLA's parenthetical citation method
- Conclude with a summation of your points
- Be in proper MLA Style
Due: At anytime before the end of the last day of class.
