Christianity is not complete without the
contemplative dimension. (Richard Foster) >P>
The 'Christian' mystical tradition (i.e.,
contemplative prayer) shares a sense of
profound kinship with the Eastern mystical
tradition. Richard Fosters 'school' of
contemplative prayer does not belong in
Christianity. In fact, the message behind it is
the very opposite of biblical Christianity and
the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Richard
Foster's 'school' of contemplative prayer
employs the same methods as those of Richard
Rohr and Thomas Merton that lead to a certain
perception. We shut out every other source of
stimulationsensual, intellectual and
reflectivein order to focus on God alone. At
this level, we even move beyond our thoughts of
God in order to dwell in his presence without
thought or distraction.
The God he [Merton]
knew in prayer was the same experience that
Buddhists describe in their enlightenment.
Merton's spirituality has come into the
evangelical church through Richard Fosters
'school' of contemplative prayer. And this is
one school where no Christian should enroll.
