FRANCIS SCHAEFFER:Vida & Pensamento-1/8-Guilherme de Carvalho

Introduction to Francis Schaeffer

Speaker Background

• The speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to speak in Fortaleza, mentioning previous visits and connections made during those times.

• He introduces the topic of discussion: the life, work, and thoughts of Francis Schaeffer, highlighting Schaeffer's significant influence on his Christian formation and ministry perspective.

Personal Journey

• The speaker shares personal details about his background from Belo Horizonte, including family information and his ordination by the National Baptist Convention.

• He discusses planting a church called "Igreja Esperança" in 2008 with a reformed Baptist orientation while also being involved with Labri, which he describes as a refuge.

Academic Experience

• The speaker has taught theology for nearly ten years and holds master's degrees in New Testament studies and theology.

• He recounts an interview where he reflects on how he began reading Schaeffer during his time as a theology professor.

Transitioning from Biblical Studies to Philosophy

Challenges Faced

• While teaching New Testament studies, he encountered crises of faith among students and young church members, prompting him to seek ways to help them maintain their faith.

• He discovered philosophical systems like Hegelianism influencing critical interpretations of both the Old and New Testaments.

Shift in Focus

• This realization led him to transition from strictly biblical studies towards dogmatics, apologetics, and philosophy of religion.

• His classes began incorporating philosophical discussions alongside biblical interpretation methods.

Exploring Ministry at Labri

New Directions

• After stepping away from teaching theology temporarily, he found new opportunities for ministry at Labri that differed significantly from traditional theological education.

• The speaker invites attendees to visit Labri for retreats that welcome individuals from various parts of Brazil.

The Impact of Francis Schaeffer

Importance in Christianity

• Francis Schaeffer is described as a pivotal thinker who altered the course of Christianity in the 20th century; understanding his contributions is essential for those within evangelical traditions.

Upcoming Discussions

Origins and Influences of Francis Schaeffer

Overview of Francis Schaeffer's Life

• The discussion begins with an overview of Francis Schaeffer's life, focusing on his origins, pastoral journey, and experiences in Europe.

• Emphasis is placed on the significant events in Schaeffer's life, including his initial crisis of faith and the establishment of L'Abri.

• Colin Durias’s book "Francis Schaeffer: An Authentic Life" serves as a primary source for understanding Schaeffer’s impact and legacy.

Key Influencers and Context

• Colin Durias is noted for his scholarly work on C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, highlighting the interconnectedness between these literary figures and Schaeffer.

• The influence of various writers from different fields such as literature, cinema, and pop culture who were impacted by Schaeffer is acknowledged.

The Nature of L'Abri

• L'Abri is described as a unique ministry characterized by its underground nature; many influential Christian leaders have emerged from this context.

• It operates as a group of hospitable homes where individuals can stay temporarily while developing their own ministries.

Early Life and Background

• Discussion transitions to Schaeffer's formative years (1912–1935), detailing his birth in Germantown to German immigrant parents.

• His upbringing was marked by practical values rather than cultural or artistic pursuits; he faced challenges due to dyslexia but excelled in hands-on activities.

Educational Challenges

• Despite being intelligent, Schaeffer struggled academically due to dyslexia; he often took longer to read compared to peers.

• His learning style favored dialogue over extensive reading; he developed a love for culture despite limited exposure during childhood.

Intellectual Development

• Conversations played a crucial role in shaping his understanding rather than traditional academic methods; this influenced his writing style later on.

Exploring the Intellectual Journey of Francis Schaeffer

Early Interests and Influences

• Francis Schaeffer developed a passion for literature and philosophy during his adolescence, particularly drawn to reading Plato without any external encouragement or school requirements.

• His first encounter with classical music was at a concert where he heard Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture," which left a lasting impression on him due to its dramatic use of cannons.

• Schaeffer's inquisitive nature drove him to seek deeper truths about life, as noted by his sister, highlighting his intellectual honesty from an early age.

Background and Socioeconomic Context

• His father recognized a unique connection between working-class values and intellectual pursuits in Schaeffer, contrasting with the often disconnected reality of the middle class.

• Growing up during the Great Depression shaped Schaeffer’s perspective; he faced significant hardships that influenced his critical thinking and independence from mainstream American Christian stereotypes.

Religious Exploration

• He attended a liberal Presbyterian church but found it lacking in answers to his philosophical inquiries, prompting him to explore religion further through personal study.

• Intrigued by the relationship between religion and philosophy, he decided to read the entire Bible to compare its teachings with Greek philosophical questions.

Conversion Experience

• Through personal exploration rather than direct evangelism, Schaeffer became convinced of Christianity's explanatory power after studying the Bible.

• In August 1930, he participated in a tent revival led by evangelist Anthony Zeol, where he made an unconditional commitment to Christ after being prompted during the service.

Academic Pursuits and Family Dynamics

• After high school graduation, Schaeffer enrolled in engineering studies at Drexel Institute but gradually shifted focus towards classics, philosophy, and literature.

Divine Mercy and the Journey to Ministry

The Decision to Pursue Ministry

• The speaker recounts a pivotal moment when someone decided to confront their father about pursuing a ministry career, leading to a tense exchange where the father expressed anger but also offered financial support for the first year.

Educational Background

• After this confrontation, the individual attended a seminary known as Ramp Day Sydney, which was actually a college offering theology courses. Here, they met Edit Seville, who later became Mrs. Shefer.

Historical Context of Missionary Work

• Edit's background is highlighted; she was the daughter of missionaries who had worked in China during tumultuous times marked by events like the Boxer Rebellion, which forced many missionaries to flee.

Encountering Doubts in Faith

• At a church youth group meeting, Shefer attended a lecture by Ed Blom titled "How Do I Know Jesus Is Not the Son of God?" This theme reflects significant theological challenges faced within Christian communities.

The Influence of Edit Seville

• Edit attempted to formulate counterarguments against Blom’s claims during his lecture. Her efforts demonstrate her commitment to defending her faith and engaging with challenging ideas.

The Development of Their Relationship

Initial Interaction and Connection

• After Ed Blom's talk, Francis Shefer caught Edit's attention with his arguments. They were introduced at a social event shortly after this encounter.

Conversations on Theology

• Their early conversations revolved around theology; notably, Shefer invited Edit to discuss important texts such as "Christianity and Liberalism" by J. Gresham Machen, emphasizing its significance in understanding theological liberalism versus traditional Christianity.

Mutual Growth in Understanding

• It is noted that Edit had more knowledge about apologetic controversies than Shefer at that time and played an influential role in shaping his theological perspectives.

Edit Seville's Impact on Labri

Recognition of Contributions

• American sociologist Os Guinness acknowledged that while Francis Shefer is often seen as the primary figure at Labri, much of its impact stemmed from Edit’s contributions and leadership behind the scenes.

Balancing Historical Narratives

• There is an argument made regarding historical narratives surrounding Labri; it suggests that while Shefer is recognized for apologetics work, Edit’s role has been somewhat overlooked despite her equal contribution through writing and ministry efforts.

Edit Seville's Work Ethic

Dedication and Resilience