Emergent’s Influence on the Broader “emerging” Movement

There are those who claim that the broader “emerging church” is distinctly different from the official organization “Emergent”, and not heavily influenced by Emergent. However, the quote below reveals how influential they really are. I realize that there may be some in the broader emerging movement who may not follow the radical extreme and theological error of McLaren and company, but for the most part, it is HEAVILY influenced by the theological thought of Emergent, the organization.

“By 2001, we had formed an organization around our friendship, known as Emergent, as a means of inviting more people into the conversation. Along with us, the “emerging church” movement has been growing, and we in Emergent Village endeavor to fund the theological imaginations and spiritual lives of all who consider themselves a part of this broader movement.”(Emphasis Added)

- Quote from the Emergent Village website on the “About” page, under "Organization".


It is also interesting to note the list of “Affiliates” that support Emergent Village. These are the organizations that stand in partnership with and support Emergent.

From the Emergent Village website from their informational page under "support":

“Below is a list of organizations who have voiced their support of Emergent Village and supported us financially in 2006. They are our “organizational friends,” if you will.”

• Abingdon Press
• Amahoro
• Baker Publishing House
• Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
• Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
• InterVarsity Press
• Jossey-Bass Publishers
• The Journal of Student Ministries
• Journey Community Church, Dallas
• NCCUSA Faith & Order Commission
• Wesley Theological Seminary
• Zondervan Publishing House