A week ago I did a podcast interview (“Extraordinary Intelligence“) where the host asked me about the Hebrew Roots Movement. I made the comment that I didn’t think all the HRM was cultish legalists or bizarre. Apparently someone in that movement heard something in my words that I didn’t say, and has posted something online about my interview. I don’t have a URL for this (apparent?) quotation, but someone who follows my work sent me this excerpt:
People in the “Hebrew Roots Movement” are not all cultish legalists looking for the next wave. Michale definitely got it right, at least for me, when he talked about churches lacking content, and Christians being bored there. I truly believe people moving in this direction are simply following the leading of the Holy Spirit, away from mainstream religion, and finding in God’s Word a way to make the home the centre of faith instead of a building.
For the record, while this quotation (?) does get me right that I don’t think all HRM folks are cultish legalists, I did not say, nor would I say, that people are going to the HRM because they are being led there by the Holy Spirit. I’m guessing they do get bored with church as usual, but I don’t believe the HRM is some Spirit-anointed movement. The fact that my interview would be distorted (something that never seems to happen with unbelievers when I go on those talk shows) tells me that some in the HRM have an integrity problem.
I’ve added this note as an addendum to my original post about the HRM.
Dr. Heiser, I loved the interview with Extraodinary Intelligence. I don’t think the person was actually quoting you. Seems he was referencing himself regarding the issue. You probably know the quote is part of a reply from someone named Darren. I was able to possible locate a word press link that may help you track the individual http://en.gravatar.com/schtoltzie Hope this helps.
thanks; I’ll reword to reflect this. I’m not wasting any time tracking him/her down. Too many more important things.
Your welcome Dr. Heiser.
Yes Darren left a comment on the post where our podcast is featured, which contains the above listed quote. He along with a few people who have emailed me in the wake of the interview seem to have misinterpreted Dr. Heiser’s expression of understanding as to WHY people seek out more substance in worship for Dr. Heiser endorsing HRM. I think this note clears it up and I’ve forwarded it to the appropriate parties. Thanks Mike.
Thanks as well!
Dr. Heiser,
Firstly, let me apologise for spelling your name wrong, and not finding it in my proofread. It is only a blog post afterall, but I was perturbed after I posted and saw that. The internet is forever, and doesn’t always include an edit button.
Second, I think my wording is clear that it is I that believe this is a Holy Spirit inspired movement. In now way did I mean, nor do I think I did, that this opinion is attached to you.
Studying the Feasts has done nothing but bring grace and truth to our lives. Do some people go too far? Of course. The pendulum always swings too far in any historical change. And then it comes back. But that doesn’t discredit the truth of the matter.
Perhaps we need to discuss exactly what the HRM is before we denounce it. For me, it has simply been following the feasts in our home, teaching the meaning to my children (which always points to Jesus Christ), discussing the stories, making the home the centre of faith. In the end, as we dialogue and discuss, it should always be about drawing closer to the Bridegroom. I think you also made this clear in your interview, that the dialogue and discussion is of utmost importance.
I continue to respect your work, and that of the people who have interviewed you over the years. Thank you.
Thanks for the clarification!