The Benedict Option despairs of redeeming postmodern Western Civilization and counsels a Christian retreat into separatist communities to rebuild Christian culture through faithful discipleship. The model obviously is St. Benedict, who founded a vibrant monastic movement in the ashes of the imploding Roman Empire.

No doubt the Body of Christ and wider culture would benefit greatly if more Christians were to pursue some form of the Benedict Option, creating centers of self-denying devotion, prayer, learning and charity, even celibacy. May this movement, to the extent it fosters Christian growth and witness, grow and prosper!

But just as in Benedict’s day, roughly 99 percent plus of Christians will decline to actively pursue this option. Maybe some don’t have the spiritual insight and discipline. But many more likely don’t have the calling. Throughout the church’s history most believers have had a vocation to live and work within the world, with all of its temptations and snares.

Too often Christian thinkers issue summons for all Christians to follow a particular path of faithfulness. Christians must become politically active! Christians must withdraw or take a break from politics! Christians must engage secular culture and arts! Christians should create alternative institutions! Christians should litigate in defense of their rights! Christians should reject lawsuits! Christians should eat organic food! Christians should abjure clothing and live au natural in the woods eating berries and honey!

Read the article “Benedict Option vs. Wesleyan Option” on canonandculture.com.