Ken Wilson
Ken Wilson
Biography of a Pioneering Theologian
Full Name and Common Aliases
Ken Wilson is widely known by his first name, but his full name is Kenneth Wilson. He was also commonly referred to as the "Evangelical Anabaptist" due to his influential work in bridging the gap between Evangelicalism and Anabaptism.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 5, 1950, Ken Wilson passed away on February 12, 2021. His life was marked by a commitment to faith, community, and social justice.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Ken Wilson held dual citizenship in the United States and Canada. He was a theologian, pastor, author, and speaker, with a career spanning over four decades.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a devout Christian family, Ken's spiritual journey began at an early age. His parents, both committed Christians, instilled in him a deep love for God and a strong sense of social responsibility. Wilson earned his Bachelor's degree from the University of British Columbia and later went on to study theology at the Vancouver School of Theology.
Major Accomplishments
As a prominent figure in contemporary Christian thought, Ken's accomplishments are numerous. Some of his notable achievements include:
Founding pastor of the Mosaic Church in Denver, Colorado, which became known for its progressive and inclusive approach to Christianity.
Author of several books, including "Jesus Brand Spirituality" and "How to Be a Bad Christian: A Guide to Life on Your Own Terms."
Speaker at numerous conferences and events, where he encouraged the re-examination of traditional Christian teachings.Notable Works or Actions
Ken's work as an author and speaker focused on challenging readers to rethink their understanding of Christianity. He was particularly interested in exploring the intersection of spirituality and culture. Some of his notable works include:
"To Speak Love: A Year of Devotions from Ordinary People, Extraordinary Faith," which showcased everyday people embodying God's love.
* "From Our Father's House: The Story of Mosaic Church," a book that chronicled the church's history and mission.
Impact and Legacy
Ken Wilson's impact on contemporary Christian thought is undeniable. His legacy extends far beyond his own community, as he has inspired countless individuals to re-examine their faith in light of social justice and compassion. Through his writings and teachings, Ken encouraged people to see Christianity not just as a set of dogma but as a living, breathing force for good.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ken Wilson is widely quoted and remembered due to his unique ability to blend theology with everyday life. His commitment to creating spaces where people from diverse backgrounds could come together in faith resonated deeply with many. As a thought leader who consistently challenged traditional norms, Ken's work continues to inspire readers to look beyond the surface level of Christianity.
Ken Wilson's story serves as a testament to the power of faith and community when combined with a willingness to challenge the status quo. His legacy will continue to be felt in years to come.
Quotes by Ken Wilson

The conscience is a communal organ – a way of knowing that we do with others formed always in reference to others.

We so want to be right and so trust that our desire to be right is something that God would surely bless. Yet the desire to be right comes with a price: the fear of being wrong. And so, in a counter-intuitive way, this focus on being right seems to be the porridge we settle for when we exchange our birthright because we’re famished and fear that father won’t feed us.

If we have a hair trigger on the exclusion gun, shouldn’t it be aimed at those who are using their power to abuse someone who is in a weaker, more vulnerable position?

But sometimes the quest for the right answer keeps us from testing a variety of good ones. In search of the right answer, we assume every answer other than the one we’ve settled on must be wrong. Forgetting that some things have more than one good answer. I’d like to think for example, that the question, “How can I love Ken?” might have many good answers, rather than one right one.

You get 15 practices in the spring and you can evaluate the moves you make. Sometimes you move people back to the original spots but this one, I think this one is going to stick. It's really been a good move for both players.

For too long, our controversies seem to boil down to conservatives and liberals (or, if you prefer, traditionalists and progressives) talking past each other for the benefit of stirring up their loyalists, as partisans do in the primary campaigns of electoral politics. The rest of us are expected to line up with our team just as soon as they show their colors.

I have learned that there's no way to open yourself to the experience of God while retaining your cool, your sense of ironic detachment.

If I say to some kids roughhousing in church, "Don't kill anyone," they know what concern I am addressing. They know I'm exaggerating for emphasis and not speaking in general terms—that I'm not, for example, commenting on the morality of military service. Stripped of the rich context we share, the mere words, "Don't kill anyone" could easily be understood to mean don't kill anyone, anytime, ever.

But sometimes the quest for the right answer keeps us from testing a variety of good ones. In search of the right answer, we assume every answer other than the one we've settled on must be wrong. Forgetting that some things have more than one good answer. I'd like to think for example, that the question, "How can I love Ken?" might have many good answers, rather than one right one.
