Carrying on last week's discussion on "cool" and "edgy" I nominate two men - both in their 60's - for edgiest evangelicals alive today:

1. Paige Patterson, President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

2. John Piper, pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church and leader of Desiring God Ministries

But you won't find these men with exploding graphics and sound systems wrapped around them when they walk onto a platform--at least not by request. You won't find them spending a lot of time on their clothing. You won't find either of these men shortening talks and lightening the truth to accommodate anyone.

These men are edgy like Jesus and Paul were edgy. They take the whole truth of the gospel and stick it right in your eye.

Paige Patterson had the audacity back in the '70's to question the theology and practices of the leadership of an entire denomination (SBC) and then had the courage and energy over the next two decades to move out the liberals and bring in those who believe the bible to be inerrant, sufficient and trustworthy. Note that he didn't walk away and start his own church. He confronted the establishment and said "You're wrong...according to the Word of God." That is edgy.

John Piper for 30 years now has been using his mind and voice to make the Word alive. Creative? Yes! But not the way the marketers and emergents do "creative." He unpacks God's Word and then boldly puts it right in your face. Nothing about Piper will make you think the Christian life is a game. He doesn't offer "Your Best Life Now" but uses words like "suffer" and "sacrifice" as he holds up all the pleasure that can only be found in Jesus Christ.

Keep your boy bands and church coffee shops. I'm going with truth presented boldly and without embarrassment. I'm going with the 60 year olds for edgiest evangelicals in America today. Give me Piper and Patterson!