For those who think the study of doctrine is unimportant beyond the bare basics of Christianity, here is an example of someone whose ministry and practice flows directly out of his explicitly Calvinistic worldview: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/11/magazine/11punk-t.html?pagewanted=1&_r=3&em
At least Driscoll is aware of his theological orientation; those who are unaware of their beliefs operate on the basis of an implicit and unexamined theology, a far more dangerous prospect. The less aware we are of our presuppositions, the more they will govern our thinking and practice in subtle ways without us realizing it. The Bible exhorts us to have sound doctrine for all areas of our Christian lives, friends, and thus we must not downplay the critical importance of seeking out biblical teaching.
New Testament Intersections 4: Community Rule
23 hours ago
5 comments:
Wow, I had no idea what was going on at Mars Hill. I won't say that all media is truthful in it's presentation but that certainly sounds like the logical outworkings of Calvinism to me. I hear that Calvin once had a "throne" to preach from. I hope Driscoll doesn't get one for himself.
The final comment at the end of the article was funny. Calvinism certainly doesn't bring about the humble side of Christianity, or so it seems.
Hey jcoolio!
Yes we have to be discerning with media coverage, but overall I'm sure it was dead on. I think Driscoll has hit a nerve, though, in a good way. Strong truth resonates with people who are sick of flabby and weak Christianity. Methodists and Wesleyans could learn a lot from some of his emphases - or, of course, they could read Wesley himself! What these people is a sovereign God who is also perfect love.
Among theologians, I have noticed that Calvinism can breed a kind of arrogance. No matter how much you thunder away about total depravity (as if it were more fundamental to human beings than the Imago Dei), unconditional election just smacks of favoritism.
Mabye they went a little overboard in their assessment of Driscoll? Although I agree with the general sentiment.
What in particular do you have in mind, Pizza Man? I only read it through once, and I did pick up on a couple of rather value-laden editorial comments. I'm unfamiliar with his actual practices, so I don't know how accurate the reporting was.
Calvies are 1337.
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