Liberalism In The Church
I am a member of The Evangelical Presbyterian Church. As far as denominations go we are a young upstart which broke off from the PC USA about 20 years ago. In a very short time more churches are leaving the PC USA to join the EPC. The reason being is many fear liberalism has taken hold of the main line denominations. Though I agree with Religious Liberal that this isn't a new phenomena it is one we should take seriously. This is part of the reason why I'm not so concerned about people putting "My Boss Is A Jewish Carpenter" bumper stickers on their cars. Falling into the trap of extreme liberalism and conservatism is easy. The messages can be safe and appealing. Who wouldn't want to be happy and contented all the time? Who doesn't want people to look at Christians in the best possible light as welcoming and loving? I admit, there are many times I feel extremely embarressed by my Christian bretheren and sisteren. Though I can see valid points for having us know sin is sin as well as discussions on social justice. But what is really important to the church as a whole and Christians individually? What really matters? What should our focus be? Where is our treasure?
Labels: faith, politics, spiritual maturity
posted by Out Of Jersey | 8:02 AM
7 Comments:
Although I'm often accused of being too liberal, I think you're right. Extremism, whether it be in the liberal direction or the conservative, is not good. We have this in the UMC - one faction considers parts of the denomination to be too conservative while a well financed conservative group agitates for change in the other direction. Where is Jesus is this conflict?
That is my big issue. I think if we looked to Christ, study scripture, and be quiet and listen to God a lot of these things would bear themselves out.
I want a bumper sticker that says, "Christianity is not a political party." Although that only touches part of the issue(s). And it doesn't really solve anything.
i tend to go with John Piper on this one, believing that we glorify God by enjoying him forever.
i further believe that we were not saved into the body of Christ - into God's Kingdom - to just happily wait for heaven or the rapture. but that God has given us the task to be his incarnate form in the redemption of all creation to himself - which began at the cross and continues throughout.
as forrest gump said, "that's all i got to say about that."
I attended a PC USA church for a while. They were kinda cool. I think I'm more comfortable with Prebyterians than any other denominational streams, and I have been to a lot.
Sorry to hear about the recent grief in the PC neck of the woods.
Jesus was an extremist.
but not just for extremity's sake.
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