Machen was a bachelor, but he had many Warrior Children...
Contrary to wat some perceive as Reformed folks' 'resistance to change', many 'bright new ideas' have appeared from their traditions.
John Frame discusses how we have responded to them.
It's long but be sure to read his concluding 'Unrealistic Dream"...
That Reformed thinkers continue to have bright, fresh ideas, but that they present these ideas with humility and treat with grace and patience those who are not immediately convinced.
That Reformed thinkers with bright ideas discourage the rapid formation of parties to contend for those ideas.
That those initially opposed to those bright ideas allow some time for gentle, thoughtful discussion before declaring the bright ideas to be heresy.
That these opponents also discourage the rapid formation of partisan groups.
That those contending for various doctrinal positions accept the burden of proof, willing to bear the difficulty of serious biblical exegesis.
That we try much harder to guard our tongues (Jas. 3:1-12), saving the strongest language of condemnation (e.g., 'denying the gospel') for those who have been declared heretics by the judicial processes of the church.
That Reformed churches, ministries and institutions be open to a wider range of opinions than they are now — within limits, of course.
That we honour one another as much for character and witness as we do for agreement with our theological positions.
That occasionally we smile and jest about our relatively minor differences, while praying, worshipping and working together in the love of Christ.
Contrary to wat some perceive as Reformed folks' 'resistance to change', many 'bright new ideas' have appeared from their traditions.
John Frame discusses how we have responded to them.
It's long but be sure to read his concluding 'Unrealistic Dream"...
That Reformed thinkers continue to have bright, fresh ideas, but that they present these ideas with humility and treat with grace and patience those who are not immediately convinced.
That Reformed thinkers with bright ideas discourage the rapid formation of parties to contend for those ideas.
That those initially opposed to those bright ideas allow some time for gentle, thoughtful discussion before declaring the bright ideas to be heresy.
That these opponents also discourage the rapid formation of partisan groups.
That those contending for various doctrinal positions accept the burden of proof, willing to bear the difficulty of serious biblical exegesis.
That we try much harder to guard our tongues (Jas. 3:1-12), saving the strongest language of condemnation (e.g., 'denying the gospel') for those who have been declared heretics by the judicial processes of the church.
That Reformed churches, ministries and institutions be open to a wider range of opinions than they are now — within limits, of course.
That we honour one another as much for character and witness as we do for agreement with our theological positions.
That occasionally we smile and jest about our relatively minor differences, while praying, worshipping and working together in the love of Christ.
Comments