A few days ago, I came across a list of one person's top ten R. C. Sproul quotes...some I have heard him say...others I have not. One in particular drew my attention: "I think Arminianism is death to Christianity!" What could R. C. possibly mean by this statement? Granted, Arminianism is unbiblical. It denies the sovereignty of God in salvation and man's total inability to save himself. But there are many genuine believers in that camp...though misguided in their understanding. I was once one of them. So, since I cannot question R. C., I'm opening this up for discussion. What do you think he meant, and do you agree?
That's a pretty strong statement! Like you, I know lots of sincere believers/disciples who are Arminian in their thinking. (Also like you, I used to be one of them.)
ReplyDeleteI think the problem is that they don't *know* they are Arminian. They don't even have a clue what that means!
The level of Christian education that takes place in many churches today is shallow and almost childish. We don't know what we believe anymore. We can't give a rational defense of our faith.
I think R.C. had this in mind when he stated that Arminianism is death to Christianity. If we don't know and believe what the Bible says, but just accept what the prevailing Christian culture teaches, our faith will not endure when tested.
Thanks for your comments, Maryjane. I agree with your assessment of Christian education, and most churches have become so man-centered in their teaching and methodology. I've heard R. C. say many times that what defines a true church is its position on justification, so I wonder if that is somehow tied to his strong statement. Many people are deceived about their salvation, because they think they have contributed to it in some way.
ReplyDeleteAs you can well imagine, I've been contemplating this statement. I would love to know the context. For example, what's Sprouls' definition of "Christianity"? I could mention several others. Hubby and I had a small discussion about this post. This was our conclusion. Death to Christianity? Really?!? Christ builds His church. "Christianity" has never been down for the count. Man has no control over the life and death of "Christianity", does he?
ReplyDeleteAgain, context seems all important in this discussion.
I was also wishing I knew the context of this comment, and definitions are important...even that of "Arminianism." But you are absolutely right...God is in control, and we are thankful!
ReplyDeleteAnother thought. (You knew it was coming) Again, depending on definitions, maybe "Christianity" NEEDS to die.
ReplyDeletegrannyof9
Okay, you can't get off that easily! :) Explain yourself. Are you talking about the "American religion"?
ReplyDeleteWhat's the "American religion"?
ReplyDeletegrannyof9
Linda, please refer to my post on March 15th.
ReplyDelete