I've been asked several times, "Why are you so charitable toward "liberal" and non-Christian views, but so critical of Evangelical and Reformed Christianity?" Some thoughts: - ThreadSky

brheiny.bsky.social • 64 days ago

I've been asked several times, "Why are you so charitable toward "liberal" and non-Christian views, but so critical of Evangelical and Reformed Christianity?"

Some thoughts:

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brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

First, as a Confessional Presbyterian, I know well where I stand. I'm not scared of different viewpoints; the confessions are a safe anchor for me to explore and listen to those I disagree with. Confessionalism makes one charitable, not defensive.

https://benhein.substack.com/p/appropriating-theological-tradition

brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

Second, as a Calvinist, I am committed to the depravity of all people - including the greatest of our tradition. To say that our tradition has severe blindspots in need of correcting is probably one of the most "truly Reformed" things we could believe.

brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

Third, when I read outside of my tradition I expect disagreement! I don't need to point it out all the time. Instead, I can celebrate areas of unity or beneficial insight. When I read within my tradition, I expect agreement, and therefore must be forthcoming when I disagree.

brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

Fourth, Reformed Evangelicalism has been so insular that it has often advanced false/strawman views of those outside our tradition. Whenever I read views I've been told are dangerous, the errors are almost never as severe as I've been told they were. See:

https://benhein.substack.com/p/a-theology-for-nonpersons

brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

Fifth, I believe that "judgement begins at the household of God" applies not only to Christianity at large, but especially the specific tradition we belong to.

https://benhein.substack.com/p/white-presbyterians-and-anti-black

brheiny.bsky.social•64 days ago

Sixth, and related to the previous point, corporate responsibility means we take ownership of the guilt of our ancestors/tradition through repentance and restitution (see my article on corporate responsibility).

https://benhein.substack.com/p/what-do-you-mean-by-responsibility

revchadbrooks.bsky.social•64 days ago

I think the first finger we ever need to point is towards ourselves. I love being UMC, have my issues with it, but want to direct more energy towards what it means to be a theological wesleyan/methodist than dunking on those I don't agree with.

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