The state of things in
the Evangelical world was already confusing and the events surrounding 2016 has
only amplified this reality. Once nearly tangible blocs and affiliations have
been shattered and the proliferation of Far Right news-sites, blogs and
podcasts has only amplified the problem. Throw in websites like Pulpit and Pen and you discover an
active disinformation campaign.
As with all forms of
political activism those affiliated with the site have embraced consequentialist
ethics... the end justifies the means.
They lie and spin with abandon and apparently do so with a clear conscience as
it serves the larger goal. The aggravating part is not everything they say nor is
every criticism they levy invalid. We live in a time in which most media
sources seem to be composites... about 1/3 truth, 1/3 questionable and possibly
misinterpreted claims, and 1/3 outright lies and disinformation. This is true
of the mainstream and yet in many cases it's also true with regard to alternative
forms of media. It is certainly the case in Christian circles. One need only
think of the many discernment and 'news' from a 'Christian Worldview'-type
sites as well. Their 'news' is often muddled and in question and their claims
of promoting a Christian Worldview are certainly dubious.
Both groups, both the
Trump wing of Evangelicalism and the mainstream group represented by the likes
of Christianity Today are wrong but
in general terms it's refreshing to see some Evangelical opposition to Trump.
While I wouldn't advocate political opposition I cannot understand the mindset
of those who actively support him and defend him. He is a monster, a beast and
those that support him are turning into the same.
The Evangelical
movement is splintering. While one hates to see divisions it might be a good
thing, a return to some perspective and nuance. However I think the schism will
just lead to more polarisation, again an echo of what's happening in the
culture and in the political spectrum. It does not represent genuine Biblical
thought that produces an antithesis with culture. Instead we're going to have
highly factionalised churches and ecclesiastical bodies and once again if you
don't toe the line you're going to find that you struggle to function in their
context. I believe this is already happening in many circles.
Let us hope this
splintering leads to reassessment, reflection, repentance and a return to
Scripture and (if I can remain optimistic) the rise of Christian leaders and
congregations that understand New Testament doctrine and reject the Dominionist
presumption that now reigns within American so-called Conservative
Christianity. Remember, it may be culturally conservative or Right-wing (they
are not necessarily the same thing) but that doesn't mean that either of the impulses
are in accord with New Testament doctrine.
The other day I
stumbled upon this commentary from Evangelical Focus:
It's a sad day indeed
when a Lausanne affiliated commentator gets it (mostly) right. As regular
readers will know I reject the Lausanne Movement and its very premise and yet
the article demonstrates a degree of discernment within its limited scope.
Personally I found the piece to be more in keeping with the traditional mindset
of the movement which was founded by the likes of Billy Graham and John Stott
back in the 1970's.
Like many readers of
mainstream news, I also stumbled upon the comments of some Evangelical leaders
wherein they take great umbrage at the Christianity
Today commentary and try to turn the tables by suggesting the statement
impugns and condemns the millions of Evangelicals who have stood by Trump. How
dare Christianity Today make such an
accusation! Clearly the pro-Trump Evangelicals consider this outrageous as
their Christian witness and testimony has been called into question.
To which I would
reply, it's good to know they've understood the gravity of the accusation. We can only hope they repent. As far as
shame, they have shamed themselves. The movement has become reminiscent of CS
Lewis' Dufflepuds, unthinking and
only capable of repeating mantra-like snippets and talking points. The only
voices they hear belong to their masters... who for the most part are corrupt
fools and deceivers. There's no point in mincing words. The situation is dire
and between the Right-wing heretical theology which is taking over some circles
and the equally heretical liberalising trend in others... the faithful are
going to find themselves with few options. What we're witnessing is apostasy.
Returning
to the Lausanne commentary I don't agree with the presumption of cultural
transformation and the call to political action but aside from these important
points, the commentary was mostly accurate. The Evangelical support of Trump
has greatly tarnished the witness and testimony of their movement and perhaps may
be looked back upon as a sort of Rubicon. The movement was always tarnished in
my view but the embrace of Trump was utterly beyond the pale. It exposed the
deep heresy at work within the movement and the reality that many of its
members have not understood the gospel and seemingly know nothing of Christ.
The Kingdom they serve is a little more than a Pseudo-Zion headed by a
pseudo-Christ.
2020 lies before us
and I cringe on many fronts. Our pastor who is no Leftist by any means and yet
had enough sense to keep the pulpit focused on the Scriptures is leaving and I
tremble thinking about the next year of guest preachers and candidates... all
of this taking place during this time of polarisation and great turmoil, as
many Christians will erroneously believe that the Kingdom is at stake and they
have a great ethical duty to get behind a lying thief, a rapist, whoremonger and now
murderer. I fear where these currents may take the congregation and into what
perilous waters these events might lead.
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