I was struck by one line of a very good article in The Christian Science Monitor this weekend. The story highlights the “new Calvinism” which is on the rise today, and focuses on Mark Dever’s church, Capitol Hill Baptist in Washington, D.C. The contrast between a biblical, Calvinistic ministry and the prevailing “Home Depot theology” of evangelicalism today could not be painted more starkly. I encourage you to read the article as it will be a blessing and encouragement to you.
Here are a few snippets:
Today, [Calvin’s] theology is making a surprising comeback, challenging the me-centered prosperity gospel of much of modern evangelicalism with a God-first immersion in Scripture. In an age of materialism and made-to-order religion, Calvinism’s unmalleable doctrines and view of God as an all-powerful potentate who decides everything is winning over many Christians \”“ especially the young…
…
Much of modern Christianity preaches a comforting Home Depot theology: You can do it. We can help. Epitomized by popular titles like Joel Osteen’s “Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential,” this message of self-fulfillment through Christian commitment attracts followers in huge numbers, turning big churches into megachurches…
…
More broadly, the Calvinist revival reflects an effort to recast the foundation of faith itself. From conservative evangelical churches to liberal new-age groups, the message of much modern teaching is man’s need for betterment. Not New Calvinism; its star is God’s need for glory. And the gravity of His will is great: It can be denied, but not defied.
Many conservative Christians who dislike some of the doctrinal emphases of Calvinism have to at least be happy that a more biblically-based ministry model is catching on today. Give the article a read and let me know what you think. Feel free to comment on the “Home Depot theology” descriptor too. Doesn’t that just describe exactly what is wrong with the seeker-sensitive, market-driven Christianity that evangelicalism is promoting?
A surprisingly good assessment from a surprislingly unexpected source. The Moniter hit the nail on the head in describing the “me centeredness” of modern Evangelicalism. I am so greatly encuraged with the new Calvinist resurgence. I am not quite as enthusiastic about the “rock stars” of the movement. I am still having trouble putting solid, no-nonense Biblical theology together with rock concert style worship. Am I just too old, or is there a subtle danger here that tends to undermine the new commitment to serious truth?
Greg,
I believe the reference to “rock stars” was to refer to the leaders of the movement as being treated like super-popular “idols” or “stars”. That kind of dedication to the leaders does exist sometimes. I don’t get the impression that the leaders encourage that at all.
You’re right about it coming from a surprising source. But I think the CSM is more like a regular newspaper if anything nowadays.
Regarding the use of “rock music”, or a “rock concert style” for worship. Many of the new Calvinists wouldn’t approve of that either. Some do, I think it is a liberty issue. You can explore my “music” page (see tab on the top of this page) for more of my thoughts on the issue. I’m not for a “concert” feel for worship. But I think some of the elements of contemporary music are very appropriate if done well and for a worship setting.
Thanks for dropping by again.
In Christ,
Bob
That was a great article and an actual breathe of fresh air from, as G.N. Barkman stated, a truly unexpected source. But I must confess, I have read some decent articles from this source in the past, which makes me wonder why? considering their doctrinal positions or lack thereof.
I think that many are finding the seeker friendly, God wants you to be healthy and wealthy message seriously lacking which says a great deal about their message and a great deal about those who are actually studying to show themselves approved. Praise God!
Thanks for the article Bob!
Toby,
I think the CSM is more like a news outlet than anything. That somehow furthers their Christian Science roots. When they report, it’s not much different than Time or Newsweek reporting, in my estimation. Only difference is they report from a pseudo-Christian perspective that also reveres science.
Very interesting that the CSM published this. “New Calvinism” is new to me. I always just thought of it as just Calvinism.
Thanks Bob. This was encouraging.
Curt,
Some call it that because it isn’t so systematic in its theology as older expressions of Calvinism, and it is more rooted in the Bible. Some call it that because it is a new rise of Calvinism. Time magazine used the term last year, so I used it here.
Glad you enjoyed the article.
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for the clarification regarding “rock stars.” I re-read the article, and you are no doubt correct. When I read it (probably too hurredly), I thought it referred to worship leaders leading CCM style songs with solid doctrinal content, such as the specific theme mentioned. I guess my background in Dispensational hermeneutics, “literal whenever possible” led me astray. LOL.
With appreciation,
Greg
No problem, Greg. Happens to all of us.