Skip to main content

Intolerance in Theological Liberalism

In some ways, liberal implies being generous and having a kind heart. Politically, liberalism has changed its meaning over the years, so classical liberalism is very different from leftist modern liberalism. Theologically, liberalism does not hold to the inerrancy and authority of the Bible.

Liberalism can emphasize dialogue, which may seem reasonable on the surface. Dialogue is important for clarifying points and determining viewpoints. However, the dialogue of liberalism also involves compromise and change in areas where these things do not belong — often in the name of being "progressive".

With liberalism, to be progressive may seem like a worthy goal, but it "progresses" away from the Word of God. (Indeed, I did a web search on apologetics resources which yielded items "you can trust" that include theistic evolutionists and other untrustworthy sources. Biblical creationists were conspicuously absent.) Notice that theological liberals believe few if any miracles in the Bible, and have no truck with young-earth creation. It seems ironic that liberals (political as well as theological) are extremely intolerant of those who have different viewpoints. They want those of us with a conservative bent toward the inerrancy and authority of Scripture to be negated or silenced.

As biblical creationists we believe it is necessary to preach the Gospel and teach the doctrines of Scripture from a plain sense perspective, including the opening chapters of Genesis. The theology of Genesis 1–3 impacts upon the Gospel message; for example, the doctrine of Adam and Eve created in God’s image and the subsequent Fall from grace, which affects all of us. This is propositional because we hold Scripture to be the direct revelation of God given to the world.

. . .

On the other hand, academic theology engages in ‘conversations’, searching for new insights into Scripture (it also applies to scientific research programmes, which develop over time). Some of this endeavour may be necessary and good, especially when newly discovered texts, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, shed fresh light on the Scriptures. Theological conversations can also be helpful if they lead people to develop and deepen their faith, and if they help us understand another position more accurately.

The full article is at "The confusion of liberalism." Also worth your time, "In-Depth: Female Presbyterian ‘Pastrix’ Reinterprets Scripture, Claims God Lied to Adam and Eve."