I thought this second list was particularly helpful, and have decided to reproduce it here:
- The older generation held primarily to the KJV of the Bible; we hold to multiple version, landing on the NKJV, NASB, and most generally (now), the ESV.
- They always give an invitation; we generally don’t.
- They preach topically as often as they preach expositionally; we preach almost exclusively in an expository manner.
- They hold to closed communion; we hold to open communion.
- They have tended to write off entire genres of music as wicked because of some wickedness within the genre; we tend to evaluate each piece of music as independent from a particular genre.
- They tend to prefer “pastor-ruled” or “congregational-ruled” churches as the government of choice; we tend to prefer “elder rule”.
- They tend to be “tee-totalers” when it comes to alcohol; we tend to hold to a “moderation” point of view.
- They tend to be Arminians; we tend to be Calvinists.
* Note 1: One minor disagreement: He includes "baptism by immersion" as a core belief in Fundamentalism. Historically, Methodists and Presbyterians were part of fundamentalism (and at one point made up the majority).
* Note 2: I still maintain that it is unwise to continue to use the word "Fundamentalist". I almost never use this word to describe myself, as it has been almost universally tainted negatively by the militant legalistic element within the camp. I tend to use the words "conservative" and "evangelical" together. I hope more younger fundamentalists drop the F-word, and think ultimately they will be forced too by both sides (the militant element to their right, who objects to their use of the term; and the evangelical element to their left, who misunderstands the implications of the term).
I would end up being more on the younger fundy side with the exception of the alcohol issue. I will actually separate on this issue because I see alcohol as dangerous and wicked. I know all the arguments and the word Oinos and all that, but the way they brewed back then doesn't even compare to the way alcohol is brewed today.
ReplyDeleteI use all the formal equivalent Bibles, although our pulpit text remains as the KJV.
Thanks for posting. I'm not I would go so far as you regarding separation (on this issue), but I do agree about the dangers of alcohol and with the fact of the brewing differences between NT times and our own. Also, it is historically verifiable that--at least with wine--that it was rarely consumed in its pure state (it was generally watered-down. Sometimes 3 part water to 1 part wine, sometimes many more parts water). Rabbinic and Roman sources confirm this.
ReplyDeleteAgain, in my mind this doesn't make drinking alcohol evil (I do wish to affirm Christian liberty on the issue), but NT wine and modern wine are not the exact same thing--and believers would do well to completely avoid it or use extreme caution.
"As for me and my house, we shall serve ice tea". Joshua 25:1
Thanks for that insight about wine being watered down back in NT times. However, I have to admit that the story about Jesus turning the water into wine at the wedding doesn't quite pack as much "punch" for me now, unless of coarse, that the wine He produced was the full strength before it was to be consumed. ;0) Sorry, I don't mean to "split hairs". I just had not heard of that before.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I have been watching some excerpts from YouTube of Keith Green and it was interesting to see where he was at in his Christian faith. He mentions Fundamentalism and it seems to me he considered it rather liberal at the time (1970's). I found it rather interesting. But I was also rather saddened with his thoughts of Christians having the potential of loosing their salvation. Seems to me very "Church of Christ" thinking and I'm not sure if he was necessarily affiliated with them. It's amazing to me to watch these clips because I would have never guessed all this about him...considering he doesn't indicate any of this in his music. You know what I mean? Maybe your not even familiar with him..... anyway, it's all interesting to check out.
Josh,
ReplyDeleteI just noticed that you linked to one of my articles. I'm with you on your "note 2" comment. I am leaning more and more to the term "conservative evangelical" as well...I think I've mentioned that in a previous article on my blog.
I've poked around here off an on today...I'll likely add you to my blogroll (with your permission).
Thought I would update you on the findings that I have come across on these Keith Green excerpts on YouTube. Apparently early on in Keiths young relationship with the Lord, he did live out and "preach" extreme conservative doctrine. However, before the Lord took him home he did come to grips with the grace that he was so obviously lacking for a while. I was so glad to read that he didn't struggle to the very end with whether or not he measured up. I can't imagine living my life in fear of loosing my salvation in Christ. This life is hard enough so, to be certain about this MOST CRITICAL issue is HUGE.
ReplyDeleteI'm thankful for him and his family that the conclusion of his earthly life had a happy ending. ;0) The Lord is so GOOD!!!
Ellis, thanks for commenting...and yes, do add me. I'll do likewise.
ReplyDeleteDeb, good to know. Grace is awesome.