7 Strategies for Firmly Resisting Liberal Theology in Today's Christian World

Resisting Liberal Theology: A Conservative Christian Perspective

In recent years, liberal theology has gained momentum, challenging traditional Christian beliefs and doctrines. As conservative Christians, it is crucial for us to understand and resist the influence of liberal theology. In this article, we will address eight key questions about resisting liberal theology from a staunchly conservative, biblical perspective.

1. What is liberal theology?

Liberal theology is a movement within Christianity that seeks to reinterpret traditional Christian beliefs in light of modern culture and secular ideologies. It often downplays the authority of Scripture, rejects the supernatural elements of the faith, and emphasizes social justice and inclusivity over biblical truth. Liberal theologians tend to prioritize human reason and experience over divine revelation, leading to a departure from orthodox Christian doctrine.

Biblical Foundation: - 2 Timothy 4:3-4 - "For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."

2. How does liberal theology differ from conservative Christianity?

Liberal theology differs from conservative Christianity in several key areas. While conservative Christians affirm the authority and inerrancy of Scripture, liberal theologians often view the Bible as a human document subject to historical and cultural interpretation. Conservative Christians uphold the supernatural elements of the faith, such as miracles and the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, while liberal theologians may reject or reinterpret these aspects.

Biblical Foundation: - John 14:6 - Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

3. How can we defend biblical inerrancy against liberal attacks?

To defend biblical inerrancy against liberal attacks, we must affirm the divine inspiration and authority of Scripture. The Bible is not merely a human book, but the Word of God, infallible and without error. We can demonstrate the historical reliability and coherence of Scripture through archaeological evidence, fulfilled prophecies, and the internal consistency of its teachings.

Biblical Foundation: - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

4. How can conservative Christians counter progressive Christianity in the UK?

To counter progressive Christianity in the UK, conservative Christians must remain steadfast in their commitment to biblical truth. We should actively engage in theological education, apologetics, and evangelism to equip ourselves and others with a solid understanding of conservative Christian beliefs. Additionally, we can foster communities of faith that uphold traditional Christian values and provide support for those who are seeking a biblically faithful expression of Christianity.

**[According to Timothy George in "The Subtle Lure of Liberalism," resisting progressive Christianity requires a clear understanding of orthodox Protestantism. Machen's book "Christianity and Liberalism" provides a stringent defense of orthodox Protestantism against modernist or liberal theology.

5. What are the key differences between orthodox and liberal theology?

The key differences between orthodox and liberal theology lie in their views on the authority of Scripture, the nature of God, salvation, and Christ's divinity. Orthodox theology upholds the Bible as the inspired Word of God, affirms the Trinity, teaches salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and acknowledges Jesus as fully divine. In contrast, liberal theology often rejects biblical authority, questions or denies core Christian doctrines, and embraces a more inclusive view of salvation.

Biblical Foundation: - 2 Peter 1:20-21 - "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit."

6. How can we expose liberal church leaders who promote false teachings?

Exposing liberal church leaders who promote false teachings requires discernment and a commitment to biblical truth. We should carefully evaluate their teachings against the clear teachings of Scripture and be willing to confront error in a spirit of love and humility. It is important to engage in respectful dialogue, presenting biblical evidence and arguments to counter false teachings.

Biblical Foundation: - Matthew 7:15 - "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves."

7. Which conservative Christian denominations exist in the UK?

Several conservative Christian denominations exist in the UK, including the Church of England (traditionalist wing), Free Church of Scotland, Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland, Evangelical Presbyterian Church, and many independent churches. These denominations uphold conservative Christian beliefs and prioritize adherence to biblical truth and orthodox doctrine.

According to the source "Christianity and Liberalism 100 years later," Machen's book influenced conservative Protestant denominations that continue to defend biblical orthodoxy.

8. How can we stay rooted in conservative Christian beliefs amidst cultural pressure?

To stay rooted in conservative Christian beliefs amidst cultural pressure, we must prioritize our relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. We should actively seek knowledge and understanding of God's Word, engage in apologetics to defend our faith, and surround ourselves with a supportive Christian community that encourages spiritual growth and accountability.

Biblical Foundation: - Colossians 2:6-8 - "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ."

In conclusion, resisting liberal theology requires a firm commitment to biblical truth and the authority of Scripture. As conservative Christians, we must be diligent in studying God's Word, defending biblical inerrancy, and standing firm in our beliefs amidst cultural pressure. By staying rooted in conservative Christian beliefs, we can effectively resist liberal theology and uphold the timeless truths of the Gospel.