It couldn’t happen again - 17 September 2009 |
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Here’s John M. Frame recalling an incident in Reformed evangelical politics that happened years ago, but is still producing echoes to this day.
Several years ago, a godly professor at a leading seminary proposed that good works were ‘necessary’ for justification. Opponents of this view argued that the professor was thereby putting works in the place reserved for faith or even replacing with works the righteousness of Christ as the ground of salvation. He denied any such intent, arguing that he thought of works only as a necessary accompaniment to justification (as in James 2:14-26) and as necessary evidence for justification. In my opinion, this discussion was marred by a mutual unwillingness (on the part of people who should have know better) to analyse the ambiguities in the term ‘necessary.’ That misunderstanding led to the dismissal of the professor from the seminary faculty and to a great deal of ugly polarization and division among brethren. (Doctrine of the Knowledge of God, p. 293; italics original)
Frame continues, remarking on ‘what a practical science logic is’.
Love for our brethren requires careful thought. Unfortunately, we often leap recklessly to conclusions precisely on those matters that are most important, matters that require the most careful analysis … The passion may be appropriate, but it ought to be channeled in a healthier direction. (p. 293; italics original)
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Posted by Steve Jeffery · Topics: Minister's Blog