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serious business.
[8-8-01]
Early in June, the Rev. Dr. Joe Small, Coordinator for
Theology & Worship on the General Assembly staff, sent a brief
message clarifying the significance of the term "apostasy."
We post it here with thanks for his permission.
Monday, July 09, 2001
Friends,
It is more than a bit troubling to read so many glib
references to the "apostasy" of the PCUSA.
"Apostasy" is the term used to describe the total abandonment
or total renunciation of the Christian faith. It is a much stronger term
than "heresy," but like heresy it is not a judgment that an
individual is competent to render. It is surely not an epithet to be
hurled at others as a weapon. Persons who presume to pronounce others -
and even a whole church - "apostate" are making a judgment
that is far beyond their authority.
I must confess that I cannot understand what leads to so
sweeping a condemnation. One can disagree with GA actions on G-6.0106b
and on the Lordship of Christ, but neither action is evidence of the
total abandonment of Christian faith.
The GA action on the Lordship of Christ was most
decidedly not a denial of the apostolic faith. In fact, I think
the Assembly's action is better than the 'minority report' in
theological and evangelistic depth. It gives voice to sweep of God's
gracious, saving action in Christ, affirms Christ's universal Lordship,
and embodies good Calvinistic reticence about the eternal salvation of
others. Even if one preferred the minority report's odd affirmations of
Christ's "singular" saving Lordship and the "unique"
Trinity, it is impossible to read the GA's action as
"apostate" or "heretical." The Assembly preferred
the biblical language of its action to the abstract affirmations of the
minority report.
I do not expect that everyone will agree with me, but
I trust that we will all refrain from cavalier judgments about the faith
and faithfulness of brothers and sisters in Christ.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the
Lord Jesus Christ.
Joseph D. Small
Office of Theology and Worship
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
100 Witherspoon Street
Louisville, KY 40202
(888)728-7228 x5333
FAX (502)569-5501
jds@ctr.pcusa.org
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Voices of Sophia blog
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