In The News
EVANGELICAL AMBIGUITY
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The use of the term evangelical in a political context has further confused its meaning. The term was derived from the reference to the gospel (good news) concerning Jesus’ redemption of fallen mankind. "Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and in which you have taken your stand," Paul allows. "For what I received I passed on to you, as of first importance that Christ died for your sins according to the Scriptures, and he was buried, that he was raised on the third day" (1 Cor. 15:1, 3-4).
Given this point of reference, it is not surprising that the term evangelical would be used of authentic Christians. Such as embraced the apostles’ teaching (cf. Acts 2:42). It is in this regard that the eminent English theologian John Stott embraced the term, rather than as a member of some current movement.
Of course, there have been efforts to characterize Evangelicals more in detail. As a classic case in point, David Beffington set forth four features that he deemed of prime importance. (1) Emphasis on conversion. Otherwise expressed, the insistence that is a person must be born again. In this regard, "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator" (Col. 3:9-10). Having originally been created in God’s image, and fallen away, now renewed.
(2) Activism. The belief that one should express his or her faith in word and deed, not one to the exclusion of the other. "You are the light of the world," Jesus informed his disciples. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bush. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matt. 5:14-16).
(3) Acceptance of biblical teaching as the norm for matters of faith and practice. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching rebuking correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Tim. 3:16). Regardless of whether it conforms to cultural standards.
(4) Focus on the atoning work of Christ. As graphically expressed by little white crosses that frequently appear in our community. As a constant reminder of the critical importance of Jesus’ sacrifice in the course of salvation history.
While bonded together with his resurrection. First, by way of validating his teaching. Second, so as to empower his disciples. Finally, by way of assurance: "In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am" (John 14:2-3).
Meanwhile, false gospels proliferate. Not uncommonly as a result of some alleged subsequent revelation, which takes precedent. Or said to accommodate change. In any case, to disallow God from having the final word.
These considerations are not explicitly political, although they may influence how one approaches some issue. Consequently, one would expect both diversity and similarity within the Evangelical community. So that if we emphasize one to the exclusion of the other, we are inclined to err in the opposite direction.
Given the need for an authentic faith, the term Evangelical appeals to me. Although it would not be my first choice. I think of myself as first and foremost a Christian. That is, a follower of Christ. In terms of my favorite gospel chorus, "I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back." I made that decision over sixty years ago, and have not regretted it.
If following Jesus, then into community. "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as we see the Day approaching" (Heb. 10:25). For our own edification, but expressly to encourage others in the faith.
If into community, not as a means of escape but in anticipation of service. As Jesus has set the precedent. Along with the assurance that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Thus confirming whatever designation we choose by way of identifying ourselves.
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