One great contest, between the religion of Arminianism, and the religion of Christ, is, who shall stand entitled to the praise and glory of a sinner’s salvation? Conversion decides this point at once; for I think that, without any imputation of uncharitableness, I may venture to say, that every truly awakened person, at least when he is under the shine of God’s countenance upon his soul, will fall down upon his knees, with this hymn of praise ascending from his heart, Not unto me, O Lord, not unto me, but to thy name, give the glory: I am saved not for my righteousness, but for thy mercy and thy truth’s sake.
AUGUSTUS TOPLADY
2 comments:
Many in reformed circles believe that arminianism is heresy. I know this is true. What I don't understand is how reformed believers call arminianism heresy and then say that an arminian is a true believer regardless of what they believe. If one believes heresy then why is he not called a heritic? What is the line that must be crossed as far as a persons theology goes? Does not heresy separate a man from God? If they believe in a god that responds to them instead of the God of the Bible who initiates salvation is this not a god made according to their design?
Derrick:
1. I strongly sense the same frustration.
2. I strongly sense the instinct to compassion, also, which--as you note, creates the problem of #1 above.
3. Practically speaking (without a theoretical answer to your question), I generally give wide berth and patience to pew-Arminians, the rank and file. However, if they are leaders, pastors and advocates of this heresy, I have little patience for them and call them "heretics." I also do this with any local or vocal laymen who are unteachable on the matter.
4. This is how I deal with pew-Papists and pew-Tractarians. Patience and teaching. However, for the leadership, life gets rough for them from my standpoint.
5. This does not answer the good question...where is the line drawn.
6. But practically, this is how I deal with it. For example, I believe that 70-80%, the largest segment, of the SBC--at the leadership level--is Arminian and has leaders who are heretics. You may quote me on that. It's "works religion" and "works salvation" outside the instruction of Romans.
Regards,
Philip
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