Michael Patton nails some of his own theses into his blog door, proclaiming the rise of “Historical Evangelicalism”. He makes valid points about the trivializing of the term “evangelical”, as well as the emerging church.

The term “evangelical” ceases to have meaning when the likes of John Piper and Wayne Grudem can be classified as “evangelical” along with such people as Benny Hinn and Joel Osteen. And while agreeing with much of their (the emerging church’s) assessment of the current situation of the day, he also rightly bemoans “a root of bitterness that is causing it to submerge into the depths of obscurity and irreverence.”

Why “Historical Evangelicalism”?

As he puts it …

The “historic” will give us permission to recognize the value of tradition as guide and teacher that joins our hands with the saints of the past. The “evangelical” will allow us to develop in our understanding as God’s revelation becomes clearer through the development of doctrine. The “historic” will ensure that we are consulting Augustine. The “evangelical” will ensure that we are conversing with our neighbor.

Well said, Michael! You and I are on the same leaf. Count me in.

Bob
Fides Quaerens Intellectum
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Bob Pratico
Fides Quaerens Intellectum
(my Sojourn blog)