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The Emergence of Progressive Christianity
In the 1990s, a significant movement began to take shape among modernists, moderates, and liberal Christians, who collectively referred to themselves as “progressive Christians.” This group aimed to reinterpret Christian teachings through the lens of postmodern thought, challenging traditional understandings.
In 1994, Episcopal priest James Adams founded the Center of Progressive Christianity, which later rebranded as ProgressiveChristianity.org in 2010.
Shortly after this change, the organization partnered with John Shelby Spong, a renowned liberal theologian and former Episcopal Bishop, to promote his online platform, ProgressingSpirit.com, and his influential book, *A New Christianity for a New World*.
This literature became a fundamental resource for spreading progressive Christian ideas.
By the early 2000s, influential figures like Tony Jones and Brian McLaren emerged as key proponents of this movement, producing a variety of works aimed at a theologically and politically liberal audience.
McLaren’s notable titles, *A New Kind of Christian* (2001) and *A Generous Orthodoxy* (2004), are regarded as essential reading within the emerging-church conversation, guiding many left-leaning evangelicals, proponents of the Social Gospel, and mainline Protestants.
Core Beliefs of Progressive Christians
- They seek new definitions of “truth” through postmodern perspectives.
- They reject the idea of humanity inheriting a sinful nature from Adam and Eve.
- They regard the Bible as flawed, suggesting it’s been altered over time and advocating for metaphorical interpretations of its many passages.
- They recognize various paths to understanding the Oneness of God.
- They closely link social justice with the core message of the Gospel.
The term “progressive” may convey a sense of modernity or refinement in Christianity.
However, while seeking to align itself with biblical principles, this new ideology diverges significantly from traditional doctrines.
In truth, progressive Christians often stand in stark contrast to classical biblical Christianity, and they do not categorize themselves as its followers.
In clear terms, one might label progressive Christians as “doctrine deniers.” They often reject the historic creeds and doctrinal statements that have laid the groundwork for orthodox Christianity, arguing that such beliefs hinder a genuine relationship with Jesus.
Many claim that it is essential to “liberate Jesus from doctrine,” asserting that such constraints should not limit one’s understanding of Him.
The Role of Doctrine in Christianity
Diana Butler Bass, in her book *Freeing Jesus*, discusses her appreciation for the theological traditions surrounding Christ, yet she feels that neither historical research nor conventional doctrines fully capture her personal experience of Jesus, which she defines as experiential knowledge.
Similarly, John Shelby Spong, in *Jesus for the Non-Religious*, expresses his preference for discovering Jesus beyond the constraints of scriptures, creeds, or formal doctrines.
Articulating one’s beliefs demands a solid foundation of doctrines.
These doctrines hold Christians accountable to specific beliefs that echo biblical teachings, guiding actions that reflect the life of Jesus Christ.
They are far more than rituals or abstract ideas; they embody the ways God has revealed Himself throughout history and how humanity has experienced this revelation.
Alister McGrath wisely notes that while Christianity fundamentally revolves around a person, the identity of Jesus inevitably leads to doctrinal discussions.
Progressive Christians frequently create a dichotomy between orthodoxy (correct belief) and orthopraxy (correct practice), viewing them as opposing forces.
However, understanding moral truths that define righteous conduct is crucial for living in accordance with biblical principles, thereby establishing an interdependent relationship between the two in traditional Christian thought.
Lacking a solid grasp of the doctrines and creeds that frame Jesus within a Christian context can severely limit one’s understanding of His identity and proper worship.
Thus, these doctrines serve as vital truths about Jesus, guiding Christians in their beliefs and actions according to His teachings.
Source: Christianpost