Thinking in Public with Albert Mohler
J. Gresham Machen, A Conservative Mind in a Liberal Age: A Conversation with Richard Burnett
Aug 28, 2024
Richard Burnett, the Executive Director & Managing Editor of Theology Matters, dives into the life of J. Gresham Machen, a pivotal figure in modern evangelicalism. They explore Machen's journey through theological challenges and his impact on contemporary discourse. The conversation also highlights the tension between Machen and Woodrow Wilson's beliefs, and the rise of liberal theology in early 20th-century America. Machen’s critical works, particularly 'Christianity and Liberalism,' are examined for their lasting influence on orthodox thought.
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Quick takeaways
- Gresham Machen's intellectual journey illustrates a profound shift from initial liberal acceptance to a definitive rejection of modernist thought in Christianity.
- His experiences and writings reflect the ongoing struggle within evangelicalism to maintain traditional beliefs amid evolving cultural and theological challenges.
Deep dives
Gresham Machen's Intellectual Journey
Gresham Machen's life reflects a profound engagement with the shifting intellectual landscape of his time, particularly regarding theology and academia. His early education at Johns Hopkins laid the foundation for his appreciation of rigorous academic inquiry, and his subsequent studies in Germany exposed him to modern biblical criticism and liberal theology. Despite initially embracing progressive ideals, Machen became increasingly critical of conformity to liberal thought within the church. This tension played out as he wrestled with the implications of higher criticism for traditional Christian beliefs, ultimately leading to a need for clarity and direction in his theological journey.
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