Responding to the "Cessationist" Documentary - Part 4
Oct 19, 2023
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The hosts discuss the historical timeline of cessationism and continuationism and the influence of worldview on believing in miracles. They argue against the exclusion of spiritual gifts from Protestantism and explore the origins of the charismatic movement. The chapter also delves into the history of prophetic voices in church history and examines the influence of biography on Charles Spurgeon's supernatural activities. They criticize the misrepresentation of the charismatic experience and discuss the fear and demonization of charismatic worship.
01:35:00
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Quick takeaways
Prominent Scottish reformers like John Knox and Samuel Rutherford believed in and experienced prophetic gifts, demonstrating the continuation of these gifts within Protestantism.
Not all continuationists adhere to the doctrine of a second blessing or sinless perfectionism, highlighting the diversity within the continuationist movement.
The story of John Brown, a Scottish martyr, showcases the power and impact of prophetic words in the lives of believers, providing them with courage and confidence in the face of persecution.
The selective use of historical figures in the documentary contradicts the claim that continuationists are not true Protestants, disregarding the broader tradition of continuationism within Protestantism.
Deep dives
John Knox and Samuel Rutherford: The Scottish Reformers and Prophecy
Both John Knox and Samuel Rutherford, prominent Scottish reformers, believed in and experienced prophetic gifts. They recognized individuals such as George Wisshert and John Davidson as prophets, testifying to the continuation of these gifts in the Protestant movement.
The Misrepresentation of John Wesley and Second Blessing Theology
John Wesley's belief in a second blessing, which allowed for a higher plane of spiritual existence, is misrepresented in the documentary. While some Pentecostals do hold to a form of second blessing theology and sinless perfectionism, it is important to recognize that not all continuationists adhere to this doctrine.
The Scottish Martyr John Brown and the Prophetic Word
The story of John Brown, a Scottish martyr, demonstrates the power of prophetic words in the lives of believers. Foretold of his impending martyrdom, John and his wife Isabel faced persecution with courage and confidence, knowing that their actions aligned with God's will.
Alexander Peden's Prophecies: Strengthening the Faith of Believers
Alexander Peden, a Scottish Presbyterian minister, was renowned for his prophetic abilities. His prophetic words about future events, such as deaths and political outcomes, served to encourage and strengthen the faith of believers.
Contradictions in the Documentary's Claims
The documentary's claim that continuationists are not true Protestants or Christians is contradicted by the historical evidence of Protestant reformers who practiced and believed in prophetic gifts. The selective use of historical figures highlights a bias and overlooks the broader tradition of continuationism within Protestantism.
The Dangers of Practicing Different Religion
The speaker claims that the practice of charismatic gifts is a different religion and compares it to magic, disregarding its biblical basis. This portrayal is generalized and fails to differentiate between various charismatic practices.
Mischaracterization of Charismatic Believers
The speaker misrepresents charismatic believers as practicing magic and worshiping other gods. This broad and misleading characterization fails to acknowledge the diversity within the charismatic movement and the theological foundations many charismatic believers hold.
Failure to Engage with Source Material
The speaker admits to not reading the works of leading charismatic theologians, yet makes sweeping judgments about their beliefs and practices. This lack of research and engagement with the other side weakens the credibility of the speaker's arguments.