Full Proof Theology 116 - James R. Wood on How Kuyper Lost the Nation and Sidelined the Church
Summary
In this conversation, Chase Davis and James Wood discuss the origins and spread of Neo-Calvinism, with a focus on the role of Abraham Kuyper. They also explore the critique of Kuyper by Philippus Jacobus Hoedemaker and the concept of ecclesiocentrism. The tension between the church and the state is examined, highlighting the importance of the church's role in shaping society and promoting the truth. In this conversation, Chase and James R. Wood discuss the tension pastors face in meeting the expectations of their congregations. They explore the importance of leading public worship and the public significance of liturgical practices. They also delve into the role of the church in addressing social issues and empowering people to care for the homeless. The conversation highlights the need for pastors to speak wisely and apply the word of God to real human issues. They conclude by recommending resources for further reading on these topics.
Takeaways
Neo-Calvinism originated with Abraham Kuyper and spread through Dutch immigrants to North America.
Philippus Jacobus Hoedemaker critiqued Kuyper's approach, particularly his view on the relationship between the church and the state.
Ecclesiocentrism emphasizes the role of the church in shaping society and promoting the truth.
The tension between the church and the state requires careful consideration and a recognition of the church's unique social role. Pastors often face the tension of limited capacity in meeting the expectations of their congregations.
Leading public worship is considered the most important thing the church does, with significant public implications.
The word of God addresses everything and should not be limited to internal conscience forgiveness.
The church can play a role in answering social issues and empowering people to care for the homeless.
Pastors should speak wisely and apply the word of God to real human issues, providing a distinctly Christian witness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:40 James Wood's Ordination and Role
02:23 Neo-Calvinism and Personal Experiences
07:23 The Origins and Spread of Neo-Calvinism
13:18 Abraham Kuyper and His Context
19:57 Philippus Jacobus Hoedemaker's Critique of Kuyper
29:21 Ecclesiocentrism and the Role of the Church
37:29 The Tension Between Church and State
44:57 The Tension of Limited Capacity
45:30 The Importance of Leading Public Worship
46:29 The Public Significance of Liturgical Practices
47:21 The Word and Its Addressing of Everything
48:36 The Church's Role in Answering Social Issues
49:53 Empowering People to Care for the Homeless
50:49 Pastoral Responsibilities and Speaking Wisely
52:21 Responding with the Categories of Scripture
53:19 Resources for Further Reading
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“How Abraham Kuyper Lost the Nation and Sidelined the Church” - https://adfontesjournal.com/church-history/how-abraham-kuyper-lost-the-nation-and-sidelined-the-church/
“Can the Church Still Speak?” - https://comment.org/can-the-church-still-speak/
James R. Wood on Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/jamesrwoodtheo1
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