When Your “Progressive Christian” Heresy Is Really, Really Clever
Apr 6, 2021
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Brandan Robertson, a vocal proponent of progressive Christianity, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about modern interpretations of scripture. He examines how views on queer identity and polyamory challenge traditional doctrines. The conversation deep dives into the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve, contrasting Old and New Testament interpretations. Robertson also addresses the complexities of repentance and salvation, critiquing subjective notions of truth while emphasizing the importance of returning to traditional beliefs amidst contemporary faith shifts.
The podcast critiques progressive Christian theology, especially highlighting how it selectively interprets Scripture to align with contemporary agendas rather than authentic Christian teachings.
It emphasizes the importance of discerning between genuine Biblical truth and evolving interpretations, arguing that truth should remain static and rooted in traditional Christian values.
Deep dives
Queer Relationships as Sacred
The notion that queer relationships are sacred and holy is stressed as a fundamental belief, suggesting that love, regardless of sexual orientation, aligns with Christian values. This perspective asserts that mainstream Christianity, which might label such love as sinful, fails to comprehend the true essence of the Bible. The speaker invites those in non-traditional relationships, including open or polyamorous ones, to recognize the inherent beauty and holiness in their connections. Encouragement is offered for everyone to strive towards a path embodying honesty, respect, and love, which aligns with the core teachings of Jesus.
Critique of Progressive Theology
A significant critique is leveled against progressive Christian theology, particularly exemplified by Brandon Robertson, suggesting that his interpretation distorts Biblical teachings to suit modern agendas. It is argued that Robertson selectively approaches Scripture, treating it as a palette to create an agreeable image rather than upholding authentic Christian truth. The discussion emphasizes the potential harm of such distorted teachings, claiming they detract from true faithfulness to Christ. In this light, the analysis serves to highlight the vital need to discern between genuine theology and cleverly constructed fallacies that diverge from traditional Christian beliefs.
Reinterpretation of Truth
The nature of truth is explored, particularly contrasting static, objective truth with a more dynamic, relational understanding as proposed by progressive theology. Robertson's perspective suggests that Jesus represents a reimagined truth that evolves with human understanding, moving away from strict interpretations of Scripture. This view implies that truth can shift and adapt based on context, a notion increasingly embraced in progressive circles. The conversation warns against this relativistic approach, emphasizing that it undermines the very foundation of what constitutes Biblical truth.
Incarnated Truth and Personal Experience
The idea of 'incarnate' truth as being rooted in personal experience and identity is discussed, suggesting that each individual's truth should be expressed and celebrated. This notion posits that truth is contingent upon one's own lived experiences, particularly in relation to sexual and gender identities, and that such authenticity is holiness in action. The speaker critiques this as a dangerous belief, asserting that aligning personal identity with holiness can lead to moral ambiguity and a departure from traditional Christian teachings on sin and repentance. Ultimately, this interpretation is challenged as not being authentically Christian, urging a return to foundational truths of repentance and divine guidance.
Since Brandan Robertson has accused me of editing his clips to take him out of context here is a link to the full teaching on “Truth” that I got the clips from. The teaching portion begins at about 37 minutes in. You can see for yourself that I haven’t done that. https://vimeo.com/257414376
Here’s the video where Brandan makes this rather odd and baseless claim. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeaj3R3H/
He also said that I don’t want people to ask questions. Which is a great time to remind you of my weekly Friday Q&A! See you there!
Sometimes it's helpful to examine a theological car accident. Brandan, or any of those who share his views, I have no bitterness toward you and hope that one day we can look at the Bible together and see the same Jesus.
Most of the other video content I used can be found on Brandan Robertson's web site. Just match the background of the video to find whichever one you are looking for. http://www.brandanrobertson.com/audio-video-1
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