The podcast delves into Neo-Calvinism's impact on the church, exploring the balance between the church as an institution and an organism. It discusses the roles of apostles, elders, and deacons within the body of Christ, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the organism and institution. The conversation also touches on Neo-Calvinism's ties to politics, ecclesiology, and the Kingdom of God, emphasizing the church's transformative actions in the community.
Neocalvinism emphasizes the church as an institute with distinctive roles within creation, not to be confused with other spheres like the academy or the state.
Neocalvinism introduces the concept of sphere sovereignty, highlighting distinct structures in human cultures with unique aims and principles.
Deep dives
The Emphasis on Neocalvinism and the Church as an Institution
Neocalvinism emphasizes the church as an institute with distinctive roles within creation. The church is not to be confused with other spheres like the academy or the state. Neocalvinism upholds traditional teachings on the institution of the church, focusing on the spirituality of the church and its roots in apostolic tradition.
Sphere Sovereignty in Neocalvinism
Neocalvinism introduces the concept of sphere sovereignty, highlighting distinct structures that emerge as human cultures develop. Each sphere, such as family, marketplace, state, school, and church, has its unique aims and principles grounded in revelation. The word of God is relevant to every sphere, but its application varies in each, recognizing the unity and diversity of human communities.
Neocalvinism's Influence on Theology and Culture
Individuals drawn to Neocalvinism often seek theological tools to understand life and culture. Neocalvinism enriches perspectives on theology of culture and creation, providing a holistic approach to faith. While some focus on specific areas like cultural theology, neglecting ecclesiology, others find Neo-Calvinism vital in addressing the broader theological landscape.
Prioritizing the Church in Neocalvinism
Neocalvinism distinguishes between the Church and the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that the church is the primary place where the kingdom is realized but is not synonymous with it. The Kingdom of God encompasses all moral goods and holds unity in diversity. Neocalvinist texts highlight the church's significance in manifesting the Kingdom of God while maintaining a distinct focus on the Kingdom's broader implications.
In this episode, we return to the discussion on chapters from Gray and Cory's book Neo-Calvinism: A Theological Introduction. In particular, we discuss the distinction between the church as institute and the church as organism.
Publications mentioned in this episode:
Brock, Cory C., and N. Gray Sutanto. Neo-Calvinism: A Theological Introduction. Bellingham: Lexham Press, 2023.