CCP33: On the Rise of Heresy

Oct 14, 2022

Dr. James Emery White discusses the rise of heretical views in today's culture, highlighting the alarming survey results on evangelical beliefs. He explores the resurgence of Arianism and the need for a strong foundation in Christian theology. The lack of theological understanding among average Christians is a key factor in the spread of heresy, emphasizing the importance of delving deeper into the Christian faith.

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Introduction

00:00 • 2min

Discussion on Doubts Regarding the Literal Truth of the Bible Among Evangelicals

02:29 • 3min

Exploring the Confusion Around Tolerance in Christianity

05:02 • 3min

The Controversy of Arianism and the Holy Spirit

08:16 • 12min

Exploring Mystery, Sin, and Theological Evolution

20:01 • 9min

In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss how some of the very same heretical views that threatened the early Church are on the rise again today. The recent “The State of Theology” survey results are in from Ligonier Ministries and Lifeway, and the responses by so-called evangelical Christians were alarming to say the least. Why are Christians suddenly so prone to deviating from orthodoxy and increasingly mirroring the world rather than Jesus?

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Dr. White recently wrote a blog titled “The Modern Renaissance of Arianism,” a sect that rejects the entire belief in the triune nature of God, and that Jesus is God's Son. When you dig into the content of this blog, it's really quite shocking.

One of the best ways to protect yourself from being susceptible to heretical beliefs is to have a solid, firm foundation in Christian Theology. We encourage you to check out the “Theology on Tap” course that just became available at churchandculture.org. This 15-video course covers everything from the doctrine of humanity to revelation to the Person and work of the Holy Spirit.

There are many possible causes for the rise of heresy in today's culture. The average person - even the average Christian - is not particularly theological. They view the Bible as nothing more than a self-help book and don't really understand some of the heart of the Christian faith. Dr. White recently delivered a series at Mecklenburg Community Church called “Fear of Missing Out.” This took a look at what people who are not Christians are missing out on when it comes to the Christian faith, but also what many Christians are as well. And then there's the fact that people today don't seem to recognize sin in their own life. They just view themselves as mistakers, but not sinners. Dr. White gave a series specifically on sin at Meck called “Wicked” that is definitely worth checking out.

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