I am not a Calvinist. I don’t like systematic theology. I don’t enjoy endless debate about the character and sovereign nature of God. These things are neither fruitful nor soul-nourishing to me. However, I also don’t like being insulted as “theologically light” simply for not agreeing with a particular interpretation of Scripture. As if had I only studied more diligently and prayed more fervently, then I would understand. Or, perhaps, it is not God’s will for me. (Yes, that is sarcasm.)
If I have something to say, if I really do want to put myself out there—teaching, speaking, writing, etc. then I need to be prepared for the kind of conversations (and accusations) that will surely await me. I am not argumentative by nature, and I have many friends I care deeply about who place themselves squarely in the Reformed theology camp. They idolize (er, admire) men who make me want to spit, curse and throw things. Truthfully, I care mostly about this issue because it means so much to them.
But I can not reconcile their beliefs (i.e., their interpretation of Scripture) with my own interpretation, observation, tradition, and experience. I simply can’t. And maybe that’s just where I should respectfully leave it.
I’d love to hear some feedback on this one.
Response to Contemplating the Hyper-Pipers
I have had pleasent conversations with some serious Piper fans and even read a few books on their recommendation. In the end I can’t embrace their point of view. It has become almost a passion of mine–Free Will. I have made peace that they at times pity me. If they think I need their prayers they are welcomed.
I know where you’re coming from. What I don’t know is where all these Calvinists are coming from. Seriously, they are everywhere these days! My own family is still pretty much standard fundamentalist Pentecostals, not really Calvinists–but I have extended family that is in the hyper-Piper camp. Not a day goes by when one of them is not posting a Bible verse on Facebook about what wretched sinners they are, etc. I like what Lynnea says–”If they think I need their prayers they are welcomed.” I sometimes resent feeling like a large group of my friends think I am “backslidden” and unBiblical because I don’t agree with them or go to the same kind of church they do anymore, but I guess I should be glad they care enough to feel bad for me.
I am still somewhat “in the closet” about my own disagreements with my fundamentalist friends, but I think they’ve cottoned on to the fact that I’m at least in a mainline denomination now and most don’t approve of that. It’s hard for me to come out completely and tell them how I really think because I am so non-confrontational.
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