The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum "The Merger of Calvinism with Worldliness"

Dear brother,

It would appear that you have not understood Dr. Master's "maturity in the faith", nor his "gift of discernment". Why? Because he is CONSISTENT in his conclusion(s) with that which Scripture teaches. Okay, what am I referring to? Scripture in myriad places teaches that right doctrine MUST lead and exhibit itself in a transformed life; a life that is evidenced in good works. Good works are synonymous with godliness and holiness, forsaking sin and a conformity to the law of God. Notice this correlation in Paul's statements found in Eph 4:20-24 and Col 3:8-10:

There is a clear pattern to be seen in Paul's pastoral letters, e.g., Galatians and Ephesians, as well as elsewhere in his letters and in those of the other apostles: Doctrine > Application (transformation of life). In other words, right doctrine MUST lead to a change in behavior. For example, if you believe xxxx then you will live like xxxx. The entire chapter of Romans 6 is a perfect example. After expounding at length on the doctrine of justification by faith alone, Paul applies that doctrinal truth by saying that there will follow a life of holiness. James also says the same thing succinctly in his epistle 2:19 and 26:

The Reformers were sorely criticized for their tenacious holding to the doctrine of Sola Fide; a man is justified by faith alone. But the criticism was in error because they did not mean that this faith stood alone apart from works. Thus it was further clarified as, "Man is justified by faith alone but not by a faith that is alone!"

So, Dr. Masters is simply being biblical correct in seeing a bifurcation, an inconsistency with what is being taught (doctrine) and the manner, method and expression in that teaching. It's a half-truth that is being promoted. Calvinism is far more than the "Five Points". It is a full-orbed cosmology; world and life view. Calvinism transforms a persons life when embraced with BOTH the head and the heart. ALL things are transformed by biblical doctrine. Did not Paul counsel Timothy, his young protégé:

Thus such things as worship are regulated by Scripture. One's view of God will evidence itself in how one approaches God, how one worships God, how one speaks of God, etc. Let's take one specific example to show how this "neo-Calvinism" violates the very essence of true doctrine. Wearing a "Jesus t-shirt" is in direct violation of both the Second Commandment and the Third Commandment. Contemporary worship/music is in direct violation to the command to flee worldliness and its appeal to the base senses of fallen man.

Finally, I'll let Jesus have the last word,

In His grace,