A lot of twitter today about an article in The Christian Science Monitor heralding Calvinism’s comeback. The article is encouraging for several reasons, not least of which is the profile it gives to Capital Hill Baptist Church (where Mark Dever is senior pastor). An excerpt:
Today, his [John Calvin’s] theology is making a surprising comeback, challenging the me-centered prosperity gospel of much of modern evangelicalism with a God-first immersion in Scripture. In an age of materialism and made-to-order religion, Calvinism’s unmalleable doctrines and view of God as an all-powerful potentate who decides everything is winning over many Christians – especially the young.
A theological system that challenges the “me-centered prosperity gospel of modern evangelicalism” is welcome. And Calvinism certainly does this. However, it does concern me when a theological system designed to humble sinners and exalt God becomes “popular.”
How will evangelicals steward this new-found popularity? How will churches? How will ministries like The Gospel Coalition?
The fundamentalism of the early 20th century became known for its strident, militant posture. But militancy isn’t the tendency of victors. No, as long as Calvinism is popular, those that follow this system will be tempted toward pride and triumphalism. Behind this article, I hear the merciful whisper of Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
I’m praying that tomorrow’s historians describe our time as one filled with individuals, churches, and ministries permeated with the doctrines of grace—and with character that fits our confession.