J. Gresham Machen, in his classic book, Christianity & Liberalism, writes:

In the sphere of religion, in particular, the present time is a time of conflict; the great redemptive religion which has always been known as Christianity is battling against a totally diverse type of religious belief, which is only the more destructive of the Christian faith because it makes use of traditional Christian terminology.

Michael Kruger, President of Reformed Theological Seminary @ Charlotte, has winsomely, and thoughtfully, explored the foundational differences between what is called “Progressive Christianity”, as opposed to historic expression of the Faith.

In a blog post, more recently published as a book, Kruger examines the 10 core tenets of progressive (or contemporary liberal) Christianity offered by Richard Rohr, which was based on a book by Philip Gulley.

1. Jesus is a model for living more than an object of worship.
2. Affirming people’s potential is more important than reminding them of their brokenness.
3. The work of reconciliation should be valued over making judgments.
4. Gracious behavior is more important than right belief.
5. Inviting questions is more valuable than supplying answers.
6. Encouraging the personal search is more important than group uniformity.
7. Meeting actual needs is more important than maintaining institutions.
8. Peacemaking is more important than power.
9. We should care more about love and less about sex.
10. Life in this world is more important than the afterlife (eternity is God’s work anyway).

Like the liberal understanding of Christianity in Machen’s day, “Progressive Christianity” is not simply represent a different denominational perspective, nor is it just a variant version of the faith, it seems an entirely different religion altogether.

Suggested Resources:

• Christianity & Liberalism and Hermeneutical Presuppositions by Vern Poythress
• Christianity & Liberalism Audio Book (7 Parts)