Broken Words

Key Takeaways

1. Evangelicalism's Boundaries: Defined by Select Issues

When the Bible and biology are mixed in this way, the products are boundaries.

The "Big Four" Issues. Evangelicalism often defines itself through stances on abortion, homosexuality, evolution, and environmentalism. These issues act as litmus tests, distinguishing insiders from outsiders. Dissenting views are often met with suspicion or outright rejection.

Personal and Political Impact. These beliefs have profound personal and political consequences. They influence voting patterns, social interactions, and the overall direction of the evangelical community. The author's own experiences highlight the emotional and intellectual tension these issues create.

Challenging the Status Quo. The book aims to critically examine these "big four" issues. It argues that evangelical thought on these topics is often weakly supported and maintained by suppressing dissenting voices. This critique is rooted in theological and scientific training.

2. Abortion: A Politicized Issue, Not a Biblical Mandate

A pluralist society does not allow people to follow their consciences if their consciences lead them to kill an innocent human being.

The "Life Begins at Conception" Myth. The belief that abortion is murder from conception onward is a central tenet for many evangelicals. This belief drives their political activism and alliance with the Republican Party. However, this position lacks clear biblical support and contradicts historical Christian thought.

Biblical Ambiguity and Historical Context. The Bible does not explicitly condemn abortion. Historical Christian views on ensoulment suggest that moral life begins later in development. The author challenges the notion that the Bible definitively supports the "life begins at conception" stance.

Science, Reason, and Moral Implications. Arguments from science and reason often fail to prove that life begins at conception. The author critiques the use of gruesome images and emotional appeals in the abortion debate. He argues for a more nuanced approach that considers the complexities of the issue.

3. Homosexuality: Scripture, Interpretation, and Cultural Lenses

I suspect that in our generation, the homosexuality issue is becoming one of those triggering issues … that is forcing upon us some profound reflections on whether we will submit to Scripture or not.

The "Biblical View" on Homosexuality. Many evangelicals believe the Bible unambiguously condemns homosexuality. This belief often leads to exclusion and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. However, the author argues that interpretations of scripture are shaped by cultural lenses and biases.

Interpreting Interpretation. The debate over homosexuality is not about defending the Bible but about defending unacknowledged cultural values and fears. Different interpretive lenses lead to different conclusions about what the Bible says. The author challenges the notion of objective, lens-free biblical interpretation.

Science, Politics, and Social Change. Evangelical thought on homosexuality often lags behind scientific understanding and social progress. The author calls for a more compassionate and inclusive approach that recognizes the complexities of human sexuality. He suggests that love requires questioning the rules themselves.

4. Environmentalism: From Dominion to Stewardship and Beyond

Biblical Christians … can have confidence that, by the grace of God through the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ and His present reign over all things, continued populated growth will result not in the depletion but in the increased abundance of resources, and not in the increased pollution of the earth but in its increased cleansing and transformation.

The Antienvironmental Stance. Historically, many evangelicals have resisted environmentalism. This resistance stems from interpretations of scripture that emphasize human dominion over nature. The author challenges this antienvironmental stance and explores alternative interpretations.

Shifting Interpretations and Environmental Experiences. Proenvironment views are becoming increasingly common in the evangelical community. Green evangelicals reinterpret scripture to emphasize care for creation. The author argues that contemporary experiences of the environmental crisis are driving this shift.

The Bible Isn't Pro- or Anti-Environmental. The Bible's meaning is not fixed but is shaped by the interpreter's assumptions and experiences. The author explores different interpretations of Genesis 1:28 throughout history. He calls for a more responsible and sustainable approach to environmental stewardship.

5. Evolution: Science, Scripture, and Shifting Interpretations

The main reason for insisting on the universal Flood as a fact of history and as the primary vehicle for geological interpretation is that God’s Word plainly teaches it!

The Rejection of Evolution. Many evangelicals reject the theory of evolution. They see it as a threat to their faith and moral values. The author challenges this rejection and explores the relationship between science and scripture.

Creation Science and Intelligent Design. Creation science and intelligent design are attempts to reconcile science with a literal interpretation of Genesis. The author critiques the scientific and theological flaws of these approaches. He argues that they are not viable alternatives to evolutionary science.

Evolving Interpretations and Open Minds. The author calls for a more nuanced understanding of evolution. He suggests that Christians can embrace evolution without abandoning their faith. He emphasizes the importance of intellectual honesty and open-mindedness.

6. The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind: Ignorance and Arrogance

The scandal of the evangelical mind is that there is not much of an evangelical mind.… American evangelicals are not exemplary for their thinking, and they have not been so for several generations.

Lack of Intellectual Engagement. The evangelical community often lacks deep intellectual engagement. It tends to prioritize conformity over critical thinking. This has led to a decline in the quality of evangelical thought.

Certainty and Political Activism. Many evangelicals exhibit extreme certainty about their views. This certainty inspires uncompromising political activism. The combination of ignorance and arrogance irks the broader culture.

Consequences for American Politics. The weakness of evangelical thought has significant implications for American politics. It has led to polarization, partisanship, and a rejection of established science. The author calls for more moderation and willingness to compromise.

7. Neo-Neo-Evangelicalism: A Call for Intellectual Honesty and Social Justice

They have nourished millions of believers in the simple verities of the gospel but have largely abandoned the universities.

Disillusionment and Hope. The author expresses disillusionment with contemporary evangelicalism. He shares experiences of being ostracized for questioning traditional beliefs. However, he also finds hope in the potential for change.

Learning from History. The neo-evangelical movement of the mid-20th century provides a model for reform. Disillusioned evangelicals can break ties with the old guard and start anew. This requires intellectual honesty, social justice, and a willingness to engage with different perspectives.

A New Kind of Evangelicalism. The author envisions a neo-neo-evangelicalism that embraces sound science, recognizes diverse theological expressions, and prioritizes character over conformity. This new kind of evangelicalism would be worth believing in and would contribute positively to society.

Last updated: February 9, 2025

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