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We should respect people and treat them well, but that is no reason to respect beliefs. Especially when the entire QUESTION is whether those beliefs are Biblical at all.
Yes, it is possible to be one of the saved while in error or ignorance on numerous points of theology and history. Likely, most of God's people from the start of the world until the millenium will be so. But incorrect theology leads toward poor choices and sin.
I know this may seem confusing to people who are charismatically or pietistically oriented, but I for one thank God that the Reformed tradition heavily emphasizes theology and philosophy of hermeneutics. It is just as important, and quite possibly more important, than whether one has or hasn't healed snakebites through prayer.
I'm not trying to caricature anyone, but I think it's right to say that Reformed traditions are heavily oriented toward theology and you just can't expect us not to take it rather more seriously than some Christians might be comfortable with. Likewise, Catholics are heavily ecclesiastical. These are objective features of their faith, whether or not you agree with them, and if you want to dialogue with us you just have to accept that.
All the above being said, if you run around telling people they're going to Hell your mother needs to slap you in the mouth.
Yes, it is possible to be one of the saved while in error or ignorance on numerous points of theology and history. Likely, most of God's people from the start of the world until the millenium will be so. But incorrect theology leads toward poor choices and sin.
I know this may seem confusing to people who are charismatically or pietistically oriented, but I for one thank God that the Reformed tradition heavily emphasizes theology and philosophy of hermeneutics. It is just as important, and quite possibly more important, than whether one has or hasn't healed snakebites through prayer.
I'm not trying to caricature anyone, but I think it's right to say that Reformed traditions are heavily oriented toward theology and you just can't expect us not to take it rather more seriously than some Christians might be comfortable with. Likewise, Catholics are heavily ecclesiastical. These are objective features of their faith, whether or not you agree with them, and if you want to dialogue with us you just have to accept that.
All the above being said, if you run around telling people they're going to Hell your mother needs to slap you in the mouth.
