The Need for Biblical Fundamentalism

I understand that the very title of this blog may create a firestorm. Some will likely read the title and go no further. Others will read it and have preconceived notions of what they are about to delve into. Some of those will be positive thoughts while others will be - well, negative.

My observations over the past 20 years have led me to conclude that there are at least two types of fundamentalists. The one group I refer to as "Emotional Fundamentalists." They are held together by a key issue or a key leader. The other group of people are best defined as "Biblical Fundamentalists" These men and women are those who anchor not to issues but to the Scriptures. Make no mistake, Biblical Fundamentalists are quite passionate - convictions formed in the seedbed of Scripture tend to make one rather intense!

In recent weeks I have turned often to www.sliceoflaodicea.com and read with interest reports on events surrounding Rick Warren and Saddleback Church. Many observers would contend that the actions described call for a major overhaul of evangelicalism. They would point out that the problem can be fixed by a return to that brand of evangelicalism that marked an earlier era. (You pick the dates). I, on the other hand, would argue that the problem is evangelicalism and that the call is not for an overhaul but for an exodus. Revised and remodeled error is not truth.

I would like to urge the readers of this blog in two areas.
First, I highly recommend that we spend the money to purchase Rolland McCune's excellent book "Promise Unfulfilled: The failed strategy of Modern Evangelicalism." Then take the time to read it carefully. Many who have not grown up in Fundamentalism will gain much in the way of understanding by studyingMcCune's book. Many who have grown up in and been wounded by Emotional Fundamentalism will find the book to be a blessing.

Secondly, I exhort each of us to be careful, diligent, and ruthless in the evaluation of our own position and practices. Is our brand of fundamentalism truly biblical? Is our practice really God-centered, or do we just talk a good talk?