Basham v. Ortlund and Illustrating Stupidity

Others referred to “Brito“ the CREC gatekeeper guarding the gates; I am out there ensuring who comes in and who doesn’t.

Gavin Ortlund's work is commendable in its consistent opposition to Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. He has also provided remarkable apologetic resources for debating atheistic assumptions on both philosophical and theological grounds. His efforts have been instrumental in helping many people to stay true to their Protestant ways, even when tempted to stray onto the 'ancient paths.' He has also engaged with contemporary and influential YouTubers from a distinctly Christian perspective. This commitment to Nicene Protestantism is a testament to the value of Gavin's work.

However, it's crucial to recognize that Nicene Orthodoxy alone may not suffice. This is where Gavin's well-intentioned assistance could lead to unintended consequences, raising important questions about the direction of his overall project.

For instance, many in the Revoice Movement claimed Nicene Orthodoxy but quickly offered an apologetic for gay-celibate clergy. Many who claim orthodoxy on Sundays also argue that the creation account should not be taken historically or that Adam was not a literal figure. Some may claim orthodoxy but quickly make women part of the dynamic of the liturgy, leading on Sunday morning. Some may claim orthodoxy but then argue that there can be a synergy between the Democratic platform and evangelical faith.

Yes, many will claim orthodoxy but buy into every leftist argument on COVID, shutdowns, theistic evolution, and climate change. They want us to lay down our rights for the love of others, but what if those "others" are standing truthfully in a society of lies? Must our love for truth also be set aside for the mainline agenda? Or are we second-class citizens in the love boat?

Gavin's observation that "climate issues should be a unifying message for Christians because, after all, who doesn't want a cleaner planet" is fraught with unspoken assumptions. To what end shall these policies be established? What must Christians compromise to achieve such unity? How shall we then live?

These same characters made a case for Biden in 2020. They enticed evangelicals by providing a noble third way out of the Dem/Rep trap. They argued that a gentler presidency would establish a better pattern of Christian ethics than the forthrightness of President #45.

Orthodoxy is not enough.

We need a sociological, cultural, and sexual ethic that builds our orthodoxy and sustains our affirmation that God is the Maker of heaven and earth. The concern with Gavin is that while many will benefit from his labors, his disciples will venture deeper and deeper into that political lacuna he leaves. I am convinced those under his influence will not operate on such cautious Protestantism or Orthodoxy 10-20 years later.

The Nicene Creed will mean nothing if we have given away our culture to leftist paradigms or talking points.

Notations

My latest post on the fascination some have with Hitler’s lifestyle received quite a bit of reaction:

While most of the folks saw my pastoral concern over this topic, and a few thanked me for my efforts on this topic, some pushed back and said that I was on a mission to persecute them for their fascination for Hitler:

And then, some argued that the Holocaust never took place and encouraged me to stay in my lane:

Others referred to “Brito” as the CREC gatekeeper guarding the gates, walking in the midnight hours through the X garden seeking whom he may devour, ensuring who comes in and who doesn’t. While individual CREC congregations have a certain level of autonomy and can make decisions about particular members, I have a representational role. I was elected to represent the denomination and to convey the things I think are best and the things that are hideous.

As long as I have this office, I will do my very best to keep these civilizational nuisances out of the CREC. I am sure these X actors think that gatekeeping is an evil function of a tyrannical leader while they argue blamelessly for the virtues of the Nazi leader. It’s not just the weak men who destroy institutions; it’s the certifiable stupid ones as well.

From a pastoral perspective, I want to reach these kids before they start posting on X; before these things become their agenda and become like these trolls. Wilson’s assessment is accurate:

I work in a circle of experienced pastors, and we have to deal with many problematic attitudes behind the scenes. People are sinners. Some outrageous behavior does show up online, sure enough, but part of pastoral work involves putting out fires in the personal lives of people who are not okay, and who are seriously not right with God—and to do it before they start posting.

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We have a banger of an article by Chase Davis on Kuyperian on Megan Basham’s new book. He carefully dissects the Ortland response. You should read it:

What’s the message? You’re a tinfoil hat-wearing idiot if you don’t believe in climate change. You’re politically motivated, derelict in your duty to environmental stewardship, & probably contributing to polarization. Gavin doesn’t say any of that literally, but that’s the message. He does, in fact, advocate limiting consumption, clean energy, and other unspecified govt actions as part of the ‘all of the above approach’ toward ‘progress’ on this issue. He says climate change could be a source of ‘unity.’”

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And speaking of excellent content, I cannot think of a website providing a greater diversity of themes, but faithfully conveying a rich Christian faith. Kuyperian continues to offer top-notch content. This is the first of a three-part series on the nature of baptism by Pastor Paul Liberati is fabulous:

At the same time, however, we need to understand that this pre-circumcision covenant status was provisional. To use an analogy, it is like a temporary paper driver’s license issued to a new driver until the official one arrives. The paper license is real but is intended for limited and temporary use, and therefore bears the disclaimer: Not a Valid Form of ID. While imperfect, this analogy suffices. The thrust of Genesis 17:12-14 is that when the circumcision of an Israelite boy was refused or neglected by the father, the provisional covenant status of the child expired on the eighth day. Thus, the lack of circumcision annulled the status that the child enjoyed for the first eight days of his life. At minimum, this implies that birth alone—like the paper license—was not a valid form of Covenant ID in Israel.

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Here is my interview on The Reformed Red Pill Podcast with Joshua Haymes:

Nuntium

I will speak to the faculty and staff at Trinitas Christian School this morning. Then, heading to Moscow on the 13th and preaching at Emmanuel Reformed Church on Sunday, the 18th. In September, I will return to Washington, D.C., to speak at the Capitol Hill Media Summit.

An Appeal

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