On Monday, I began a 3-part series with Scot McKnight author of both the book and blog Jesus Creed, about something Scot calls the “biggest challenge facing evangelicals.” I think it’s fair to say evangelicals are facing many challenges, but the rising popularity of Christian universalism is a big one.
As I’ve listened to Scot and picked his brain on this issue and wrestled with friends over the idea of Christian universalism, I’m still trying to put my finger on what–at a real heart level–bugs me so much about it.
I agree with Scot that Christian universalism erodes any sense of urgency when it comes to sharing one’s faith. I also think it raises the “why bother” issue on many things Christ called us to do as we follow Him. Why bother getting involved? Why bother laying down one’s life? Why bother sacrificing? If God is going to save everyone in the end, then why not just live more for one’s self and perform a few good works on the side when it’s convenient, easy, or doesn’t cost us anything?
I also think Christian universalism feels a lot like pluralism with a rubber Jesus stamp. The argument being that as long as Christ is the one that redeems than it doesn’t really matter what you believe.
Christian universalism seems to require a lot of back flips, double twists, and sideway turns to get around a laundry list of scriptures–especially the teachings of Jesus that say things like, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:14), Matthew 22:1-14, Luke 13:22-28.
Yet there’s still something more that’s bugging me that I’m struggling to put into words. What’s your response to the popularity of Christian universalism? How do you respond?
Click here to read the first installment of Scot’s interview.
Click here to read the second installment of Scot’s interview.
