“That minister . . . whose preaching results in the actual conversion of human beings, contributes far more, in the long run, to the progress of society, literature, art, science, and civilization, than he does, who, neglecting these themes of sin and grace, makes a direct effort from the pulpit to ‘elevate society’” (Shedd, Homiletics and Pastoral Theology, p. 248).
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But the kuyperian Calvinist will tell us there are two parts to gospel ministry, that transforming society apart from knowing God is the work of ministry as well. Bringing God’s shalom and redemption to every sphere. Doth my heart dare rejoice that Shedd is declaring them mistaken ?
Nay, Kuyperian Calvinists say pulpit efforts to simply elevate always fail.
Humility = elevation.
Such pulpiteres only blow bubbles — not scary at all.
A fear of God and getting shamed by neighbors = society elevation.
Admittedly I don’t really know much about Kuyperian Calvinists, but I’d be extremely surprised if any Calvinistic preacher of any stripe considered that there is any such thing as something “apart from knowing God” being the “work of ministry.” What would that even look like? Two part sermons where first they preach the gospel, and then they say, “But if you don’t want to believe the gospel, here’s your other option”?
“Everybody always wants to change the world, but nobody ever wants to change themselves.” I forget who said that, but it’s true.
So, the question is:
Does the gospel experience greater success in a culture which is peaceful and prosperous, or in a culture which is poor and uncertain?
Why should we pray for peace if the blood of martyrs is the seed of the church?
The Bible doesn’t say that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church. We should pray for peace because God told us to do so: 1 Tim 2:1-2: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” I don’t know what God’s formula for the advancement of the church is. It appears sometimes to be during triumph and sometimes during tribulation. Maybe both at the… Read more »
This is a great comment. Thank you.