In Reformed theology we regularly talk about the failure of much of the Church in having bad theology, or just weak or absent theology altogether. This is without a doubt a common and ongoing problem. And it always has negative effects. But the Reformed church has proven itself to be ineffectual all on its own, and that for many decades. And sometimes that has shown to be connected to outright sin. I find myself beginning to wonder more and more if the problem in the Church isn’t so much bad or weak theology, but rather a failure to love and trust God.
Now the Reformed mind will immediately start talking about how this is a false dichotomy, noting that bad doctrine hinders a person’s understanding of, his trust in, and his love for, God. And, how unbelief and a lack of love will prevent our understanding of Scripture. But let’s knock off the theological debates and our desire to rush back to intellectual categories for a second.
Are people really loving, and trusting, God? I think that is the question. And it should be addressed all on its own.
God has proven Himself quite resilient throughout the ages in being able to work around and alongside of His people’s imperfect knowledge. But Jesus Himself found at times he was unable to do miracles due to people’s unbelief. Faith and love, these are the indispensable things.
It seems to me we’ve been getting this all wrong.
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