New Calvinism, Part II: Prominent New Calvinists -- By: Drew Curley

Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 19:56 (Spring 2015)
Article: New Calvinism, Part II: Prominent New Calvinists
Author: Drew Curley


New Calvinism, Part II: Prominent New Calvinists

Drew Curley

* Drew Curley, M.Div., Ph.D., associate professor, Carolina College of Biblical Studies, Fayetteville, North Carolina

In the more immediate past, three men specifically have been very prominent in the rise of new Calvinism: R. C. Sproul, John MacArthur, and George Ladd. While they should not be mistaken as new Calvinists, they acted as heralds whose lives and ministries helped to popularize the movement. Whether or not one agrees with their theology, these men are three of the theological giants of this time. Ladd’s influence has been somewhat restricted to academia, and this will be addressed later. For now it is necessary to examine the effect MacArthur and Sproul have exerted upon the emergence of new Calvinism.

MacArthur’s Grace to You and Sproul’s Ligonier Ministries have spread the influence of their founder’s theology. By making the most of technology, these ministries have extended the scope of their influence beyond what could have been accomplished in previous decades. There are several factors that have given impetus to their influence. One is personal dynamism, which is something that continues to be very influential in new Calvinism. Another factor is that these two men and their ministries have acted contrary to the natural inclination of both culture and tradition in affirming what they believe. The message of their ministries speaks volumes to those ingrained in the postmodern world desiring to do great things for God. MacArthur and Sproul are viewed as steadfast upholders of orthodoxy in a world consumed by relativism and immorality. They are not the only theologians of note within the recent past who have been resolute regarding their convictions and exercised influence, but what separates them from others is that they have helped promote the rise of new Calvinism in their reformed soteriology and their approach to ministry.

The specific approach of MacArthur and Sproul involves immersing their theology in the past while making their ministries relevant to the present, a pursuit that lies at the very heart of new Calvinism. Their approach, in part, has given impetus to the mind frame that what is needed in the church is a resolute theology entrenched in history and a model of

ministry that is ever changing to meet the needs of the present time. The assertion is not far from the biblical truth, but it is an extreme form of contextualization that has come to characterize new Calvinism. The new Calvinist philosophy of ministry can be summarized: one should be conservative in doctrine and liberal in praxis. Consequently, it is not surprising to witness many ascribing to Calvinist...

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