In All Fairness.

I want to take a moment to clarify something. Not all of those who embrace an Arminian theological bent are in favor of the pragmatic, seeker-sensitive approach to ministry. Some are even very outspoken against such strategies. However, I still believe that Arminianism by its very nature has a tendency to lend itself to such thinking. When you examine the underlying principles embraced by the pragmatic seeker-sensitive approach (I believe you can also include much of the “emerging church” with this pragmatism as well), the synergistic soteriological views tend toward the “end-justifies-the-means” mentality. I also believe a careful examination of church history shows that the synergistic view of salvation has a generally negative effect on the church. I am also convinced that Scripture teaches a monergistic view of salvation.

But there are some like Chuck Smith Sr., who has recently taken a strong stand against some of these approaches to ministry. I recently wrote a post concerning the letter that he addressed to the Calvary Chapel churches refuting the error of the emerging “church”. But apparently Chuck has also addressed the Purpose Driven frenzy as well. A notice published on the Calvary Distribution website (their ministry resource website) indicates that the Purpose Driven resources are being discontinued.

“The teaching and positions of Rick Warren have come into conflict with us as Calvary Chapel. Pastor Chuck has directed us to discontinue this product effective immediately. The following items are now longer available through Calvary Distribution”

You will also notice that Chuck’s book “When Storms Come” is being recalled “Due to issues with content and packaging”. These issues have to do with apparent tampering with the text to include language pertaining to contemplative worship and references to mystics, something that Chuck Smith never originally wrote.

“The title When Storms Come by Pastor Chuck Smith from World Publishing is being recalled, effective immediately. Due to issues with content and packaging, this title has been set to out of print.”

Again, I may disagree with certain theological views, such as Chuck Sr’s Arminian bent, but I certainly appreciate his stand on these issues, since this is not going to be a popular stand to take. I hope and pray that he continues to keep up the fight because it appears that the Calvary Chapel movement may be reaching a crossroad.