The New Theology by C. H. Bliss

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 3, 1907

The New Theology

By C. H. Bliss

C. H. BLISS

That the religious views of many high in authority as regards church matters is changing, is very evident to all who follow the trend of modern religious literature. “Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?” This question of our Saviour’s implies a negative answer. A noted preacher in England said, “The church is honeycombed with infidelity;” and it is often found in the pulpit.

In a late copy of the Inter-Ocean I find some quotations from Dr. David J. Burrell, with comments, under the heading, “Why the Ministry Lacks Recruits.” The sum of it all is that many of the ministers of the present day teach that the Bible is a very good book, but not essentially different from other good books. Inspired?—Yes, but the same as many good men are inspired to-day; no personal God; God is life, and life is God. “God is an essence pervading all substances that have life,” as one minister expressed it. The fruit of such teaching is painfully evident in the lack of vital Christian experience in the churches of to-day.

Not long ago a lady, fresh from the study of Christian Science, came into one of our social services. She improved the opportunity to offer her testimony with others, as follows: “I am very happy since I have become conscious of the fact that God dwells in me. The life in me is God’s life, and I know he will not destroy it, as he would not destroy a part of himself.”

But the Bible plainly declares that the wicked shall be destroyed. However, if the Bible is simply the opinion of good men, it is very easy to dispose of its statements.

Now if there be no personal God; if Christ be not divine; if the atonement be a myth; if all are to be saved—what shall a man preach? Dr. Burrell asks the question, “Shall I invest the assets of my life in a profession which has no object but to persuade a man to believe what pleases him, to be what he would like to be, and to do what in his opinion, without any reference to authority, is right?”

The Bible exhorts us to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints”—faith in a personal God, a divine Christ, a present salvation from sin and its consequences, which is death. These are some of the foundation stones on which the church is built. Take these away, and the structure falls. No wonder the church is losing its power.

There is but one remedy for all this—to receive and preach the message which will prepare a people for the second coming of the Messiah. When he comes, he will restore all things, and his kingdom will fill the whole earth. May that glad day soon come.

Lovington, Ill.