Subject: Scriptural evidence? |
Bible Note: I apologize for the generalizations, Tim. You asked for the origins of my doubts, and I provided them. Pentecostalism is a 20th century doctrine. So it isn't true that "the vast majority of holiness denominations have pentecostal roots." John Wesley originated the holiness doctrine, which has a number of contradictions with orthodoxy (as Ed defines the word.) Furthermore, the implication that only pentecostal denominations are interested in holiness is easily disputed. Luther was continuously interested in this subject, speaking and writing often upon it. Calvin spends an incredible amount of time on the subject as well. Even the word "Puritan" has its roots in a desire for purity and godliness. All that the Puritans wrote on the subject of the Christian's pursuit of holiness would fill libraries. The Baptists John Bunyan, Roger Williams, and Charles Spurgeon spent an incredible amount of energy on this important discipline of the believer. Gentlemen, I do not find further discussion of this topic to be of value for our edification. I love you both. There are many things that we can and ought to discuss to the glory of our God. Let us please have done with this subject and move on. |