Here is a good historical look at the underpinnings of what has become the modern fundamentalist movement. The IFB’s (Independent Fundamental Baptist) eschew denominational ties vigorously in their speech. But make no mistake, there is a hierarchical structure of rulers, bylaws and regulations that regulate membership to this exclusive club.
The following is a transcript of a seminar given by Phil Johnson (director of Grace to You) at the 2005 Shepherd’s Conference.
Jul 18
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
This is a tough thing. Paul has commanded that we be transformed(μεταμορφόω ) not conformed
(σύμμορφος ).
The uses of μεταμορφόω and συσχηματίζω in the NT are interesting.
The former being used 4 times and always to express a genuine change. μεταμορφόω is transliterated as metamorphoô from which you readily identify our english word metamorphosis. This is the word that the gospel writers Mark and Matthew used when speaking of Jesus’ transfiguration (μεταμορφόω). Paul also uses it in II Corinthians 3:18 when speaking of the change (μεταμορφόω ) that results as we “behold the glory of the Lord”.
Now how about conformed (συσχηματίζω)? I looked at all the NT appearances of συσχηματίζωσ and it’s derivatives and whenever this word appears it always seems to be focusing on externalities. Paul describes Christ’ physical appearance in Philipians 2:8 as “And being found in human form(συσχηματίζω)”. Peter tells the dispersed believers to “not fashion(συσχηματίζω) yourselves according to the former lusts”.
So I’m going to make some conclusions based upon some very elementary exegesis. Paul is not interested in believers assuming an external form of religiosity. His listeners were no doubt acquainted with the various practices of the religious zealots of their day, and Paul wanted them to understand that external conformity alone was abominable to God. God requires and, as we will see in a later post, actually does the transforming work in the believer’s life.
How does this marvelous metamorphosis happen? Quite simply, it’s a brain transplant. But that’s for another day.
Jul 14
I came across a pretty good definition of the often bandied about term ‘LEGALISM’. There is not a Greek word in our NT that we can strictly understand as meaning what we refer to as legalism. So Paul invents different language to communicate this idea, like “works of the law”.
The erecting of specific requirements of conduct beyond the teaching of Scripture and making adherence to them the means by which a person is qualified for full participation in the local family of God, the church. — John Piper
This is where unbiblical exclusivism arises. I left a church that admittedly and proudly practices a ’separatist’ philosophy when it comes to extra-Biblical matters. There is no getting around the fact that the church does not include everyone. Peter refers to us as a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation” ( I Peter 2:9). But exclusion of people from the church should never be taken lightly. It is a very serious matter. Schools and clubs and societies can set up any human regulations they wish in order to keep certain people out and preserve by rule a particular atmosphere. But the church is not man’s institution. It belongs to Christ. He is the head of the body, and he alone should set the entrance requirements.
This is FAR from being an exhaustive look at this topic. There are entire blogs devoted to the topic. I’m what would be best described as a recovering legalist. I’ve come out from it, but am too prone to fall back into my old ways. There is some sick comfort in it. A cheap replacement for the real life in Christ.
