My Theological Pigeonhole
(Current Statement of Beliefs)


Introduction

This is my attempt to map out my basic set of beliefs within the vast, multidimensional world of Christian theology as systematically and succinctly as I can. It does not address every possible Christian belief, of course, but only those that seem to me to be most basic or most significantly discussed and debated. I hope it is helpful.

In cases where the beliefs stated on this page conflict with assumptions made in other essays on this site, I freely acknowledge I have changed my mind, and it is this page that reflects my current views. While some may find such fluidity disturbing, I myself am generally more suspicious of those who never have to change their minds about any aspect of their basic theology whatsoever. I suspect it usually shows that they do not think deeply about their own beliefs. My own theological outlook, at any rate, has undergone some fairly significant modifications over the years, and this has had the unfortunate side-effect of rendering some of my earlier writings on this site as not fully representative of my current beliefs. Rather than retracting all these writings wholesale or spending the time necessary to update them in every case, I have decided to devote this page to the effort of openly stating my current theological positions, and I will try my best to keep it updated as often as necessary.

Note: For those who recognize an inherent danger in the desire to pigeonhole people on the basis of their beliefs, as if doctrinal detail were more important than personal relationships and Godly love, I acknowledge the concern. There is also the related risk of seeming too confrontational, as if the motive were to tell everyone who disagrees that they are just wrong. In addition, the failure to communicate and appreciate crucial nuances is almost inevitable. Nevertheless, when such dangers are openly admitted, I think there is a place for theological pigeonholing. Simply refraining from ever stating one’s beliefs is not the answer to these dangers, and in fact carries its own risk of potentially offending others when they find out indirectly that you do not hold the views they may have always assumed you did. Plus, sometimes it’s just plain interesting and instructive to learn about other people’s positions. So I don’t think we have to be shy or evasive about what we believe. Better to get it out in the open for all who care to see, and just learn to respect each others’ different interpretations, in my opinion.

Fundamental View of God

Epistemological/Apologetic Framework

View of the Bible

Biblical Hermeneutic and Eschatology

Soteriology

Ecclesiology and Related Issues

Morality and Ethics


This page copyright © 2011-2013 Edward A. Morris.  Created May 12, 2011.  Last updated March 14, 2013.

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