Defining Separatism
It was stated on another thread that John MacArthur is not a separatist. That statement, which I’ve heard many times over the years, makes me wonder what one must do to be accepted as a separatist (other than knowing Jim Peet’s secret handshake). To my knowledge JM has no associations with religious liberals, apostates, or charismatics. And while he hasn’t been invited to preach at BJU’s Bible Conference, his position on issues seems similar.
I can understand separation from false doctrine as well as separation from brethren who fellowship with those who propagate false doctrine, but why would JM not be considered a separatist and where must one draw the line to be accepted as a true separatist?
- 3 views
Ron, I am not sure that I have all the answers to what I consider a very good question, but I think perhaps part of the answer may be in how JM markets himself. Perhaps we could think of some other people “in fundamentalism” that are not as separated from the folks that you listed (very important issues I might add) but their compromise is overlooked because they have been effective at marketing themselves as Biblical separatists. Though in practice MacArthur is more of a fundamental separatist than some fundamental separatists are, he has chosen not to identify himself as such.
Discussion