Avoiding Man-Centered Theology
From among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.
Acts 20:30
Many forces hinder our understanding of this basic truth: the goal of every Christian’s life is to become more like Christ. Humanistic psychology is one such force. It teaches that man exists for his own satisfaction—he must have all his perceived needs and desires met to be happy. As a result, in many churches spiritual growth is often equated with ironing out life’s problems and finding personal fulfillment.
That kind of mentality ultimately leads to a man–centered theology, which is diametrically opposed to what the Bible teaches. The goal of salvation and sanctification is that we be conformed to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). It’s been well said that faith looks out instead of in, and the whole of life falls into line. The more you know Christ and focus on Him, the more the Spirit will make you like Him. But the more you focus on yourself, the more distracted you will be from the proper path.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (Page 159). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
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Acts 20:30
Many forces hinder our understanding of this basic truth: the goal of every Christian’s life is to become more like Christ. Humanistic psychology is one such force. It teaches that man exists for his own satisfaction—he must have all his perceived needs and desires met to be happy. As a result, in many churches spiritual growth is often equated with ironing out life’s problems and finding personal fulfillment.
That kind of mentality ultimately leads to a man–centered theology, which is diametrically opposed to what the Bible teaches. The goal of salvation and sanctification is that we be conformed to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). It’s been well said that faith looks out instead of in, and the whole of life falls into line. The more you know Christ and focus on Him, the more the Spirit will make you like Him. But the more you focus on yourself, the more distracted you will be from the proper path.
MacArthur, J. (2001). Truth for today : A daily touch of God's grace (Page 159). Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman.
Listen to this entry
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