What Sets Progressive Christianity Apart from Historic Christianity? With David Young

David Young, author of the book, "A Grand Illusion: How Progressive Christianity Undermines Biblical Faith," joins me to talk about the history of progressive Christianity, specifically traced through the Unitarian movement in New England in the 1700's. David shares his story of getting his Phd from Vanderbilt, a theologically liberal university, and how that helped him recognize progressive Christianity and its influence in the church.

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[ThePicturePixie]

Thank you for not closing your comments. ^_^ I love reading others' views on the subjects or explain points made. It really helps me learn and really trust what you're saying. You don't want the final word, it's not "listen" it's community. Thank you.

[Shlambez]

22:16 - "Jesus came to save us from our sin and rule over us not change public policy.... When we make disciples of people, good works come out of that."
This was pure fire. 👍🏼 If you don't listen to this whole thing. Hear that.
So good.

[darksunnygirl]

As an Episcopalian, I found this super interesting. I've seen so much anger and tension in my church recently and so many of my friends have found new church homes either in the Catholic church or the big Baptist church down the street. I see more and more progressive music/thoughts/and groups (like enneagram) starting at my church and it makes me so sad.

[TalkingAboutJohn]

I was so stirred by Mr. Young's mention of N.T Wright's view of heaven and the kingdom. I believe that he influenced a lot of believers to say that it is our job to change the culture. This leads to not having the urgency to share the gospel, which should be our 1st priority.

[songsgardensbyjenniferlynn]

At the 36:56 mark, David Young talks about the hermeneutics of convenience and how scholars have become progressive in order to not throw to waste their years of research, their life of time and money spent in pursuit of understanding Jesus--it's like they've given up on Jesus but don't want to give up on their career.

[tomredd]

As always a great video. Mr. Young was right on about the problems caused by the so called "sexual revolution.' Actually, I don't like to use the term because it is basically the "same old same old" that always rears it head on a regular basis. Nothing revolutionary there at all. I spent 40 years running non profit community centers in low income neighborhoods. 90% of the problems that we encountered were due to the breakdown in the natural 2 parent family, which we as Christians know is the Sacrament of Christ and the Church. Young men and women were crying for their absent fathers who should have been there to guide them on how to live productive and happy lives. A pivotal moment came for me in 1980 at a community center conference. A well known economist gave a keynote address about how social service programs should be structured to keep the father in the home. He made the point that it not only benefits the children and family stability but also fulfills the father himself. I sat there and said to myself, "Boy someone who really knows what they are talking about." However, I was amazed on how other social work professionals were reacting. There were actually people standing on their chairs screaming at him. In the end the moderator actually apologized for the talk. Absolutely shameful. I can't help but believe that the destruction of the two parent families, especially in low income neighborhoods was planned and implemented by the elite who desire ever more control over everyone's innermost lives (and thoughts). BTW that is why Christianity is such a threat to these people. I am reminded always of the Didache that says that are two Ways - a Way of Life and a way of death and there is a great difference between the two. As a nation we are now choosing death - death of our way of life, of our Nation, of our families and of our souls.

[ClarifyingChrist]

Alisha, I first saw you on American Gospel and have since started following you on YouTube. I just wanted to say it is great to see the growth you have had on this platform. Keep up the good work!

[iNTELLECT_]

Thank you for pointing out the dangers of Progressive Christianity. There are way too many people who don’t address the differences in their beliefs which are too significantly different from biblical and historical Christianity.

[JesseSaintJesse]

I've read books with similar themes to A Grand Illusion, but David Young's is the best! So articulate, precise, and inspiring. It's a must read, I highly recommend it! Loved this interview, thanks so much to both.

[Yooperchic]

It’s very refreshing to have a term that accurately encompasses Progressive Christianity—Civic Religion. I could always pinpoint issues—mixing patriotism with Christianity, mixing social justice agenda with Christianity, etc.

[Messiahstable]

Thank you for that. Great conversation and great podcast Alisa. We as Christians need to be aware of these things in these times for sure.

[thighdude]

I love the humility, and authenticity of this interview.

[brucehemsworth]

When I was a kid I was taught - God's nature never changes He Is & He will always be.

[Jennemack]

Thanks for this interview! I learned a lot. It really helps to be able to pinpoint some of the issues in progressive Christianity

[kevinboissonneau]

Very enlightening. Thank you, Alisa and David.

[saskiascott]

Hey Alisa could you please do a dialogue with Brenda from God is Grey? Would love to see that.

[hellohannahjennings]

This was such a great interview. Thank you, Alisa!

[mutetimunyambu]

I'm Kenyan. I think he is wrong about Africans having a hard time believing in Progressive Christianity. That might be true about the persecuted places, but most African evangelicals, especially in urban centres, have fully embraced that!

[BigMikeLewis]

David Young is a good teacher. I have been to North Boulevard a few times and he's been to our church a couple of times.
I am thankful for his book A Grand Illusion and highly recommend it. I am also thankful for your book, Alisa. Another Gospel was a fantastic read and helpful to put some "meat" on the issue.

[E.K.]

I came out of the Prosperity and NAR teachings. So glad God opened my eyes! 👀 👁