Progressive vs. Evangelical: A Dialogue for Clarity

What are the key differences between evangelical Christianity and Progressive Christianity? How do they uniquely approach key issues like the nature of Scripture, the person of Jesus, and relationships? In this video, I talk with pastor/author Colby Martin about these issues and more.

This channel is brought to you by the Apologetics program at Talbot School of Theology (Biola University):

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[User_Happy]

Colby essentially said he's uncertain whether Jesus rose from the dead. That's a core tenet of the gospel, for if Jesus didn't resurrect it means He didn't defeat death nor atoned for our sins, leaving us without a hope of salvation. There is no point in being a Christian if you don't believe in the resurrection of Jesus.

[danielleaknygr]

I just want to give Colby a big hug after watching this. I was a progressive for 20 years and by the grace of God he brought me back to a historic Christian faith 2 years ago. 20 years of self idolatry and making God into an image I deemed worthy in regards to the worlds ever changing standards. It was exhausting and I have so much peace now that I’m back home. Praying that whatever you are seeking Colby - which ultimately is THE truth- you will find it. Good work Sean- always appreciate your approach and respect to those you may not agree with 👊🏾

[rejoicingbones]

What’s missing amongst us conservative Christians is grace. Sean displays grace here and so did his father to him. If people are questioning, be gracious and trust God for clarity. When we’re not being gracious, we respond in fear. That’s very destructive.

[ashlealhinkle]

I wish more people could have honest and respectful conversations such as these 2 men. This was refreshing. Thanks for posting!

[Weddingplanner]

As someone who was raised evangelical, became a part of the progressive movement, then had my eyes opened and turned away from progressive Christianity, I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit’s prompting. I am so thankful for the solid truth in scripture.
The “no boundaries” approach of progressive Christianity brought only confusion and unrest for me; not freedom.

[meganhanson]

Thank you for this! I appreciate you Colby for coming on with Sean to discuss your ideas and beliefs. Thank you Sean for modeling what it looks like to have a respectful conversation with someone who does not agree with you. We need more of this! ❤️

[Lightborn]

I am truly grateful for Mr. Martin being willing to come on here and speak! Mr. Martin, you said yourself that you miss the personal connection you had with God before you became progressive . . . that speaks volumes brother! Mr. McDowell wasn't just saying nice things, he was really speaking truth and I believe in my heart you heard it and were grabbed by it . . . let Jesus be your personal savior, Lord and friend again! You won't regret it.

[SoulAndSong]

Confusion is of the enemy. Pray for those who are deceived 🙏🏼
“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.”
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭14:33‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

[joshchabalaendure]

This is what it looks like to dialogue with someone that you disagree with, with grace - Great stuff Sean

[jesusistheway]

I love both of these men. I see hurt and confusion in Colbys heart and eyes. I pray he continues his journey and doesn't give up on the true living Jesus . Truth does exist.

[selenachester]

I really enjoyed this open and honest conversation. Good to see two people actually listening to each other and being respectful.

[ceej]

This is why it's important we read our bibles brothers and sisters so we cannot be misled and test the spirits, but as Sean fantastically demonstrated we must listen with patience and grace. This means more than winning any intellectual argument with someone or showing how much you know theology. Most testimonies I've listened to when they've come to Christ is because of a particular Christians actions rather than their words. We should all pray for Colby that he finds his trust in Jesus again.

[equippedfortheday]

My heart hurts for Colby. He wants to hold on to Jesus... but he is trying to hold on to the wrong Jesus. He’s clearly been hurt by people but still wants to hold on to his identity as a “Christian”. He is in this place of confusion and murkiness because he stumbles on his own idea of who God should be rather than believing Who God reveals Himself to be in both the OT and NT. He is trying to God in a box in a way that his mind and emotions can process. Pray for him. So appreciate how Sean navigated this interview with so much grace and reason.

[josephgabriele]

Colby, THE LORD, taught us, "the way is narrow ...

[vanbolin]

Thank you for this, Sean. This is a masterful example of how to dialogue with someone you disagree with.

[misshari]

Sean, your clarity explaining the truth is phenomenal! ✝️ My faith was built up just listening to you!✝️

[matthewking]

Great interview & discussion, Sean. You always show such respect for your guests & yet stand firm in your beliefs, which honors Christ. You always end with an open invitation for your guests to return & continue the dialogue. Looking forward for more conversations with Colby Martin & you. Blessings.

[.hhh]

You're doing amazing work, Sean. Keep it up. You're an extremely underrated apologist. Much of us greatly appreciate your work :)

[ValentinaAnastasia]

Colby I respect your honesty in expressing your thoughts and ideas. I’m thinking the point of this is not to be happy or unhappy with your answers but to better understand your point of view. I appreciate your humility to express your thoughts with people that may not interpret Christianity in the same way. I value this honest dialogue between the two of you. I am so appreciative that Sean did this video. It is enlightening for all by the sharing of your ideas and beliefs. Much respect for the two of you to discover and ask questions distinctions between your basic beliefs.

[chindi]

I am grateful to Sean McDowell for the invite of Colby Martin. Appreciate it. I lean in between liberal and Conservative Christianity so I love a balanced conversation that takes into consideration all points of view as I explore my relationship with Christ. In other words I love an honest conversation.