Sola Scriptura, Part 11

Shawn McCraney discusses the invitation to a conference featuring Dr. Don K Preston on Preterism aimed at challenging local pastors, emphasizing freedom in Christ and encouraging them to reconsider their futuristic teachings. He highlights Paul's epistles in 2 Corinthians, promoting the notion of Subjective Christianity, underscoring that faith stands by itself without dominion, and stressing the sufficiency and life-giving power of the Spirit over the law.

Shawn emphasizes the subjective nature of Christian faith, encouraging believers to rely on their inner doctrine rather than external mandates, highlighting spiritual truths from 2nd Corinthians such as the importance of focusing on unseen eternal elements and living as the temple of God filled with His Spirit. Additionally, Shawn critiques rigid doctrines, promoting simplicity in Christ and unity, peace, and love within the Christian community as exemplified by historical shifts during the Reformation, like the Anabaptist movement and the publishing of influential Bibles.

Shawn outlines the historical evolution and fragmentation of Christianity, highlighting key events from 1536 to 1830 that contributed to religious divisions and the emergence of various denominations such as the Hutterites, Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, and others. He emphasizes the ongoing struggles and debates over doctrine, religious freedom, and state-church separation, as well as significant developments like the publication of influential Bibles and the role of governmental legislation in ensuring religious liberty.

Shawn's teaching highlights the emergence and evolution of various Christian movements through visionary leadership, emphasizing that God's main desire is for people to love each other beyond doctrinal divisions. Historical events such as the formation of organizations like the Salvation Army and movements like Christian Existentialism underscore the ongoing divisions and diversity within Christianity, which were fueled by visionary experiences rather than strict scriptural interpretation.

Sola Scriptura has caused division within the Christian community due to differing interpretations of scripture, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on the written word. To achieve true unity among believers, Christians should embrace the Spirit of love as the primary guide, using scripture as an aid rather than the sole authority.