Hero Worship
Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Labels: John MacArthur, religion, Theology 18 commentsOkay, this may a harsh title, but I am wondering who you find as a respectable theologian. Who do view as credible and trust their opinion? Who do you avoid and not recommend?
I am not saying that you copy people's opinions or not intelligent enough to form your own conclusions, but if your like me you use resources and will usually not use one that your are not familiar with the author or organization.
The purpose of this is because I tend to limit myself to only a few select people and organizations because I simply don't have the time to look into random people every time I am looking at resources. At Timm's blog there was much comment on someone I have never heard of and thought it would be interesting to find out about other people (not necessarily controversial ones) I could look into.
I myself am very fond of John MacArthur. I also like Norman Geisler. I don't really care for Max Lucado because it seems that he writes a book every month. I think Charles Stanlely is right on when it comes to doctrine, but question him about his divorce and still being a pastor. Someone who I avoid is R.C. Sproul. I disagree with many things he teaches.
This will also give a GENERAL guide to what people believe. I don't want to stereotype, but obviously if someone likes Tim LaHaye, then they most likely support the pre-tribulation position.
I like Tim LaHayes' books. Does this mean I have to switch back to pre-trim? Actually I like John MacArthur and John Piper. The big ones I stay away from are Joel Olsteen and any emergent. Ie. Rob Bell or Brian McLaren. (He asked for names.) I agree about R. C. Sproules.
Timm,
Thanks for being the first brave enough to subject yourself to ridicule. Just kidding.
I forgot about Joel (read my books and you will be a better person and I'll get richer) Osteen.
I guess I dont follow and celebrity Christians and their Ideology. I follow what I believe is right. I dont have a problem reading a book by someone with a different outlook than myself.
I dont feel it necessary to name names. While I understand why you ask for names, I cant honestly think of anyone I fully agree with, let alone look up to.
I believe that if one of my beliefs is wrong, that God will inform me someway, somehow. Until then, I listen to my pastor, and challenge things I disagree with against the Bible.
BTW, This topic is not intended to go back and forth about one person. It is more so to promote good resources and/or prevent bad ones. This will be based on personal opinion, but hopefully some may look into people more.
Layne reminded me of Charles Spurgeon the great orator and then I remembered the American evangelist D.L. Moody.
I'm partial to those who love Christ.
Andreas Köstenberger is pretty good. I would probably consider him my favourite theologian at the moment.
I've never heard of Andreas Köstenberger. I suppose that's the point though. Now I'm going to go look him up.
I really like LaHaye. I had the oppourtunity to meet him and listen to him as a guest pastor at a church where I live. He had really good things to say, I wish he would be permanent at that church.
My favorites
"modern" => CS Lewis and Tolkein
"ancient" => Josephus, Apostolic Church Fathers, Bible (of course)
Geppy,
I like C.S. Lewis' work, but I could never get into Tolkien. Not a fan of the Hobbit.
Isn't Josephus more of a historian?
Not a fan of the Hobbit?!?!?!
What? Why? Where? How?
I adore the Hobbit. Do you at least like Thr Princess Bride?
I never seen it
Not seen the Princess Bride either.
What kind of movies do you like?
And to finally answer your question.
I like Dallas Willard. I like Rob Bell. I think Charles Stanley's teachings are okay, just not very deep. I think Joel Osteen reminds me of Tony Robbins too much. I like many more, including the ones you do. But I focus more on the areas I need to grow in. So I am drawn to those 'theologians' who are able to encourage me and make me think.
Forgot to mention CS Lewis. Great stuff there as well.
I can't believe you've never seen the Princess Bride! It's a good movie. You should watch it.
I really liked you and your blog Craig, but I now have my doubts since you haven't seen the Princess Bride my friend. Thats a quick fix though...Netflix or Blockbuster has it for sure. Just playing!
Josephus was a Levite, and I think of the high priest lineage. Thus by matter of birth - a theologian.
And what more could you want next to the Scriptures than the thoughts of those who lived during the time of Christ!
:)