In this episode of Acceptable Words, I review and comment on a fine article written by Mark Tooley on the Juicy Ecumenism blog. In it, he discusses why this General Conference will be the last one of any significance for the United Methodist Church. I also talk about why I believe the Cumberland Presbyterian Church trails about 5-10 years behind the United Methodist Church in terms of following social and cultural trends.
Key Takeaways:
- Why it's important to understand the beliefs and practices of different Christian denominations.
- The issue of LGBTQ inclusion is a hot button that needs to be addressed Scripturally.
- The regionalization of the United Methodist Church allows different regions to have their own rules and policies.
- The Reconquista movement aims to reclaim conservative values within liberal denominations.
- Conservative members in liberal denominations face challenges and should probably consider alternative options.
- These changes within denominations have a significant impact on their future and membership. The United Methodist Church is experiencing a decline and is likely to face further liberalization, leading to the exit of traditionalist churches and clergy.
- The Cumberland Presbyterian Church is following a similar trajectory and needs to take action to preserve its biblical foundation.
- The clergy pool in many denominations is shrinking, and young people pursuing ministry may look elsewhere.
- Denominations are becoming less important institutionally in America, and American Christianity is becoming more post-denominational.
Link to Mark Tooley's article, United Methodism’s Last Meaningful General Conference.
