Talk:John Eldredge

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Quotes

Just because John Eldredge believes in an Arminian kind of free will doesn't mean we should have quotes on the article like that. I don't find it fair to put nothing about the author, but put quotes that make him look bad. Those quotes made him practically sound like an open theist, and that's not true. Let me know if you disagree, but until we get up some critiques of his quotes or his theology, I find it unhelpful to leave those quotes up there like that. JordanBarrett 23:54, 26 Oct 2005 (EDT)

I personally think that the quotes are relevant and helpful. Their substance is what undergirds some of his popular work. Eldredge has not got himself off the hook for his subtle open theism. People are still waiting for more explicit affirmations of the sovereignty of God from him, and even if he gave them, the damage from his books is already done. Eldredge has painted an unbiblical portrait of God at times that yes, looks very much like open theism. Anyways... it's late. -Aaronshaf 00:35, 27 Oct 2005 (EDT)

A relevant quote:

“[Signing] a belief statement that testifies to the fact that they fall in line with orthodox beliefs… is NOT enough. Do you emphasize it in your teaching and preaching? Could we take a survey of your people whom you minister to, and could they accurately & coherently communicate to someone that yes, you actually believe this, and yes, it is also an important & valuable truth to you in your life and ministry[?] There is far too much (and I don’t suggest this is only or even mainly Emergent–it is SO prevalent in many, many parts of the evangelical church today) “easy believing” on doctrinal statements to avoid the heat, but then almost total avoidance or ignoring of the truths one professes to belive in practice and ministry.” -Nick Nowalk

-Aaronshaf 00:56, 27 Oct 2005 (EDT)

"Though Eldredge denies he is an open theist, the evidence does not support his claim. Time and time again he speaks of God in ways that can only be explained if you hold such views." [1]

I get what you're saying. I just think Eldredge sounds more like an Arminian than he does open theist. Maybe I'm wrong, but I have read/heard Arminians say that "God took a risk giving man free will". Granted he knew what they'd do with it, but because he gave them free will and limited his sovereign control, it's considered a risk. Here's the bottom line for me - until I see a quote where Eldredge says, "God didn't know" or "God had to guess" - that kind of stuff - I just consider him a hardcore Arminian where he'll defend man's free will before he'll defend God's sovereignty. Let me try re-instating the quotes, but with a twist. Feel free to tell me if you think I'm "watering it down" or something to that extent. Thanks for your thoughts. JordanBarrett 01:16, 27 Oct 2005 (EDT)

I like the way you handled the quotes in a "caution" section. It puts them in a better context, yet clearly points to the potential problem areas. Good work! Gomarus 08:34, 27 Oct 2005 (EDT)

the other side

I appreciate the way you have worded this new section -- noting the positive aspects while acknowledging his "shakey" theology. Gomarus 13:26, 18 November 2005 (EST)